AI/AE MK II or AW,..NF or S&B...Combo questions ??

#51
Re: AI/AE MK II or AW,..NF or S&B...Combo question

This is my first AI, but the only issue I could find from talking to a large number of AI users was crap getting into the fire control group. However with the AE MkII you can drop the trigger for maintenance, so that should resolve it.

After talking to AW owners, Stacey at AINA, Jonathan at SRT and a couple others, the only benefit to the AW I could find was the ability to swap barrels without removing the action. Top-loading really isn't a concern for me, and barrel swaps are not time-sensitive. As you can see many of the responses in this thread from AW owners are just "I wanted the best". When I have an AI dealer recommending I stick with the AE, I feel pretty good about the choice. $2K is a big chunk to dump just so I can say I have the AW.

The biggest thing is I have just not been able to find someone who was truly unhappy with their AE. This is even with pros who are issued AE's. They don't have any emotional investment in the purchase and tend to be happy to tell you if their issued gear sucks.

The ONLY thing that made me hesitate is that it's going to be a heavy rifle. Once I hang a bipod and scope on it, it's going to be several pounds more than my 26" barreled 700.
 
#52
Re: AI/AE MK II or AW,..NF or S&B...Combo question

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Savage110</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: LoneWolfUSMC</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Savage110</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
Cool, will be awaiting pics! Im really in between going the custom Surgion route or the AIAE for my next rifle. Hard decision! </div></div>

That was my predicament. The reliability of the AI was what eventually did it for me. I am sure both would be tack drivers, but in the end I wanted a "factory" rifle that was up to match standards. Not to mention the fact that there was no wait. I ordered and it shipped the same day. </div></div>

This is also what Im looking for, its not so much the bug hole groups ( I already have a Tac Ops that will do that) but the reliability of the AI platform and versatility to change calibers.
Can the AIAE stand up to a large amount of abuse?
Id love an AW but 6600$ isn't gonna happen for the rifle alone and Im not going to sell my current rig to fund it.</div></div>

Short answer: Yes it can.

Long answer: The AE is going to survive most everything you can reasonably expect any rifle to endure, and then some. Anything that you could come up with that would damage one is more or less guaranteed to damage or destroy anything else out there on the market. Durability is definitely not in question with an AI.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">This is my first AI, but the only issue I could find from talking to a large number of AI users was crap getting into the fire control group. However with the AE MkII you can drop the trigger for maintenance, so that should resolve it.</div></div>

The specific instance I remember Charlie talking about was apparently due to either tree sap or some other large solid glob of organic material getting lodged into the trigger group. Pulling the trigger group out is trivial enough, but most people don't go using their rifles as impromtu tree sap collection devices anyways.
 
#53
Re: AI/AE MK II or AW,..NF or S&B...Combo question

LoneWolf, I've heard a few AE owners (people who claim to have owned one and sold it on) whine that it is a "boring" rifle but by that they typically mean "consistent" and also not in need of continuous "tweaking". It seems that some love to chop 'n' change triggers, bolts, stocks, barrels with regularity but I really don't think there is much to change on the AE. That's why I love it...I don't need to spend hours thinking about upgrades/changes and instead I spend time thinking about technique and what I need to bring to the party.

I'd be very interested to hear what ammo AE owners think suits best for varying distances/conditions/barrel lengths etc.
 
#54
Re: AI/AE MK II or AW,..NF or S&B...Combo question

Boring is what I want. I don't like to have to fiddle with a rifle. It needs to be capable of completing the mission without any extra attention. This is one of the things that pulled me in the direction of the AI rifles. I am not a guy who needs a "custom" to impress others at the range. Of course that's not to say an AI is not "impressive" in it's own right. It is to those who know what they are looking at.

What really excites me about this rifle is it is DESIGNED to do that I do. It's not a sporting design that was modified.

When it gets here I will be running 168gr Federal Gold Metal Match through it, since that is my duty load. I am also going to give it a run with my M118LR equivalent handloads.

Just bear in mind that I don't turn necks or any of that stuff. I just look for a little better than factory performance out of my reloads.

Hopefully in a week or two I will be able to report back with what I like or don't like about it. The ergo's will take some getting used to. I still prefer a regular stock over the AI chassis, but I think it will grow on me. After shooting a couple in the past there wasn't anything I really "disliked" about it. It just didn't feel right. The M40 style stocks feel like a well broken in set of boots. The AI Chassis felt like a new set. I think once I break them in it will be all good.

Unfortunately I don't have an AW in the safe to be able to compare it to. However if anyone wants to send me one I will be happy to do a "side by side".
wink.gif
 
#55
Re: AI/AE MK II or AW,..NF or S&B...Combo question

Lonewolf,
Not sure if its even possible, but since the AE action can be removed from the chassis have you thought about having Manners or McM try and make a stock for it along the more traditional lines?
 
