Accuracy International AWM or AI-AWM | |
---|---|
Type | Sniper rifle |
Place of origin | United Kingdom |
Service history | |
In service | 1996–present |
Used by | See Users |
Wars | Afghanistan War Iraq War |
Production history | |
Manufacturer | Accuracy International |
Produced | 1996-2013 |
Specifications | |
Mass | 6.5 kg (14.3 lb) (.300 Winchester Magnum) 6.9 kg (15.1 lb) (.338 Lapua Magnum) with stock, bipod and empty magazine |
Length | 1200 mm (47.2 in) (.300 Win. Mag.) 1230 mm (48.4 in) (.338 Lapua Magnum) |
Barrel length | 660 mm (26 in) (.300 Win. Mag.) 686 mm (27 in) (.338 Lapua Magnum) |
Cartridge | .300 Winchester Magnum .338 Lapua Magnum |
Action | Bolt-action |
Effective firing range | 1,100 m (1,203 yd) (.300 Winchester Magnum) 1,500–2,475 m (1,640–2,707 yd) (.338 Lapua Magnum) |
Feed system | 5-round detachable box magazine |
Sights | Detachable Aperture Type iron sights Day or Night optics |
The Accuracy International AWM (Arctic Warfare Magnum or AI-Arctic Warfare Magnum) is a bolt-actionsniper rifle manufactured by Accuracy International designed for magnum rifle cartridges. The Accuracy International AWM is also unofficially known as the AWSM (Arctic Warfare Super Magnum), which typically denotes AWM rifles chambered in .338 Lapua Magnum.
On 9 September 2012, Accuracy International announced that the .338 Lapua Magnum AWM rifle was phased out and replaced by the Accuracy International AXMC sniper rifle.[1]
Oct 26, 2012 Airsoft sniper ASG AW. ASG AW.308 Airsoft Sniper Rifle Shooting at Longer Ranges - Duration. Pissing off Airsoft Cheaters with 500 FPS Sniper Headshots - Duration.
- 2Magnum chamberings
- 2.3Second longest confirmed sniper kill
- 3Military adoption
Arctic Warfare Magnum System[edit]
The Accuracy International AWM sniper rifle is a variant of the British Accuracy International Arctic Warfare (AW) rifle that was the basis of a family of sniper rifles using the Arctic Warfare name. As such the design details of the AWM variant are similar to the ones found in the basic AW rifle system. Compared to the AW, the AWM has a longer bolt to accommodate dimensionally larger magnum-length cartridges such as the .300 Winchester Magnum and the .338 Lapua Magnum. The bolt head, locking ring, and extractor and magazines were also revised to work with the increased size and operating pressures of magnum rifle cartridges.
The AWM features a detachable single stack removable box magazine which holds five rounds. The normal cartridges for this rifle, and the ones which have been accepted by NATO for use in AWM rifles, are .300 Winchester Magnum and .338 Lapua Magnum.
Muzzle brakes are fitted to reduce recoil, jump and flash and act as a base for optional iron sights and suppressors.
Normally, the AWMs are outfitted with a Schmidt & Bender PM II 10×42/MILITARY MK II 10×42 telescopic sight with 10× fixed power of magnification. However, a Schmidt & Bender PM II/MILITARY MK II with variable magnification of either 3–12×50, 4–16×50 or 5–25×56 can be used if the operator wants more flexibility to shoot at varying ranges, or when a wide field of view is required. Accuracy International actively promotes fitting the German made Schmidt & Bender PM II/MILITARY MK II product line as sighting components on their rifles, which is rare for a rifle manufacturer. The German and Russian Army preferred a telescopic sight made by Zeiss[2] over Accuracy International's preference.
The AWM rifle is normally supplied in a metal transit case together with a telescopic sight, mount, butt spacers, bipod, spare magazines, sling, cleaning and tool kits.
Magnum chamberings[edit]
.300 Winchester Magnum[edit]
The .300 Winchester Magnum (7.62×67mm) cartridge was designed as a magnum hunting cartridge and offers a flatter trajectory and a significant increase in muzzle velocity, wind resistance and supersonic range over the dimensionally smaller 7.62×51mm NATO cartridge. The ability of the .300 Winchester Magnum chambering to obtain fairly high muzzle velocities, combined with relatively heavy and long very-low-drag bullets, significantly enhance the hit probability at longer ranges and hence the effective range compared to the 7.62×51mm NATO cartridge. For precision shooting, the FederalGold Medal Match grade is the most commonly used ammunition.[citation needed]
The AWM chambered for the .300 Winchester Magnum is fitted with a fluted, stainless steel barrel that is 660 mm (26') long for optimum muzzle velocity and nominal weight. The .300 Winchester Magnum barrel features a non-traditional 279.4 mm (1:11 in) right-hand twist rate.
.338 Lapua Magnum[edit]
A Dutch ISAF sniper team displaying their Accuracy International AWM .338 Lapua Magnum rifle and Leica/Vectronix VECTOR IVlaser rangefinder binoculars.
The AWM in the .338 Lapua Magnum (8.6×70mm) calibre was designed as a dedicated long range sniper rifle.
The AWM .338 Lapua Magnum is fitted with a stainless steel, fluted, 686 mm (27') barrel, which research has found to be the best compromise between muzzle velocity on the one hand, and weight and length on the other.
The rifle's barrel has an unconventional 279 mm (1:11 in) right-hand twist rate, optimized for firing .338-calibre very-low-drag bullets up to 16.85 g (260 gr). When the AWM .338 Lapua Magnum was developed military issue cartridges were loaded with 16.2 g (250 gr) very-low-drag bullets. Longer, heavier very-low-drag bullets like the Sierra HPBT MatchKing .338-calibre 19.44 g (300 gr) and the 21st century 19.44 gram (300 grain) .338-calibre HPBT Scenar can be used, but require a 254 mm (1:10 in) twist rate to stabilize them under high air density conditions as found on arctic coasts.[3]
A British sniper (centre) carrying his L115A3 Long Range Rifle with attached suppressor, on joint training mission with French snipers.
A limitation of AWM rifles is that .338 Lapua Magnum cartridges loaded to the Commission Internationale Permanente pour l'Epreuve des Armes à Feu Portatives (C.I.P.) maximum allowed overall length of 93.50 mm (3.681 in) do not fit in the magazine due to a lack of internal magazine length. This is because the AWM bolt action was initially developed for dimensionally smaller cartridges, and then modified for the .338 Lapua Magnum chambering.[4] Ammunition manufacturers produce .338 Lapua Magnum military issue cartridges loaded with 16.2 g (250 gr) very-low-drag bullets (overall length ≤ 91.44 mm / 3.600 in) that fit in the 91.50 mm (3.602 in) long AWM magazines. As long as .338 Lapua Magnum cartridges that fit in the magazines are used, the AWM rifles can be used as repeating rifles instead of single shot rifles.
To address .338 Lapua Magnum ammunition length limitations of the AWM Accuracy International has since developed the AX338 long range rifle as the AWM successor model. The bolt action of the AX338 is longer and wider than the AWM, and the internal magazine is lengthened, allowing the unimpaired use of .338 Lapua Magnum cartridges loaded to the C.I.P. (Permanent International Commission for the Proof of Firearms Portable) maximum allowed overall length of 93.50 mm (3.681 in). Furthermore, the AX338 has a 238 mm (1:9.375 in) twist rate to adequately stabilize longer, heavier .338 caliber very-low-drag projectile designs that became more common in the 21st century.[5][6]
Ammunition types currently available for the .338 Lapua Magnum are FMJ, hollow point, Armour Piercing (AP) and Armour Piercing Incendiary (API).
