*Chinese, Type 56 Assault Rifle (AK-Pattern), State Factory /66, 五六式, Under-Folding Stock, Deactivated*
A highly evocative Chinese Type 56 assault rifle, the People’s Republic of China’s indigenous Kalashnikov variant, manufactured at State Factory /66\ and clearly marked △66 56-式 17034987, with the correct 五六式 (Type 56) designation. This example represents classic Chinese military production and is offered in deactivated condition, retaining strong external originality and character throughout.
The rifle is fitted with the characteristic Chinese under-folding metal stock, hardwood pistol grip and handguards, and hooded front sight, all consistent with military-issue Type 56 configuration. The receiver displays the correct triangle /66\ factory code, confirming manufacture for Chinese military service rather than commercial export.
Selector markings 连 / 单 remain clearly visible on the receiver, denoting full-automatic and semi-automatic fire respectively on the original service rifle. Serial numbering is present in both full and abbreviated form, with 17034987 stamped to the receiver and 34987 repeated to the rear, consistent with Chinese production practice.
The rifle is accompanied by a correct Chinese-pattern curved steel magazine, consistent in form and finish with military Type 56 service use.
Approx. Measurements – Overall length: 63.5 cm (excluding shoulder stock).
Historical Note:
Following the development and adoption of the AK-47, the Soviet Union shared its small-arms technology with allied states. In 1955, the People’s Republic of China entered into cooperation with the USSR, leading to licensed and assisted production of Kalashnikov rifles and the SKS carbine. Chinese production formally began in 1956, with the AK variant designated the Type 56 (五六式) and the SKS clone designated the Type 56 Carbine.
Early Type 56 rifles closely followed the Soviet AK-47 Type 3, featuring milled receivers and heavy barrels, with initial production believed to have commenced at State Factory 66 using Soviet tooling and technical assistance. These early rifles were produced in relatively small numbers before mass production expanded from 1958 onwards, with multiple state-run factories contributing components. Factory numbers were deliberately concealed using numerical and geometric codes, with triangle codes indicating military production.
As Sino-Soviet relations deteriorated in the late 1950s, China was not formally licensed to produce the later AKM. Instead, Chinese engineers reverse-engineered the design, eventually transitioning to stamped-receiver rifles between the late 1960s and early 1970s. Notably, Chinese stamped receivers were typically produced from thicker 1.5 mm sheet steel, paired with heavier barrels and distinctive rivet patterns.
The Type 56 served as the standard infantry rifle of the People’s Liberation Army well into the late 20th century and was exported extensively across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. It saw widespread use during the Vietnam War, numerous Cold War proxy conflicts, and later regional wars including Afghanistan, the Iran–Iraq War, and conflicts throughout Africa and Southeast Asia.
*Condition*
Deactivated, with the bolt and trigger fixed and non-operational, as per the deactivation standard. Retaining good overall external condition. Metal surfaces show honest service wear with scattered handling marks consistent with former military use. Wood furniture displays attractive colour and grain with minor knocks and wear. Markings remain legible throughout, including factory code, Chinese characters, selector markings, and serial numbers. The folding stock operates correctly and locks securely in both the folded and extended positions. The accompanying steel magazine shows honest service wear with surface marks and finish loss consistent with age and handling. An excellent, display-worthy example of this iconic Cold War assault rifle. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQCOOXEBE_279127052025
