Noringco Type 63

The Chinese took to local-license production of the Soviet SKS self-loading rifle (SLR) in the 1950s. The rifle proved reliable, easy to handle and easy to maintain with production reaching into the millions. The Chinese version was designated as the "Type 56" - a direct copy of the Soviet design - and was classified as a "carbine", firing 10-rounds from "stripper-clips" (chargers) inserted into a fixed box magazine firing through a gas-operated tilting bolt action. The weapon was chambered for the Soviet 7.62x39mm cartridge which was developed during World War 2. In 1959, local design work began on a new self-loading automatic weapon based on the Type 56 Carbine. The original Type 56 proved relatively heavy for the intended role of service rifle and the use of stripper-clips for loading was antiquated in the age of detachable box magazines used in newer battle rifles and assault rifles. The firepower of the original weapon was deemed acceptable, however, so the intermediate Soviet cartridge was retained. The Chinese sought a standardized weapon which the infantryman could engage enemies at long and medium distances with equal accuracy and firepower - similar in scope to the American M14 automatic rifle developed from the war-time M1 Garand self-loading rifle