AI AE Options

[Runamuk]

I've been looking hard at getting a AI AE and I'm almost ready to pull the trigger on the purchase, there's just a few of things I'm still not sure about.

1. Does it appear to anyone else that the finishes on these rifles are, well, not that great when compared to other rifles in their price range? Has anyone refinished their action and barrel for a better overall appearance? (yes it matters to me)

2. Has anyone felt the need to have their action bedded and if so noticed any improvement over the standard factory installation?

3. Does anyone make aftermarket triggers for these rifles if the factory 2-stage isn't what it cracked up to be to someone who is used to a very nice single stage/2-stage aftermarket piece?

I understand I could remedy all of MY issues with a aftermarket action and barrel in a AICS, but that's not what I'm looking for in this case. I don't want to take away from the reliability of the rifle system as a whole, but I've ended up doing something to every factory rifle I've ever purchased and I would like to know my options upfront before jumping in.

 

[MinorDamage]

Re: AI AE Options

1. You can get the entire rifle done for 200-250 if it really matters to you. I have heard the new finish is better than the original.

2. Bedding it? Seriously?

3. No aftermarket trigger that I know of, but there is nothing to dislike about the AI trigger. A 2 stage is always all it is cracked up to be...especially the one on my TRG.

Josh

 

[shoot4fun]

Re: AI AE Options

I have the AE MKII. My answer to you would be that your questions tell me you should buy something else.
1. If finish is more important than function you should just buy a 6PPC and go BR shooting.

2. AW actions are epoxy bedded to the chassis. AE actions are not. I can (and have) put 20 rounds of Federal GMM in a 2" group at 300 yards. That is from a bipod. The chassis is very stable and bedding will not improve anything.

3. If you don't think you will like a two stage trigger then the AE is probably not for you. I don't have a two stage on any other gun but have no problem getting acclimated to the AE trigger.

 

[BasraBoy]

Re: AI AE Options

OP - what type of shooting are you looking to do?

The AI range of rifles were designed specifically to provide a tactical rifle platform that is robust and resilient in battlefield or LE conditions.

If the two-stage trigger is a deal breaker for you, walk away. Personally I have no real problem adjusting between the AI trigger, the single stage on my GAP or the 70+ year old single stage triggers on my old Enfields. It is what you are used to IHMO.

If you want a practical and accurate rifle that will provide years of service, is designed to be robust and reliable and deal with a wide variety of condtions with no fuss - get an AI, it won't disappoint.

They may not be everyone's idea of eye candy but they are fine rifles.

But be warned....most of the guys I know with AW and AE will tell you it is a rifle that will keep you honest - they are SO capable that they leave you no place to hide.

Trust me....if you don't hit what you are shooting at, it will be you that is at fault!

Personally I like the fact that the rifle will shoot far better than I ever can....some don't.

 

[Runamuk]

Re: AI AE Options

Because I have questions you think I should buy something else? Yea that makes sense.
Finish and function go well together in my book, compare a nice Cerakote finish to the factory one, which do you think would not only look better but also protect the rifle better?
I shoot a 6XC in BR but thank you for the recommendation.

"AW actions are epoxy bedded to the chassis. AE actions are not".
Thank you master of the obvious, ever wonder why the AW is bonded and the AE isn't? Cost savings maybe? Rounded action vs flat bottom? I was told by a very reputable gunsmith on this site that a custom action requires bedding for best performance into the AICS stock. So my question stands and I’m aware the factory action isn’t a custom, but what about it precludes the requirement of bedding? I'm looking for a reason not your opinion.

“If you don't think you will like a two stage trigger then the AE is probably not for you. I don't have a two stage on any other gun but have no problem getting acclimated to the AE trigger”.

I like a 2-stage trigger just fine, I have 3 but they are made by Anschutz and are very nice but not tactical triggers. The AI page says 4.4 to 3.3lbs, a little heavy for me personally, so I ask the question.

