SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

[TheBrewMaster]

I'm fixing to get a new rifle and I'm torn as to what one of these two beautiful girls is the best.

From what I read both of them are very accurate and there is no clear winner as far as accuracy is concerned.

I know the barrel on the AW is simple to change out, Is it the same for the TGR?

As far as the Chassis is concerned it looks like the AW is the winner. Does the TRG have the same style stock it just has some different verbage?

And as far as the barrel is concerned the TRG looks like the winner.

I like the idea of a folding stock but I worry about them giving me problems down the road. Does anyone have any first hand experience here?

Any .02 is greatly appreciated.

 

[MinorDamage]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

1. You need to get behind both systems. The stocks are completely different and most only like one or the other. Going by the way it "looks" is a recipe for failure on two high dollar systems.

2. Neither barrel is inferior to the other.

3. You can change the barrel on the TRG as easily as the AI.

4. The folder is no issue. Both compensate for wear and stay locked up tight.

Seriously, each person will have their preference. You need to shoot both. Now fill out your profile completely so we know where you are and can possibly get you hooked up with both rifles.

Josh

 

[TheBrewMaster]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

Thanks Josh,

That's solid advice.

I'm in Oklahoma but wouldn't mind a roadtrip to get behind the trigger. If anyone knows a place inside of a 10 hour drive from Oklahoma City I would appreciate it.

 

[TheBrewMaster]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

Does anyone know why the AW is more expensive when the quality of both seem impeccable?

I called two different places and asked about how long it will take to have an AW and they said 6 months. Is that about normal?

It seems like more Countries use the Accuracy International than the Sako if anyone has an .02 of why feel free to rid me of my ignorance.

What about that Blaser? I called the company a few days ago and asked about what kind of pressure it can stand up to and they strongly advised against a handload that will send a 300WM out the muzzle at 3700 fps.

 

[dtask]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

The TRG, in my opinion, has a better trigger. KRG is doing the folding stock for the TRG, so getting a folding stock for it is going to be less expensive than in the past.

I've owned both and I sold my AI simply because the thumbhole stock is not a comfortable fit for me. The TRG stock, while it has a tendency to chip, is very comfortable. Accuracy between the two, for me was negligible but I do like the factory Sako trigger better.

You can't really go wrong with either, but you'll have more scratch to spend on glass and ammo if you go with the TRG. Also, you may not have to wait on either on you choose if you go through vendors here on the 'Hide.

 

[ChrisF]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW


I have and like both Sako TRGs and AI AWs , but I like different rifles depending on the way they function calibre wise .

In 308 , forgetting about money , I prefer the AI AW , very well sorted in this cal .

In 338LM , I prefer the Sako TRG-42 , very smooth in this cal , better bipod etc , also allows you to seat bullets longer than in a AWSM 338LM .

However the new AI AX338 , fixes some of my gripes with the AWSM , namely , too short OAL mags , and bolt dia being too small for 338LM csae head ( this is a leagacy from the original 308 design size ). and is finally rectified with the new slate AX magnum action design .

Later Chris

 

[TheBrewMaster]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

Thanks everyone for your .02

I don't mind the CAPEX on the AI but it's the cost per round that takes away the luster of the 338 for me. I planned on using the 300 win mag because of the cost is about half of the 338.

Now with that being said. I also wouldn't mind the CAPEX for reloading gear providing the cost per round of 338 is on par... ish... with the 300 Win Mag.

Does anyone here reload and know the cost of reloading the 338 using the best stuff?


Thanks in advance

 

[MinorDamage]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

What is going to be the longest range available to you? The 300 WM with heavies is no slouch. A couple guys on the site (I believe jrob and someone else) have made hits way out there with their 300 WM. The 338 is going to be considerably more expensive in powder consumption and projos.

Being in Oklahoma should make trying out both of these well within reach. You can post in the Member link up forum and put out a feeler. I would also put a post in the Bolt Action Rifles Forum with the title "Wanting to try out AI AWM and TRG-42 in Oklahoma". Lots of fine folks on this site would be willing to help you out.

Josh

 

[Dutch405]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

I was in a similar situation as you are my fellow Oklahoman. My shooting partner and I both currently own TRG22's that we shoot on a daily basis out at my ranch. Well, after spending alot of time studying the .308 round I recently decided that I was going to step up into a .338 lap mag. I have plenty of range out here to fully accomadate the .338 lapua magnum so why not? Well, after looking into several custom smiths and debating back and forth between these two companies I once again decided on the Sako TRG series. To me, these rifles just "feel right" in my hands. I absolutely love my TRG22 already so I have decided that within a month I will have his big brother as well.

