AIAX vs Barrett MRAD GO

[BCX]

Is the new MRAD giving the AX a run for the money? Finishing up my last custom build (I HOPE BUT WE ALL KNOW HOW THAT GOES LOL)

Been thinking about going to a quick change barrel setup in the next year.

 

[MACHTECH]

Nope

 

[BCX]

Figured it wasn't even a comparison. Only ever pulled the trigger once on a AIAX and the smoothness of the action was unbelievable. I do own 2 AI chassis so will prob watch the PX when the time comes.

 

[Steel+Killer]

I just bought a very slightly used AI AX 308 I immediately bought a 6.5CM barrel for it and I have no regrets. It is my first switch barrel rifle and I wish I had got one sooner. I shot it yesterday started with the 6.5CM then I put the 308 barrel on it less than 5 minutes and BAM I am shooting a different caliber. The windage is exactly the same and my elevation is only .2 mil difference between the 6.5CM barrel and the 308 barrel I just set the offset in my Kestrel and I don't have to think about again. Being able to switch barrels on the fly has many benefits IMO, ease of cleaning and when the barrel (heart and soul of rifle) wears out for $600-700 bucks you got a new AI pretty much. Oh I have zero experience with the Barrett so I can't give you my .02 on it.

 

[mgrs]

You’ll get a lot of hate for MRADs from people who have no experience with them. Had an MRAD, now have an AX.

First, AXMC to MRAD is a better comparison as AX is short action only.

Without going to deep into it, the AIs are ‘nicer’ and I think have a higher appeal and satisfaction of ownership due to the action feel, iconic look, and other things.

MRAD is a more modern design with a whole lot to speak for it, but it looks like an RPR. The action is lightning fast and impossible to bind, but still feels a little cheaper as it rides on polymer sleeves. AX series AI rifles have a lot better stock adjustability, so there is that.

MRAD is just as good, probably better than the AI for work in a lot of ways. For your own money, the AI is just nicer.

My thoughts after having both for a while could be summed up as “MRAD to get paid, AI to get laid”

 

[jtackmann]

Owned a first gen MRAD for a while and recently purchased an AXMC (waiting on new ZCO glass for it). I really liked the MRAD while I had it and have been thinking of picking a new one up (can never have too many toys) but the AXMC feels more well thought out. The action on the AXMC, and I would assume the AX as well, is much smoother, the barrel changes are easier, and the balance on the AX seems better. The ergonomics of the MRAD get a slight nod from me but I prefer the AXMC so far. In a few months I might write up a report comparing the two from my experiences.

 

[BCX]

AXSA is Short action only the AIAX is offered in both LA and SA.

 

[mgrs]

AXSA is Short action only the AIAX is offered in both LA and SA.

OK, Saw the post above mine and assumed you were looking at the AX short action.

Re: caliber changes, one nice thing about the MRAD is that no magazine well inserts are needed and no expensive parts are needed beyond the caliber change kit, which includes the correct size bolt and magazine.

Caliber changes are definitely easier on the AI if you are staying in the same class. MRAD takes a large torx bit and a torque wrench capable of at least 130 in/lbs at the barrel extension is clamped in the receiver a lot like an LMT MWS.

 

[BCX]

Thanks for the info!

 

[joshwrose]

Interesting info following