[IDEX 2025] The Chinese Take On The SCAR - The NAR CS/LR17 Rifle
The Chinese state-owned North Industries Group Corporation Limited (Norinco) has developed the NAR CS/LR17, a modular rifle chambered for 7.62x39mm. This rifle is marketed as a next-generation weapon system, drawing inspiration from weapon development efforts initiated during the Global War on Terror, particularly the U.S. Special Operations Command's FN SCAR (Special Operations Forces Combat Assault Rifle) program. Initial prototypes emerged around 2016 and have since undergone significant development. The CS/LR17 is part of the NAR family of next-generation rifles, focusing on modularity and versatility. This series is designed as a modular, multi-caliber system to compete with modern Western rifles in the export market.
IDEX 2025 @ TFB:
At IDEX 2025, I stumbled upon an oddly placed display featuring drones, anti-aircraft missiles, and the CS/LR17. It was presented by the state-owned China Jing An Import & Export Corporation. The rifle showcased is gas-operated and utilizes a rotating bolt. It is fed from standard AK-pattern magazines. Overall, I was impressed by the rifle and appreciated the ergonomic magazine release paddle.
The new rifle adopts a conventional layout similar to the QBZ-03 rifle, aligning with modern Western weapon trends. These advancements have already been incorporated into other Chinese firearms, such as the QBZ-191.
The goal was to develop a family of modular rifles that meet a range of customer needs while maintaining a high degree of commonality in parts and ergonomics across the different models. This design allows users to quickly and easily switch between configurations. The rifles will also offer options for varying barrel lengths tailored to different mission sets.
The rifle features a flat top rail and handguard, allowing for the attachment of various modern gadgets. It includes an ambidextrous selector switch, and the charging handle is positioned on the right side, consistent with most Chinese rifles like the Type 56. These features enable it to compete effectively with Western counterparts in the international export market. It will be interesting to see how this rifle evolves and which countries or customers pick it up. For now, we will have to wait for more information to be released.
Lynndon Schooler is an open-source weapons intelligence professional with a background as an infantryman in the US Army. His experience includes working as a gunsmith and production manager in firearm manufacturing, as well as serving as an armorer, consultant, and instructor in nonstandard weapons. His articles have been published in Small Arms Review and the Small Arms Defence Journal. https://www.instagram.com/lynndons
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These weapons are also available in 5.56 and 7.62 NATO cartridges, for export. Last year, the QBZ-191 now had three new versions: CS/LR42, in 5.56 NATO; CS/L43, in 7.62x39; and the QBU-191, in 7.62NATO; this one is a DMR. It's reported that Thailand has acquired the CS/LR42, as its new assault rifle, despite that they were working on a gas piston operated AR rifle, for possible adoption and to replace the M-16s and HK-33s in their service.
i agree USMC, but i still want one