Here is a great article put out Zak Smith, which subsequently is one of our members on the hide. I have read alot of Zak's material and checked out several of his youtube videos. He really knows his stuff! This article was very well put together and gave me alot to think about. Enjoy!

http://demigodllc.com/articles/military-338-lapua-rifles-trg42-awsm/

 

[MinorDamage]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

A little light reading on the capabilities of the 300WM.

Link

Josh

 

[Dutch405]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

Another small tip brewmaster.... If you do decide on the Sako TRG in .338 be sure to order the 1:10 twist barrel instead of the 1:12...

Happy shopping and good luck!

 

[Silverbullet2]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

I shoot the AI AW in 338 Lapua. The cost break down is aprox. like this. .75 for a Lapua 300GR. .30 for a Win. LG Magnum primer, and about .25 for H1000 if you get an 8 lb jug. I bought 100 Lapua once fired cases for 150.00. I figure you can spread the cost of the Lapua cases across 10 loadings, so let's say .15 a shot. That totaled up is 1.45 per shot. Much better than 100.00 for a box of 20! You could recoup the dies and loading tools pretty quickly. Your saving 3.55 a shot. JPG

 

[Dutch405]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Silverbullet-2</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I shoot the AI AW in 338 Lapua. The cost break down is aprox. like this. .75 for a Lapua 300GR. .30 for a Win. LG Magnum primer, and about .25 for H1000 if you get an 8 lb jug. I bought 100 Lapua once fired cases for 150.00. I figure you can spread the cost of the Lapua cases across 10 loadings, so let's say .15 a shot. That totaled up is 1.45 per shot. Much better than 100.00 for a box of 20! You could recoup the dies and loading tools pretty quickly. Your saving 3.55 a shot. JPG </div></div>

This is actually very helpful for me. I've been wondering what breakdown of this round actually is and now I know! Thank you for the information Silverbullet!

 

[vman]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

Im a fan of the AI systems.

BUT

You can purchase 2 Trg42's and still have left over change, compared to buying the one AW.

Up to you man, do you have a stack of cash to burn?

 

[mavrick10_2000]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: MinorDamage</div><div class="ubbcode-body">What is going to be the longest range available to you? The 300 WM with heavies is no slouch. A couple guys on the site (I believe jrob and someone else) have made hits way out there with their 300 WM. The 338 is going to be considerably more expensive in powder consumption and projos.

Being in Oklahoma should make trying out both of these well within reach. You can post in the Member link up forum and put out a feeler. I would also put a post in the Bolt Action Rifles Forum with the title "Wanting to try out AI AWM and TRG-42 in Oklahoma". Lots of fine folks on this site would be willing to help you out.

Josh </div></div>

Whenever quoting jrob and Shane's LD shooting remember they have much more elevation than most in the U.S. working in their favor.

 

[mavrick10_2000]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

I have a TRG22 Factory folder, which will feel a little "different" and a TRG42 in .338 LM.

I'm probably within 25 Miles of you if you want to test drive them. I might even be able to arrange for a friend with an AIAW in .308 show up.

 

[MinorDamage]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: mavrick10_2000</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Whenever quoting jrob and Shane's LD shooting remember they have much more elevation than most in the U.S. working in their favor. </div></div>

This is true, which is why I included the link in another post. While you may not make it to 2296 yards, getting out past 1700 should not be much of a sweat anywhere.

Josh

 

[TheBrewMaster]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

I plan on moving to Utah in 6 months and will be harvesting elk anywhere I can see them.

I had no idea that reloading was so cheap!!

If I can reload a 338 Lapua for the same price I would pay to buy a 300 Win Mag, I will have to learn how to reload.

This way if I ever get the chance to do a brown bear hunt I won't have to buy another rifle.

Does anyone know how much it will cost to get all the gear to start reloading?

 

[175G]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

I personally love (more like am in love with) the AWSM .338 but then again I like the thumbhole stocks. Of everything I shoot it remains my favourite rifle. However it costs a fortune not just the rifle but also to feed her. The TRG is a good MUCH cheaper option especially if you go with a fixed stock. I agree with everyone that you should shoot them both first and then decide your budget. If you get your butt down to Dallas, TX I can get you out on the AWSM if you wish.