Second longest confirmed sniper kill[edit]
Schmidt & Bender 5-25×56 PM II LP telescopic sight, similar to the sight used by Harrison, and its adjustment controls
In November 2009, British Army sniper Corporal of Horse (CoH) Craig Harrison, a member of the Household Cavalry, set the record for longest recorded sniper kill, at the time, by killing two Taliban machine gunners consecutively south of Musa Qala in Helmand Province in Afghanistan at a range of 2,475 m (2,707 yd) taking 10 shots to hit the target, using a L115A3 Long Range Rifle.[7][8][9][10]
In the reports CoH Harrison mentions the environmental conditions were perfect for long range shooting: no wind, mild weather, clear visibility.[11]
In June 2017, a Canadian JTF2 sniper broke this record for a confirmed kill at 3,450 m (3,773 yd) with a C15 long-range sniper weapon (LRSW).[12]
Ballistics and use of environment and equipment to achieve the aiming solution[edit]
Seen at 5× zoom
Seen at 25× zoom
The P4 stadiametric rangefinding reticle as used in the Schmidt & Bender 5-25×56 telescopic sight. The small red figure in the images is the silhouette of a man standing at a range of 2,475 m (2,707 yd).
According to JBM Ballistics,[13] using drag coefficients (Cd) provided by Lapua, the L115A3 has an approximate supersonic range (speed of sound = 340.3 m/s) of 1,375 m (1,504 yd) under International Standard Atmosphere conditions at sea level (air density ρ = 1.225 kg/m3) and 1,548 m (1,693 yd) at the 1,043 m (3,422 ft) altitude or elevation (air density ρ = 1.1069 kg/m3) of Musa Qala. This illustrates how differences in environmental conditions can significantly affect bullet flight.
The Schmidt & Bender MILITARY MKII 5-25×56 mm scope used by Harrison on the L115A3 Long Range Rifle has windage and elevation adjustment of 0.1 milliradian (mil), double turn elevation turret, and parallax and illumination control. The sight has a maximal vertical elevation range of 26 mil, and the sight adjustment increment of 0.1 mil equates to a 247.5 mm (9.74 in) point of impact shift at a distance of 2,475 m (2,707 yd). To increase the maximal elevation range Accuracy International produces mounts for telescopic sights with a 13.1 mil (45 MOA) built in vertical cant designed for their .338 Lapua Magnum rifles fitted with the 5-25×56 telescopic sight. Even with a 13.1 mil canted mount the employed sighting system is not able to dial in over 39.1 milliradian of vertical aiming correction, which is significantly less than Harrison required during his record shot.[14][15]
The external ballistics software program by JBM Ballistics predicts that the bullets of British high pressure (over-pressure rounds with pressures and velocities significantly exceeding standard maximums for the cartridge) .338 Lapua Magnum cartridges using 16.2 g (250 gr) Lapua LockBase B408 bullets fired at 936 m/s (3,071 ft/s) muzzle velocity under International Standard Atmosphere conditions at 1,043 m (3,422 ft) elevation (air density ρ = 1.1069 kg/m3) and assuming a flat fire scenario (a situation where the shooting and target positions are at equal elevation) and a 100 m (109 yd) zero (the distance at which the rifle is sighted in) arrive at 2,475 m (2,707 yd) distance after approximately 6.017 seconds flight time at 251.8 m/s (826 ft/s) velocity and have dropped 120.95 m (396.8 ft) or in angular units 48.9 milliradian (168 MOA) on their way. Harrison had to use the P4 reticle offering 0.5 mil spaced holdover hash marks in his 5-25×56 telescopic sight to compensate for the lack of vertical aiming correction and thus achieve the required aiming solution. The long horizontal line at 5× zoom or magnification represent 49.1 milliradian (168.6 MOA) or slightly over the required assumed vertical elevation.[16]
Military adoption[edit]
British Armed Forces[edit]
Royal Marines with L115A1 rifles.
The British Armed Forces adopted the AWM rifle chambered in .338 Lapua Magnum as the L115A1 Long Range Rifle. The British L115A1 rifles are outfitted with Schmidt & Bender 3-12×50 mm PM II/MILITARY MKII 3-12×50 mm 0.1 miltelescopic sights. The L115A1 is in service with the Royal Marines, British Army and RAF Regiment in Afghanistan and Iraq.
The L115A3 Long Range Rifle.
In November 2007 the British Ministry of Defence (MOD) announced that their snipers in the Army, Royal Marines and RAF Regiment were to get a new rifle. Accuracy International would supply 580 L115A3 Long Range Rifles with day telescopic sights. The L115A3 is being supplied as part of a broader Sniper System Improvement Programme (SSIP) which also includes night sights, spotting scopes, laser range finders and tripods.[17] The L115A3 rifle was first deployed to Afghanistan in May 2008.[18]Some features of the improved L115A3 include:
- Schmidt & Bender 5-25×56 mm PM II LP/MILITARY MKII 5-25×56 0.1 mil parallax, illumination, double turn telescopic sights;
- Suppressors to reduce the flash and noise signature;
- Folding stocks for better carrying in a backpack;
- Adjustable cheek pieces for more comfort and better eye alignment with the telescopic sight;
- Butt spikes (monopods) to aid stability during firing;
- Adjustable bipods, which differ from the original Accuracy International bipod;
- 5-round box magazines.
The MOD claims a muzzle velocity of 936 m/s (3,071 ft/s) for the L115A3.[19]
When the L115A3 Long Range Rifle was only 6 years into it's life cycle the British Ministry of Defence (MOD) recognized the improved capabilities of the AX series rifles in regard to special forces use. The AX series new chassis system provided more flexibility to utilize (future) low light and day light aiming optics, laser designators, and other accessories without the need for custom made mounting interface kits. The right folding AX series chassis system was also more compact in the folded configuration making it more portable and concealable, and featured a pistol grip. On request of the MOD Accuracy International explored the possibility of updating the L115A3 Long Range Rifle to the AX series chassis system, to produce a rifle that is a hybrid of AWM and AX features. The AX enhancements were well received by the MOD and British snipers, and an update program was launched thus producing the L115A4. The L115A4 can easily be mistaken for a new AX series rifle. The Schmidt & Bender 5-25×56 mm PM II LP/MILITARY MKII 5-25×56 as well as the suppressor, bipod and several other accessories from the L115A3 were reused in the L115A4 resulting in significant cost savings. Along with the rifle updates, the L115A4 includes a new deployment case, maintenance kit, and other accessories.
Dutch Armed Forces[edit]
The AWM-F commonly referred to as Geweer Lange Afstand (GLA) (Long Range Rifle) chambered in .338 Lapua Magnum has been introduced from 1996 by the Dutch Army’s Korps Commandotroepen snipers and the AWM is used by all Schutter Lange Afstand (SLA) (Long Range Marksmen) of the 11 Luchtmobiele Brigade (airborne infantry), 13th Light Brigade (motorised infantry), 43rd Mechanized Brigade (mechanised infantry). In 2007 the snipers of the Netherlands Marine Corps also received this sniper rifle. The Dutch AWM(-F) rifles are outfitted with Schmidt & Bender 10×42 PM II and 3-12×50 PM II telescopic sights. The rifles are designated as Accuracy, antipersoneel scherpschuttersgeweer .338 (Accuracy anti personnel sniper rifle .338) and the Military of the Netherlands claim a maximum effective range of 1,100 m (1,203 yd) for their AWM(-F) rifles and have used these rifles in Afghanistan with great success.[20][21]
German Armed Forces[edit]
AWM-F or G22 in Bundeswehr nomenclature with attached suppressor.
