CS/LS7

Lore & Background

The CS/LS7 was developed as part of a weapon program initiated by the Ministry of Public Security to replace the older Type 79 submachine gun. After trials, it was selected as the next-generation submachine gun for the Chinese police force and was first showcased on the 70th anniversary of the People's Republic of China parade in 2019. Initially, the Chinese military had no request for a submachine gun, so the CS/LS7 had no official military designation from the People's Liberation Army. However, in 2021, it was reportedly to replace QCW-05 submachine guns in PLA service.

The weapon uses blowback, closed bolt operation. The upper receiver is metal, while the lower receiver is polymer. It features an ambidextrous charging handle, fire selector, and a lengthened magazine release lever in front of the trigger guard. The telescopic stock can be removed and replaced with a fixed stock. The bolt release is on the left side above the magazine well. The weapon has a full-length Picatinny rail on top of the upper receiver and handguard, with three short Picatinny rails at the 3, 6, and 12 o'clock positions of the handguard. Alternative handguard configurations exist, including one with rails only on the receiver and 6 o'clock position, and another seen on PLA soldiers at the 70th anniversary parade with rails at 6 and 9 o'clock positions. Handguard configurations may be changed upon customer requests, and the handguard can be replaced with an integrated front grip similar to that of the MP5K.

Reader's Guide

The CS/LS7 represents a significant step in Chinese submachine gun development, transitioning from the older Type 79 to a modern, modular design. Its selection by the Ministry of Public Security for police forces and later reported adoption by the PLA to replace QCW-05 submachine guns indicates its growing role in Chinese service. The weapon's modular handguard options and ambidextrous controls reflect a design responsive to user needs. Its export availability and reported local production in Algeria suggest international interest. The CS/LS7's presence at the 70th anniversary parade and its use by various Chinese units, including the People's Armed Police, Jiaolong commandos, and National Immigration Administration, as well as limited use by the Ministry of Public Security and PLA, underscore its integration into multiple security branches. Foreign users include the Algerian Army, Malian Presidential Guard, and Venezuelan Army.

Did You Know?

• It has a military designation QCQ-171.
• The weapon can be fitted with a QMQ-171 holographic sight.
• It has been reportedly produced locally in Algeria.