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January 5, 2025AW50 (Accuracy International) Review
Price Range:
$12,000 - $14,000
Specification
Specification | Details |
---|---|
Manufacturer | Accuracy International |
Country of Origin | United Kingdom |
First Build Date | 2003 |
Action Type | Bolt-action |
Caliber | .50 BMG |
Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds (detachable box) |
Barrel Length | 29 inches (737 mm) |
Weight | 15.4 lbs (7 kg) |
Price Range | $12,000 – $14,000 |
Overview
The AW50 by Accuracy International is a high-powered, precision-engineered sniper rifle designed to deliver exceptional long-range accuracy while chambered in the .50 BMG cartridge. Its introduction in 2003 revolutionized long-range shooting with its reliability and incredible power, allowing military snipers and law enforcement units to engage targets at over 1,500 meters with extreme precision.
Built on the renowned Accuracy International AX platform, the AW50 is an immensely powerful bolt-action rifle that is capable of disabling vehicles and equipment, alongside engaging personnel at extreme ranges. Its design allows for the shooter to engage hard targets (like armored vehicles) with the powerful .50 BMG, delivering more stopping power than smaller calibers. Its ability to fire at long distances with pinpoint accuracy is a testament to its rugged, precision design.


Strength and Quality
The AW50 represents a high standard of quality, built to the exacting specifications of military and law enforcement agencies worldwide. Its construction uses the best materials for strength, durability, and accuracy. The bolt-action mechanism is smooth and precise, and the rifle is fitted with a high-end trigger system, which is critical for long-range shots. All parts are carefully engineered and designed for easy maintenance while still offering ruggedness and longevity.
In addition, Accuracy International’s attention to detail in manufacturing the AW50 ensures that it holds up to the intense demands of long-range shooting. The fit and finish of the rifle are exceptional, contributing to its overall performance and operational reliability.
Safety Features
- Manual Safety: The AW50 is equipped with a robust manual safety mechanism that ensures the weapon remains secure when not in use.
- Ergonomically Placed Safety: The safety lever is easily accessible to the user and can be engaged or disengaged swiftly in the field.
- Secure Trigger System: The AW50’s trigger system is designed for a consistent, predictable pull, and it is protected by a safety mechanism to prevent accidental discharge.
Test Results
Accuracy
The AW50 delivers extreme accuracy for a .50 BMG sniper rifle. With high-quality match ammunition such as the Hornady A-MAX or Federal Gold Medal, the AW50 consistently delivers sub-MOA (minute of angle) accuracy at ranges up to 1,000 meters, with some tests reporting effective hits at distances of up to 1,500 meters or more. It is a truly exceptional sniper rifle capable of maintaining tight groupings at extreme distances.
Effective Range
As expected from a rifle chambered in .50 BMG, the AW50’s effective range is over 1,500 meters. Snipers using this rifle can engage distant targets with precision, well beyond the range of many other sniper rifles. The powerful round’s flat trajectory and immense kinetic energy ensure that even hard targets, such as light armored vehicles, can be neutralized from long distances.
Strength and Durability
Built to withstand the rigors of military and law enforcement use, the AW50 is constructed from high-quality materials that provide exceptional durability. The monolithic construction of the receiver, combined with the reinforced chassis, ensures that the rifle can endure harsh environments, such as extreme temperatures and wet conditions, without losing its performance. The rifle’s robustness and reliability in challenging conditions are vital for military forces operating in the field.
Merits
- Extreme Range: The AW50 can engage targets up to 1,500 meters away, providing unmatched long-range shooting capability.
- High Accuracy: With sub-MOA precision, the AW50 delivers extreme accuracy, even at long distances, making it an ideal choice for military snipers.
- Durability: Built to withstand harsh field conditions, this rifle is incredibly rugged and reliable, ensuring consistent performance in extreme environments.
- Powerful Cartridge: The .50 BMG round provides unparalleled stopping power, capable of disabling vehicles and hard targets at long ranges.
- Excellent Build Quality: Manufactured with precision engineering, the AW50 is a high-quality rifle that is made to last and perform under any condition.
Demerits
- Heavy Weight: At 15.4 lbs, the AW50 is a heavy rifle, which can be cumbersome to carry, especially over long distances.
- High Price: With a price range of $10,000 – $12,000, the AW50 is an expensive weapon, making it out of reach for many civilians.
- Recoil: Although the rifle features a muzzle brake, the recoil from the .50 BMG round is still significant, requiring training to master recoil management effectively.
- Limited Magazine Capacity: The 5-round magazine is fairly standard but may not be enough in certain combat situations that demand higher capacity.
Maintenance
Like all precision rifles, the AW50 requires regular maintenance to preserve its accuracy and reliability. It is important to clean the barrel after each use to remove carbon deposits, copper fouling, and debris. The bolt and receiver should be regularly lubricated to ensure smooth operation, and the trigger system should be checked for any signs of wear or malfunction. Although it is a rugged rifle, performing proper maintenance will ensure that the AW50 continues to perform optimally in the field.
Given the high power and precision involved, maintaining the AW50 may require professional expertise to keep the rifle in peak working condition. The .50 BMG ammunition also means that it can wear through parts more quickly than standard smaller-caliber rifles, requiring more frequent checks.
Comparison with Other Guns
Accuracy International AW50 vs Other Rifles
Feature | Accuracy International AW50 | Barrett M82A1 | McMillan TAC-50 | PGM Hécate II | Denel NTW-20 | Sako TRG 42 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Country of Origin | United Kingdom | United States | United States | France | South Africa | Finland |
Caliber | .50 BMG | .50 BMG | .50 BMG | .50 BMG | 20×82mm or 14.5×114mm | .338 Lapua Magnum |
Effective Range | 1,500 m | 1,800 m | 2,000 m | 1,800 m | 1,500–2,000 m | 1,500 m |
Weight (Unloaded) | 7 kg | 14 kg | 11.8 kg | 13 kg | 26 kg | 5.5 kg |
Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds | 10 rounds | 5 rounds | 7 rounds | 3 rounds | 5 rounds |
Action | Bolt-action | Semi-automatic | Bolt-action | Bolt-action | Bolt-action | Bolt-action |
Primary Use | Anti-material and long-range precision | Anti-material and long-range precision | Long-range precision shooting | Military and anti-material precision | Anti-material and heavy targets | Long-range precision shooting |
Price Range (USD) | $12,000–$14,000 | $8,000–$10,000 | $10,000–$12,000 | $12,000–$14,000 | $13,000–$15,000 | $5,000–$7,000 |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
The AW50 typically ranges between $10,000 and $12,000, depending on the configuration
The AW50 has an effective range of approximately 1,500 meters.
Yes, the AW50 is designed for military and law enforcement applications, especially for engaging hard targets at long ranges.
Yes, civilians can purchase the AW50, but it is subject to local firearm laws and regulations, and it is an expensive investment.
Its long effective range, high accuracy, and immense stopping power make it an excellent choice for long-range sniping and military applications.