Since 1998 the Bundeswehr fields an AWM-F chambered in .300 Winchester Magnum (7.62 × 67 mm in Bundeswehr nomenclature), with a 3–12×56 SSG telescopic sight made by the German company Zeiss, under the designation of G22 (for Gewehr 22) or Scharfschützengewehr 22 (sniper rifle 22). The German G22 rifles have folding stocks and emergency iron sights. For their G22 rifles the Bundeswehr claims an effective range of 1,100 m (1,203 yd).[22][23]
Zeiss 3–12×56 SSG reticle.
The German ammunition manufacturer Metallwerk Elisenhütte Nassau (MEN) has specially developed 7.62 × 67 mm ammunition for the G22.[24]
The Carl Zeiss Optronics (previously branded as Hensoldt) telescopic sight has a mil-dot reticle and a scale that enables the operator to see the dialled in elevation setting through the rifle scopes ocular. The Bundeswehr 3–12×56 SSG telescopic sight differs somewhat from the further developed 3–12×56 SSG-P telescopic sight. The Bundeswehr telescopic sight has no parallax setting option and the range scale has a setting range from 0 to 10 instead of 0 to 11 symbolizing the 11.2 milliradian elevation adjustment range shown in the current Carl Zeiss Optronics 3–12×56 SSG-P telescopic sight brochure.[25]
The G22A1 has a Schmidt & Bender 3-12×50 telescopic sight and Harris Engineering bipod and is in use with German special forces.[26]
The G22A2 is an upgraded variant featuring an AX series chassis stock and a Steiner-Optik GmbH M5Xi 5-25×56 MTC LT LPF – TreMoR3s telescopic sight.[27]
The G22A2 is an upgraded variant featuring an AX series chassis stock and a Steiner-Optik GmbH M5Xi 5-25×56 MTC LT LPF – TreMoR3s telescopic sight.[27]
Royal Malaysia Police[edit]
The Unit Tindakhas (UTK) of the Pasukan Gerakan Khas (PGK) snipers from Royal Malaysia Police using the AWSM, chambered in .338 Lapua Magnum alongside the 7.62mm Accuracy International Arctic Warfare.[28]
Norwegian Special Forces[edit]
The snipers of Marinejegerkommandoen and Forsvarets Spesialkommando are known to have used the AWM, chambered in either .300 Winchester Magnum or .338 Lapua Magnum[29][30], though by now they've probably been replaced by the new Barrett MRAD.
Russian Alpha Group[edit]
Accuracy International rifles |
AI Arctic Warfare AI AW Police AI AW Magnum AI AW50 (.50 BMG) AI AX50 (.50 BMG) AI AS50 (Semi-auto.50 BMG) Australian AW50F Swedish Psg 90 |
The snipers of the Russian Alpha Group counter-terrorism unit are using the AWM-F chambered in .338 Lapua Magnum with Zeiss 3–12×56 SSG series telescopic sights.[31][32]
South Korean Special Forces[edit]
The 707th Special Mission BN from ROK Army and the Republic of Korea Naval Special Warfare Flotilla from ROK Navy use AWM series sniper rifles chambered in .338 Lapua Magnum outfitted with Schmidt & Bender 3-12×50 PM II telescopic sights. It has some telescopic sight attachment problems.[33]
Users[edit]
- Armenia: AWM – .338 Lapua Magnum[34][35]
- Bangladesh: AWM – .338 Lapua Magnum (Bangladesh Army Sniper Team)[36], SWADS, Special Forces
- Cyprus: AWM – .338 Lapua Magnum[citation needed]
- Czech Republic: AWM used by 601st Special Forces Group[citation needed]
- Egypt: Used by the Rapid Deployment Forces (Egypt)[citation needed]
- France:Used by the GIGN and the Commandos Marine special forces units[citation needed]
- Georgia:Used primarily by law enforcement agencies.[citation needed]
- Germany: AWM-F (Designated G22) – .300 Winchester Magnum[22][23]
- Indonesia: AWM is used by the Komando Pasukan Katak (Kopaska) tactical diver group and Komando Pasukan Khusus (Kopassus) special forces group[37]
- Ireland: – .338 Lapua Magnum used by Irish Army snipers.[38][39]
- Israel: AWM - .338 Lapua Magnum [40]
- Italy: AWM – .338 Lapua Magnum is used by the 9th Parachute Assault Regiment 'Col Moschin'[41]
- Malaysia: AWSM - .338 Lapua Magnum used by the Malaysian police PGK special operations.[28]
- Netherlands: AWM and AWM-F – .338 Lapua Magnum[20][42]
- Norway: AWM – .300 Winchester Magnum or .338 Lapua Magnum[29][30]
- Poland: AWM-F – .338 Lapua Magnum round; GROM;[43]1 Pułk Specjalny Komandosów[44]
- Russia: AWM-F – .338 Lapua Magnum used by the Alpha Group counter-terrorism unit[31][32][45][46]
- United Kingdom: AWM – .338 Lapua Magnum[18]
- United States: AWM - .338 Lapua Magnum [47]
- Malta[citation needed]
- Philippines: AWM - .338 Lapua Magnum used by the Presidential Security Group[citation needed]
- Singapore:Used to be used by Singapore Armed Forces Commando Formation[citation needed]
- Turkey: AWM - .338 Lapua Magnum[citation needed]
- Russia:Used by FSO and Ministry of Internal Affairs[citation needed]
References[edit]
- ^'News'. 5 March 2016. Archived from the original on 5 March 2016.
- ^'Zeiss: Telescopic sights for handheld weapons'. Retrieved 26 October 2014.
- ^Lapua 19.44 g (300 gr) HPBT Scenar Bullet brochureArchived 2010-12-05 at the Wayback Machine
- ^'News'. Accuracy International. Archived from the original on 2012-10-16. Retrieved 2012-12-25.
- ^'AX338 .338 long range rifle'. Archived from the original on 2012-03-11. Retrieved 2012-12-23.
- ^'How it works magazine article AX338 PSR sniper rifle'(PDF). Archived from the original(PDF) on 2014-10-26. Retrieved 2012-12-25.
- ^'Hotshot sniper in one-and-a-half mile double kill – The Sunday Times 2-5-2010'. Retrieved 26 October 2014.
- ^'Sniper's Taliban Shots Earn Him Place In Military Record Books –'. Daily Star. 2 May 2010.
- ^'Sniper kills Qaeda-from 1½ mi. away – New York Post 2-5-2010'. New York Post. 2 May 2010. Archived from the original on 6 May 2010. Retrieved 26 October 2014.
- ^'Super Sniper's World Record Kill'. The Sun.
- ^'Super Sniper Kills Taliban 1.5 Miles Away'Archived May 14, 2015, at the Wayback Machine 3 May 2010 Sky News
- ^'Canadian elite special forces sniper makes record-breaking kill shot in Iraq - The Globe and Mail'. 22 June 2017. Archived from the original on 22 June 2017.CS1 maint: BOT: original-url status unknown (link)
- ^'JBM'. www.jbmballistics.com.
