Gunsmithing Modify AI AE to accept AW magazines

[redneckbmxer24]

With the only major advantage for the average shooter to a AW over a AE MKIII being the double stack mags that can be top loaded, and are easier to load that AICS mags, I got to wondering if anybody has modofied an AE?

AW mags use the same magwell as the AICS mags so the only thing that would need to be modified is the latch which is easy, and the action itself. It would obviously void the warranty but other than that is there any good reason why this can't be done?

My guess is that if there is no reason why this isn't possible (and I don't think there is), a reputable smith who set himself up to do such a job could probably keep a steady flow of work from it.

 

[Adam B]

I would imagine that a feed ramp modification would be all it would take (similar to what is done on a Remington 700). It would be pretty awesome if someone did this, hell I might buy an AE if someone is successful with it.

 

[redneckbmxer24]

I believe the feed lips have to be relieved as well for the wide double stack ears on the AW mags on R700 actions as well. I doubt the magazine inlet on the AE action is much wider than it needs to be, so the action may need some machining. Either way the only thing else I see needing to be done a feed ramp modification as you mentioned, and the mag latch modification.

As long as there is no reason the action can't be inletted (if needed), and the feed ramp can't be modified, I don't see why this wouldn't be 100% possible.

So who wants to be the guinea pig? I would if I still had an AE.

 

[Lowlight]

If you wait, maybe AI will do it for you... no Guinea Pigs required...

 

[redneckbmxer24]

If you wait, maybe AI will do it for you... no Guinea Pigs required...

dun dun dunnnnn....



MKIV? Interest is peaked. If this happens I may just sell my AX and head to the titty club with the difference. There's nothing like a new AI and some blue balls.

 

[RADcustom]

I talked about this with Stacy Blankenship several years ago. I decided it wasn't worth voiding the warranty so, I sold the AE and bought an AW. They have gotten more reasonable since the AX came out.

 

[Adam B]

dun dun dunnnnn....



MKIV? Interest is peaked. If this happens I may just sell my AX and head to the titty club with the difference. There's nothing like a new AI and some blue balls.

this statement is full of win!!!!!

 

[hewlett260]

Why not just get the AW? And yes it would be awesome, but awesome enough to void your warranty?