AI AW or AI AX?

[Emouse]

Anyone on the hide have both or has shot both enough to form an opinion on which one is the better shooter?

Is the AW to be phased out slowly? Has the AX actually gained any military acceptance yet and if so with whom??

Answers greatfully received,....

 

[Dogtown]

Re: AI AW or AI AX?

I think it's more a matter of versatility, not accuracy - both shoot well. The AX has the added capability of being modular and well...next gen.

 

[bm11]

Re: AI AW or AI AX?

I had both, kept the AX. They are actually very similar, the AX was just a bit more comfortable to me. Both are superbly accurate and well made, you won't go wrong either way. The AX is truly an improvement though, if you can swing it, I recommend going that direction.

If you are looking for the best bang for your buck, the AE mk2 is probably the way to go.

Bottom line- as long as you go with an AI, you are doing well.

 

[71firebird400]

Re: AI AW or AI AX?

I'd get behind the AX before making the decision to get one. I found the pistol grip to be annoyingly short which is unacceptable to me on such an expensive rifle.

 

[JFComfort]

Re: AI AW or AI AX?

Can't go wrong with either. I handled the AX at SHOT and liked the ergonomics and the magazine cut out.

 

[Emouse]

Re: AI AW or AI AX?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: bm11</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I had both, kept the AX. They are actually very similar, the AX was just a bit more comfortable to me. Both are superbly accurate and well made, you won't go wrong either way. The AX is truly an improvement though, if you can swing it, I recommend going that direction.

If you are looking for the best bang for your buck, the AE mk2 is probably the way to go.

Bottom line- as long as you go with an AI, you are doing well.</div></div>


Thanks for the input,..can you comment on the pistol grip size/length? Is this an issue? Are the barrels easily swapped out? Does the long rail thermal load and effect POI? Is the brake particularly anti social?? Any detailed info would be appreciated.

 

[poison123]

Re: AI AW or AI AX?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Emouse</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: bm11</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I had both, kept the AX. They are actually very similar, the AX was just a bit more comfortable to me. Both are superbly accurate and well made, you won't go wrong either way. The AX is truly an improvement though, if you can swing it, I recommend going that direction.

If you are looking for the best bang for your buck, the AE mk2 is probably the way to go.

Bottom line- as long as you go with an AI, you are doing well.</div></div>


Thanks for the input,..can you comment on the pistol grip size/length? Is this an issue? Are the barrels easily swapped out? Does the long rail thermal load and effect POI? Is the brake particularly anti social?? Any detailed info would be appreciated.

</div></div>

Remember on the non magnum version the AW action is the same between the AX and AW. As far as the barrels go, your talking like 8 mins to swap it out as long as you have the proper tools.....and put a little elbow grease into it

 

[BasraBoy]

Re: AI AW or AI AX?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Emouse</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Is the brake particularly anti social?? </div></div>

I've shot my AW at Bisley for years and there is ALWAYS some TR freak who whinges about muzzle brakes or who gives you the side long pitying look and the head shaking routine (it is the UK after all and there's always someone who "knows better" than you and feels the need to give you the benefit...).

You just need to accept that it's going to be an issue for certain people.

If you are bothered by it and don't like being moved to the naughty step at the end of the line with a lane between you and the rest of the "ciivilised" world, get the AI suppressor, it fits over the threaded brake.

The AW and AX non-magnum actions are identical - just a different suit of clothes.

There are more threads here than you can count on the ergonomics of AI stocks. Opinions and experience are great but none will give you information more relevant to your personal situation than getting behind the kit yourself.

Call Graeme at Sporting Services, he'll sort you out.

Either way, AW or AX, just be prepared for a rifle that leaves you no room for excuses.......

 

[ChrisF]

Re: AI AW or AI AX?


If it was me , it would depend on the calibre you want to run , if you want a 308 get a AW , if you want a 338 , then get the AX , as the action is a newer design , and uses a bigger version of the AW 308 mag , ie 10rd double feed/stack mag .

Later Chris

 

[Emouse]

Re: AI AW or AI AX?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: BasraBoy</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Emouse</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Is the brake particularly anti social?? </div></div>

I've shot my AW at Bisley for years and there is ALWAYS some TR freak who whinges about muzzle brakes or who gives you the side long pitying look and the head shaking routine (it is the UK after all and there's always someone who "knows better" than you and feels the need to give you the benefit...).