- ^Küster, Peter. 'Schmidt & Bender - Riflescopes - Police and Military Forces - 5-25x56 PM II/LP/MTC/LT'. www.schmidtundbender.de.
- ^'Accuracy International rifle accessories brochure'(PDF). Archived from the original(PDF) on 2012-03-11. Retrieved 2015-01-24.
- ^Diagram and measurements of the employed elements in the Schmidt & Bender P4F stadiametric reticleArchived 2014-09-22 at Archive.today
- ^Snipers to get new longer range riflesArchived 2007-11-15 at the Wayback Machine
- ^ abL115A3 Long Range RifleArchived 2013-01-06 at the Wayback Machine. British Army.
- ^L96 Sniper Rifle and L115A3 Long Range RifleArchived 2011-06-07 at the Wayback Machine
- ^ ab'Special Forces – Wapens' (in Dutch). Netherlands Legermuseum: Collectie Informatie Centrum. Archived from the original on 2009-02-27. Retrieved 2009-10-17.
- ^Defensie, Ministerie van (2013-11-04). 'Accuracy-scherpschuttersgeweer (antipersoneel)'. www.defensie.nl.
- ^ ab'G22 page at the Bundeswehr website (German)'. Retrieved 26 October 2014.
- ^ ab'Datasheet on the G22 (German)'(PDF). Retrieved 26 October 2014.
- ^'Metallwerk Elisenhütte Nassau (MEN) company website'. Retrieved 26 October 2014.
- ^Carl Zeiss Optronics 3-12x56 SSG-P telescopic sight brochureArchived 2007-06-14 at the Wayback Machine
- ^New Scharfschützengewehr G22A2 Sniper Rifle
- ^German Army Modernizing their AI Sniper Rifles – G22 becomes G22A2
- ^ ab'PGK Malaysian Special Police Force Weapons'. Military Factory. March 7, 2016. Retrieved March 11, 2016.
- ^ abTom Bakkeli (2008). Norges Hemmelige Krigere. Kagge Forlag.
- ^ ab'Photo of Norwegian FSK snipers in Kabul in 2012'. Vegard Breie Photography. Retrieved 12 April 2019.
- ^ abhttp://cripo.com.ua/?sect_id=3&aid=90616‹See Tfd›(in Russian)
- ^ abhttp://slavs.org.ua/sorevnovanie-sniperov‹See Tfd›(in Russian)
- ^특전사 대테러부대 장거리 저격총 엉망 2012-01-25
- ^'Armenian Army Sniper Rifles'. YouTube. Retrieved 26 October 2014.
- ^'Azerbaijan reacts to French and British arms sales to Armenia'. APA. 1 February 2016. Archived from the original on 2016-02-04. Retrieved 2016-02-03.
- ^[1][dead link]
- ^'Kopassus & Kopaska – Specijalne Postrojbe Republike Indonezije'. Hrvatski vojnik (in Croatian). Archived from the original on 2010-08-22. Retrieved 2010-06-12.
- ^Kennedy, Sgt Rena (August 2007). 'Multitasked'(PDF). An Cosantóir. 67 (6): 14–16. Archived from the original(PDF) on 2017-03-05. Retrieved 18 November 2016.
- ^Thompson, Leroy (1 March 2013). 'Ireland's Army Rangers (page 1)'. Tactical-Life. Retrieved 19 November 2016.
- ^'isayeret.com - The Israeli Special Forces Database'. www.isayeret.com.
- ^Accuracy International AWM – colmoschin.itArchived 2009-09-08 at the Wayback Machine
- ^'Accuracy, antipersoneel snipergeweer .338' (in Dutch). Netherlands Ministry of Defence. Archived from the original on 2011-12-16. Retrieved 2010-02-24.
- ^'Nowe gromy GROM'. Archived from the original on 26 March 2010. Retrieved 26 October 2014.
- ^'Snipers foto'. Retrieved 26 October 2014.[permanent dead link]
- ^'YouTube'. m.youtube.com.
- ^Writer, Staff (2016-02-20). 'Russian SPETSNAZ Weapons'. Military Factory. Retrieved 2016-02-20.
- ^'Future Weapons - Magnum sniper'. YouTube. Retrieved 26 October 2014.
External links[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to G 22. |
- Demigodllc.com: Accuracy International AWSM Photos and More AWSM & TRG-42 Photos
Records | ||
---|---|---|
Preceded by McMillan Tac-50 | Longest confirmed combat sniper-shot kill 2009-2017 2,475 m (2,707 yd / 1.538 mi) using 16.2 g (250 gr) Lapua LockBase B408 bullets by Craig Harrison | Succeeded by McMillan Tac-50 |
Retrieved from 'https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Accuracy_International_AWM&oldid=897208983'
Accuracy International Arctic Warfare | |
---|---|
Type | Sniper rifle |
Place of origin | United Kingdom |
Service history | |
In service | 1982 (L96A1), 1988 (AW), 1990–present |
Used by | See Users |
Wars | Iraq War Afghanistan War Insurgency in the North Caucasus[1] Syrian Civil War[2] |
Production history | |
Designed | 1982 (PM), 1983 (AW) |
Manufacturer | Accuracy International |
Produced | 1982–present |
Specifications | |
Mass | 6.5 kg (14.3 lb) |
Length | 1,180 mm (46.5 in) |
Barrel length | 660 mm (26.0 in) |
Cartridge | 7.62×51mm NATO (.308 Winchester).338 Lapua Magnum |
Action | Bolt-action |
Muzzle velocity | 850 m/s (2,790 ft/s) |
Effective firing range | 800 m (870 yd) |
Maximum firing range | 3,943 m (4,312 yd)[3] |
Feed system | 10-round detachable box magazine (.308)5-round detachable box magazine (.300, .338) |
Sights | detachable aperture type iron sights day or night optics |
The Accuracy International Arctic Warfare rifle is a bolt-actionsniper rifle designed and manufactured by the British company Accuracy International. It has proved popular as a civilian, police, and military rifle since its introduction in the 1980s. The rifles have some features that improve performance in very cold conditions (which gave the rifle its name) without impairing operation in less extreme conditions.
Arctic Warfare rifles are generally fitted with a Schmidt & Bender PM II telescopic sight with fixed or variable magnification. Variable telescopic sights can be used if the operator wants more flexibility to shoot at varying ranges, or when a wide field of view is required. Accuracy International actively promotes fitting the German-made Schmidt & Bender MILITARY MK II product line as sighting components on their rifles, which is rare for a rifle manufacturer. The German and Russian forces preferred a telescopic sight made by Zeiss[4] over Accuracy International's recommendation.
