Re: TRG 42 vs AIAW vs Custom built stiller action .338
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: HeroFish</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Thanks all for the various views on the subject. For me, I am not going to be able to make this type of purchase very often (not many can I am guessing), so I am going to have to buy one, see how it works for me, and hopefully not regret it.
According to my smith, the custom when complete with optics should come in around 16lbs (much less than 25). Not really certain how that compares to the weight of the AI/TRG.
In my choices, I am really looking for used AI or TRG vs new custom. Unfortunatly, I am only seeing used non-folders for sale over the last few weeks here on the forum. I really can't spend an extra couple of grand for the new prices on the AIAW's, and I don't see any folding options for the TRG's? Though, I will say that the custom will have a barrell around 28" plus the suppressor, so the folder really helps there with getting it into a bag etc. (at least I am hoping)...
Going with a shorter barrelled TRG may reduce the need for the folder, though on the AI, I hear that you have to change the adjustable combe to remove the bolt for cleaning? So a lot of folks like the folder for that reason? </div></div>
First off, there are worse decisions in life than choosing between an AI, a TRG or a custom built rifle.
The TRG is a very nice rifle that shoots well and has an attractive initial rifle cost, but the accessories or options like a folder get very expensive. A custom build is just that, something the exact way you want it. Finally, the AW is a world class sniper rifle.
All of that being said, if you can swing it I'd recommend the AX. While the AW is an AW, the AX is the next generation of the AW action and was purpose built around the .338 Lapua Magnum allowing you to get the maximum performance out of the cartridge.
A few things to consider if this is a one time buy for the long term:
-The AX rifles are like any other AI in that replacing a barrel is very simple with easy to get factory barrels as well as good custom aftermarket support. Swapping a barrel on an AI is something a savvy end-user can do, but if you are going to use a gunsmith for anything barrel wise it's not as big of a deal.
-Like the AW, the AX has a one piece action bonded to the chassis so you don't have to worry about really anything with the rifle.
-The AX is the future for AI in rifles. While there are some items cross compatible between the AW and AX, for anything new coming down the pipe accessory or feature wise you're going to see it available for the AX much more readily than the AW.
-Speaking of accessories, while the TRG has a lower rifle cost, the accessories are very expensive and not as readily available as the AI accessories. For example you could almost buy two AI mags for the cost of one TRG mag.
-On magazines, the AX .338 utilizes a 10rd, double stack magazine vs. most other magazines that only hold 5. Also, the chassis system has a cut-out for easy magazine changes without breaking your prone position.
-The AX series is unique compared to the other in that it has the extended forend which is very nice for the obvious NV mount, kicking a bipod way out front or lasers/illumination. It also is very nice for any kind of non-traditional shooting position by being able to rest the forend on pretty much anything.
-The action already has cant built in and is ready to accept any mount or ring combination that works with the 1913 spec rail.
-All of the AX's are folders, while the TRG folders are significantly more expensive than the standard model. For a straight stock AI AW, there are only two simple screws to pop off the cheek piece for cleaning. For any folding AI, all you have to do is fold the stock to the side.
Overall, I have shot a couple VERY nice TRGs and they do exceedingly well for their base price point. There are many very nice custom builds available and you can have exactly what you want. The AW is an outstanding rifle in it's own right. That being said, in my opinion the AX is the nicest shooting rifle you'll come across. I have been fortunate to play with and shoot the AX .338s a good bit and they are almost too easy to shoot well and are very tame, civilized rifles both suppressed and unsuppressed. I subscribe to the buy once, cry once philosophy and if you can swing it, the AX will be a rifle to last you a very long time and be worth the little extra cash.
-Sean