You just need to accept that it's going to be an issue for certain people.

If you are bothered by it and don't like being moved to the naughty step at the end of the line with a lane between you and the rest of the "ciivilised" world, get the AI suppressor, it fits over the threaded brake.

The AW and AX non-magnum actions are identical - just a different suit of clothes.

There are more threads here than you can count on the ergonomics of AI stocks. Opinions and experience are great but none will give you information more relevant to your personal situation than getting behind the kit yourself.

Call Graeme at Sporting Services, he'll sort you out.

Either way, AW or AX, just be prepared for a rifle that leaves you no room for excuses.......</div></div> <div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: BasraBoy</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Emouse</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Is the brake particularly anti social?? </div></div>

I've shot my AW at Bisley for years and there is ALWAYS some TR freak who whinges about muzzle brakes or who gives you the side long pitying look and the head shaking routine (it is the UK after all and there's always someone who "knows better" than you and feels the need to give you the benefit...).

You just need to accept that it's going to be an issue for certain people.

If you are bothered by it and don't like being moved to the naughty step at the end of the line with a lane between you and the rest of the "ciivilised" world, get the AI suppressor, it fits over the threaded brake.

The AW and AX non-magnum actions are identical - just a different suit of clothes.

There are more threads here than you can count on the ergonomics of AI stocks. Opinions and experience are great but none will give you information more relevant to your personal situation than getting behind the kit yourself.

Call Graeme at Sporting Services, he'll sort you out.

Either way, AW or AX, just be prepared for a rifle that leaves you no room for excuses.......</div></div>

So have you actually shot the AX in either .308 or .338 format extensiveley or is this just your opinion???

 

[BasraBoy]

Re: AI AW or AI AX?

Yes, I've shot both the AW and AX ....

Let me make the points clearer to you:

1) You asked about the brakes. There are some people who always think muzzle brakes are "anti social", others don't - what constitutes "anti social" is a personal interpretation and your question is a generalisation. Don't waste your time worrying about it (not that I think you would). There are solutions if it is an issue.

2) The AW and AX .308 action is identical - the issue is ergonomics - you aren't going to know if either platform suits you without getting behind them. Chances are that without doing that, you will make a decision based on input (good and bad) from others that may or may not be relevant to you.

Hopefully that makes it easier to understand?

 

[Emouse]

Re: AI AW or AI AX?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: BasraBoy</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I've shot both the AW and AX ....are you serious about buying...if so get behind the rifle and make up your own mind.

PS....Looks like you need some tuition on how to use the "quote" function?

</div></div>

Know anyone thats regular at Bisley that has an AX??? I would be glad of some trigger time behind the .308 variant.

 

[BasraBoy]

Re: AI AW or AI AX?

As above, try Graeme Clarke, Sporting Services.

If you've never shot an AI you'll be in for a treat.

 

[bm11]

Re: AI AW or AI AX?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Emouse</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
Thanks for the input,..can you comment on the pistol grip size/length? Is this an issue? Are the barrels easily swapped out? Does the long rail thermal load and effect POI? Is the brake particularly anti social?? Any detailed info would be appreciated.

</div></div>The pistol grip is the same exact size as an AW/AE/AICS. So if it's not an issue on those rifles (it isn't for me) than it shouldn't be an issue on the AX.

I can't comment on the brake. I haven't shot the factory barrel or brake yet. I can say this- the more effective the brake, the more anti-social it is. It is the way with brakes.

As p123 mentioned- the action on a short action AX is the same as a short action AX. In fact- I am currently running a cut down AW barrel on my AX right now.

The long rail doesn't make a difference as far as I can tell. Might actually help with mirage, if anything.

 

[Wolfish365]

Re: AI AW or AI AX?

Accuracy International is an amazing company, with awesome products and great innovation. I am thoroughly grateful for their hard work, and am pleased every time I turn around and notice another of their ideas realized. Glad that members are sharing the differences they've come to see in the different systems AI has come out with. This makes me really curious about their new AX stock. Hope to try it soon!

