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AI AE Mk3???

Foweis

Foweis

Sergeant
Full Member
Minuteman
Nov 19, 2009
558
4
New mexico, USA
Hey guys well I don't wanna start a TrG vs AI AE debate, but I still haven't decided. Anywys what I do no is I'm going to get either one in a .260 rem. my question is what barrel length does the AI AE mk3 in a .260 come. And what length is it while folded?
Also if you would like to share your opinion on which rifle would be a better choice for a go to forever rifle go ahead and share your opinion. I have a Schmidt and bender 5-25x56 pmii mil/mil MSR reticle just waiting. Also $5000 to spend on a rifle so that's why I would like to make the best choice possible . Feel free to recommend other options, stick with short actions and highend rifles. Mainly up to 1000 yards on steel occasionally 1500 yards. And some times hunting and varmint shooting.
Thanks guys!
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Jmilera</div><div class="ubbcode-body">AW 24 inches </div></div>
Is that what you recommend or?
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

AI's are awesome, if you have the cash, get an AW, but i think they're north of $6k new. The AE mkIII is not much different than an AW now and they can be had for under $4K with a folder.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

Yah an AW is out of price range $5k is max with accessories. I been lookin long and hard on AE I just wanna make the right choice. Does anyone no the barrel length on the .260 version?
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Foweis</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Yah an AW is out of price range $5k is max with accessories. I been lookin long and hard on AE I just wanna make the right choice. Does anyone no the barrel length on the .260 version?</div></div>

just get the mkiii they have 22"-26" at mile high just give randy a call he will hook you up. you could always buy a 20" 308 and then have a smith make you a custom 260 barrel for it so you get exactly what you want. spend $200 on wrench and barrel vise and you can swap barrels in your garage in like 10min. and yes i a speaking from experience not couch commando i have mkii with 3 barrels.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

which rifle do you prefer in terms of ergonomics? If you haven't already I would get behind each to see which is more comfortable. Almost any high end rifle will shoot and last longer than you will, so it comes down to your personal preference in my opinion.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

Well I have been behind both and like the way they both feel, that's my problem I like both, but need a solid platform that won't fail no matter what shit it has to go threw.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

Having had a TRG in the past, they are built to handle a lot of rough conditions. However, they are also LARGE rifles, and a 24" or 26" barrel, especially if you add the brake on the end, and get the TRG bi-pod, which is REALLY well-built, the weight becomes a real issue if you try to do any shooting other than off the bi-pod; setting, kneeling are much harder, and off-hand is nigh-impossible, IMO. Adding support obviously makes a more stable shooting platform, but still, the weight is considerable. Having not handled an AE III, I couldn't comment on it's weight. You seem to indicate that you almost want a rifle for 'the end of the world', so using it in tactical scenarios should mean weight might be a consideration. Just some thoughts to help you in making your decision. I'm quite sure either rifle will be an outstanding weapon, so you really can't 'go wrong' here, I'd think.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 1kHIT</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> You seem to indicate that you almost want a rifle for 'the end of the world'. </div></div>

That's pretty much exactly, a scenario where if I had one rifle and it had to be a short action, and it can mt cost over $5k with accessories. I no that weight should be a factor, but from life experience anything that can take a beating an last long I usually heavy duty.
In my honest opinion. And as far as length goes I don't think I want any rifle with over a 22" barrel. .260 should be fine out of that.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 1kHIT</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Having had a TRG in the past, they are built to handle a lot of rough conditions. However, they are also LARGE rifles, and a 24" or 26" barrel, especially if you add the brake on the end, and get the TRG bi-pod, which is REALLY well-built, the weight becomes a real issue if you try to do any shooting other than off the bi-pod; setting, kneeling are much harder, and off-hand is nigh-impossible, IMO. Adding support obviously makes a more stable shooting platform, but still, the weight is considerable. Having not handled an AE III, I couldn't comment on it's weight. You seem to indicate that you almost want a rifle for 'the end of the world', so using it in tactical scenarios should mean weight might be a consideration. Just some thoughts to help you in making your decision. I'm quite sure either rifle will be an outstanding weapon, so you really can't 'go wrong' here, I'd think. </div></div>

Differences in preferences are interesting...I would say my TRG 42 is the easiest rifle I have to shoot offhand.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Foweis</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 1kHIT</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> You seem to indicate that you almost want a rifle for 'the end of the world'. </div></div>

That's pretty much exactly, a scenario where if I had one rifle and it had to be a short action, and it can mt cost over $5k with accessories. I no that weight should be a factor, but from life experience anything that can take a beating an last long I usually heavy duty.
In my honest opinion. And as far as length goes I don't think I want any rifle with over a 22" barrel. .260 should be fine out of that. </div></div>

get the AE, they're as stout as they come
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

I have two AICS rifles and a TRG42 btw... I like the feel and the looks of both of them but I understand when people recommend to get behind both as I have seen guys get on my rifles and either love 'em or hate 'em. I took a class where the two guys next to me were a TRG22 and a AE MKIII and both worked flawlessly for 300 rounds during heat/rain/wind/dirt/running around... both were shooting sub .5moa groups anytime we were on paper out to about 600 while other custom guns on the line had trouble with the conditions.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

The more and more I think about it the more I lean towards an AE, but last I weak I wanted a trg, I think the problem is me. Im an undecisive SOB, that can't ever make a decision on anything. Does anyone know what the length of the AE with the 22" barrel would be when folded? And please guys don't stop with the opinions I really enjoy hearing experiences like WhiskyWebber wrote.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

Can you buy both, test both of them for 100rounds and sell the one you like least? Both have awesome resale value. I'm sure somebody like EuroOptics might be able to come up with a creative solution for you.