#56
Re: AI/AE MK II or AW,..NF or S&B...Combo question

You are allowed to use your own firearms (outside of sidearms)? The stock is fine but the cheek rest gets a bit slippery when you spend a long time behind the scope.
 
#57
Re: AI/AE MK II or AW,..NF or S&B...Combo question

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: deadly0311</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Lonewolf,
Not sure if its even possible, but since the AE action can be removed from the chassis have you thought about having Manners or McM try and make a stock for it along the more traditional lines? </div></div>

Not really. That kind of gets away from the practicality of a factory rifle. If the stock was the deal breaker then I would have to just go with one of the "tactical" actions and have it bedded into a McM or Manners.

I think it's just going to be a matter of me getting used to it. It's kind of like shooting "support side" for the first time. It just feels weird.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: TJ.</div><div class="ubbcode-body">You are allowed to use your own firearms (outside of sidearms)? The stock is fine but the cheek rest gets a bit slippery when you spend a long time behind the scope. </div></div>

TJ, I am in Law Enforcement now so my department allows me to use my personal rifle because it is a better choice than what they can afford to issue to me. I am required to use my issued sidearm or I can personally purchase the exact same model and use that. I also use my own shotgun and carbine because both of those are better than the issued options.

As a Marine Sniper I was given a rifle and ammo and that was all that was authorized. Back then I didn't know any better so I thought that rifle was the best in the world. Ignorance is sometimes bliss. I devoted my time to improving my skills on the rifle instead of shopping for parts to "make it better".
 
#58
Re: AI/AE MK II or AW,..NF or S&B...Combo question

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: LoneWolfUSMC</div><div class="ubbcode-body">

The ONLY thing that made me hesitate is that it's going to be a heavy rifle. Once I hang a bipod and scope on it, it's going to be several pounds more than my 26" barreled 700. </div></div>

It'll motivate you to spend time in the gym with those kettelbells
laugh.gif
 
#60
Re: AI/AE MK II or AW,..NF or S&B...Combo question

I'll Weight in...

Started at the bottom... Rem 700 PSS and a lupy. The urge to always acquire better never left. I'm now up to the AW ( 1.5, 24") and a Hens. ( Thanks Jason ;-) )

I figure it this way. I'll never be left wondering what the best is like. If it doesn't tickle the parts I need tickled. I can always go back, easier than going forward.

I've been through numerous customs and an AE. Including all the top glass. They were all wonderful rifles. I'd take any of them back. But I was always wondering.

After the next few months I'll know if it was worth it or not. But at least I won't be wondering.
 
#61
Re: AI/AE MK II or AW,..NF or S&B...Combo question

Interesting that they let you...would have imagined they'd be petrified about breaching insurance policies or opening themselves up to various lawsuits. Anyway, hope your wrist gets better soon and you don't fall off your yoga ball again !
 
#62
Re: AI/AE MK II or AW,..NF or S&B...Combo question

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: TJ.</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Interesting that they let you...would have imagined they'd be petrified about breaching insurance policies or opening themselves up to various lawsuits.</div></div>

I have yet to be able to locate a case where a court's decision hinged on the actual weapon used (when it was properly functioning). What I use does have to be approved by my command, but that is usually not a problem as long as I can demonstrate an operational need. Some Departments do not allow individual officers to use their own weapons because of a liability concern or maintenance issues.

Regarding Lawsuits, when an Officer uses force in an official capacity they are given "Qualified Immunity" as long as certain conditions are met. Now if I knowingly deployed a defective weapon and damage was caused to another party, then I could most certainly be sued.

Once I demonstrate the capability of the AI as well as the fact that they are a LE Standard rifle I will be OK'ed to carry it. Of course this will now give me a reason to attend the AI Armorers Course.
 
#63
Re: AI/AE MK II or AW,..NF or S&B...Combo question

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: LoneWolfUSMC</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Boring is what I want. I don't like to have to fiddle with a rifle. It needs to be capable of completing the mission without any extra attention. This is one of the things that pulled me in the direction of the AI rifles. I am not a guy who needs a "custom" to impress others at the range. Of course that's not to say an AI is not "impressive" in it's own right. It is to those who know what they are looking at.

What really excites me about this rifle is it is DESIGNED to do that I do. It's not a sporting design that was modified.

When it gets here I will be running 168gr Federal Gold Metal Match through it, since that is my duty load. I am also going to give it a run with my M118LR equivalent handloads.

Just bear in mind that I don't turn necks or any of that stuff. I just look for a little better than factory performance out of my reloads.