 

[jbell]

Re: AI AW or AI AX?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: bm11</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I had both, kept the AX. They are actually very similar, the AX was just a bit more comfortable to me. Both are superbly accurate and well made, you won't go wrong either way. The AX is truly an improvement though, if you can swing it, I recommend going that direction.

If you are looking for the best bang for your buck, the AE mk2 is probably the way to go.

Bottom line- as long as you go with an AI, you are doing well. </div></div>

The AX is just a AW in a very expensive chassis, you are just tring to justify the price BM11

. But on a serious note. I like them both its a coin flip on accuracy, there is NO difference. As far as ergonomics go I think they are very similar, they feel the same to me. The Ax does have a few nice features on it like the mag well is cut out on the weak side for easy mag install, and it has more options for pic rails if thats your thing. My best advice is to shoot both and decide for youre self as far as ergonomics and looks other than that they are the same = both home runs!

 

[blair]

Re: AI AW or AI AX?

I absolutely love my AW, but will consider the AX in .338.

 

[Victor Co Heather]

Re: AI AW or AI AX?

AW for me.

 

[juniors]

Re: AI AW or AI AX?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: bm11</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I had both, kept the AX. They are actually very similar, the AX was just a bit more comfortable to me. Both are superbly accurate and well made, you won't go wrong either way. The AX is truly an improvement though, if you can swing it, I recommend going that direction. </div></div>

I'm with bm11, I've owned and shot both-greatly prefer the AX (and the one I kept), just some small fit issues, but to me feels much better and "settles" in by itself. Both shoot lights out so you can take the accuracy part out of the equation.

 

[Foweis]

I'm in the same mess. Always wanted an AW .260 and now getting talked into an AX .260 by the guys at milehigh.
Not sure price wise seem about the same with the options I want getting close 7k, just don't want to regret my decision. How bout some pics of both?

 

[Bruiser_Joe]

i have a AW and have guns in Ax chassis with a AX 338 coming. i prefer the AICS chassis but basically your talking apples to apples. its like a r700 in a whiskey 3 chassis vs a mcree.... both offer similar options just which one you prefer. same action. The ax is nice and has some cool features but there is NOTHING wrong with a good ol AW.

 

[customones]

I have an AIAW in .260, i went with the AI pistol grip skins. This gave me the grip of the AX but the lower scope height of the AW. I have since swithched out my manners and mcmillans to AICS stocks, keeping the ergos similar for all rifles. I think you will be pleased with either.

 

[Foweis]

Yah I get what your saying on the apples to apples. But it's not like you can pull the Ax chassis and stick Aw chassis on it. So I think they are a complete different system with the same action but still extreamly hard decision if you only could have 1.

 

[Ranger822]

I live 50 miles from Mile High Shooting in Erie and been thinking of going up there to check out their stock - again getting behind each one to see how the ergonomics works for you might be the best bet, short of taking it to the range.

The AW just looks friendlier to me and a bit easier on the wallet too

 

[tylerw02]

The AX and AW are about the same price.

 

[Foweis]

I'm telling you guys some good pics of both should do the trick.

 

[Ranger822]

The AX and AW are about the same price.

Hum - depends on what you are looking at and where. There is definitely a range both rifles. Going on Eurooptic the AX $6500 for .308 to $7825 in .260 - prices taken from Eurooptic. AW $6268 for .308 and $6875 for .260. In my case I only have eyes for the .260. So - it sure looks a good bit cheaper to me. And taking it a step farther - I would be just fine with an AW fixed stock which, if you can find one, is cheaper still.

 

[Defusion]

Where is the large price difference between the AX in 308 and 260 coming from? You could just get the 308 AND a spare 260 barrel for less.

 

[Bruiser_Joe]

1300 dollar diference? yeah screw that, get the 308 and send it to GAP or any of the other smiths for a barrel job for like 600 bucks

 

[tylerw02]

Hum - depends on what you are looking at and where. There is definitely a range both rifles. Going on Eurooptic the AX $6500 for .308 to $7825 in .260 - prices taken from Eurooptic. AW $6268 for .308 and $6875 for .260. In my case I only have eyes for the .260. So - it sure looks a good bit cheaper to me. And taking it a step farther - I would be just fine with an AW fixed stock which, if you can find one, is cheaper still.