Don't beat yourself up, making decisions can be tough.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Foweis</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Hey 1kHIT, you said you "HAD" a trg so why did you get rid of it? </div></div>

A couple of reasons. First, was the weight when ALL the accessories were attached. I don't shoot off-hand regularly, but for different events shoots locally, (range out to 600M), crawling around, or maneuvering with a 15+ lbs. rifle got old pretty quick. The second reason (and the biggest) was that since I bought it at a good price, I was able to sell it, even after using it, for a nice profit. It was a GREAT rifle, and there are many things about it I do miss, but I don't regret selling it. That is just me, however, so I hope no one takes that as a slam or a put-down on the TRG. I was just trying to offer my experiences with the rifle, that's all.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: WhiskeyWebber</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Can you buy both, test both of them for 100rounds and sell the one you like least? Both have awesome resale value. I'm sure somebody like EuroOptics might be able to come up with a creative solution for you.

Don't beat yourself up, making decisions can be tough. </div></div>

No way I can't buy both, but I appreciate the advise.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Foweis</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Well what did you replace it with? </div></div>

LOL!!! In all honesty, I'm still searching. I was lucky enough last weekend to test-drive a very good friend's FN A1a. Despite all that I'd heard about the evils of 'chrome lined barrels', the rifle was more than capable of 3/4MOA groups (5-shot). Don't get me wrong, I still had to do my part, but I was very impressed. Also, the rifle, having only a 20" barrel, seemed to balance quite nicely. I ran it out to 500 yards before we ran out of time. As of right now, however, I've made no decisions, and am still looking. I don't know of anyone around here that owns an AI rifle, so I probably won't ever get a chance to test one, sadly.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: WhiskeyWebber</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I have two AICS rifles and a TRG42 btw... I like the feel and the looks of both of them but I understand when people recommend to get behind both as I have seen guys get on my rifles and either love 'em or hate 'em. I took a class where the two guys next to me were a TRG22 and a AE MKIII and both worked flawlessly for 300 rounds during heat/rain/wind/dirt/running around... both were shooting sub .5moa groups anytime we were on paper out to about 600 while other custom guns on the line had trouble with the conditions. </div></div>

I can attest to this statement. I had a high end custom that gave me some troubles in adverse conditions. So, i now have an AI AE MKIII, ran it in the rain last week with no problems at all.
I am firmly aboard the AI ship and would say if they are your flavor of rifle, then buy one.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

Another way to look at it is that a folding stock for a TRG is almost 2,000 retail. In general a TRG is around 3,000 and an AE is around 4,000 with a folding stock included. So if packability is a high priority the AE would make most sense financially. (unless you go for the KRG folder which is only $900)
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: shabazz</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Another way to look at it is that a folding stock for a TRG is almost 2,000 retail. </div></div>

That's another great point. EVERYTHING for a TRG is expensive from Sako. Their mags, their bi-pod, their scope base (I had the Optilok and then added a Badger 20MOA), their muzzle brakes, and yes, their VERY EXPENSIVE folding stock.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

Yah I see your point guys, an that's another reason that I keep leaning towards the AE, and thanks JPSSpeeddemon, that's what I like to hear.
And 1KHiT ,lol your on the same boat as me thanks for the advise.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

That's the point of a great forum such as this: discussion and debate (generally). Please be sure to post back whatever you end up getting.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Foweis</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> Does anyone know what the length of the AE with the 22" barrel would be when folded? </div></div>

My AICS 2.0 folder reduces the overall length by 10.5"...EuroOptics has the OAL at 43 in so I would say you'd be at ~33 in +/- your muzzle brake of choice length
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

I have one coming in 260 scheduled in 10 days. barrel is 24" but it seems to be configured by the distributor rather than a boxed factory unit. There are a myriad of options on calibre, length etc. I am not sure how that works with you guys.

I think the folder is 8" shorter. Fixed is 40" so 32"?

Best bet is to pm Tom Irwin of AI who is a member on here?
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

As a guy who is a big AI fan and has "owned" a couple MkII's, at least 2 but maybe 3 AW's and now still has an AX I feel that I'm qualified to add to the discussion.

The MkIII is a heck of a rifle for the money. Great value, rock solid and will hang with equal priced customs all day long. With the availability of the new AI skins and the Viperskins I see no reason why everyone shouldn't own at least one.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

I went through the same decision last fall...ended up with AE MkIII and couldn't be happier. Plus, it helped that Mile High is local to me as well
grin.gif
Got a 2.0 folder, .308 24" threaded barrel w/AI muzzle brake.

