Opinions of Shorty AIAWs

[dbransco]

I am thinking about getting a AIAW primarily in 260 Rem, but I am wanting to go with a short (18.5") 308 barrel as well for around the house/hunting. The rifle will be suppressed. Just wondering from other short AW owners what your thoughts are as far as handling/balance and how short you might recommend with a 308.

Thanks for your time.

 

[Roddd]

I have a 20" AW. Apparently too many gangsters do drive byes with suppresed bolt action rifles so we aren't allowed suppressors, but my 20" .308 functions fine out to 1,000 yards. 18.5" seems short to me, but should be a good balance suppresed. I say go for the 20-22" range and see how manageable it is, then maybe get it cut down if you want shorter.

 

[lonely_wolf]

They definitely look cool cut back.

My opinion is that short barrels are mainly to improve maneuverability at the potential expense of velocity. AI's are heavy beasts. No matter how far back it is cut, it will not likley improve the maneuverability due to its weight. If your rifle weighs close to 20 lbs are you really at a loss having a +22" barrel? If your rifle is going to weigh close to 20 lbs, why not have the big barrel and have all the velocity possible?

I am a fan of short rifles, but an AI is a single purpose built rifle. I mean for around the house, why not an AR or SG? For hunting, why not build a shorty with carbon fibre stock? All better suited options than an AI.

I'm not against the idea, just playing devil's advocate I suppose.

 

[SSG3K]

I have a few at 20 inches suppressed, they are balanced ok but still heavy. Im gonna get some diffrent profile barrels and try those but i think 18 inch with a sendero contour would be pretty cool.

Rich

 

[lazy21]

my 20" AW with krieger barrel! I love 18" rifles but I wouldn't go shorter on this one