The AW rifle is based around a proprietary monolithic action with a 60-degree bolt throw. The most distinguishing part of the AI design is that there is no "stock"- the action is permanently bonded to an aluminum sub-frame around which the "stock skins" are clamshelled. This design removes the need for bedding, makes the action "one piece" with the frame, and provides a rugged and absolutely repeatable platform for the barrel. As a result, the AW can take a tremendous amount of abuse and still hold zero and shoot accurately.
The design goal was to provide a rifle platform that would retain accuracy and point of aim until the barrel was mechanically worn out at its maximum round count. The AW is the best bolt-action sniper platform on the planet. It is also an ideal off-the-shelf solution for practical long-range rifle competition.
There are currently four basic rifles available from AI: AW (short-action 308), AE (budget short-action 308), AWM/AWSM (long-action 300/338LM), AW50 (50BMG).
Thunder Beast Arms Corp owner and VP Zak Smith has shot AI rifles in practical long-range competition since early 2005, and used them to win and place highly at such matches as the Steel Safari, Camp Guernsey Invitational Multi-Gun, and the International Tactical Rifleman Championships. He is a good resource for information about the rifles and can advise on the use of alternate caliber barrels such as .260 Remington and 7 mm Remington Magnum.
TBAC can order your AI rifle to suit your needs. Please contact us directly for more information.
| Model | Barrel Option | Base Price |
|---|---|---|
| AI Model AE - .308 | 24" plain | $3,200.00 |
| AI Model AW - .308 | 20" or 24” plain |
$5,300.00 |
| 20" plain + muzzle brake | $5,525.00 | |
| 20" fluted | $5,525.00 | |
| 26" plain + muzzle brake | $5,525.00 | |
| AI AWM - .300 Win Mag | 26" fluted + muzzle brake | $5,900.00 |
| AI AWM - .338 Lapua Magnum | 27" fluted + two-chamber muzzle brake | $6,000.00 |
| AI AW50 - .50 BMG | 27" fluted, .50 cal muzzle brake | $13,000.00 |
Additional options are available at order-time on AW and AWM AI rifles:
AI Picatinny Rail +$210.00
Adj. Butt Pad +$110.00
Adj. Cheek piece +$175.00
Folding Stock & Adj. Cheek Piece +$515.00
Folding Stock & Quick Adj. Cheek piece + $600.00
Folding Stock & Quick Adj. Cheek piece & Quick Adj. Butt Pad +$950.00
Forend Rail +$185
NSV 80 Rail +$475
AI Butt Spike +$290.00
AI Bipod +$320.00 (accessory)