Plus, factor in that there are pistol grip viper skins and AI legacy stock sides w/a pistol grip available as well (if the thumb hole doesn't do it for you).

I will say it's built like a tank and solid - some may say it's too heavy...which it does have some heft to it, no doubt. However, that's what I like - it's not like I'm going to be humping 5 miles in the woods to hunt with this thing!

my $0.02

1zxw6sn.jpg
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

Haha I love great thread and I appreciate you guys making it one. I might just go ahead go with the mk3. Thanks for the pic Avsfan.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 1kHIT</div><div class="ubbcode-body">That's the point of a great forum such as this: discussion and debate (generally). Please be sure to post back whatever you end up getting.
</div></div>
Will do man just give me a couple weaks or so.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

I didn't know you could get the AIAE MK3 in a 260. I have been wanting one for a while but didn't want another 308 rifle.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

Yah, you could get it in a 6.5 cm and .260, besides the .308.
That's why when someone posted that the .260 can come with a 22" barrel I was sold.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

Yah mile high has great options available. For all AI parts including SAS brakes instead of the ones that come in metric threads.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 1kHIT</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Foweis</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Well what did you replace it with? </div></div>

LOL!!! In all honesty, I'm still searching. I was lucky enough last weekend to test-drive a very good friend's FN A1a. Despite all that I'd heard about the evils of 'chrome lined barrels', the rifle was more than capable of 3/4MOA groups (5-shot). Don't get me wrong, I still had to do my part, but I was very impressed. Also, the rifle, having only a 20" barrel, seemed to balance quite nicely. I ran it out to 500 yards before we ran out of time. As of right now, however, I've made no decisions, and am still looking. I don't know of anyone around here that owns an AI rifle, so I probably won't ever get a chance to test one, sadly.
</div></div>

If you can make it one state over I have a couple you can shoot and getting ready for my third. Problem with the AI is they are making it too easy to get a great shooting rifle with NO wait. Started out thinking I would happy with the AE in .308 and being able to change out my own barrels for different calibers. After getting one I didn't want to change out barrels and didn't want to shoot my custom Remington 308 anymore. So instead of swapping barrels I purchased a .260 AE with the idea of always keeping my 308 a 308 and changing barrels on the .260 if I wanted a different caliber. Now I don't want to screw with my .260 but also want a .243 for no real purpose other than I can get one in a week, same stock, action, mags, bases, bipods, mono-pods one feels just like the other so I tell myself keeping the standard platform and accessories is a good thing for my shooting and in some wierd way I'm actually saving money.

I may just be rationalizing.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

some wierd way I'm actually saving money.

I may just be rationalizing.[/quote]

That's halariuos man. I love it. Mind sharing some pictures?
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

Thanks for the generous offer! I can very easily see myself 'rationalizing' in much the same way!
laugh.gif
LOL!!!
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

I spent months researching about what kind of rifle I should get before getting into the precision rifle world.

I liked the idea of customizing a R700 or a T3 into what I wanted but just purchasing the barrel, getting the stock I wanted, gunsmithing fees, etc, I want very close to the price of a MK III that is a true battle proven system, and if for what-ever the fuck I decide to sell it I'll get much much much more value for it than any customized R700 (unless it's a GAP or Surgeon).
I'm poor therefore I can't afford to buy cheap stuff, so I've done overtime, worked 2 jobs and I purchased a brand new folding AI AE MK III.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: st1650</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
I'm poor therefore I can't afford to buy cheap stuff, so I've done overtime, worked 2 jobs and I purchased a brand new folding AI AE MK III.</div></div>

Congrats!! Way to go my good man, glad to see some still do it the old fashioned way. You've earned yourself a great rifle that you'll have for many many years to come.

Jason
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: LarryA</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Someone in another thread stated the AI AE is a switch-barrel just the same as the AW using the barrel change kit, is this true? IIRC the only way to make an AE a switch barrel was to send the action off and "true" it.</div></div>

No, you can just order barrels from Mile High and install at home. Easy cheesy with the action wrench and barrel vise.
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jasonk</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: LarryA</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Someone in another thread stated the AI AE is a switch-barrel just the same as the AW using the barrel change kit, is this true? IIRC the only way to make an AE a switch barrel was to send the action off and "true" it.</div></div>

No, you can just order barrels from Mile High and install at home. Easy cheesy with the action wrench and barrel vise. </div></div>

So then the only two differences between the AE and AW is that the action is stronger on the AW and the chassis and action are bonded, yes?
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jasonk</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Both actions are plenty strong, but basically they are now very similar. I'd not hesitate to get an AE MkIII. </div></div>

But alas, they don't make it in .338 Lapua.
frown.gif
 
Re: AI AE Mk3???

I talked to mile high yesterday for a qoute. The mk3 barrels don't come in 22" standard size, but they can cut them to whatever size I want. The options they gave me where either cut barrel down wich come In a 1-10 twist for the .260, or go with a bartlien barrel in a 1-8 twist whatever size I want, for an aditional charge. What do you guys think? Is a 1-10 good enough for a .260, shoul I just have the origenal barrel chopped down or go with a bartlien?
 
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