Type 85: China's Special Forces SMG (Regular and Silenced Versions)

Published on October 8, 2025
Duration: 13:22

This guide details the field stripping procedure for the Chinese Type 85 SMG, as demonstrated by Ian McCollum on Forgotten Weapons. It covers the steps for basic disassembly to access the internal components, emphasizing the simple blowback design. The process involves removing a split pin, rotating the grip assembly, and extracting the bolt and recoil spring.

Quick Summary

The Chinese Type 85 SMG is a compact submachine gun chambered in 7.62x25mm Tokarev, featuring a simple blowback, open-bolt action. It includes a unique spring-loaded charging handle safety and comes in a suppressed variant (Type 85W) requiring specialized subsonic ammunition.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Type 85 SMG
  2. 01:38Design Philosophy and Simplicity
  3. 02:28Physical Specifications and Caliber
  4. 03:13Controls and Unique Features
  5. 05:18The Suppressed Type 85W
  6. 06:18Disassembly and Internal Mechanics
  7. 08:43Suppressor Internals and Barrel Design
  8. 12:27Conclusion on Chinese SMG Trends

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the operating principle of the Chinese Type 85 SMG?

The Type 85 SMG operates on a simple blowback, open-bolt system. This design prioritizes extreme simplicity and reliability, making it easier to manufacture and maintain compared to more complex gas-operated systems.

How does the suppressed Type 85W differ from the standard Type 85?

The Type 85W is the integrally suppressed variant. It features a larger diameter suppressor requiring taller sights and an optic mounting rail. It also uses specialized subsonic 7.62x25mm Tokarev ammunition with heavier bullets for effective suppression.

What unique safety feature does the Type 85 SMG possess?

The Type 85 SMG has a unique spring-loaded charging handle. This handle can be pushed through the receiver and rotated 90 degrees to lock the bolt in the forward position, acting as a secondary safety mechanism.

What caliber does the Type 85 SMG fire, and what is its magazine capacity?

The Type 85 SMG is chambered in 7.62x25mm Tokarev caliber and typically uses a 30-round curved magazine, similar in its locking mechanism to AK-pattern magazines.

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →