First of all thanks to all for info on East coast AI dealers. Another question has arisen. Basically, why I want an AI versus a custom? Fair question. I suppose my answer is that it's turn key without me having to make a bunch of decisions. Also I don't have the timeframe typical customs take. I don't compete in PRS but want one I could use if I ever so decided. I will go short action, either another 308 or 6.5.
so the question is, with a $5000 rifle only budget, would you choose a factory turn key rifle like a AI or Sako or look for a new or almost new custom from the PX. What say you?
Update 3/7/17 - So thank you to all for the multitude of replies to this and my AI twist thread. I learned a lot and had much to consider. Today I ordered a AIAT from a site sponsor. I will admit the thread about the ads did get me thinking about what it cost to run a site like this and how the sponsors help defray that cost. I get much from this site, supporting a sponsor is the least I could do. I chose to order from Mile High Shooting not only because they are a prominent sponsor but also because they could deliver exactly what I wanted and had a GREAT price on it all. Here's what I ordered:
AIAT folder OD Green
Small firing pin
Bartlein 1:10 .308 barrel cut to 17" and threaded 5/8-24 with protector
Bartlein Gain Twist 8.7-7.7 6.5 Creedmoor barrel 24" threaded 5/8-24 with protector
2 addt'l AI 10 rnd magazines
I should have it in about 2 weeks. Great to know MHSA is the U.S. AI service center and they do all the barrel work in house. Dave at MHSA was very accommodating and answered all my questions. I feel very comfortable with my purchase despite it being the most expensive single firearm purchase I have ever made. I did go slightly over my stated budget but I have 2 great quality barrels that are exactly what I wanted, not requiring additional work elsewhere plus I picked up 2 additional magazines at $70 each. I still need to get 2 muzzle breaks so that will be a few more bucks but its not like I can't shoot it without a break for a while. I am confident this rifle will last me a lifetime and should I ever decide to get rid of it, it will retain a significant portion of its original value. I cannot wait to get it to the range!
UPDATE 2 Rifle Arrive
Dave at Mile High Shooting called me Monday to tell me that they had my barrel work was done and that it was shipping that day. All total 1 week from order to shipping. Very impressive considering they had 2 barrels to cut and thread. They shipped FEDEX and my package arrived in 4 days. Everything arrived well packed in foam. I am very satisfied with the service I got from MHSA and Dave in particular. He took great concern to educate me where I had questions and to get me exactly what I wanted in a very prompt manner. The quality of the rifle is exceptional but that was to be expected. I am anxious to get some glass for it and get to the range. I couldnt help but check out the trigger. I like 2 stage triggers and this one is very nice. I couldnt be happier. Also need a suitable hard case for this. Thinking Pelican 1750 in OD to match. I have indeed bought once and cried once, now I look forward to years of happy returns.
so the question is, with a $5000 rifle only budget, would you choose a factory turn key rifle like a AI or Sako or look for a new or almost new custom from the PX. What say you?
Update 3/7/17 - So thank you to all for the multitude of replies to this and my AI twist thread. I learned a lot and had much to consider. Today I ordered a AIAT from a site sponsor. I will admit the thread about the ads did get me thinking about what it cost to run a site like this and how the sponsors help defray that cost. I get much from this site, supporting a sponsor is the least I could do. I chose to order from Mile High Shooting not only because they are a prominent sponsor but also because they could deliver exactly what I wanted and had a GREAT price on it all. Here's what I ordered:
AIAT folder OD Green
Small firing pin
Bartlein 1:10 .308 barrel cut to 17" and threaded 5/8-24 with protector
Bartlein Gain Twist 8.7-7.7 6.5 Creedmoor barrel 24" threaded 5/8-24 with protector
2 addt'l AI 10 rnd magazines
I should have it in about 2 weeks. Great to know MHSA is the U.S. AI service center and they do all the barrel work in house. Dave at MHSA was very accommodating and answered all my questions. I feel very comfortable with my purchase despite it being the most expensive single firearm purchase I have ever made. I did go slightly over my stated budget but I have 2 great quality barrels that are exactly what I wanted, not requiring additional work elsewhere plus I picked up 2 additional magazines at $70 each. I still need to get 2 muzzle breaks so that will be a few more bucks but its not like I can't shoot it without a break for a while. I am confident this rifle will last me a lifetime and should I ever decide to get rid of it, it will retain a significant portion of its original value. I cannot wait to get it to the range!
UPDATE 2 Rifle Arrive
Dave at Mile High Shooting called me Monday to tell me that they had my barrel work was done and that it was shipping that day. All total 1 week from order to shipping. Very impressive considering they had 2 barrels to cut and thread. They shipped FEDEX and my package arrived in 4 days. Everything arrived well packed in foam. I am very satisfied with the service I got from MHSA and Dave in particular. He took great concern to educate me where I had questions and to get me exactly what I wanted in a very prompt manner. The quality of the rifle is exceptional but that was to be expected. I am anxious to get some glass for it and get to the range. I couldnt help but check out the trigger. I like 2 stage triggers and this one is very nice. I couldnt be happier. Also need a suitable hard case for this. Thinking Pelican 1750 in OD to match. I have indeed bought once and cried once, now I look forward to years of happy returns.
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