AI vs. DT

[83Scout]

I have a DT and like the modularity of the system-being able to switch between barrels/calibers. I’m looking into the AI’s for the same reasons. Has anyone owned both and if so which do you prefer?

This isn’t meant to be a bash post. I like both platforms, but never owned or shot AI. Just trying to get some insight before I jump to a new platform.

 

[D̷e̷v̷i̷l̷D̷o̷c̷A̷Z̷]

@MysizeisMAGNUM

 

[SRPowah]

lol I am going through the same thing... I don't need long action anytime soon, so I plan on buying an AT to compare side by side and selling off the "loser", but I don't know when that will be. The key decider for me will likely be the return to zero ability. I love keeping my DT stored broken down in a small case due to current living conditions.

I know a lot prefer the AI simply because it isnt a bullpup. No doubt support side shooting isn't the most comfortable thing on our DTs.

 

[Supersubes]

I like them both and own both. Way more experience with the AI’s across multiple models. This is going to be a hugely personal choice for you. For big cartridges I prefer the DTA. I bought it as an experiment, and liked it a bunch more than I thought I would. I never really got along with my AXMC and sold it recently, but still have my AW(best rifle ever). Fwiw, I think multi-cal switch barrel guns are a giant waste of time. Just not my thing.

 

[SRPowah]

Fwiw, I think multi-cal switch barrel guns are a giant waste of time. Just not my thing.

The fact that I only have to spend $500-$1200 (depending on platform) to have effectively another rifle is most certainly worth it. Even being able to switch from a 16" tube to a 26" tube in the same caliber without needing to buy a second scope, chassis, and trigger pays for itself quickly.

 

[83Scout]

I like the DT but the AI does seem pretty sweet. Plus, it’s a more traditional layout. I hear they’re pretty bulletproof also. I would assume the point of impact switching barrels is pretty on par between the two. But like supersubes said, once I get a barrel shooting lights out I don’t want to mess with it.

 

[BLKWLFK9]

I have about 5 different cartridges for my AT. I most definitely am a fan of the switch barrel capability. For that and for ease of barrel cleaning. I put barrels in a vice and go to town.

 

[Doctorwho1138]

I have owned both. Both great systems but I like the AI better. Mine was the STS A1. Both are super accurate. The trigger on the AI is a little better. On the DT it was hard to cycle the bolt without breaking my cheek weld. But that’s probably just me. My mags on my DT rattled. Never caused a feeding issue but it did bother me. The AI mags lock up sold. Sold the DT to buy my first AI and now I bought a 2nd AI after that. Been contemplating buying another DT just because I love the compactness of it. And it was my first true precision rifle. I have learned a lot since that time so maybe my feelings would be a bit different now. My AI is certainly more refined than my DT was.

 

[83Scout]

I need to brush up on the different AI models. Isn’t there a new one coming out? I think I may keep the DT because I’ve grown to like it and just add an AI to the collection. Is there one model that’s better than the other in anyone’s opinion? And do they feed smaller rounds like BR ok?

 

[mkollman74]

I’ve had both. Sent the DT packing. AI is just a better system from my perspective. My DT was accurate, but the mags were garbage. Not reliable at all. Perhaps they have them fixed now. With my AI, I have absolutely zero reliability concerns. It’s bombproof.

 

[Supersubes]

The fact that I only have to spend $500-$1200 (depending on platform) to have effectively another rifle is most certainly worth it. Even being able to switch from a 16" tube to a 26" tube in the same caliber without needing to buy a second scope, chassis, and trigger pays for itself quickly.

I get the rational, I just dont think its practical. I dont want to dick around with a rifle thats been set up already. Just a personal preference.

 

[spife7980]

The fact that I only have to spend $500-$1200 (depending on platform) to have effectively another rifle is most certainly worth it. Even being able to switch from a 16" tube to a 26" tube in the same caliber without needing to buy a second scope, chassis, and trigger pays for itself quickly.

Not “effectively” another rifle, just another barrel. It’s still not as convenient as having another rifle.

I shoot two rifles alternatively in the same session. Can’t do that with only a second barrel.

 

[Tyler Kemp]

DTs hold zero nicely when swapping barrels. It's not impractical at all to swap from one to another, and have your light turret movements recorded.

AI certainly has the track record of reliability more than DT...I have 3 buddies with DTs, who certainly aren't "hard users" by any means. I also have 3 buddies who have had 3 different DT issues, one when needed most on a nice buck.