The reason for the price differences are because they aren't optioned the same. There are different butt options, including QD cheek, target butt, QD butt, butt spike, etc. If you get an AW with all the options, its about $100 more than you'd pay for an AX I believe.

Call Mile High and tell them exactly what you want and that you're a member here and you'll get the hookup.

 

[Ranger822]

There are definitely some real deals out there new and used - but the devil is in the details for sure. It really boils down to what you want and I definitely want one - the question is do I NEED one with all the bells and whistles?

 

[Foweis]

The question is, which one?? AX vs AW.

 

[beenjammin]

I have also owned both AE,AW, and AX. For me, what separates the AX from the rest was being able to mount the bipod right up next to the barrel allowing me to literally set up behind the rifle. I shoot off lot of benches so it fit me better. I also like the adjustable trigger shoe on the AX better as my hands are smaller. Accuracy wise, there is no difference. I love AINA's bartlein barrels. They love Hornady Amax ammo. I honestly dot see much advantage of an AW over an AE. Esp the new mkIII.

 

[calz]

One of my closest friends has shot 1,000+ rounds out of an AX, 1,000+ rounds out of an AICS, and 1,000+ rounds out of an AICS with Viperskins (3rd party replacement skins for the AICS chassis made by Victor Company). I've talked to him extensively about each setup, because I'm personally about to get one of them myself. I'm also the person who researches things to death (probably OCD), so I've gained some insight of my own as well. There are pros & cons to each, so I'll try to give you an objective comparison.

The biggest pro in favor of the AX to me is the modified magazine box. You can actually take a magazine in/out of the gun without lifting the rifle. That is really cool if you shoot prone a lot. The AX is also lighter, although that is only by a 1 oz on the AICS setup with Viperskins (almost 3 oz lighter than AW/AICS setup with standard AI skins). The AX also has the rail on the foreend for nightvision setups. Although I don't personally know anyone with nightvision scope setups, I guess if you had it ... that would be cool. It does allow you to attach a sling to that rail in any orientation/style you'd like, which is nice flexibility. You could also add another stud to the forend if you wanted to run two bipods or a short bipod and a quick connect Stoney Point bipod, which would be handy in long range competitions like the Steel Safari. Unfortunately that rail also means you can't mount your scope as low to the barrel as you can with an AICS or AW setup. I personally think that is a big deal, because the lower you are the more solid you are. I also personally prefer the AX pistol grip better than the thumbhole AW/AICS grip, but that is just my opinion.

Although I think that is enough benefits to outweigh the standard AW/AICS setup, I think the AICS with upgrade skins could provide almost all of those same benefits ... except with a few improvements. It is still 1 oz heavier than the AX, but I'm not sure I can notice 1 oz ... I guess if you are carrying it all day like the Steel Safari, the lighter the better. Without the rail you can mount your scope down super-low to the barrel, which I like. Victor Company also has optional foreward mount picatinny rails that allow you to add a rail to the side of the forearm on the AICS stock, so that gives you some of the flexibility AX provides ... although not all of it. Viperskins also allow you to get that AX style pistol grip. The Viperskins also provide a thumb shelf that might sound trivial, but actually makes it where you can comfortably rest your thumb on the bolt side of the rifle instead of wrapping your hand all the way around the grip like you would on their thumbhole stock or even the AX which doesn't have a thumb shelf. My friend that shot 1,000+ rounds out of each setup, said he definitely prefers the grip on the Viperskins because of the thumbshelf. The only thing you don't get with the AICS with upgrade skins is the modified magazine box ... and that is cool, but I don't think it's enough for me to override the other benefits the upgrade skins give you. One more small thing, the Viperskins come in Flat Dark Earth ... like real FDE that will match the rest of your rifle, not the diarrhea color AI calls "Dark Earth".

Ultimately it is a pretty close race in my mind between the AX and the AW/AICS with Viperskins. There are only a few differences, and it just really depends on how you plan to use it and how important those few differences are.

Here is an image that shows all 3 setups side-by-side. You can see the AICS with Viperskins almost looks like an offspring of the first two. The front half is almost identical to the AW/AICS, while the back half is almost identical to the AX. Could be the best of both worlds.

