[4] The Type 86S was designed for export into the United States, where civilian ownership of short-barreled rifles is not permitted by law.

The Type 86S selector/safety is thumb-shaped and located on the right side of the receiver, directly above the pistol grip.

Both the front and rear sight are mounted on the combination gas tube and hand guard which clamps tightly onto the receiver.

[9] The Type 86S was once imported to the United States by China Sports (Norinco's import/export arm in that country), intended for the civilian market.

[10] The Type 86S is considered an assault weapon, preventing it from being manufactured in the US for 10 years in accordance with the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act bill, passed on September 13, 1994.