![Ai Aw .338 Sniper Proline Ai Aw .338 Sniper Proline](/uploads/1/2/4/2/124211822/285407697.png)
- 1History
- 2Design details
- 3Accuracy International Chassis System
- 4Variants
- 4.2AW (Arctic Warfare)
- 4.6AWM (Arctic Warfare Magnum)
- 4.7AW50 (Arctic Warfare .50 caliber)
- 4.8AE (Accuracy Enforcement)
- 5AX derivatives
- 7References
History[edit]
Original design[edit]
The Accuracy International PM(Precision Marksman) rifle was entered into a British competition in the early 1980s as a replacement for the Lee–Enfield derived sniper rifles then in use by the British Army (e.g. L42A1). The Accuracy International rifle was selected over the Parker Hale M85. The British Army adopted the Accuracy International PM in 1982 into service as the L96A1 and outfitted the rifle with Schmidt & Bender 6×42 telescopic sights. In this configuration the rifle is capable of first shot hits with a cold, warm or fouled barrel. Tests with 10.89 g (168 gr) ammunition provided sub 0.5 MOA ten-shot groups at 91 m (100 yd) and the rifle was supplied with a telescopic sight, bipod, five magazines, sling, cleaning kit and tool roll, encased in a fitted transport case.[5]
Design evolution[edit]
The Swedish Prickskyttegevär 90 variant introduced cold weather upgrades
Some years later, the Swedish military also wanted a new rifle, and in the early 1990s Accuracy International entered an upgraded version of the PM, now known as the AW(Arctic Warfare). This was the start of the Arctic Warfare name, which became the primary name of the rifle family despite its earlier names.
Special de-icing features allow it to be used effectively at temperatures as low as −40 °C (−40 °F). The AW rifle featured a modified bolt with milled slots in the bolt body end to prevent bolt binding problems caused by penetrating water/ice, dirt or similar disturbances. Further, the stockhole, bolt handle, magazine release and trigger guard on the AW were enlarged and the magazine floorplates got protruding grasping tabs to allow use with heavy Arctic mittens. The resin stock side panels were replaced with sturdier polymer panels. The safety was revised to a 3-position safety allowing the bolt to be cycled with a locked trigger. This version was accepted into use by the Swedish Army in 1991 as the Prickskyttegevär 90 (Psg 90) fitted with a 10×42 Hensoldt telescopic sight.
The modifications to the original PM or L96A1 made the British Army decide to adopt the 'improved' AW version as well, designated L118A1 (fixed stock variant) and L118A2 (folding stock variant) . The rifles were fitted with Schmidt & Bender MILITARY MK II 3-12×50 telescopic sights offering the operator more flexibility to shoot at varying ranges, or in situations when a wide field of view is required. The stocks were fitted with a butt spike. This rifle has seen service in conflicts such as Operation Granby and Operation Telic.
In 2011 some Swedisch Psg 90 rifles were modernized to the Prickskyttegevär 90B (Psg 90B) standard fitting Schmidt & Bender MILITARY MK II 3-12×50 telescopic sights and folding stocks.
Rifle system family[edit]
The Accuracy International Arctic Warfare model has since spawned an entire family of sniper rifles using the Arctic Warfare name, and has been adopted by a number of other countries, including Australia, Belgium, Germany, Indonesia, Ireland, Latvia, Malaysia, Norway, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Russia, Singapore, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom. Other AI rifles descended from the L96A1 include the AI AE, and the AI AS50 (see variants below).
Most Arctic Warfare rifles are chambered for the 7.62×51mm NATO cartridge, but Accuracy International also made variants of the sniper rifle, the AWM (Arctic Warfare Magnum) chambered either for the .300 Winchester Magnum and the .338 Lapua Magnum and the AW50 (Arctic Warfare .50 caliber) chambered for the .50 BMG (12.7×99mm NATO). The sniper rifles are mounted with a muzzle brake in order to help reduce the recoil, muzzle raise and muzzle flash of the weapon.
Each country's rifles differ slightly. The Swedish Psg 90 for example, uses a Hensoldt (Zeiss) scope and can also use sabot rounds. In 1998, the German Bundeswehr adopted the first folding-stock Arctic Warfare Magnum (AWM-F) chambered in .300 Winchester Magnum (7.62×67mm) and with optics made by the German company Zeiss, and designated as the Scharfschützengewehr 22 (G22).
The AW's complete parts interchange ability and reliability in adverse weather conditions have made it a popular, if expensive, weapon. The rifle offers good accuracy (a capable marksman can expect ≤ 0.5 MOA consistent accuracy with appropriate ammunition), and its maximum effective range with a Schmidt & Bender 6×42 PM II scope is around 800 metres (870 yd).
The Arctic Warfare family's main competitor in production of high-end factory sniper rifles is the Sako TRG product line, with similar capability but lower price than the Arctic Warfare system.
Design details[edit]
The AW system is almost unique in being a purpose-designed military sniper rifle, rather than an accurised version of an existing general-purpose rifle.
The modular design of the AW system allows for flexibility, serviceability and repairability under field and combat conditions. Major components, such as the barrel and the bolt, can be switched between rifles, or replaced in the field by their operator with the help of some tools. The chambering can also be switched by the operator as long as the barrels, bolts and feeding mechanism can handle the shape and size of the cartridges.[6]
Features[edit]
Sniper of the Peruvian Armed Forces equipped with an Arctic Warfare rifle
Rather than a traditional wooden or polymerrifle stock, the AW is based on an aluminium chassis which extends the entire length of the stock. This chassis system is marketed as the Accuracy International Chassis System (AICS) and can be used for all Accuracy International rifles. All other components, including the receiver, are bolted directly to this chassis. Two hollow polymer 'half thumb-hole stock panels', usually coloured green, dark earth or black, are in turn bolted to each other through the chassis, creating a rugged, yet for its sturdiness comparatively light, weapon.
The Accuracy International receiver is bolted with four screws and permanently bonded with epoxy material to the aluminium chassis, and was designed for ruggedness, simplicity and ease of operation. To this end, the heavy-walled, flat-bottomed, flat-sided receiver is a stressed part, machined in-house by AI from a solid piece of forged carbon steel. AW rifles are supplied in two action lengths—standard AW (short) and long SM (magnum). The six bolt lugs, arranged in two rows of three, engage a heat-treated steel locking ring insert pinned inside the front bridge of the action. The ring can be removed and replaced to refresh headspace control on older actions. The AW system cast steel bolt has a 0.75-inch (19.05 mm) diameter combined with gas relief holes in a 0.785 in (19.9 mm) diameter bolt body and front action bridge allowing high-pressure gases a channel of escape in the event of a cartridge-case head failure. Against penetrating water or dirt the bolt has milled slots, which also prevent freezing or similar disturbances. Unlike conventional bolt-action rifles, the bolt handle is bent to the rear, which eases the repeating procedure for the operator and reduces the contour of the weapon. The action cocks on opening with a short, 60 degree bolt throw and has a non-rotating (fixed) external extractor and an internal ejector. Firing pin travel is 0.26 in (6.6 mm) to keep lock times to a minimum. Finally, an 11 mm (0.43 in) integral dovetail rail located above the receiver is designed to accommodate different types of optical or electro-optical sights. As an option, a MIL-STD-1913 rail (Picatinny rail) can be permanently pinned, bonded and bolted to the action, providing a standard interface for many optical systems.
Ammunition feeding[edit]
Cartridges are fed through the bottom of the receiver using a detachable, double-column, steel box magazine. Rifles chambered for .300 Winchester Magnum or larger use a single row magazine. Alternatively cartridges can be loaded singly directly into the chamber.
