Accuracy International AX338
Accuracy International · Sniper Rifle · In Production · 2010
Also known as: AI AX338, AX .338
Overview
The Accuracy International AX338 is a dedicated .338 Lapua Magnum bolt-action sniper rifle introduced in 2010 as part of AI's next-generation AX platform. The AX338 features a lengthened action and internal magazine specifically designed to exploit the full ballistic potential of the .338 Lapua Magnum cartridge. Weighing 7.8 kg empty, the rifle is built on an aluminum chassis with a 686mm stainless steel match-grade free-floating barrel featuring a 1:9.375-inch twist rate optimized for heavy, high-BC projectiles. The 10-round double-stack detachable magazine represents a significant capacity increase over the 5-round magazines of the earlier AWM series. The chassis incorporates fully adjustable cheek piece, side-folding stock, rear monopod, and forward accessory rails conforming to MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny specifications. The high-efficiency muzzle brake is standard, with suppressor and tactical muzzle brake options available.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 7800 g (275.1 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 8200 g (289.2 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1250 mm (49.21") |
| Folded Length | 1010 mm (39.76") |
| Barrel Length | 686 mm (27.01") |
| 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 | 900 m/s (2953 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 6570 J (4846 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 1500 m (1640 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 5000 m (5468 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 238 mm (9.37") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Barrel Material | Stainless Steel |
| Stock Material | Aluminum Chassis Polymer Furniture |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- .338 Lapua Magnum · primary — also known as 8.6x70mm, 8.58x70mm, .338 Lapua Mag
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Firing Pin Safety, Cocking Indicator
- Features: Free Floating Barrel, Adjustable Cheek Piece, Folding Stock, Muzzle Brake, Suppressor Ready, Picatinny Rail, Adjustable Buttpad, Forward Accessory Rails, Rear Monopod, Quick Change Barrel, Double Stack Magazine
Variants
- Accuracy International AX — Standard Caliber
- Accuracy International AX308 — Compact Caliber
- Accuracy International AXMC — Multi Caliber
- Accuracy International AXSR — Successor
Base model
Service history
Operators
- British Armed Forces
- German Bundeswehr
- Australian Defence Force
Conflicts
- War in Afghanistan (2001-2021)
Production
Production years: 2010-present
Exact production numbers not disclosed. Manufactured at Accuracy International's facility in Portsmouth, UK.
Origin
Country of origin: United Kingdom
Notes
The AX338 was designed as the successor to the AWM in .338 Lapua Magnum. The key improvements over the AWM include a 10-round double-stack magazine (versus 5 rounds), improved ergonomics with fully adjustable chassis, and a modular design with quick-change barrel capability. The 238mm (1:9.375-inch) twist rate is specifically optimized for stabilizing longer, heavier VLD bullets in .338 caliber. The AX338 was eventually superseded by the AXMC (multi-caliber) and AXSR platforms, though it remains in production and service.
Background
The AX338 was Accuracy International's answer to military demands for a next-generation long-range platform that could deliver more rounds downrange without magazine changes. By doubling the magazine capacity of the AWM from 5 to 10 rounds, the AX338 gave snipers a significant tactical advantage in sustained engagement scenarios.