I had really hoped CanAm can get the model with the threaded flash hider and bayonet mount to satisfy the military aficionado in me. Type 97A is used by Cambodian, Burmese, Pakistani, and Sri Lankan special forces. Not only that, the original Type 97 is confirmed by pictures being used by one Chinese PMCs, which makes the 97A being used by other security firms a solid possibility.
Anyhow, I understand the Canadian firearms owners who simply want the most functionality for their price regardless of the military heritage. Similarly, I wouldn't mind an upgraded 97 redesigned to appeal to the utilitarian side of me either. However, any changes CanAm can make to the rifle will always pale in comparison to the QBZ 97-1, which according to them, already exists but barred from export. The -1 variant has thumb safety, rail mounts on the front sight base, lower sight over bore, and improved ejection. It would be like making upgrades to the M16A1 when the M16A4 is already being made. Which makes me think, is CanAm trying to get the 97-1 in? Or will they retool the factory simply for an improved 97NSR? If then, why can't they retool the factory to incorporate the same improvements already done for the 97-1? Perhaps modify the 97-1 further to appeal to western shooters (which usually involves more rails than any shooter would ever need, only to be covered by rail covers)?
I've generally had good experiences with CanAm before, but it would be nice if CanAm can at the very least give us an update....