 

[SRPowah]

I shoot two rifles alternatively in the same session. Can’t do that with only a second barrel.

Sure ya can. 4 bolts, warm barrel comes out, swap bolts, other barrel goes in, torque 4 bolts. The future is now old man. Both barrels shoot the same regardless of if I touch them or not. I have gone from 300prc to 6.5CM a few times, but normally I just pick the barrel I want before I leave the house. If I build two customs with the same optics, I would be well over what the DT setup cost.

Now the exception is if you have very different needs: You do need another rifle other than the DT (or even an AI) when you plan on walking and don't want 13lbs of suck slowing you down. But then again, why are you taking two rifles with if you are walking?

Now I think we might be dragging the OP off course here so if you still think I am wrong, PM me. The conversations can be fun. OP, try an AI.

 

[spife7980]

Sure ya can. 4 bolts, warm barrel comes out, swap bolts, other barrel goes in, torque 4 bolts. The future is now old man. Both barrels shoot the same regardless of if I touch them or not. I have gone from 300prc to 6.5CM a few times, but normally I just pick the barrel I want before I leave the house. If I build two customs with the same optics, I would be well over what the DT setup cost.

Now the exception is if you have very different needs: You do need another rifle other than the DT (or even an AI) when you plan on walking and don't want 13lbs of suck slowing you down. But then again, why are you taking two rifles with if you are walking?

Now I think we might be dragging the OP off course here so if you still think I am wrong, PM me. The conversations can be fun. OP, try an AI.

So I’m gonna shoot 5 rounds, swap barrels shoot 5 rounds, swap barrels and shoot 5 rounds, swap barrels and shoot 5 rounds, swap barrels and shoot 5 rounds, swap barrels and shoot 5 rounds, swap barrels and shoot 5 rounds, swap barrels and shoot 5 rounds, swap barrels and shoot 5 rounds, swap barrels and shoot 5 rounds, swap barrels and shoot 5 rounds,swap barrels and shoot 5 round etc. all in an hour? Fuck that.

I’d rather have another rifle.

But back on topic if you like:
I’d rather have neither. Both triggers suck a big one.

 

[SRPowah]

So I’m gonna shoot 5 rounds, swap barrels shoot 5 rounds, swap barrels and shoot 5 rounds, swap barrels and shoot 5 rounds, swap barrels and shoot 5 rounds, swap barrels and shoot 5 rounds, swap barrels and shoot 5 rounds, swap barrels and shoot 5 rounds, swap barrels and shoot 5 rounds, swap barrels and shoot 5 rounds, swap barrels and shoot 5 rounds,swap barrels and shoot 5 round etc. all in an hour?

I mean you can... it will shoot the same and the extra 60 seconds to switch will help the barrels cool. lol You can keep trying to discredit the idea of switch barrel rifles but the fact is they work really well for some people. If that's not for you, cool.

 

[GMZ]

I’ve had both, each has its strengths.

AI has much better fit and finish, and seems to be more durable and reliable, though I haven’t had any issues with either rifle.

DT handles much better to me and the size is more convenient for packing. Also the SAC 223 conversion is legit. Trigger not as nice as the AI but pretty nice for a bull pup. I think the SRS Covert utilizes more of the strengths of the bull pup design than the full size.

DT barrels are $$$, think of a weirdly contoured shouldered prefit with a $250 tax on top for the extension so about $1k/ea but you can run 223-338 so there’s a price to be paid for that.

Honestly I’m about to just build a s/a TL3 in an X-ray and buy shilen savage nut prefits for a few hundred ea.

 

[Texascbr]

I started with a DT SRSA1 with several calibers and and used that rifle for both PRS and hunting (without much walking). Later even bought an SRSA2 but sold it after the AI arrived. I preferred the SRSA1 trigger done by Primal Rights over the A2 and seeing both as equally accurate. The weight loss on the A2 was nice but decided on a Q Fix for a light hunting rifle. This left me with the AI-AT and DT SRS A1.

I love the AI as a solid rifle for smaller calibers and premium barrels are much less expensive than the DT. The DT shines in magnum calibers and cannot praise it enough in that role. Even if the DT was regulated to the short action calibers of the AT I'm not sure if I could decide between the two.

Above is a long winded morning coffee rambling way to get to what my verdict is; If I was only able to keep one I suspect it would be the ..... Unable to finish the previous sentence. Both are excellent rifles. I will be buying an AI-AT-X and waiting on DT to offer both a 20MOA rail and better magazine on the SRS.

