Accuracy International AX50
Accuracy International · Sniper Rifle · In Production · 2010
Also known as: AI AX50, AX50 ELR
Overview
The Accuracy International AX50 is a bolt-action anti-materiel rifle chambered in .50 BMG, introduced in 2010 as the next-generation replacement for the AW50 series. Built on AI's modern AX chassis platform, the AX50 weighs 12.5 kg and features a 686mm free-floated stainless steel barrel with a 1:15-inch twist rate. The rifle uses a 60-degree bolt throw with a 30mm diameter bolt, and the stock folds to the left for reduced transport length. A two-stage trigger adjustable from 1.5 to 2.0 kg provides consistent shot placement. The 5-round single-stack detachable box magazine feeds reliably, and the integrated Picatinny rail accommodates a wide range of optics. The barrel can be changed in the field in under 10 minutes without tools. The firing pin cocking indicator allows the operator to verify chamber status by feel in low-light conditions.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 12500 g (440.9 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 13200 g (465.6 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1370 mm (53.94") |
| Folded Length | 1100 mm (43.31") |
| Barrel Length | 686 mm (27.01") |
| Action Type | Bolt Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Striker Fired |
| Trigger Type | Two Stage |
| Trigger Pull | 17 N (3.8 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Single Stack Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 890 m/s (2920 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 16600 J (12244 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 1800 m (1968 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 6800 m (7437 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 381 mm (15.00") |
| Frame Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Barrel Material | Stainless Steel |
| Stock Material | Aluminum Chassis Polymer Furniture |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- .50 BMG · primary · 12.7x99mm NATO — also known as 12.7x99mm, .50 Browning Machine Gun, 12.7 NATO
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Firing Pin Cocking Indicator
- Features: Free Floating Barrel, Folding Stock, Adjustable Cheek Piece, Adjustable Buttpad, Picatinny Rail, Muzzle Brake, Suppressor Ready, Quick Change Barrel, Rear Monopod
Variants
- Accuracy International AW50 — Predecessor
- Accuracy International AW50F — Predecessor Folding
Service history
Operators
- British Armed Forces
- Australian Defence Force
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 AX50 represents a significant advancement over the AW50, incorporating the modular AX chassis design with improved ergonomics and adjustability. The newer AX50 ELR variant includes the patented Quickloc barrel system for tool-free barrel changes using a hex key stored under the cheek piece, plus a 10-round double-stack magazine. The 1:15-inch twist rate is standard for .50 BMG and provides excellent stabilization of the heavy projectiles. Despite being an anti-materiel rifle, the AX50 maintains sub-MOA accuracy at extended ranges when used with match-grade ammunition.
Background
The AX50 was designed to bring Accuracy International's legendary precision to the .50 BMG anti-materiel role, combining the ergonomic advances of the AX platform with the raw power needed to defeat hard targets, vehicles, and equipment at extreme range.