Type 65 (T65)
Combined Service Forces 205th Arsenal · Assault Rifle · In Service · 1976
Also known as: Type 65, T65K1, T65K2
Overview
The Type 65 (T65) is a select-fire assault rifle chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, produced by Combined Service Forces 205th Arsenal since 1976. Safety features include manual safety selector, reflecting modern design standards that prioritize safe handling and operation. With over 49 years of firearms manufacturing experience, Combined Service Forces 205th Arsenal brings established expertise in metallurgy, machining, and quality control to every product in their lineup, ensuring each firearm meets the standards expected by today's demanding market of knowledgeable shooters and professionals.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3310 g (116.8 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 3760 g (132.6 oz) |
| Overall Length | 990 mm (38.98") |
| Barrel Length | 508 mm (20.00") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Rotating Bolt |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 30 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 990 m/s (3248 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 1189 J (877 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 500 m (547 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 600 m (656 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 750 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 305 mm (12.01") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Aluminum |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Parkerized |
Calibers
- 5.56x45mm NATO · primary · 5.56mm NATO — also known as 5.56x45mm, 5.56 NATO
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic, Burst 3, Full Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety Selector
- Features: Select Fire, Stanag Magazine Compatible, Short Stroke Gas Piston, Chrome Lined Barrel, Carrying Handle, Bayonet Mount, M16 Style Ergonomics
Variants
- T65K1 — Improved
- T65K2 — Modernized
- T86 (Bullpup) — Bullpup
Service history
Operators
- Republic of China Army · adopted 1976 · as Type 65
- Republic of China Marine Corps · as Type 65
- Republic of China Military Police · as Type 65
- Haitian National Police · as T65
Production
Estimated total produced: 500,000 · Production years: 1976-2003
Produced in large numbers for the Republic of China Armed Forces as the standard service rifle. Later production shifted to the T65K2 variant and then the T91.
Origin
Country of origin: Taiwan
Notes
The T65 project began in 1968 as an effort to modernize Taiwan's infantry weapons from the 7.62mm M14 to a 5.56mm platform. While the rifle closely resembles the M16A1 externally with its carrying handle, front sight post, and pistol grip, the internal gas system is significantly different, using a short-stroke gas piston similar to the AR-18 rather than the M16's direct impingement system. The T65K1 variant introduced minor improvements, while the T65K2 added a three-round burst capability and additional refinements. Later production models featured a four-position fire selector (safe, semi, burst, and full auto). The rifle accepts standard STANAG magazines and maintains parts commonality with M16 components where possible. The T65 was eventually superseded by the T91 (essentially an improved T65K2 with a shorter barrel and rail system) starting in 2003.
Background
The T65 represented Taiwan's determination to achieve small arms self-sufficiency during a period of diplomatic isolation. When the United States established formal diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China in 1979, Taiwan's ability to produce its own infantry weapons became strategically vital. The T65's clever combination of M16 ergonomics with a more reliable gas piston system reflected pragmatic Taiwanese engineering -- improving on the American design while maintaining familiar operation for troops trained on M16 variants.