Barrel[edit]
The free-floating, heavy, stainless steel barrels (stainless steel resists throat erosion better than normal barrels) for the available cartridge chamberings all have a different length, groove cutting and riflingtwist rate optimized for their chambering and intended ammunition. For .243 Winchester, the twist rate is 254 mm (1 in 10 in), and for .308 Winchester/7.62×51mm NATO variants it is 305 mm (1 in 12 in), except for the suppressed-barrel variant. If the consistent accuracy requirement of an operator is no longer met, the barrel can fairly easily be renewed. This is normal practice for active high-performance precision rifle operators, who regard barrels as replaceable. The barrels are provided by Australian company Maddco Rifle Barrels (button rifled), and Scottish company Border Barrels, who cut-rifles them on Pratt & Whitney rifling benches. Twists are one turn in 10,11,12,13 and 14 inches for 7.62 MM depending on RFP.
Safety[edit]
A three-position, firing pin blocking safety lever on the bolt shroud allows the bolt to be manipulated with the safety on. If the weapon is cocked, the firing pin can be felt at the end of the bolt action, making it possible in poor visibility to feel whether the weapon is ready to fire. The safety-catch of the weapon is also positioned at the rear, showing white if the safety is on, red if not.
Trigger[edit]
The two-stage trigger mechanism has an adjustable trigger pull weight of 10 to 20 N (2.2 to 4.4 lbf). The trigger assembly can be easily removed for cleaning by undoing two socket-head cap screws.
Accessories[edit]
The AW is usually equipped with an integrated bipod and it also has a monopod mounted on the buttstock.
Accuracy International accessories for the Arctic Warfare system[7] include a selection of PM II series telescopic sights made by Schmidt & Bender with laser filters for the military scopes, aluminium one-piece telescopic sight mounting sets, MIL-STD-1913 rails (Picatinny rails), lens hoods, various optical and kill flash filters and lens covers for telescopic sights, auxiliary iron sights for emergency use, cleaning kits, muzzle brakes/flash-hiders and suppressors, butt plates and spacers to regulate the length of pull and butt angle to the requirements of the individual shooter, buttspikes, bipod (adapters), handstops, mirage bands, soft and heavy-duty transit cases and various maintenance tools.[8]
Accuracy International Chassis System[edit]
G22 of the German Army with an AICS 2.0 stock.
The Accuracy International Chassis System (AICS) can be configured for various actions (all Accuracy International and some Remington 700 receivers), triggers, and other items. The AICS version for Remington 700 receivers was introduced in 1999. U.S. distributors started selling AICS chassis systems in late 2012 for Savage Arms' Model 10 series of precision long range rifles. These Savage Arms rifles are primarily for the law enforcement applications. There are three variants of AICS chassis system. The basic variant is the AICS 1.0 with a fixed cheek-piece. The AICS 1.5 variant has a fully adjustable cheek-piece. The AICS 2.0 is a folding stock that reduces the rifle's overall length by 210 mm (8.3 in) when folded and adds 0.2 kg (0.44 lb) to the rifle's total weight. The AICS 1.5 and 2.0 both have cheek-piece design that adjusts sideways and for height for optimal cheek position when using night vision equipment, or telescopic sights with large objective lenses. There is also a quick-adjust cheek-piece option that has a spring-loaded cheek-piece in conjunction with a quick-adjust butt plate.The AICS side panels are made from a high-strength polymer and are available in the colors olive drab, dark earth or black.
US Navy Mk 13 MOD 5 SWS using an AICS 2.0 stock and a Remington 700 based receiver.
Sling attachment points are mounted on each side of the rifle, so it can be carried flat against the back and used comfortably by left- and right-handed users. A front attachment point is situated below the fore end and can be used to anchor a target style sling or replaced by an adapter for a Harris bipod.
Mk 13[edit]
The United States Special Operations Command uses the AICS as the Mk 13 Mod 5 rifle chambered in .300 Winchester Magnum. The Mk 13 Mod 5 utilizes the 'long-action' bolt of the Remington 700/M24 receiver and has a precision barrel that can be fitted with the suppressor of the Mk 11. It has a 3-sided Modular Accessory Rail System (MARS) for mounting optics on top and Picatinny rail accessories on each side, and a folding bipod.[9] The Mk 13 is to be gradually replaced by the Modular Sniper Rifle.[10]
In April 2018, the U.S. Marine Corps announced they would be replacing the M40 sniper rifle with the Mk 13 Mod 7; the M40 had been in service with the Marines since 1966, with the latest M40A6 being upgraded in 2014.[citation needed] The Mk 13 chambered in .300 Winchester Magnum increases range from 1,000 meters with the M40 to 1,300 meters, giving Marine snipers similar capabilities to the U.S. Army M2010 Enhanced Sniper Rifle.[11]
AX AICS stock[edit]
An AX series Accuracy International Chassis System (AICS) stock is also available for Remington 700 short and long bolt action based rifles.[12][13]
AT AICS stock[edit]
An AT series Accuracy International Chassis System (AICS stock) is also available for Remington 700 short and long bolt action based rifles, Savage M10 short action and Tikka T3 short action rifles.
Variants[edit]
Accuracy International rifles |
AI Arctic Warfare AI AW Police AI AW Magnum AI AW50 (.50 BMG) AI AX50 (.50 BMG) AI AS50 (Semi-auto.50 BMG) Australian AW50F Swedish Psg 90 |
There are two main types of AW series models. Models offered by AI, and type classified models in service with governments. AW models are related to, but not necessarily exactly synonymous with specific models adopted by countries.[14]
PM (Precision Marksman)[edit]
The rifle from which the Arctic Warfare family was developed. In this original form, it entered service in the UK in the mid-1980s, and designated as the L96A1 (chambered for 7.62×51mm NATO).
AW (Arctic Warfare)[edit]
Australian SR-98
The basic 'improved' version of the L96A1. The name stems from special features designed to enable operation in extremely cold climates.
Adopted as the following (All versions mentioned are chambered for the 7.62×51mm NATO cartridge and uses a 10-round detachable magazine):
- L118A1: The British military service version.
- Psg 90: The Swedish military service version. Psg is short for Prickskyttegevär ('Sniper Rifle').
- SR98: The Australian military service version. It is the standard issue sniper rifle for the Australian Army and is also used by various law enforcement agencies. This variant features threaded barrel (for a suppressor), an integrated adjustable bipod, a free floating barrel and; a folding stock with adjustable butt pad, cheek pad, and a rear mono pod.[15]
According to the Accuracy International AW brochure, the AW can be chambered either in 7.62×51mm NATO and .243 Winchester, though on special request other calibers that will function with the AW bolt action can be fitted.
AWF (Arctic Warfare Folding)[edit]
The AWF is a variant of the AW with side-folding polymer stock.
- L118A2: The British military service version.
AWP (Arctic Warfare Police)[edit]
The AWP was a version intended for use by law enforcement as opposed to military, with AWP standing for Arctic Warfare Police. The most notable feature was that the distinctive frame was black instead of light green. It also has a shorter 24 in (610 mm) barrel than the AW model. The AWP is normally chambered for 7.62×51mm NATO/.308 Winchester or .243 Winchester ammunition, though it could be chambered for other cartridges. The AWP is distinct from the Accuracy International AW AE, which also has a black finish but is a cheaper non-military version of the AW series.[16]
AWS (Arctic Warfare Suppressed)[edit]
The AWS is specifically designed for use with subsonic ammunition which, depending on the target, gives an effective maximum range of around 300 metres (330 yd). Its noise levels are similar to those generated by .22 LR match ammunition. The weapon is fitted with a special .308 Winchester/7.62×51mm NATO 406 mm (16 in) long barrel which has a twist rate of 229 mm (1 in 9 in) and an integral suppressor. The AWS barrel/suppressor combination has a total length of 711 mm (28 in), which keeps the weapon's overall length within normal limits. The user can remove the barrel/suppressor combination and replace it with a standard AW or AWP barrel in about three minutes. As with all such systems, the sight will need re-zeroing after a barrel change.[17]
AWC (Arctic Warfare Covert)[edit]
The Covert system is essentially an AWS with a folding stock with a 305 mm (12 in) long barrel/suppressor combination with a 203 mm (1 in 8 in) twist rate. It is supplied in a small suitcase which houses the rifle with the stock folded and the barrel/suppressor combination detached. The polymer suitcase is lined with closed-cell foam featuring cut-outs for the stock/action/optics/bipod combination, the bolt, the suppressor, a magazine and a box of ammunition. While the Covert system's compacted size is considerably smaller than that of any conventional system, its special barrel and integral suppressor keep the weapon's overall length within normal limits when deployed.