 

[83Scout]

I started with a DT SRSA1 with several calibers and and used that rifle for both PRS and hunting (without much walking). Later even bought an SRSA2 but sold it after the AI arrived. I preferred the SRSA1 trigger done by Primal Rights over the A2 and seeing both as equally accurate. The weight loss on the A2 was nice but decided on a Q Fix for a light hunting rifle. This left me with the AI-AT and DT SRS A1.

I love the AI as a solid rifle for smaller calibers and premium barrels are much less expensive than the DT. The DT shines in magnum calibers and cannot praise it enough in that role. Even if the DT was regulated to the short action calibers of the AT I'm not sure if I could decide between the two.

Above is a long winded morning coffee rambling way to get to what my verdict is; If I was only able to keep one I suspect it would be the ..... Unable to finish the previous sentence. Both are excellent rifles. I will be buying an AI-AT-X and waiting on DT to offer both a 20MOA rail and better magazine on the SRS.

That’s kinda where I’m at. I like the DT with the 300 Norma barrel I have on it because it’s super accurate. The switching out barrels deal is cool for shooting out a barrel in a PRS season and being able to have a backup you can just throw on.

Like someone mentioned the DT really shines with the covert length barrels. I think I’m just leaning toward selling off a couple of my cheaper rifles and getting an AI, and getting keeping the DT too.

 

[mkollman74]

I started with a DT SRSA1 with several calibers and and used that rifle for both PRS and hunting (without much walking). Later even bought an SRSA2 but sold it after the AI arrived. I preferred the SRSA1 trigger done by Primal Rights over the A2 and seeing both as equally accurate. The weight loss on the A2 was nice but decided on a Q Fix for a light hunting rifle. This left me with the AI-AT and DT SRS A1.

I love the AI as a solid rifle for smaller calibers and premium barrels are much less expensive than the DT. The DT shines in magnum calibers and cannot praise it enough in that role. Even if the DT was regulated to the short action calibers of the AT I'm not sure if I could decide between the two.

Above is a long winded morning coffee rambling way to get to what my verdict is; If I was only able to keep one I suspect it would be the ..... Unable to finish the previous sentence. Both are excellent rifles. I will be buying an AI-AT-X and waiting on DT to offer both a 20MOA rail and better magazine on the SRS.

You mean they still don’t have the magazines figured out?

 

[Texascbr]

The DT magazines have never failed just prefer a double stack option that holds at least 10rds like my AI. The ten round for the short action functions fine but is longer than I prefer.

 

[HenryTheAce]

Never been behind an AI but I’ll get one eventually! Just ordered my second DT (an A2 Covert) from SAC with a 6.5 and 450 conversion. First was a A1 from primal with some TS conversions. The platform has really grown to be my favorite.

 

[Huskydriver]

Wtf hasn't @deersniper commented here he's slipping

 

[deersniper]

Lol


Have a couple DTs and a AXSA

DTs
Crazy accurate. Can switch from 223-338lm and most things in between
Compact. Perfect for in/out of vehicles and equipment.
Conversions are very close from barrel to barrel as far as zero goes.
My .223, 6.5 and 308 barrels are within 2.5” and only vertical no horizontal to account for

AI
Much smoother bolt.
Nicer to shoot
Different calibers seem to have farther apart zeros.
Very accurate also
Better mags


I like both. They both have strong and weak points

If only shooting at the range I would probably go AI. If any vehicle/equipment use DT

Get both

 

[craigos]

sold my DT (my first precision gun) for my AI. Personally a semi bullpup works, a bolt - the ergonomics of having to work that bolt i found just didnt work for me. In terms of build quality etc - i think Ai had the edge (but it was what 30% more). I still shoot AI, no more DT (except MDRX)

 

[Huskydriver]

Lol


Have a couple DTs and a AXSA

DTs
Crazy accurate. Can switch from 223-338lm and most things in between
Compact. Perfect for in/out of vehicles and equipment.
Conversions are very close from barrel to barrel as far as zero goes.
My .223, 6.5 and 308 barrels are within 2.5” and only vertical no horizontal to account for

AI
Much smoother bolt.
Nicer to shoot
Different calibers seem to have farther apart zeros.
Very accurate also
Better mags


I like both. They both have strong and weak points

If only shooting at the range I would probably go AI. If any vehicle/equipment use DT

View attachment 7542953

View attachment 7542952

View attachment 7542954


Get both

What reticle you using in your 318i?

