Chinese Export CS/LM4 - 7.62x51mm Type 80 Machine Gun

Continuing my machine gun series, I will briefly discuss the Chinese PKMs, the Type 80 and the CS/LM4 machine guns. First adopted by the Soviet Army in 1961, the PK general purpose machine gun was eventually improved and lightened to the PKM. Over half a century of fighting in arid deserts and tropical jungles has demonstrated its flawless performance, and it is chambered in the 130-year-old 7.62x54mm cartridge.

The PKM general purpose machine gun is widely regarded as one of the best. It was developed when the Soviet Union used diplomacy, contributing to its global proliferation. Exports and the later collapse of the USSR furthered the distribution of the PK series worldwide in different markets. This weapon has become a favorite among allies and adversaries alike. Its weight and simplicity made the gun more maneuverable and provided significant firepower.

The Type 80 machine gun is a copy of the Soviet PKM general purpose machine gun, although it was not produced under license. Its design was approved in 1980 and entered limited service in 1983. The Type 80 was intended to replace the Type 67 machine guns; however, it did not achieve this goal, and the Type 67 remains the backbone of China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA). Currently, the Type 80 is used primarily by specialized units and has been mainly produced for export. A significant logistical issue is that the machine gun belts are not compatible with those of the Type 67. This incompatibility may have contributed to the decision not to fully adopt the Type 80 system, which could have led to confusion among the troops.

The 7.62x51 Gun

Originally conceptualized in 2006, the project was initially designated CF06 and began production in 2008. This initiative focused on developing a 7.62x51mm Type 80 general purpose machine gun for the export market. The design was officially finalized for foreign trade and named the CS/LM4. Chinese factories adapted to produce NATO ammunition and weapons chambered in NATO calibers, enhancing its appeal in Western markets. This was most likely influenced by the success of Russian weapons chambered in NATO calibers.

The gun cycles the rimless 7.62x51mm cartridge using a standard PK two stage feed system inspired by the Maxim machine gun. In the PK series, the carrier's rearward movement activates a de-linker, pulling a cartridge rearward from the belt. A spring-loaded tensioning arm then lowers the cartridge into the intermediate feed position in the feed tray. Upon firing, the bolt carrier moves forward, and the bolt feed lug pushes the cartridge into the chamber.

Modifying the Type 80 design to create a 7.62x51 version likely required the development of a new bullet guide, bolt, feed tray, feed paws, and barrel. Adjustments to the dimensions of certain components were necessary due to the differences in ammunition types and chamber pressures. The barrel's service life is advertised at 12,500 rounds, while the weapon's overall service life is cited as 25,000 rounds, which seems relatively low. Unfortunately, this is the same service life round count that Arsenal advertises regarding their PK production.

Thoughts

The Chinese CS/LM4 is essentially a straightforward modification of the PK system. However, some companies complicate matters by attempting to integrate the M-13 disintegrating link, which overcomplicates what is otherwise a simple and proven design. This machine gun doesn’t require extensive testing and evaluation to confirm the reliability of the PK; however, I am interested in assessing China's quality, durability, and effectiveness. That being said, I would still like to add one to my collection. Stay tuned for more machine gun articles.