Accuracy Int'l AE MkII folding or fixed

[Steel_11A]

I had previously discounted AIs compared to the TRG22 because of cost, but as I've added it up, there's not a world of difference and I've decided to step up to the AE AI MkII - and thanks for the prod, TCW:
http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=2295291#Post2295291
This is NOT a critique of the TRG - I just see more advantages in the AI.

Questions for AE owners or those in the know:

Fixed or folding stock and do you regret making either choice? Is the folding (reasonably) as rigid as the fixed?

I want a 24" barrel v. the 20" offered in the .308. Why do you think they don't offer the muzzle brake on the 24 and is it a big deal to have the barrel threaded for one? Any brake suggestions? I've asked Stacey B via email - probably at SHOT.

Thanks much.

 

[BobinNC]

Re: Accuracy Int'l AE MkII folding or fixed

There is no difference in rigidity between a fixed or folding AI stock.

Advantages to an AI Folder:

More compact for transport.
Easier to clean your rifle, as the cheek-piece does not need to be removed.

That's it....

Disadvantages to an AI folder:

A few more dollars, than a non-folder.

As far as a muzzle brake on a 308, you really don't need one. But it is not a big deal to have a barrel threaded for one.

The rational for having the 20" barrel threaded and braked, is that often the 20" is also run suppressed. So 20" of barrel, plus 6-8" of suppressor, equals a manageable OAL rifle for LE type duties.

Suppress a 24" barrel and you can pole vault with it.

Bob

 

[jasonk]

Re: Accuracy Int'l AE MkII folding or fixed

Go folder, you'll have no regrets.

The 20" AE with brake is a nice rifle, balances well too.

 

[Hawk45]

Re: Accuracy Int'l AE MkII folding or fixed

I am in the same boat as you and saving for my AE.

I've had and AICS 2.0 in the past and never had use for folding it. I can see if you are going to travel with a case on planes that it would be nice to have a more compact case, but for 99% of the time I doubt you will ever fold it. I never found the extra cost to be worth the folder for myself. Depending on your needs.. you may want it.

As far as the brake and barrel lenghts. Not sure why thy don't make available for all barrels.. but my guess is that the extra lenght of the 24" is enough extra weight that a brake isn't really needed. I've heard you don't need a brake on the 20" version really either. But I prefer as low of recoil as possible for calling shots, so when I get my 20" it will have the brake.

One thing to think about though.. if you go with the AI factory brake.. it is not US standard threaded.. it's metric, so most supressors and other aftermarket brakes won't fit. So if you want to go the aftermarket brake/supressor route.. probably best to just get the plain barrel and have it sent out to get threaded to the pitch you want.

 

[Timo Turl]

Re: Accuracy Int'l AE MkII folding or fixed

I have MKII 24" no brake, fixed stock. Mainly use it at the range and don't need the tacticool folded option but it is good and it works well by all accounts.

You can get the 24" threaded if you want. I would have done that if i was allowed to own a moderator but i shot 150 rounds today and to be honest i don't really need it. It has forced me to learn the basics.

Other bits and pieces you might consider getting include the AI cleaning kit, Acushot monopod, Atlas V8 bipod with AI spigot, ten round mags. I went NF with the AI one piece 20 MOA mount, sling etc. Add up the extras if you don't have them and then decide if you can still afford the folded stock. If you can then you have nothing to lose from getting it.

 

[rundm]

Re: Accuracy Int'l AE MkII folding or fixed

I went with the 20in folder and have not looked back. I do not use the folding part very much but when you want to use it you can. When I bought mine, the cost was very negligible between the folder and non folding. Check around with people's pricing and you will most likely find that the cost diff is not that much. I bought from Randy at Mile High and they treated me very well. I would definatly buy from them again and have been eye balling the covert model something fierce.

 

[Jeeprider]

Re: Accuracy Int'l AE MkII folding or fixed

I have the fixed stock 20" AE MKII and love it. It's a range gun, didn't need the folder. I can see the folder making sense in a tactical/SWAT situation, but other than that.... Ultimately your call, sure the folder is cool, but it's a bit more money put it torwards ammo and shoot.

 

[trilogymac]

Re: Accuracy Int'l AE MkII folding or fixed

.308 20" folder here as well. I would do it again in a minute.
Wouldn't even consider a non folder if for no other reason than ease of cleaning.

Hope this helps.

Trilogymac

 

[johndoe]

Re: Accuracy Int'l AE MkII folding or fixed

Love the folders but as most do it only comes in handy for cleaning.
Never had a use for it besides cleaning, yet I want more guns that fold?
Go figure?

 

[Mendocino]

Re: Accuracy Int'l AE MkII folding or fixed

Folder with Thunder Beast 30P-1 can.

 

[gugubica]

Re: Accuracy Int'l AE MkII folding or fixed

I have owned both folders and fixed AICS and AI...I will never get a fixed one again if it can be avoided.

Trust me, do it.

20" is fine for a 308.

 

[toygunner]

Re: Accuracy Int'l AE MkII folding or fixed

Is the thumb hole larger on the 2.0, or does it just look that way in the pics?

 

[wiganbear]

Re: Accuracy Int'l AE MkII folding or fixed

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: trilogymac</div><div class="ubbcode-body">.308 20" folder here as well. I would do it again in a minute.
Wouldn't even consider a non folder if for no other reason than ease of cleaning.

Hope this helps.

Trilogymac </div></div>

I bought my AW as a folder as it was in stock and I didn't want to wait. If I had my money back and was ready to order again it would be the folder again for the reason above plus it fits into a smaller bag and is easier to lug into the car. Also just as rigid as a fixed so why not other than the money which is reason enough if it is.

 

[DrDeath]

Re: Accuracy Int'l AE MkII folding or fixed

I can't decide - this or the XLR!