 

[deersniper]

What reticle you using in your 318i?

Skmr3. But moved that to a 556 semi

MPCT3 is awesome.

 

[Covertnoob5]

That’s kinda where I’m at. I like the DT with the 300 Norma barrel I have on it because it’s super accurate. The switching out barrels deal is cool for shooting out a barrel in a PRS season and being able to have a backup you can just throw on.

Like someone mentioned the DT really shines with the covert length barrels. I think I’m just leaning toward selling off a couple of my cheaper rifles and getting an AI, and getting keeping the DT too.

As someone who had an A1 and an AXMC and competed with both, neither are great or even good match guns. There’s definitely better options, but if you just wana get out there with what you have a couple times a year then by all means go for it. If you do a whole season, you’ll definitely want an actual match gun by the end of it.
As far as burning out a barrel then having a backup ready to go, you can do that with almost any modern action. Impact, TL3, Ruckus, Zues, etc. You want something with a set screw style like an AI, get a terminus zues. I shoot a vector now and all my barrels are the hand tight version. No issues in 2 1/2 seasons.
In regards to the originally asked about guns, welp.
The AI action is much smoother in the fore and aft motion, however what I hated about it was the notchy bolt close. Magazines are much better in the AI. Easier to load and much smoother. Barrels are cheaper and easier to find.
The DT is a much better field gun, I definitely preferred it for hunting over the AXMC (it’s just a heavy bitch going up and down mountains). I also loved the size of the DT with a short barrel. Mine was the covert and a 16” 223 was sweet!
At the end of the day the role the rifle will play should be the biggest factor between the 2 and their both accurate and good in different operating spaces.

 

[gnochi]

For clarity, the AI barrel clamp is MUCH more robust than the Zeus/comparable set screw. This isn’t to say the set screw can’t work, but they’re not in the same league. Like Keyslot (AI, ridiculously robust) and KeyMod (VLTOR/Noveske, not particularly robust).

I have difficulty supporting Desert Tech as a company since they’re in the Kingston Clan portfolio. That said, I can’t deny they make a good rifle - a friend of mine has a Gen 1 SRS that I’ve gotten to play with a bit - and I would feel much less guilty getting one second hand.

Have you looked at or played with the Barrett MRAD much? It’s also very swap-friendly.

 

[mkollman74]

As someone who had an A1 and an AXMC and competed with both, neither are great or even good match guns. There’s definitely better options, but if you just wana get out there with what you have a couple times a year then by all means go for it. If you do a whole season, you’ll definitely want an actual match gun by the end of it.
As far as burning out a barrel then having a backup ready to go, you can do that with almost any modern action. Impact, TL3, Ruckus, Zues, etc. You want something with a set screw style like an AI, get a terminus zues. I shoot a vector now and all my barrels are the hand tight version. No issues in 2 1/2 seasons.
In regards to the originally asked about guns, welp.
The AI action is much smoother in the fore and aft motion, however what I hated about it was the notchy bolt close. Magazines are much better in the AI. Easier to load and much smoother. Barrels are cheaper and easier to find.
The DT is a much better field gun, I definitely preferred it for hunting over the AXMC (it’s just a heavy bitch going up and down mountains). I also loved the size of the DT with a short barrel. Mine was the covert and a 16” 223 was sweet!
At the end of the day the role the rifle will play should be the biggest factor between the 2 and their both accurate and good in different operating spaces.

I agree with much of this... Neither the DT or AI are great for comps. Perhaps the new AT-X will help out a bit. I wouldn't take either of them hunting. They weren't designed for it, and would be fairly miserable in the field, at least for the kind of hunting I do. If you are just setting up on a beanfield or something then maybe. But for humping up and down the steep stuff, buy a real hunting rifle. Similarly, if your objective is to shoot competitions, well, jump in the pool and choose one of the many fine options out there. As for the "notchy" bolt close, I also agree with that, but it can be mitigated with a little grease... I think folks tend to underestimate the value of magazines as part of a reliable system. AI mags are hands down better than DT.

 

[maples14]

AI has way better mags. Post '14 axsa over the dt. Barrel changes are easy and you can usually pick up new or lightly used barrels in the exchange for half what dt barrels are. And I agree with everyone above the bolt throw is much much nicer on the ai. The new atx is a sweet rig hopefully get to try one of those out soon and at 4995msrp pretty good deal.

