Throwback Thursday: Chinese Type 56 Rifle

by
posted on February 16, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Are you old enough to remember the Cold War? Not only did this era mark the epic struggle between democracy and communism, it was also a time when colonial powers worldwide receded. You probably recognize one of the most iconic and well-known firearms of the 20th Century, the AK-47. Invented by Mikhail Kalashnikov, the full name of the gun is actually "Avtomat Kalashnikova," and the 47 designates the year of its production. What you may not know is that many of the firearms of this design that you may have seen in news footage or in movies were actually manufactured in China, not Russia, and it's more properly called the Chinese Type 56. In this video, American Rifleman editor in chief Mark Keefe, writer Martin K.A. Morgan and NRA National Firearms Museum's Phil Schreier walk you through the fascinating history of this rifle.

Latest

Nra Logo Periwinkle
Nra Logo Periwinkle

NRA's $100,000 Subsidy Program for Hunters for the Hungry

“America has a long tradition of embracing the vast resources hunting provides as a means for feeding family and friends. We are honored to play a role in that noble process."

First Impressions: Apolo Airgun Pellets from HatsanUSA

Apolo has it all, whether it is long-range or high-power.

Watch: Fox News' Katie Pavlich Interviews NRA EVP & CEO Doug Hamlin

What do we mean when we say this is "NRA 2.0"? EVP Hamlin answers Pavlich's toughest questions.

USA Shooting Announces "Chairman’s Path to Podium Fund"

Are you ready to fuel the next generation of champions?

In Memoriam: Frank R. Brownell

Join us in remembering the light and legacy of this trailblazing torchbearer for the Second Amendment.

Video Review: Kimber Carbon Compact Pistol

Sleek, discreet, hardy, and feature-rich ... what's not to love?

Interests



Get the best of NRA Family delivered to your inbox.