Chinese Assault Rifle (Fallout 3)

The Chinese Assault Rifle is a weapon in Fallout 3. It is used with the Small Guns skill, and requires both hands to operate.

Characteristics
The rifle is gas-operated, uses a rotating-bolt locking mechanism, and is visibly based on the classic Kalashnikov design. It was designed and manufactured by Chinese industrial conglomerate Norinco for the People's Liberation Army during the Resource Wars, for the purpose of equipping the Chinese infiltrators and American fifth-columnists. To this end, it was made to outwardly resemble semi-automatic Kalashnikov variant "assault weapons" popular among American gun owners (though the weapon itself is selective-fire), and chambered for the 5.56x45mm round, as this round would allow users to make use of captured American munitions.

Thousands of these weapons were smuggled into the US for use by Chinese operatives and sympathizers on the East Coast, and many remain functional even two hundred years after the Great War. These rifles are also proven to be ready for manufacturing in post-war conditions.

Surviving examples are used by various groups and individuals in the Capital Wasteland, including super mutants (particularly super mutant masters), Talon Company mercenaries (on lower levels), Chinese commandos (before and after the war) and even some scavengers. It's also the trademark weapon of Lucas Simms, sheriff of Megaton.

Use in game
The Chinese Assault Rifle is not the most accurate weapon, which is further exacerbated by the wear and tear on the barrels after many years of use, though careful use can make it effective at long ranges. As such, it is best suited to fighting in close quarters and semi-open terrain (read: urban). It is also recommended to keep automatic fire limited to short (3 or 4-round), controlled bursts. Use the full auto only on tougher targets or bigger targets (like super mutants). When using the weapon in V.A.T.S., the firer will squeeze off a three-round burst with every attack. It is not the most powerful small gun, however it is considered to be one of the best small guns in the game because of its widespread availability for repairs as well as ammunition, and thanks to a very respectable amount of power. Notably, this gun degrades slower and hits harder than the American Assault Rifle.

One can easily be acquired at Tenpenny Tower early in the game by accepting the Tenpenny Tower quest and passing a Speech check. Another way to acquire one easily is to let Mr. Burke kill Lucas Simms during the Power of the Atom quest.

Behind the scenes
Judging by its look, this rifle's appearance was inspired by several existing firearms: Based upon its ability to fire 5.56x45mm ammunition, it is probably similar in performance to the real-world Russian AK-101.
 * the AK family of weapons (overall appearance), specifically the AKS-74U and AK-107 assault rifles (barrel, muzzle brake, gas tube, front sight);
 * RPD machine gun (front handguard, possibly rear sight);
 * Type 56-II assault rifle, of actual Chinese production, although only for export (metallic folding frame stock).

Analysis

 * It is one of the best overall Small Guns because of its high damage, reasonable accuracy and easy to find ammunition. The downside is that the rifle itself is relatively hard to find, which makes repairing it a problem.

Appearances
Chinese Assault Rifles appear only in Fallout 3. However, see also: AK-112 Assault Rifle.