 

[avalanche]

I own a DT, and have fired a lot of AI's. I think the conversion system on the DT returns to zero better IME. The ergonomics of the DT suit me, because that's what I use most. Lets face it, they are both fantastic rifles, with the AI edging out the DT for having great mags, and fit and finish being a bit better. For me, the DT's usability as an all rounder sold it. Perfect world? a DT with an AI mag system! One word on bolts, I find the DT bolts wear in nicely but do require a grease in the right spots to be smoother. AI's are certainly smooth and nicer from factory.

 

[NavyshooterM40]

Tuff decision to make. I have an AI AEII and was going to buy an AT in 6.5 CM. But then I also got interested in .300 PRC. The ability to swap from short action to long action is what sold me on the DT. I was lucky to find a slightly used SRS A1 chassis on the hide’s PX. Cannot go wrong with either one. Both are top notch.

 

[Mister Ridge]

How does the balance work out on the DT vs AI with suppressors and NVDs?

 

[HenryTheAce]

Can’t speak for AI but DT balances beautifully suppressed... and un-suppressed honestly. Although I’ve never ran anything heavier then a 338 Ultra on it

 

[Texascbr]

DT wins easily, being better balanced suppressed.

 

[GMZ]

How does the balance work out on the DT vs AI with suppressors and NVDs?

Balances great even with a heavy can. With a Proof barrel and Ti can I’m sure it feels even better.

AI is a bit heavier maybe 2-3 lbs and a good bit longer so feels bigger than it really is.

 

[SRPowah]

The DT really does hide its weight and feels balanced due to where its located when shouldering. Still sucks to walk with.

 

[Mute]

I've owned both and still have my AI. I'd say my assessment and preferences is similar to deersniper's. The DT handles well especially if you need to deal with cramped quarters, but overall, I prefer the traditional bolt layout of the AI over the DT's bullpup configuration.

 

[Winny94]

I have a DT and like the modularity of the system-being able to switch between barrels/calibers. I’m looking into the AI’s for the same reasons. Has anyone owned both and if so which do you prefer?

This isn’t meant to be a bash post. I like both platforms, but never owned or shot AI. Just trying to get some insight before I jump to a new platform.

I owned both at one point in time. Sold both as neither were worth the cash to me. The DT was a "cool" rifle, but too utilitarian especially in bolt manipulation and the trigger. Those shortcomings outweighed the cool factor since I didnt really have any reason for needing a bulpup.

The AI is obviously a beast of a rifle. I still didnt love the trigger, but it wasnt bad. Otherwise no complaints outside of cash layout.

In the end, a mid level custom action (Arc Nuke, Origin, etc.), good barrels, and the correct action wrench saves me several thousand dollars and and I can still switch cartridges in 5-10 minutes.

 

[83Scout]

How does the balance work out on the DT vs AI with suppressors and NVDs?

That’s one thing I actually like about the DT. It’s ugly as hell, but the balance is awesome and it doesn’t feel as heavy as it really is when shouldered because all the weight is at/toward your shoulder.

I’m thinking the DT is the chick you call and party with, because she’s ugly but feels good. And the AI is marriage material, pretty and reliable.

 

[srt-4_uk]

Those that aren't happy with the Desert Tech trigger, did you not adjust them or do you just prefer something different? My A1 trigger sits under a pound and I really like it.

 

[Painless300]

I had a DT/A1 and personally didn't mind the trigger, it never kept the rifle from shooting tiny little groups. The DT/A1 was probably the most accurate rifle I have ever owned and I have had many customs from top notch smiths like Gradous and TS Customs. Like others the draw was the compactness of the system as I mostly hunt with my rifles. The only downside and the reason I moved back to a more traditional platform was the weight. Just didn't like hauling around a 14lbs gun, and I really never got used to the bullpup bolt. I could complain about the binding action but it really never held me back. At the end of the day I wish I still had it as a fun gun as it was boringly accurate but just can't afford $7K sitting in the safe and not getting used. Never had an AI and probably never will as I just don't have a use for it.
I have 2 barrels for my Lone Peak action that I can swap out to take care of pretty much all my needs. It really doesn't take long to swap from one barrel to the next. Is it as convenient as the DT/AI? No, but for my purposes it works great for me.