Like you I have an opinion also, it is that you have nothing constructive or of relevance to add to this topic.

 

[Runamuk]

Re: AI AE Options

BasraBoy

That's why I want one, everything you said. After a lot of research on them, those were just some simple questions I had about them. As far as what type of shooting I'll be doing, I'm hoping to shoot it in my clubs F/TR events where I currently shoot one of my custom 700's. Also on the schedule is a tactical shoot coming up in Mammoth KY this coming July and whatever else I find interesting. Currently none of my other guns are magazine fed so after much research I'm thinking this is the way to go, or at least a good start.

 

[MinorDamage]

Re: AI AE Options

Runamuk,

I have never heard of anyone ever bedding an AI. They are going to outshoot most anyone's capabilities. Not to mention that is a decision that should be made after shooting the rifle. Secondly, as I said in my first post, a full refinish will run 200-250. Cerakote is great, but I would not fool with the AI finish until it starts showing wear.

Lastly, as stated before, if you already handle a two stage then you will be fine with it. It is a purpose built sniper rifle so the adjustment range will not be like a BR rifle considering the environment in which it was designed to be used.

Josh

 

[poison123]

Re: AI AE Options

If he wants a lighter trigger....he could always track down the fabled AI Match Target trigger....

 

[BasraBoy]

Re: AI AE Options

runamuk - I too have an Anschutz 1710 and love the trigger on that rifle. If I could have all my triggers like that, sure I'd be happy

The trigger in my AW does not feel "heavy" and I have never felt the need to adjust it down from the factory setting. The trigger on my GAP (M40A1 clone on 700SA) is perhaps "crisper" to the feel on the break and is lighter (although I've never put a pull gauge on either).

Not trying to be a "master of the obvious" but we all ike different things and what looks like an issue on paper, may ot be such a big deal in reality. I'd really recommend you get behind one of these and try it if you get the chance. Some will say that one of their main issues are the ergonomics. You're only going to know if it works for you if you get behind it.

If you are looking at F/TR events, I'd suggest going for the Atlas bipod with V2 spigot - although I never had a problem with my AI/PH bipod, I recently put a V8 Atlas on the AW. The Atlas may be a tighter for you at long distance.

 

[desertHK]

Re: AI AE Options

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Runamuk</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Because I have questions you think I should buy something else? Yea that makes sense.
Finish and function go well together in my book, compare a nice Cerakote finish to the factory one, which do you think would not only look better but also protect the rifle better?
I shoot a 6XC in BR but thank you for the recommendation.

"AW actions are epoxy bedded to the chassis. AE actions are not".
Thank you master of the obvious, <span style="text-decoration: underline"><span style="font-weight: bold">ever wonder why the AW is bonded and the AE isn't? Cost savings maybe? Rounded action vs flat bottom? </span></span>I was told by a very reputable gunsmith on this site that a custom action requires bedding for best performance into the AICS stock. So my question stands and I’m aware the factory action isn’t a custom, but what about it precludes the requirement of bedding? I'm looking for a reason not your opinion.

“If you don't think you will like a two stage trigger then the AE is probably not for you. I don't have a two stage on any other gun but have no problem getting acclimated to the AE trigger”.

I like a 2-stage trigger just fine, I have 3 but they are made by Anschutz and are very nice but not tactical triggers. The AI page says 4.4 to 3.3lbs, a little heavy for me personally, so I ask the question.

Like you I have an opinion also, it is that you have nothing constructive or of relevance to add to this topic.
</div></div>

As opposed to the AE, the main reason why the AW are bonded to the chassis permanently is to minimize the potential "changes/fluctuation/shifting" whatever you want to call it, of the action and stock when exposed to extreme conditions, i.e., sub-zero temperature. That's also why it's called the "Artic Warfare" model. The AE which is designed for LE is less likely to be in an austere environtment like the AW. Therefore, it doesn't need to have that extra feature. I have 3 AIAW's and thinking of an AE Mk II. I certainly have no reservation about getting an AE. In fact a good friend of mine has an earlier model of the AE, and it's just everybit accurate as my AWs. Bottom line is the rifle is more accurate than most of its shooters.