However that being said many people have good luck hunting with a bone stock Savage 300WM so I suppose its all relative.

Another good point other posters make is if you arent able to get out past 1000 all the time you might find it a waste.

 

[MinorDamage]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: TheBrewMaster</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I plan on moving to Utah in 6 months and will be harvesting elk anywhere I can see them.
</div></div>

The 300WM will take down game like that at the ranges most sane people will send a bullet after an animal. If you are really thinking of taking a 1700 yard shot on an elk you had better make damn sure you are good enough to put one in the boiler room from that distance and take him down ethically.

Josh

 

[TheBrewMaster]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

Indeed... That would be another reason to go for the 338 Lapua.

I can't wait to get behind the trigger and see what one I like best. I been overseas in Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan for the last 6 years as a Contractor. God it's good to be back home in the USA. Anyway Now I'm ready to spend a little of that hard earned dough on a new Rifle. I'm sick of just shooting them on Call of Duty Black Ops

 

[George63]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Silverbullet-2</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> The cost break down is aprox. like this. .75 for a Lapua 300GR. .30 for a Win. LG Magnum primer, and about .25 for H1000 if you get an 8 lb jug. I bought 100 Lapua once fired cases for 150.00. I figure you can spread the cost of the Lapua cases across 10 loadings, so let's say .15 a shot. That totaled up is 1.45 per shot. . JPG </div></div>

you have to mean .03 for the primer, no more than .04 so 1.18 per, with a more basic bullet, a few more cycles of the brass, you can get it down to 1.05 per, I do not do 300 win mag but expect a good round could be put out for .75 per (7mm saum goes .70)

 

[TheBrewMaster]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

Does anyone know of a good website, book, or DVD on reloading?

If anyone knows a good mix that can put a 338 out the barrel at 3000+ fps feel free to post it.

How many times can you reuse the brass?

I was watching Zak Smith on youtube and there was a competition in NM if memory serves and there were some rifles that were having some issues. Does anyone know what those rifles were?

Thanks for all the good information that everyone is giving me. I've got a lot to learn and everyone here has been very helpful.

 

[5RWill]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

Another difference i imagine is the weight. The TRG uses a smaller contour than the AI doesn't it? I've thought about this subject many times and i would be in the same boat, i like both of the guns. Both fantastic weapon systems and both accurate as hell. I do prefer a 3-position safety over a 2 position but that of course isn't something that would have me pick one over the other.

If you want it "now" rather than "then" i vote sako.

Any reloading manual will have a "how to" section. Best thing to do is find someone who can teach you. Thats how i'm currently learning. Check out Zak's article on both rifles, http://demigodllc.com/articles/military-338-lapua-rifles-trg42-awsm/

 

[TheBrewMaster]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

What is better and why a Picatinny Rail or the Dovetail?

What about the 1:12 barrel twist on the TRG. Does that slow down the round too much and the 1:10 is just right for the weight of the round or what?

 

[MinorDamage]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

The faster twist (1:10) will stabilize the 300 grain projectiles while the 1:12 is marginal at doing so.

Josh

 

[Silverbullet2]

Re: SakoTGR 42 Vs. Accuracy International AW

Most New AI's will have the picitiny rail. I bought an older (1996) vintage AIAW 338Lapua with the 1-10 twist barrel, and it came with just the dovetail. You just buy the dovetail mount that you want. It is a one piece deal, (rings are built in). Stacey might chime in. He is the all knowledgable about AI's as he is AI North America.
Don't get all wrapped up in pushing a 300 gr bullet to 3000 FPS. If your rifle likes it best at 2950, then live with that.
The cost to get into handloading, (I don't like the term reloading) can be a little, or alot. It comes down to making the best possible ammo, that fits your rifle the best to wring out the most accuracy.
I have a redding press, 75.00 on ebay, a charge master, about 300.00, and a set of Redding comp dies, 200.00 with bushings from the Hide, a caliper, and a priming tool, and some brass prep tools, and a tumbler. I might have 750.00 in everything for this caliber. But everything except the dies are used for my 308 and 223, and whatever else. You have to look at the long term return on your investment. I look at it as a whole other hobby. It is very relaxing, and enjoyable. I have shared this hobby with a dozen or so shooters over the years.
I miss calculated the price on primers. It should have been .03-.04 max not the .30 I listed. My bad. That's why I'm not an accountant!

Best of luck, JPG