The 6.8×57mm Chinese cartridge, also known as the 6.8×57mm Type 88, is a rifle round developed by China. It was designed primarily for infantry use and aimed at providing a balance between the stopping power of a larger caliber and the improved range and accuracy of a medium caliber. The cartridge uses a 6.8mm bullet placed in a 57mm long case, offering a middle ground between older 7.62mm and modern smaller caliber rounds like the 5.56mm NATO.
The 6.8×57mm Type 88 was part of China’s drive to modernize its military equipment with intermediate power cartridges that could serve effectively in a variety of combat scenarios. The round is typically used in the Type 88 rifle, among other weapons systems.
Use cases include standard infantry engagements, where its design aims to enhance both the effective range and terminal performance compared to smaller caliber rounds. Its adoption reflects a trend towards intermediate calibers that offer versatile performance in diverse combat situations.