In terms of the fancy color and flamboyant finishes that you see on most BR shooter's stocks, the AI rifles are designed for one specific goal in mind. It was designed to be a military sniper rifle. But, you can certainly finish it to your liking. I am not certain, since I don't have any AE rifles, I believe that the trigger on the newer AE models are adjustable. Again, it's designed to be a field weapon, not for BR. Of course, the trigger pull is going to be heavier than some BR triggers.

You questions are valid. However, you are comparing luxury features of a BR rifle to that of reliable, rugged features of a field rifle.

 

[MinorDamage]

Re: AI AE Options

The AE, while capable of accuracy on par with the AW, was made for a lower price point to appeal to law enforcement agencies that didn't have the dime to spend on a bunch of AWs. The AW setup also facilitates extremely quick barrel changes in the field.

Josh

 

[shoot4fun]

Re: AI AE Options

"Because I have questions you think I should buy something else? Yea that makes sense."

Actually, it does. I have rifles from GAP, Surgeon and APA. While all may have a slightly "prettier" finish than the AE they don't do anything else. I learned about "pretty" from some of the top shooters (handgun &rifle) in the country. They don't do pretty.

"Thank you master of the obvious, ever wonder why the AW is bonded and the AE isn't? Cost savings maybe?"

Not a cost saving measure. The AW, as stated above is glued into the aluminum chassis for extreme duty. Almost all of my customs are in AICS and none are bedded. I have never felt they needed it. But that is just my opinion. My AE is not bedded and it makes anyone who shoots it look good. Accuracy does not suffer due to lack of bedding on any AE I have owned or been around.

Did I know anything about you before I replied to your original post? No. But I got the correct impression about you. Your a "thin skinned" BR guy and that's OK. Hell, I have some of those guns too.
There are many more things to consider when looking at purchasing an AI rifle. The main one for anyone should be the stock design. It is not for everyone and tends to be something of a love/hate thing on this board. True, if you don't like the finish it can be redone. If you just have to have it bedded it can be done. The trigger, IMHO, has enough adjustment to get to your liking. But the AI chassis is the AI chassis and there isn't much you can do there. I happen to like them and prefer the AI chassis over most other stocks.

"Like you I have an opinion also, it is that you have nothing constructive or of relevance to add to this topic."

You didn't hear what you wanted to hear and that makes my opinion/experience not valid. You will find your time here on Sniper's Hide very exasperating as long as you have that attitude.

Have a nice day!

 

[Runamuk]

Re: AI AE Options

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: DesertHK</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Runamuk</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Because I have questions you think I should buy something else? Yea that makes sense.
Finish and function go well together in my book, compare a nice Cerakote finish to the factory one, which do you think would not only look better but also protect the rifle better?
I shoot a 6XC in BR but thank you for the recommendation.

"AW actions are epoxy bedded to the chassis. AE actions are not".
Thank you master of the obvious, <span style="text-decoration: underline"><span style="font-weight: bold">ever wonder why the AW is bonded and the AE isn't? Cost savings maybe? Rounded action vs flat bottom? </span></span>I was told by a very reputable gunsmith on this site that a custom action requires bedding for best performance into the AICS stock. So my question stands and I’m aware the factory action isn’t a custom, but what about it precludes the requirement of bedding? I'm looking for a reason not your opinion.

“If you don't think you will like a two stage trigger then the AE is probably not for you. I don't have a two stage on any other gun but have no problem getting acclimated to the AE trigger”.

I like a 2-stage trigger just fine, I have 3 but they are made by Anschutz and are very nice but not tactical triggers. The AI page says 4.4 to 3.3lbs, a little heavy for me personally, so I ask the question.

