Accuracy International AX308
Accuracy International · Sniper Rifle · In Production · 2012
Also known as: AX308, AI AX308, AX .308
Overview
The Accuracy International AX308 is a dedicated .308 Winchester short-action precision sniper rifle from the AX series. Unlike the multi-caliber AX, the AX308 is purpose-built exclusively for the 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge with a smaller short action and 20mm bolt diameter optimized for the cartridge dimensions. The rifle features AI's signature aluminum chassis with a folding stock, adjustable cheek piece with thumb wheel adjustment, and a keyslot forend for accessory mounting. The AX308 delivers the same exceptional accuracy that has made Accuracy International the benchmark for military sniper rifles, in a more compact and lighter package specifically tailored for the most widely used military sniper cartridge.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 6200 g (218.7 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 6600 g (232.8 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1155 mm (45.47") |
| Folded Length | 940 mm (37.01") |
| Barrel Length | 610 mm (24.02") |
| Action Type | Bolt Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Striker Fired |
| Trigger Type | Two Stage |
| Trigger Pull | 15 N (3.4 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 860 m/s (2822 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 3592 J (2649 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 800 m (875 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 3700 m (4046 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 305 mm (12.01") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Barrel Material | Stainless Steel |
| Stock Material | Aluminum Chassis Polymer Furniture |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- .308 Winchester · primary · 7.62x51mm NATO — also known as .308 Win, 7.62x51mm, 7.62 NATO
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Firing Pin Safety
- Features: Free Floating Barrel, Adjustable Cheek Piece, Folding Stock, Adjustable Length Of Pull, Suppressor Ready, Full Length Picatinny Rail, Muzzle Brake, Adjustable Trigger, Keyslot Forend, Modular Stock System, Thumb Wheel Adjustments
Variants
- Accuracy International AX — Multi Caliber
- Accuracy International AXMC — Multi Caliber Successor
Service history
Operators
- British Armed Forces
- Norwegian Armed Forces
Production
Production years: 2012-present
Production numbers not publicly disclosed. Manufactured in Portsmouth, England.
Origin
Country of origin: United Kingdom
Notes
The AX308 uses a dedicated short action with a 20mm bolt diameter, making it more compact than the standard AX which uses a longer action to accommodate magnum cartridges. Barrel options include 20-inch, 24-inch, and 26-inch lengths, all available plain or threaded for the AI tactical muzzle brake. The 10-round steel magazine features a low-friction coating for reliable feeding. The folding stock reduces the overall length from 1155mm to 940mm (with 24-inch barrel), making the rifle significantly more compact for transport and storage. The AX308 is positioned as AI's entry-level professional sniper rifle, sitting below the multi-caliber AX and AXMC in the product range.
Background
The AX308 represents Accuracy International's philosophy of purpose-built precision -- rather than offering a multi-caliber platform that compromises slightly in each chambering, the AX308 is a .308-only rifle where every dimension is optimized specifically for the 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge. This dedicated approach delivers marginally better bolt cycling, slightly reduced weight, and a more compact action compared to the larger multi-caliber AX platform.