Norinco CS/LR35
Norinco · Sniper Rifle · In Production · 2020
Also known as: QBU-202, QBU-203, Type 203
Overview
The Norinco CS/LR35 is a multi-caliber bolt-action sniper rifle manufactured by China North Industries Corporation (Norinco), available in both 8.6x70mm (.338 Lapua Magnum) and 7.62x51mm NATO chamberings. The rifle represents China's next-generation precision sniper platform, succeeding the CS/LR4 with improved range, accuracy, and modular features. The 8.6x70mm variant is designated QBU-202 in PLA service with QMK-201 variable zoom optics, while the 7.62x51mm variant is designated QBU-203 with QMK-201A optics. The two caliber variants can be visually distinguished by barrel length and handguard ventilation pattern -- the 8.6x70mm variant has a slightly longer barrel with a handguard featuring four ventilation holes, while the 7.62mm variant has seven smaller ventilation holes. The manufacturer claims sub-1 MOA accuracy at 1,200 meters with 8.6x70mm ammunition, positioning the CS/LR35 as a competitive long-range precision system for both domestic PLA use and the international export market.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 5900 g (208.1 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 6200 g (218.7 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1150 mm (45.28") |
| Barrel Length | 650 mm (25.59") |
| Action Type | Bolt Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Two Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 900 m/s (2953 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 6560 J (4838 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 1200 m (1312 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 3500 m (3828 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 254 mm (10.00") |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- 8.6x70mm (.338 Lapua Magnum) · primary — also known as .338 Lapua Magnum, .338 Lapua, 8.6x70mm Lapua Magnum
- 7.62x51mm NATO · 7.62mm NATO — also known as 7.62x51mm, 7.62 NATO, .308 Winchester
Features
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Bolt Safety
- Features: Free Floating Barrel, Adjustable Stock, Adjustable Cheekpiece, Folding Stock, Bipod, Picatinny Rail, Muzzle Brake, Multi Caliber Capability, Qmk 201 Variable Zoom Optics
Service history
Operators
- People's Liberation Army · adopted 2020 · as QBU-202
- People's Liberation Army · adopted 2020 · as QBU-203
Production
Production years: 2020-present
In active production for PLA and export markets.
Origin
Country of origin: China
Notes
The CS/LR35 was first observed in PLA service in Tibet Military Region, indicating its deployment to high-altitude border areas where long-range precision capability is operationally critical. The adoption of the .338 Lapua Magnum caliber follows a global trend among military snipers moving beyond 7.62 NATO for extended range engagements. The dual-caliber offering allows export customers to select the chambering that best fits their doctrine and ammunition supply chain. Weighing under 6 kg empty, the CS/LR35 is notably lighter than many comparable .338 Lapua platforms, suggesting a design emphasis on portability for foot-mobile mountain troops.
Background
The CS/LR35's deployment to Tibet Military Region highlights China's investment in long-range precision capability along its disputed Himalayan borders, where engagements at extreme distances and high altitudes demand purpose-built sniper systems over adapted infantry rifles.