 

[Hippy_Steve]

Why choose between one or the other? Get both! I just own a AT, but it's by far the best rifle I've ever shot. I've never shot a DT, but I've read nothing but praise from DT owners (as seen above).

 

[300ATT]

I had a number of AI's: AW, PSR, AT ... and a DT Covert. Loved the form factor of the DT but could not "upgrade myself" to its ergos in order to shoot it as well as the AI's. I would say that the AI "felt more solid" but then I didn't do any drop and throw tests so I'm not sure that matters.

Accuracy was a wash between them; however, it is much easier for me to "drive" the AI's really well than the DT so I sold the Covert.

 

[ChadL]

I currently own both a DT and an AIAX......I love both for different reasons. I have three different barrels for my DT and just the one for my AI. I don't have any plans to buy any other barrels for my AI in the near future. Not for any particular reason. I have the current barrel shooting very well and if I want to switch calibers I will use my DT.

They're both different to get behind. A bullpup will feel unusal at first. Especially cycling the bolt, however that passes quickly and feels "normal" after a few cycles. The bullpup design does have a very distinct advantage with regards to overall length. If that's a concern. I do enjoy it's compact size. I have a 30" 300 prc barrel and with that barrel it's the same overeall length (roughly) as my AI with a 20" barrel.

In my opinion nothing compares to the AI in terms of build quality, etc. You can feel the years and years of experience when you operate an AI. The bolt cycling is sooooo smooth. Everything, functions very nicely.

I'm not going to say one is better than the other. They're both very different. I enjoy both of them very very much.

 

[Dragoon300]

First off as many have said, I too think the AI rifles are very nice, certainly more finished off, and definitely more professional quality military grade weapons than the DT. A couple of things no one else has mentioned though, their magazines are very nice, probably the best, but I sure do wish their 338 mags were as long as my DT mags (4.00 OAL inside) If they were I would adapt them to my DT. I run Berger 300 grain OTM's at 3.95" ref OAL, you can't do that with an AI. The DT barrel shank and clamping system is much better too. Much like a bench rest barrel block, a longer area to clamp on makes return to zero much better, or at least easier, and the DT securely holds longer barrels better too with less harmonic vibration. For me th DT has more of what I want: compact (I run long barrels & supressors), more balanced (better offhand & alternative position), best switch barrel system, longest in class magazines, and a great trigger. Both have 60 degree bolt throw (another of my must have items). The DT is not perfect, but it's the closest thing to my idea of perfect that is currently available.

 

[flyright]

I've got two SRS A1's and an AXSA and feel both are great platforms. I lean a little more to the DT side after a few years using both. The AI is certainly more refined in bolt smoothness and ergonomics. I had a couple of issues with the AI mags with the bolt skipping over rounds - no, not short stroking. They were quickly repaired due to an out of spec spring. The triggers are a wash for me. I thought that maybe I had an average AI and a couple of exceptional DT triggers but after having had the opportunity to try others from both manufacturers, found pretty much the same. Switching barrels/calibers on either is very simple and repeatable; just record your scope change.

I've never had a single malfunction with the DT's. I purchased my first DT and within a year, my first AI. I liked the DT enough that I purchased a second one about 2 years later. The DT platform is very compact and accuracy differences between the DT and AI are non existent. I don't think I'll ever sell any of them but if I had to keep only one, it'd probably be a DT primarily because of the compactness. The bullpup does take some getting used to but it was not a big deal to me. I'm 6'1" and it was an easy transition from traditional bolt guns with minimal practice. My shooting friend who's a long armed 6'5" refuses to even try to shoot the DT after a couple of attempts - so there's that. Just my .03.

 

[PlinkIt]

I have a couple questions for this group while on this topic

When guys are talking about balance: are you discussing the balance point of the rifle without input? What length barrel in what contour and with or without a can do you find it to balance well on a prop without you? What does your rifle overall weight end up being by the time you get it to this configuration that balances well?

With the ability to swap barrels so easily you can swap to a different barrel for a hunting purpose... So what is the lightest you can get either of these rifles when switching to skinny profile or carbon fiber barrels? I ASSUME that the ability to balance will be completely out the window once you switch either rifle to a lighter barrel though... Am I incorrect here?

 

[Dragoon300]

The balance point with a factory 26" barrel and large optic is quite well centered on the SRS. That said, the weapons weight is further back toward the operator making it easier to support, and off hand shooting much easier than with a normal rifle where the weapons weight is forward and nose heavy.