Accuracy International AS50

Accuracy International · Sniper Rifle · Limited Production · 2007

Also known as: AS50

Overview

The Accuracy International AS50 is a semi-automatic anti-materiel rifle chambered in .50 BMG, designed specifically for special operations forces requiring rapid engagement capability against hard targets. Unlike traditional bolt-action .50 caliber rifles, the AS50's gas-operated semi-automatic action allows a trained operator to fire five aimed rounds in under 1.6 seconds, providing an unprecedented volume of heavy-caliber precision fire. The rifle can be disassembled into two main sections in less than three minutes without tools for ease of transport.

Specifications

Weight (empty)14100 g (497.4 oz)
Weight (loaded)14800 g (522.1 oz)
Overall Length1369 mm (53.90")
Barrel Length692 mm (27.24")
Action TypeGas Operated
Firing MechanismRotating Bolt
Trigger TypeSingle Stage
Magazine Capacity5 rounds
Magazine TypeDetachable Box
Muzzle Velocity853 m/s (2799 fps)
Muzzle Energy18000 J (13276 ft·lbf)
Effective Range1800 m (1968 yd)
Maximum Range4000 m (4374 yd)
Barrel RiflingRight Hand
Rifling Twist381 mm (15.00")
Number of Grooves8
Frame MaterialSteel
Barrel MaterialSteel
Stock MaterialAluminum Alloy
FinishMatte Black

Calibers

Features

Service history

Operators

Conflicts

Production

Production years: 2007-present

Limited production primarily for special operations customers. Exact numbers not publicly disclosed.

Origin

Country of origin: United Kingdom

Notes

The AS50 was developed specifically for the US Navy SEALs, who required a semi-automatic .50 BMG platform lighter than the Barrett M82. The gas-operated action uses a dual-piston system to manage the massive forces of the .50 BMG cartridge. The rifle features an integral thumb-operated safety and a large muzzle brake that reduces felt recoil by approximately 50 percent. The quick-disassembly feature allows the rifle to be broken down into two manageable sections for covert transport.

Background

The AS50 was developed in response to a US Navy SEAL requirement for a semi-automatic .50 BMG rifle that could engage multiple targets rapidly while being lighter than the Barrett M82. Its ability to fire five rounds in under 1.6 seconds makes it one of the fastest-firing .50 caliber rifles in the world, and its tool-free disassembly into two sections was specifically designed for covert insertion operations.