Type 63: China Makes an AK/SKS Hybrid

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Starting in 1960, China ran a program to develop an infantry rifle that would combine the accuracy of the SKS with the firepower of the AK. The result was the Type 63, which used the general layout of the SKS along with its short stroke gas piston and an SKS-like fire control system (with fully automatic capability) in combination with an AK-like rotating bolt and a detachable AK-style magazine. The rifle performed well in trials, and as best as I can tell about a million were produced. Mass production quality control was sub=par, though, and rifles in the field failed to live up to the standard of the trials rifles. As a result, the Type 63 was pulled out of service and the Type 56 AK and SKS went back into use until the adoption of the Type 81 year later.

The Type 63 was made in two main variations; initially a milled receiver and later a stamped receiver. There were 3 distinct types of magazines made for them, all holding 20 rounds and with a bolt hold-open mechanism. These magazines can be used in AK rifles, but AK magazines do not function in the Type 63. A lot of Type 63s were sent to Albania after their removal from Chinese service, and others used as military aid or sales to a variety of African countries, where they are still seen today.