Norinco CQ-A variations?

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pveezy

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Out of curiosity does anyone have any insight into the variations of the Norinco CQ-A that are out there? I've read various things about newer and older ones, and the newer ones being nicer than the older ones.

Browsing online retailers I've seen prices anywhere from $530 to around $800. Are there different models, vintage, or importers out there that would explain the price differences or is it just differences in retailer markup?

Looking at pics I've seen a few differences in roll marks.

There are the Dominion Arms ones from Canada Ammo with the white painted on markings, then a few different Norinco markings I've seen, some similar white painted on, some actual roll marks with different Norinco logos.

Basically what I am asking is: if I wanted to buy one, is there anything to know/look out for or should I just order the cheapest one and go from there?
 
I'd check IRUNGUNS for a US made rifle....previously they had DPMS for around $500, PSA for $650, and Colts for $1000.
 
Is the "Made in the USA" really mean much though in sub-$1000 rifles? I know that Colt, and other $1000+ ARs are obviously a step above, but are the $500-700 US made ARs much better than a Norinco?

I am not trying to make a statement, I am just curious because I know cheaper US ARs don't always get glowing opinions in reviews/online. And currency conversion will also add price too (IE a $650 USD rifle is $738 to us).
 
pveezy said:
Is the "Made in the USA" really mean much though in sub-$1000 rifles? I know that Colt, and other $1000+ ARs are obviously a step above, but are the $500-700 US made ARs much better than a Norinco?

I am not trying to make a statement, I am just curious because I know cheaper US ARs don't always get glowing opinions in reviews/online. And currency conversion will also add price too (IE a $650 USD rifle is $738 to us).
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Yes they are.....even the cheapest DPMS has more misplec components (7075 upper and lower, carpenter 158 bolt, etc) and every hole and dimension will be in spec, and the fit and finish will be much better.
I had one of the $529 Norks, due to the glowing reviews on CGN.... Sold it without even firing it. You get a way better gun for not much more money with a US made rifle.
Chinese stuff is always the bottom of the barrel, there are no worse guns, only better lol. A clone at 1/4 the price of a real deal can make sense, but when you are a couple hundred bucks difference from a gun that is 10 times better in every area it's not such a bargain.
 
Well, my "shi tty" ol' 14.5" Norc CQA has NEVER stopped for me. The previous owner said at least 2000k rounds , more likely close to 3000. Maybe 3 stoppages. Mine has NEVER STOPPED since my ownership. (I have put 1400 rounds through it now) It also shoots the Winchester white box 45 gr varmint ammo awesomely(with a 4-12 bushnell trophy on top)
I keep getting 5 shots into 1.1" at 100 yards.(off a sandbag on a bench) Funny how such a piece of crap just shoots and shoots and shoots. I'm gonna literally shoot the crap out of this gun. Then I'm gonna get another crappy Norc. Mainly because they are so crappy and don't work, nor can they be accurate , etc. sarcasm off.
 
I actually didn't notice anything like made in China on the one I got today from Marstar. I compared it to other inexpensive AR's but by the time I added a couple mags and sights to the cheap american made ones (oh and I eliminated any from my list that didn't have a forward assist or dust cover purely because I like buttons and junk) and I couldn't even come close. The trigger doesn't exactly feel great, but for the savings I can put a top dollar after market trigger on it and be laughing. I also have a Norinco 1911A1C that is a stellar pistol for the money. Decent finish and reliable as all get out.

Honestly I just liked the classic looks of it and at the price from Marstar I kinda had to get one. I've noticed some variants come with a four rail fore end but mine is the more classic look.
 
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