Like you I have an opinion also, it is that you have nothing constructive or of relevance to add to this topic.
</div></div>

As opposed to the AE, the main reason why the AW are bonded to the chassis permanently is to minimize the potential "changes/fluctuation/shifting" whatever you want to call it, of the action and stock when exposed to extreme conditions, i.e., sub-zero temperature. That's also why it's called the "Artic Warfare" model. The AE which is designed for LE is less likely to be in an austere environtment like the AW. Therefore, it doesn't need to have that extra feature. I have 3 AIAW's and thinking of an AE Mk II. I certainly have no reservation about getting an AE. In fact a good friend of mine has an earlier model of the AE, and it's just everybit accurate as my AWs. Bottom line is the rifle is more accurate than most of its shooters.

In terms of the fancy color and flamboyant finishes that you see on most BR shooter's stocks, the AI rifles are designed for one specific goal in mind. It was designed to be a military sniper rifle. But, you can certainly finish it to your liking. I am not certain, since I don't have any AE rifles, I believe that the trigger on the newer AE models are adjustable. Again, it's designed to be a field weapon, not for BR. Of course, the trigger pull is going to be heavier than some BR triggers.

You questions are valid. However, you are comparing luxury features of a BR rifle to that of reliable, rugged features of a field rifle. </div></div>

Taking environmental elements into consideration makes sense for the bonding measures that AI put in place with the AW, good point I didn't consider but should have. A prior post was brought to my attention that discussed bedding with the AICS and the reasons expressed seem valid. Had I seen that prior to my post I wounldn't have asked.

To be clear I don't plan on any fancy colors, but with my limited exposure to the AE, I just noticed the finish wasn't what I expected, it doesn't suck, but to be honest it isn’t that great either. (To me) I'm trying not to compare a BR rifle to the AE, but again with limited exposure I don't have a lot to compare it to. With the exception of Lonewolf, (who's been very helpful), I don't know of another AE in southern Indiana, I've been behind the stock before and found it comfortable but this had a Remy action installed. So I've never actually shot the AE, I'm running on spectulation and research, which is my reason for the questions. Thank you for your response

 

[BasraBoy]

Re: AI AE Options

runamuk - I'd agree that the finish is "utilitarian"- but that is the nature of the beast and shouldn't be confused with these rifles being badly made.

I recently replaced the unthreaded 6 year old muzzle brake on my AW with a new threaded one and found the finish is massively improved.

However you may find the fit of the stock sides are still a little...err...."rustic"?

But (apologies for labouring the point) as already stated (a) the AI rifles are made for a specific purpose and (b) the AE is built to a lower budget than the AW.

 

[Runamuk]

Re: AI AE Options

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: BasraBoy</div><div class="ubbcode-body">runamuk - I'd agree that the finish is "utilitarian"- but that is the nature of the beast and shouldn't be confused with these rifles being badly made.

I recently replaced the unthreaded 6 year old muzzle brake on my AW with a new threaded one and found the finish is massively improved.

However you may find the fit of the stock sides are still a little...err...."rustic"?

But (apologies for labouring the point) as already stated (a) the AI rifles are made for a specific purpose and (b) the AE is built to a lower budget than the AW. </div></div>

It's very possible the one I have had my hands on was one of the older "utilitarian" pieces, I wouldn't know honestly, it was at a gun-show a couple years back and at the time I didn't have a need/want for one so I just wrote it off and kept walking. (Ignorance is bliss)

Looks like a long drive ahead of me (6hrs) to the nearest dealer to get my hands on one again. Thanks for your help!

 

[TEAMSENDIT]

Re: AI AE Options

If you are going to make the drive to handle one take a hard look at the trg 22 also based on your questions i think you will really like it. the trigger is easily adjustable to get close to your anschutz triggers if you so desire. the phosphate finish on them is even and very durable, plus they are alittel lighter and cheaper than the aiae mk II.

They are both great platforms and you will be happy with either, they are honestly two of the best factory 308's tactical rifles made. For me having handled them both, i found the aiae more bomb proof rifle and the trg alittle more ergonomic/adjustable. Due to the fact i am only using the rifle for match shooting i opted for the trg.