 

[Foweis]

I'm sorry but for some reason I can't stand even looking at viper skins. AX looks good as does the AW but viper skins on the aw/AE
Effin gross. Just my opinion.

 

[customones]

The reason for the price differences are because they aren't optioned the same. There are different butt options, including QD cheek, target butt, QD butt, butt spike, etc. If you get an AW with all the options, its about $100 more than you'd pay for an AX I believe.

Call Mile High and tell them exactly what you want and that you're a member here and you'll get the hookup.

+1 I have the 2.0 AIAW in .260 with every option available in regards to the stock, that does make the price go up rapidly.

 

[Bruiser_Joe]

http://www.snipershide.com/shooting...-aw-6-5-creedmoor-folder-$4-499-$5-950-a.html

minus barrel so, send to gap and rebarrel in whatever you want. comes in at around 5k

 

[bh-ltr]

the other thing to know is that Michael Victor has listened to the community and came out with the V2 rear skins on the viper skins. This much better allows people to use a rear bag and even takes the new AICS which no longer allows you to use the Accushot Monopod and allows you to use it again. The thing just bolts on and makes for a very comfortable platform. Also if you get the accustack cheek height adjustment and thumb screws it makes getting the cheek rest on and off a couple second job. If you don't care about making the rifle shorter for storage it makes the folder a non-issue taking the cheek rest off to clean is EASY! This is from a guy who used to bitch about having to take a stock pack off to clean. Just 3 velcro straps was onerous to me but the overmolded cheek rest is nice. Well to be honest the main reason the stock pack was annoying was because I put a 3/4" piece of padding under it and you had to realign things as you put it back together.

Last but not least I really dig the thumb shelf that are in the Viper Skins. When you're on timed courses it saves you a bit of time over reaching around the pistol grip. That thumb shelf not only makes things faster it also gives you a very comfortable and more repeatable position that you always come back to. At first it was a bit uncomfortable however after a few hundred dry fires I found it to be in just the right spot and it gives me a very good 90 degree angle in my finger to give a nice straight back pull. I shoot better groups if I fully grip the pistol grip but I shoot better times with the thumb shelf. It all depends on what is important for that stage and its awesome to have the option.

Laster but not leaster it should be mentioned that VictorCompany also has a mechanism that allows you to switch the sling connection from HK hooks to flush cups. I have a TAB Rapid Adjust Sling and a Biathlon and swap between the two based on what I need at the time. The QD cups are nice to have. These are non rotational ones which is also nice.

~Brett

 

[remington patriot]

There is no wrong choice. A few years ago I chose the AE MkII with the 2.0 folder and 20" non brake. I love this rifle!!!! I would say handle one or two before deciding but at the end of the day its an AI so you can't lose.

 

[green338 2.0]

I have an AIAW in .260, i went with the AI pistol grip skins. This gave me the grip of the AX but the lower scope height of the AW. I have since swithched out my manners and mcmillans to AICS stocks, keeping the ergos similar for all rifles. I think you will be pleased with either.

I agree with you. If you don't like the thumbhole skins on the AW, buy the AI pistol grip skins and it will be AX style. Most importantly, you have options. Another small, but something to point out, the scope height is a lot lower on the AW than the AX, like you said.

The main difference between both, other than the stock/chassis is the trigger, I give to the AX. Other than that, you get a lot of rail space with the AX. Lastly, you get to own the cool new toy around the block..lol.

The AW and AX is around the same price point, starting out. Same receiver, same price, same barrel, same bolt, same brand. In the end, you will really be happy behind either.

 

[redneckbmxer24]

I had an AE, a AW and I currently have an AX. I liked that the AX has the ability to get the bipod close to the barrel and I also really like the sling attachment points. I can attach the sling to the side in the front for carry or to the bottom to shoot and the rifle doesn't try to can't like it does with the AE, AW, and AICS side attachment points. I hunt with my rifles too and the QD cups are a major advantage since they are much quieter than the hooks. I also like the magwell cutout, it comes in handy.

I will say I like the grip on the AW stock much more than this pistol grip. I always got a consistent grip coming back from the bolt whether I was putting my thumb through the hole or resting it on the side. For some reason it doesn't work out for me on the AX. I also HATE the ergonomics of the grip, it doesn't fit my hand at all, the classic stock does. I hope AI comes out with some rear stock sides like the classic stock has because this is a amazing rifle and I'd hate to have to give up the features like the sling swivels because I don't agree with the grip.

