QJY-88
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| QJY-88 machine gun | |
|---|---|
| Type | General purpose machine gun |
| Place of origin |  PRC |
| Service history | |
| Used by | People's Republic of China |
| Production history | |
| Manufacturer | China North Industries Corporation |
| Specifications | |
| Weight | 11 kg |
| Length | 1250 mm |
| Barrel length | 605 mm |
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| Cartridge | 5.8 x 42 mm |
| Action | gas-operated |
| Rate of fire | 650-700 rounds/min |
| Muzzle velocity | 840 m/s |
| Effective range | 800-1000 meters |
| Feed system | belt, 100 round |
The QJY 88 (Type 88) general purpose machine gun is intended to replace obsolete Type 67 machine gun in service with PLA. The weapon uses recently adopted 5.8mm ammunition of Chinese origin, although it is believed that a special loading with heavier bullet is used for this weapon, as opposed to QBZ-95 assault rifle and QBB-95 light machine gun. Despite the "type 88" designation the gun is relatively young, as it is believed to enter the service during the first years of the 21st century. It must be noted that according to available information Type 88 machine gun is not so popular among its users in PLA. While it is somewhat lighter than previous Type 67 GPMG, it also lacks its range and lethality; compared to western 5.56mm LMGs such as FN MINIMI, Type 88 is significantly heavier, while having almost same combat effectiveness.
QJY 88 is gas operated, air cooled, belt fed machine gun with quick-detachable barrel. Design is rather conventional, with long-stroke gas piston, located below the barrel, which operates bolt group with rotary locking. Feed is from disintegrating steel belts, from left side only. Special plastic container can be attached to the left side of receiver to hold the belt on the move. Gun is fitted with skeletonized shoulder stock, made of polymer, and integral folding bipod, attached to the gas block. For sustained fire missions QJY 88 machine gun can be installed on a special lightweight tripod. Standard sights are of open type, but a telescope or IR sight can be attached to the weapon if required.