Hope this helps alittle if not it at least made me feel better about my choice.

 

[Tribe]

Re: AI AE Options

Bah.... If you're lookin' at an AI... You should like 'em covered in dirt & wear... Just this dudes humble opinion.

 

[Hawk45]

Re: AI AE Options

If you want something that can take a beating and function 100% in any weather and environmental conditions, the the AI is probably the best option bar none.

If you just need something to shoot on square ranges.. it sounds like you already have guns for that. You may have what you need already, just send it out to get detachable bottom metal that takes AI mags.

If a gun works for it's intended purpose I wouldn't care what it looks like, and the inteneded purpose of an AI is to be used and abused in harsh conditions.

I think it is a wise choice to make the drive before dropping 3K+ on an unknown fit/feel.

Good luck!

 

[MattA]

Re: AI AE Options

I've got an AE and if I ever run across a situation where I can break it, I highly suspect an AW wouldn't fair much better. The AE's a tank, and I think because it's the "lower" end AI rifle it's very underestimated. It's a beast.

 

[George63]

Re: AI AE Options

if it is not exactly what you want(so you will need to modify it) I would go for something else, the AI does not lend itself to personalization as well as other rifles, there is not 5 choices of good stocks, 10 choices of triggers etc

 

[Supersubes]

Re: AI AE Options

AE's are without a doubt one of the best deals in the precision rifle world. Ive owned an AE and an AW. I'll be buried with the AW, but the AE was 95% for a huge cost savings.

If an AE I had purchased didn't shoot, I wouldnt even consider bedding it. I would send it back to AI for them to fix. FWIW, I have never bedded any of my AICS's. Every one of them would return to zero after removing/re-installing the barreled action. I don't use a torque wrench either.

The trigger is right up there with the best features of the rifle (AW or AE). It is the same unit as the AW with a different case to fit the round action. I love them because i dont ever need to worry about it. It always works.

It's a tool, let it get ugly from use. You'll feel that much better when it prints cloverleafs on the target.

 

[Runamuk]

Re: AI AE Options

Just like to Thank Everyone for the help, I think I got it figured out.

 

[LoneWolfUSMC]

Re: AI AE Options

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Runamuk</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
1. Does it appear to anyone else that the finishes on these rifles are, well, not that great when compared to other rifles in their price range? Has anyone refinished their action and barrel for a better overall appearance? (yes it matters to me)</div></div>

You may want to look elsewhere then. The AI rifles are designed and manufactured as tools, not sculptures. Sure you could have the action refinished and the skins dipped or airbrushed. You could also have a velvet lined case made and some custom monogramed diapers to rub it with.

For the rest of us, the finish on the AE MkII serves to protect the metal from rusting and provide a low glare finish. In that purpose it performs admirably. My AE gets some less than nice treatment and the finish holds up fine.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Runamuk</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
2. Has anyone felt the need to have their action bedded and if so noticed any improvement over the standard factory installation?</div></div>

Why you would do this is beyond me. At the end of our training day yesterday I got froggy and fired a 100 yard five shot group. I am usually not a group shooter, but the rifle has more than 400 rounds since it's last cleaning. I wanted to see where the accuracy was at. I put 5 shots into a 1/4". This was one group, no flyers from a bipod and bag. This is pretty normal for the rifle.

With this kind of performance I see no reason to monkey with anything the factory did.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Runamuk</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
3. Does anyone make aftermarket triggers for these rifles if the factory 2-stage isn't what it cracked up to be to someone who is used to a very nice single stage/2-stage aftermarket piece?</div></div>

If you know what you are doing you can adjust the AI trigger to damn near anything you want. The crazyiest example was the trigger on Stacey Blankenship's personal Covert. It was extremely light. However my trigger is exactly the way it came from the factory and capable of supporting an extremely high level of accuracy.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Runamuk</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
I don't want to take away from the reliability of the rifle system as a whole, but I've ended up doing something to every factory rifle I've ever purchased and I would like to know my options upfront before jumping in.
</div></div>

If you don't want to take away from the reliability of the system, then leave it alone. It was designed to be accurate and reliable.