It is notably used by the USSOCOM1st SFOD-D (Delta Force), the British Special Air Service and the German KSK (designated G25)[18]
AWM (Arctic Warfare Magnum)[edit]
Royal Marines with L115A1 rifles.
The AWM is a variant of the AW sniper rifle that is chambered for either the .300 Winchester Magnum and the .338 Lapua Magnum. It has a longer bolt compared to the AW, in order to accommodate for the dimensionally larger and more powerful magnum cartridges. It's fed through a 5-round detachable magazine.
The AWM that is chambered for the .338 Lapua Magnum cartridge has been adopted since its first introduction in the British army and in the Dutch army in 1996. (See the Arctic Warfare Magnum to see the full list.)
The British Armed Forces adopted the AWM that is chambered for the .338 Lapua Magnum and designated it as the L115A1 and in November 2007, it was announced that the British Army, Royal Marines and RAF Regiment were to get an improved variant of the L115A1, the L115A3.
AWM-F (Arctic Warfare Magnum Folding Stock)[edit]
G22 of the German Army with attached suppressor
The AWM-F was the first AW variant featuring a folding stock and has been adopted since its first introduction in the German Army in 1998, and by other several armies: (See the Arctic Warfare Magnum to see the full list.)
The G22 (Gewehr 22 or Scharfschützengewehr 22) by German Army, it features a folding stock and is chambered for the .300 Winchester Magnum round (designated 7.62×67mm).
The Dutch army also adopted the AWM-F that is chambered for the .338 Lapua Magnum.
AW50 (Arctic Warfare .50 caliber)[edit]
The AW50 was introduced in 2000 by the British and Australian armed forces and is an AW rifle re-engineered and chambered for .50 BMG (12.7×99mm NATO).
The German Army adopted the AW50 and designated it as the G24 (Gewehr 24 or Scharfschützengewehr 24).
AW50F (Arctic Warfare .50 caliber Folding Stock)[edit]
The AW50F is a variant of the AW50 adopted by the Australian military. It differs from the standard AW50 in that it is fitted with a folding stock (hence the F) and Maddco barrel.
AE (Accuracy Enforcement)[edit]
The Accuracy International AE was introduced in 2001 as a cheaper, somewhat simplified, less robust version of the L96/AW series intended for law enforcement, in place of the more expensive AWP or AW models intended for military use. The AE bolt-action differs from the larger, more angular AW design. The round AE receiver is lighter than in the AW models. The action of the AE is not permanently bonded with epoxy material to the aluminium chassis and can be removed. Unlike the AW models, the AE can not be ordered in a left-handed configuration. The AE is chambered in 7.62×51mm NATO cartridge and its barrel is 610 mm (24 in) long.
AE Mk III[edit]
In 2009, the AE was updated to the AE Mk III. The AE Mk III sniper rifle system uses AICS 5- and 10-round magazines, has a removable trigger group, and a screw-adjustable cheekpiece. An optional 508 mm (20.0 in) barrel with muzzle brake or tactical suppressor mounting facilities and a folding chassis are available.
It must be noted that the Accuracy International has discontinued the AE sniper rifles several years ago. In 2014, Accuracy International introduced the AT308 or the AT (Accuracy Tactical) sniper rifle, which is a more modern variant of the AE (Accuracy Enforcement) sniper rifle, and will be offered to Law Enforcement and civilian clients worldwide.[19]
AT (Accuracy Tactical)[edit]
The AT (Accuracy Tactical) model was introduced in 2014 as a cheaper alternative to the more expensive AX series which are intended for military use. The AT on the other hand is intended for law enforcement and civilian use.[19] Like the AX series the AT continues the legacy of the Arctic Warfare sniper rifle and is also an improvement of the AE (Accuracy Enforcement) sniper rifle.[20]
The AT is chambered in 7.62×51mm NATO/.308 Winchester. It is a manual operated, bolt action sniper rifle. It features a rotary bolt with six locking lugs, arranged into three pairs at the bolt head, a polymer stock with aluminum alloy chassis, and a solid, flat-bottomed receiver made of steel, the AI (Accuracy International) muzzle brake (optional), a detachable suppressor, a 20-, 24- inch plain or threaded barrel, and a 26-inch threaded barrel only, a 10-round detachable magazine, an integral Picatinny (Mil-Std 1913) rail above the receiver for mounting various optics/scopes and an additional accessory rails can be easily bolted to the forend of the rifle for mounting various accessories, a standard stock that is made from a polymer and features fully adjustable comb and buttpad, side-folding stock that folds to the left is available, a two-stage trigger that is adjustable for trigger weight between 1.5 and 2 kg.[20][21]
AX derivatives[edit]
AXMC of the Dutch Army chambered for .338 Lapua Magnum during training in 2019
AX308 of the Malaysian Army with a suppressor attached
AX50 anti-materiel rifle chambered for .50 BMG
The Accuracy International AX long range sniper rifle series was designed for long, high-powered super magnum cartridges and was unveiled in January 2010 at the SHOT Show trade show. It is a major design evolution based on the AWM variant of the AW series and its development was according to Accuracy International partly driven by a Precision Sniper Rifle (PSR) U.S. Special Operations Command solicitation.[22] The PSR contract was awarded in 2013 to Remington Arms for their Modular Sniper Rifle.[23]
The AX series comprises the multi caliber AXMC chambered either in .338 Lapua Magnum, .300 Winchester Magnum, and 7.62×51mm NATO/.308 Winchester, which can be reconfigured in minutes by simply changing the barrel, bolt and magazine/insert. In addition the AX series consists of the non-multi caliber AX308 chambered in 7.62×51mm NATO/.308 Winchester and the AX50 chambered in .50 BMG
AXMC[edit]
The AXMC multi caliber sniper rifle is chambered either for the .338 Lapua Magnum, .300 Winchester Magnum, 7.62×51mm NATO/.308 Winchester. It features parts that dimensionally or otherwise are not interchangeable with the AW rifle series.[24] With an AXMC caliber conversion kit, the AXMC can change calibers in minutes by exchanging the bolts, magazines and barrels. Converting to the 7.62×51mm NATO cartridge, an additional magazine converter must also be fitted within the magazine port to allow the use of an Accuracy International AX308 magazine. A single shroud/firing pin assembly is provided for each multi caliber weapon system and must therefore be installed into the required bolt assembly as part of the conversion procedure.
Compared to the AWM, the bolt action of the AXMC is longer and wider and the internal magazine is lengthened, allowing the unimpaired use of .338 Lapua Magnum cartridges loaded to the C.I.P. (Permanent International Commission for the Proof of Firearms Portable) maximum allowed overall length of 93.50 mm (3.681 in).