Hopefully in a week or two I will be able to report back with what I like or don't like about it. The ergo's will take some getting used to. I still prefer a regular stock over the AI chassis, but I think it will grow on me. After shooting a couple in the past there wasn't anything I really "disliked" about it. It just didn't feel right. The M40 style stocks feel like a well broken in set of boots. The AI Chassis felt like a new set. I think once I break them in it will be all good.

Unfortunately I don't have an AW in the safe to be able to compare it to. However if anyone wants to send me one I will be happy to do a "side by side".
wink.gif
</div></div>

I was in the same boat. Used to an A-5 that fit me like a glove. I have a Rem 700 with an AICS and initially it felt different but now I prefer it over the A-5 much more and won't go back. So much so I just ordered an AI AE MKII today. Pretty much identical to yours.
 
#65
Re: AI/AE MK II or AW,..NF or S&B...Combo question


<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: LoneWolfUSMC</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Congrats.

Thankfully we don't have any BS waiting period here. As soon as it arrives I go pick it up.

Too bad it's on a training day so I won't be able to get it out to the range until Wednesday. </div></div>

I hear ya there. Looking fwd to getting it on the range and putting it through it paces. I just wish I could use it as my duty rifle but my agency doesn't allow it, you use what your issued and thats it.
 
#66
Re: AI/AE MK II or AW,..NF or S&B...Combo question

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Savage110</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: LoneWolfUSMC</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I thought I would share my glee. I just got off the phone with Jonathan at SRT Supply and ordered my AE MkII.

I went with the 20" braked side folder in FDE.

It should be here Monday. Hopefully I will be able to get out to the range Tuesday.

Prepare for Pics when it arrives. </div></div>
Congrats, you mounting your USO on it? </div></div>

eta: delete - missed a whole page of this thread...
 
#67
Re: AI/AE MK II or AW,..NF or S&B...Combo question

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Vin</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
I hear ya there. Looking fwd to getting it on the range and putting it through it paces. I just wish I could use it as my duty rifle but my agency doesn't allow it, you use what your issued and thats it. </div></div>

When we were shopping for new rifles last year, I attempted to get my agency to look at the AI line. They were in a hurry to get the new rifles and I don't think they liked the price tag on the AI. They purchased LTR's with Leupold Mk IV's and Pelican cases for less than the base price of the AE. I understand the budget concerns, but unfortunately I did not get to make my case on maintenance and platform life.
 
#68
Re: AI/AE MK II or AW,..NF or S&B...Combo question

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: LoneWolfUSMC</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Vin</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
I hear ya there. Looking fwd to getting it on the range and putting it through it paces. I just wish I could use it as my duty rifle but my agency doesn't allow it, you use what your issued and thats it. </div></div>

When we were shopping for new rifles last year, I attempted to get my agency to look at the AI line. They were in a hurry to get the new rifles and I don't think they liked the price tag on the AI. They purchased LTR's with Leupold Mk IV's and Pelican cases for less than the base price of the AE. I understand the budget concerns, but unfortunately I did not get to make my case on maintenance and platform life. </div></div>

I did pretty much the same and was shot down due to cost. Everything seems to boil down to money even when purchasing something important as a duty rifle. I don't know about your agency but the white shirts that run the show are clueless when it comes down to getting the best tool for the job, its frustrating.
 
#69
Re: AI/AE MK II or AW,..NF or S&B...Combo questions ??

I would recommend getting an AE Mark 2 with a 24" plain barrel and the 2.0 folding stock. The accuracy potential between the AW and AE are the same. The AW is designed for full military use and abuse. The AE Mark 2 is also very rugged and will handle a great deal of abuse as well. The 24" barrel will provide a tad more velocity and a bit less recoil and muzzle flash. The folding stock version adds more versatility in that it is more mobile when carrying in vehicles, and with the stock folded, a 39" carry case will do. Moreover, when it comes time to clean your weapon, one merely needs to fold the stock 90 degrees and nothing gets in the way as far as removing the bolt or pushing a cleaning rod.

As far as a scope is concerned, I would recommend a Premier Reticles Heritage 3-15x50 Gen 2 reticle double turn scope. In comparing this scope to Schmidt Bender and Zeiss Hendsolt, Premier calculated the glass formula for the optics only three years ago with the assistance of very sophisticated computer programs so the resolution, contrast, and distortion correction is superb. The optical formula for the glass used in the Schmidt Bender and Zeiss Hensoldt scopes were from an era when the technology wasn't quite as advanced as to the level of optical correction quality today's technology can produce.

The Premier Heritage 3-15x50 Gen 2 scope is basically the same scope that the USMC scout snipers use for .308 and .50 caliber.
 
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