LW-3 automatic shotgun (PR China)

LW-3 automatic shotgun with 38mm less-lethal launcher and drum magazine

LW-3 automatic shotgun with 38mm less-lethal launcher and box magazine

Type	Select-fire, gas operated
Gauge	12
Length	660 / 880 mm / 26 / 35”
Barrel length	n/a
Weight, empty	3.2 kg / 7 lbs
Magazine capacity	5, 10 or 20 rounds

The LW-3 automatic shotgun is a relatively new development from China. Its status is unknown at the moment of this writing (summer of 2012), and this weapon is obviously intended for law enforcement use. Unlike most other police type shotguns developed in China or elsewhere, the LW-3 offers select-fire (full automatic fire) capabilities and can be equipped with 38mm underbarrel launcher for use with less lethal ammunition such as tear gas, flash bang or “flying baton” 38mm projectiles.

Not much is known (yet) about internal design of the LW-3 shotgun, but it is believed to be of gas operated, locked breech type. Feed is from detachable box magazines of 5-round capacity, and from 10- and 20-round drum magazines. LW-3 shotgun is equipped with side-folding shoulder stock, and in CQB scenarios can be fired with the stock folded. It is equipped with rifle-type iron sights, and features an integral Picatinny rail on the top of the receiver.