 

[Foweis]

I have an AX .260 26" barrel on hold for me at milehigh you guys think I should just do it or switch to to an AW .260?
Please help.

 

[poison123]

I have an AX .260 26" barrel on hold for me at milehigh you guys think I should just do it or switch to to an AW .260?
Please help.

It all comes down to which stock you like more. I've had both and I shoot the AX now. I personally feel the AX is a better balanced stock and has better ergo overall. Otherwise there is no difference on the rifles.

 

[uafgrad]

The question is, which one?? AX vs AW.

Since you can't order a new AW (what Tac Pro told me today), the option is get an AX or wait until this fall when the AW replacement comes out

 

[Foweis]

What in the world is the AW relplacement?
Can you verfy that info.
Are you just saying, there should be?

 

[green338 2.0]

I have an AX .260 26" barrel on hold for me at milehigh you guys think I should just do it or switch to to an AW .260?
Please help.

Make up your mind, finally!lol. If it was only that easy, right?

I feel there's a stronger demand for the AX than the AW, in the resale marketplace. As a result, if for any reason you wish to sell it, the AX will probably get you more in return than the AW. Just look at my AW for sale...?lol

Remember, just b/c someone says they like the AW better does not mean you will (or the other way around). If you were that much worried about the two rifles, you should have bought the AICS chassis on either platform and tried it out. That's the closest thing to actually buying an AW or AX.

Finally, you are buying an Accuracy International rifle, whether it's an AE, AW, or AX, you will not be disappointed.

BTW, I am holding my breath for the short action PSR, when ever that will be (just for the quick caliber conversion feature)

 

[Defusion]

I have heard they might even discontinue it.
tomirwin on this board might have some info for you, if he wants to share it that is.

Between the two, the stock would be the biggest difference. If you like both stocks, I'd get the AX. It has more features, and is more "modern".
Personally, I just love the look of the AW, but that being outside my budget I went with the AE. Couldn't be happier.
Never got behind an AX though, so can't compare ergonomics. It's different for everyone anyway, so only way to know is to try both.

 

[uafgrad]

What in the world is the AW relplacement?
Can you verfy that info.
Are you just saying, there should be?

Tac Pro told me today there will be a replacement coming out in September
When it actually is available I dont know
They have 9 on order he said
They did say the do not know details of the AW replacement at this point

 

[Foweis]

Make up your mind, finally!lol. If it was only that easy, right?

I feel there's a stronger demand for the AX than the AW, in the resale marketplace. As a result, if for any reason you wish to sell it, the AX will probably get you more in return than the AW. Just look at my AW for sale...?lol

Remember, just b/c someone says they like the AW better does not mean you will (or the other way around). If you were that much worried about the two rifles, you should have bought the AICS chassis on either platform and tried it out. That's the closest thing to actually buying an AW or AX.


Finally, you are buying an Accuracy International rifle, whether it's an AE, AW, or AX, you will not be disappointed.

BTW, I am holding my breath for the short action PSR, when ever that will be (just for the quick caliber conversion feature)

Lol I'm sorry man. I think I'm just going to o ahead and pull the trigger on the AX, and when the AW replacmebt comes out hopefully il be ready to snatch it. Thanks guys.

 

[pucker]

I'm by no means the AI expert on the Hide, but...

AX replaced the AW.
AX will see updates periodically...just like anything else.
AE is the LEO-orientation. Less of the 'operate anywhere in the world'....but no less an AI.
AICS isn't an AI. It's a chassis. Sure, a nice one at that...but the action and barrel make the rifle...and so a Surgeon or Rem700 in an AICS is a Surgeon or Rem700..not an AI. The OP asked about which AI...AW or AX. Suggesting an AICS of any sort is way off base. Not bashing them by any means, so no flaming req'd.

To answer your question, I'd get the AX unless you find a great AW deal (Joe's post above) that you don't want to pass up...or you like the aesthetics of the AW. The AX is more versatile IMO, but both will be hammers, and you'll cherish every moment behind it. BTW, Mile High will treat you like a long-term customer...not a quick sale.