If you need to fiddle and customize, then you would be best served with something else. A Remington 700 type action in an AICS will give you the AI "look" and the ability to customize beyond your imagination. However you will be hard pressed to balance reliability and accuracy like the AI.

I drank the AI Koolaid and it tasted good. My last AI will not be my Last AI.

 

[bm11]

Re: AI AE Options

If you are concerned with the finish, do what I did- Krylon it:

Mine isn't an AE though...

 

[Timo Turl]

Re: AI AE Options

If you really are concerned with overall appearance you should also be aware that the AI one piece scope mounts are a different colour/finish to the barrel and the other metal parts. Doesn't bother me but since you mentioned appearance thought you might like to know.

 

[shoot4fun]

Re: AI AE Options

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: bm11</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If you are concerned with the finish, do what I did- Krylon it:

Mine isn't an AE though...

</div></div>

I know love is blind, but have you noticed how ugly that AX really is???

Just kidding! I wish I had one.

 

[bm11]

Re: AI AE Options

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: shoot4fun</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
I know love is blind, but have you noticed how ugly that AX really is???

Just kidding! I wish I had one. </div></div>Oh it's ugly for sure! But it sure shoots...

 

[Graham]

Re: AI AE Options

There's nothing wrong with an AE, as it is, from the box. You don't bed it. You use the trigger that it has. If you need something else you get something else.

 

[gugubica]

Re: AI AE Options

There is a reason no one makes an after market trigger for AIs...don't need to.

The final stage is heavy, but since you are already holding the first stage, it feels lighter. Plus, it is a tactical rifle, there is no place for a sub one lb trigger on a tactical rifle.

 

[LoneWolfUSMC]

Re: AI AE Options

At the end of our Sniper Training this week I decided to fire ONE accuracy group. I just finished some drills, had some rounds left in the box and wanted to see what it was capable of because I hadn't cleaned in almost 500 rounds.

I dropped behind the rifle and fired five slow shots making sure I had perfect form each time.

When I was done the group measured 0.29"

I won't post the image because it doesn't meet the rules and I am not a big fan of group shooting so I wasn't going to waste another box of ammo repeating it four more times.

The point is I fired that group from a bipod with a dead stock AE MkII with MANY rounds fouling the barrel. It has a factory set trigger and no modification. The ammo was Federal Gold Metal Match. No handloads.

If you modify an AI, it's because you WANT to. Not because the rifle needs it. I am perfectly happy leaving mine stock.

 

[hewlett260]

Re: AI AE Options

I got my first AI about 6 months ago, an AW in 260 Rem stage 1.5 and a Pic rail. This thing is amazing and has set the standard for anything i will ever shoot again. Accuracy testing @ 100 meters is pointless now as there is no longer any challenge at that range. I now do my accuracy testing at 300m and am looking for an AE MK II to go with it. The trigger on a military rifle shouldn't feel like perfection but mine does and so do my friends AE(original) and AE MK II. They dont seem that great to look at but after consistently grouping under an inch at 300 meters it grows on you and has a place in your deepest thoughts. My friend feels the same way about both of his. My point, instead of buying one and planning every little detail like you would for a custom, just pick a good optic a let it amaze you. If it's what you are really set on try it first and feel it out before you let the wheels in your head turn too much.

 

[Runamuk]

Re: AI AE Options

hewlett

Great advice thank you. When I started this thread back in Apr I was concerned with dropping 3k on the AE instead of going with something that I knew more about. Since then and after just opening my 3rd box of 500 count 175gn sierras I'm a believer in the AE.
I'm now looking at one of the 6.5 offerings in the AE as I think having two will work out nicely.