Selected Handgun Detail

Manufacturer
	China North Industries Group More Info

About the Gun

The CF-98 and NP-42 models are commercial variants of the Chinese military QSZ-92 pistol developed in 1994. These hammer-fired pistols feature a rotating barrel recoil design similar to the Beretta PX4.

Production

Production of this firearm began in the late 1990s, primarily for export markets. Manufacturing continued into the early 2000s, though specific dates may vary based on regional distribution. Current dealer listings for new CF-98s are scarce and likely represent remaining stock from earlier runs, with most imports peaking around 2010–2020.

Market value

For this gun, the MSRP is not widely listed in current 2024-2025 data. Used market value in 95% condition is approximately $300-$400, based on recent auction trends and pricing guides.

Cartridge Specifications
Cartridge:	9 mm Luger
Alias:	9 mm Parabellum
More Info

Analysis

The CF-98 serves as the primary 9 mm export version of the QSZ-92, built around a short-recoil rotating barrel system that provides reliable locking and reduced muzzle flip compared to many tilting-barrel designs, though the practical difference in felt recoil is minimal for most shooters. It incorporates a steel subframe within the polymer grip housing the fire control components and slide rails, contributing to modularity and durability under sustained use. The pistol demonstrates solid reliability in adverse conditions with minimal maintenance required, as evidenced by its adoption in various export markets and consistent function across reported testing. Barrel life is rated at approximately 8,000 rounds, lower than some related variants like the NP-42 (10,000 rounds), reflecting a deliberate trade-off for cost-effective production. Finish quality remains basic, prone to wear under heavy handling, but this aligns with its positioning as an economical service pistol suitable for military, law enforcement, or budget-conscious civilian applications where high-volume durability outweighs premium aesthetics.