China · Sniper Rifle
Norinco CS/LR35
Bolt action · 8.6x70mm (.338 Lapua Magnum) · introduced 2020
Also known as QBU-202, QBU-203, Type 203
About the Norinco CS/LR35
The Norinco CS/LR35 is a multi-caliber bolt-action sniper rifle manufactured by China North Industries Corporation (Norinco), available in both 8.6x70mm (.338 Lapua Magnum) and 7.62x51mm NATO chamberings. The rifle represents China's next-generation precision sniper platform, succeeding the CS/LR4 with improved range, accuracy, and modular features. The 8.6x70mm variant is designated QBU-202 in PLA service with QMK-201 variable zoom optics, while the 7.62x51mm variant is designated QBU-203 with QMK-201A optics. The two caliber variants can be visually distinguished by barrel length and handguard ventilation pattern -- the 8.6x70mm variant has a slightly longer barrel with a handguard featuring four ventilation holes, while the 7.62mm variant has seven smaller ventilation holes. The manufacturer claims sub-1 MOA accuracy at 1,200 meters with 8.6x70mm ammunition, positioning the CS/LR35 as a competitive long-range precision system for both domestic PLA use and the international export market.
The CS/LR35's deployment to Tibet Military Region highlights China's investment in long-range precision capability along its disputed Himalayan borders, where engagements at extreme distances and high altitudes demand purpose-built sniper systems over adapted infantry rifles.
Norinco CS/LR35 specifications
General
- Type
- Sniper Rifle
- Action
- Bolt action
- Firing mechanism
- Hammer-fired
- Trigger
- Two stage
- Calibres
- 8.6x70mm (.338 Lapua Magnum), 7.62x51mm NATO
- Magazine capacity
- 5 rounds
- Magazine
- Detachable box magazine
Dimensions
- Barrel length
- 650 mm (25.6 in)
- Overall length
- 1150 mm (45.3 in)
- Weight (empty)
- 5.90 kg (13.01 lb)
- Weight (loaded)
- 6.20 kg (13.67 lb)
Barrel
- Rifling twist
- 1:10 in (254 mm)
- Rifling
- Right hand
Materials
- Barrel
- Steel
- Receiver / frame
- Steel
- Stock
- Polymer
- Finish
- matte_black
Performance
- Muzzle velocity (typical)
- 900 m/s (2953 fps)
- Muzzle energy (typical)
- 6560 J (4838 ft·lb)
- Effective range
- 1200 m
History
- Introduced
- 2020
- Production status
- In production
- Country of origin
- CN
Available calibres
Features
- Free floating barrel
- Adjustable stock
- Adjustable cheekpiece
- Folding stock
- Bipod
- Picatinny rail
- Muzzle brake
- Multi caliber capability
- Qmk 201 variable zoom optics
Safety
- Manual safety
- Bolt safety
The CS/LR35 was first observed in PLA service in Tibet Military Region, indicating its deployment to high-altitude border areas where long-range precision capability is operationally critical. The adoption of the .338 Lapua Magnum caliber follows a global trend among military snipers moving beyond 7.62 NATO for extended range engagements. The dual-caliber offering allows export customers to select the chambering that best fits their doctrine and ammunition supply chain. Weighing under 6 kg empty, the CS/LR35 is notably lighter than many comparable .338 Lapua platforms, suggesting a design emphasis on portability for foot-mobile mountain troops.