The AXMC bolt is 22 mm (0.87 in) in diameter and the bolt, bolt head, locking ring and barrel tenon construction were designed to be significantly stronger and more capable of handling higher chamber pressures and temperatures and thus higher bolt thrust safely compared to the AWM variant. The bolt construction is significantly revised, allowing the bolt to be field stripped by hand and allowing the more complex removal of the bolt head from the bolt body with simple hand tools. Caliber changes can be accomplished by the change of a complete bolt assembly or a caliber specific bolt sleeve, which is more laborious. The interior of the bolt has a new safety feature added that will prevent the rifle from firing on a partially closed bolt. An improved leaf-spring AW 7.62 style extractor should enhance the cycling reliability of the bolt action. This extractor can be removed and reinstalled with the help of a bullet tip. The top of the receiver features a MIL-STD 1913 Picatinny rail for mounting aiming optics. The AXMC has a 30 MOA forward canted optical rail optimized for extreme long range shooting. The diameter of the barrel threading was enlarged and is unique to the AXMC. The rifle is fitted with a 27 in (686 mm) long .338 in (8.6 mm) caliber free floating fluted barrel as standard. The AXMC has a non conventional 238 mm (1:9.375 in) twist rate to adequately stabilize longer, heavier .338 caliber very-low-drag projectile designs that became more common in the 21st century. Other barrel lengths, calibers and twist rates are available as options. The two-stage trigger has a new trigger shoe that can be moved for and rearwards by 0.5 in (13 mm) and has a 15 to 20 N (3.4 to 4.5 lbf) adjustable trigger pull. The AXMC uses new 10-round double stacked .338 Lapua Magnum steel magazines that are inserted into a revised magazine well.[25][26]
Further, the AXMC features a revised external chassis stock system with an octagonal shaped fore end which envelops the free floating barrel offering modular attachment points for user (re)movable MIL-STD 1913 Picatinny accessory rails on four sides. Several lengths of octagonal shaped fore end and Picatinny accessory rails are available as options. The folding rear of the stock can be fitted with an optional butt spike. The minimal possible length of pull was reduced compared to the AICS stocks to facilitate usage when wearing thick clothing or body armor. The stock has a left-right and height adjustable cheekpiece as standard or can be fitted with an optional quick adjustable cheekpiece. The cheekpiece contains a 4 mm hex wrench used for various adjustment, removal and (re)mounting procedures. The pistol grip can be fitted with backstraps of differing sizes that combined with the movable trigger shoe enables the trigger to be tailored to the individual shooter.[27]
AX308[edit]
The AX308 is a stand-alone 7.62×51mm NATO variant. It is chambered in 7.62×51mm NATO/.308 Winchester and has a smaller short action with a bolt diameter of 20 mm (0.79 in). The AX308 has a 20 MOA forward canted optical rail optimized for long range shooting.
AX50[edit]
The AX50 is a stand-alone .50 BMG (12.7×99mm NATO) anti-materiel rifle variant that replaced the AW50. It has a big long action with a bolt diameter of 30 mm (1.2 in).[28][29]
Users (7.62×51mm NATO or smaller chamberings)[edit]
- AustraliaAustralian Defence Force with folding stock designated as the SR-98,[30][31]Police Tactical Groups.[32]
- Bangladesh[33]
- Botswana[34]
- Belgium[35]
- Czech Republic: Purchased a number of AWF rifles, mainly for the use of Special Forces.[36]
- France: GIGN[citation needed]
- Greece: Special Anti-Terrorist Unit (EKAM).[37] and Special forces O.Y.K Z'MAK
- Hong Kong: Special Duties Unit[citation needed]
- Ireland: Irish Army, including Army Ranger Wing[38]
- Italy: PM variant.[39] The AWS variant is used by the 9th Parachute Assault Regiment[40] and the AWP variant is used by the Carabinieri.[41]
- Latvia[39]
- Lithuania[42]
- Malaysia: PM and AW variants are used by the Malaysian Special Operations Force.[43]
- Netherlands: Korps Commandotroepen, Korps Mariniers, 11th Airmobile Brigade (Netherlands) (few AW and AWC 7.62×51mm NATO chambered arms available).[44][45]
- New Zealand[39]
- Pakistan: Used by Special Services Group of Pakistan Army.[46]
- Perú[47]
- Portugal: Portuguese Army.[48]
- Romania: AWP entered in the Brigada Antiteroristă in 1999.[49]
- Russia: Used by the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia and Federal Security Service of Russia.[50][51]
- Sierra Leone: Sierra Leone Police[52]
- Singapore: Three variants, the L96A1 firing 7.62×51mm NATO/.308 Winchester are used by the Singapore Army infantry.
- South Africa: South African Police Service Special Task Force and South African Special Forces[53]
- Spain[39]
- Sri Lanka[54]
- Sweden: Adopted the AW rifle in 1988, designated as the Psg 90.[55][56]
- United Kingdom: L96A1 entered service in the British Armed Forces in 1985.[49]
References[edit]
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- ^'Accuracy International AWS – colmoschin.it'. Archived from the original on September 8, 2009.
- ^'Arma dei Carabinieri'. Retrieved October 26, 2014.
- ^2016 November Lithuania acquired the UK company Accuracy International sniper rifles AXMC.
- ^Thompson, Leroy (December 2008). 'Malaysian Special Forces'. Special Weapons. Retrieved February 10, 2010.
- ^'Accuracy – Special Forces – Wapens' (in Dutch). Netherlands Legermuseum: Collectie Informatie Centrum. Archived from the original on February 27, 2009. Retrieved December 2, 2009.
- ^'Accuracy, antipersoneel snipergeweer 7.62 mm' (in Dutch). Netherlands Ministry of Defence. Archived from the original on March 18, 2012. Retrieved February 24, 2010.
- ^'Pakistani Sniper team kills a Taliban insurgent at 2000 mt'. Pakistan Defence.
- ^'DOTACIONES DE ARMAMENTO Y SISTEMAS PARA EL COMBATIENTE DE LAS FFAA PERUANAS BATALLON DE COMANDOS MGP'. YouTube. Retrieved October 26, 2014.
- ^'CARABINA 7,62 MM NATO (3.08) TIPO SNIPER AWSF M/96'(PDF). Archived from the original(PDF) on August 13, 2011.
- ^ abMiller, David (2001). The Illustrated Directory of 20th Century Guns. Salamander Books Ltd. ISBN1-84065-245-4.
- ^'Календарь ФСБ'. Retrieved October 26, 2014.
- ^Writer, Staff (February 20, 2016). 'Russian SPETSNAZ Weapons'. Military Factory. Retrieved February 20, 2016.
- ^'World Infantry Weapons: Sierra Leone'. 2013. Archived from the original on November 24, 2016.[self-published source]
- ^'Taakmag'. Retrieved October 26, 2014.
- ^'Accuracy International L96A1'. www.MilitaryFactory.com. January 16, 2009. Retrieved January 20, 2009.[better source needed]
- ^'Modern Firearms'. Archived from the original on September 13, 2010. Retrieved October 26, 2014.
- ^'Psg 90 Prickskyttegevär 90 – AI L96a1 – SoldF.com'. Retrieved October 26, 2014.
General references[edit]
External links[edit]
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