QLZ-87 grenade launcher

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	Weapon: QLZ-87 grenade launcher Type: Grenade Launcher Country of Origin: China Year Adopted: 1987 Overall Length (mm): 1100.0 Overall Length (in): 43.31 Weight (kg): 22.00 Weight (pounds): 48.5

The QLZ-87 grenade launcher is a Chinese-designed automatic grenade launcher that entered service with the People's Liberation Army in the late 1980s. Developed by Norinco, it was designed to provide infantry units with a lightweight, portable, and effective means of delivering indirect fire support. The QLZ-87 uses 35mm grenades and features a gas-operated, rotating bolt mechanism, allowing for both semi-automatic and fully automatic firing modes.

The QLZ-87 is produced in both light and heavy configurations, with the lighter version designed for individual use and the heavier version equipped for tripod mounting. While exact production figures are not widely publicized, it is believed to have been produced in significant numbers to equip various branches of the Chinese military. The weapon has seen service in various conflicts and has been exported to several countries, reflecting its role as a versatile and effective fire-support weapon.

Known for its compact design and relatively lightweight construction compared to other automatic grenade launchers, the QLZ-87 has earned a reputation for mobility and efficiency in the field. It has been utilized in multiple operational theaters, including border skirmishes and peacekeeping missions, showcasing its adaptability to a range of combat scenarios. Its notoriety lies in its innovative balance between firepower and portability, making it a key component of China's modern infantry tactics.

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