The QLZ-87[7][8][9] (also known as Type 87[10]) is an air-cooled, gas operated 35×32mmSR automatic grenade launcher (AGL)[11] that is crew transportable (12–20 kg (26–44 lb)) with limited amounts of ammunition.

[13] The QLZ-87 is being complemented by the QLZ-04, which is fed from a belt and thus is better suited to be mounted on tripods and vehicles.

[14] It can fire a variety of 35 mm grenades stored in the 6-or 15-round cartridge drum.

[2] The HEDP 35 mm grenade pierces armour up to 80 mm thick and produces fragments to kill or wound personnel within 5 meters of the point of impact.

[2] The HE 35mm grenade has a stated fragmentation casualty radius of 10–11 meters.