Accuracy International AWS
Accuracy International · Sniper Rifle · In Production · 1996
Also known as: AWS, AI AWS, Arctic Warfare Suppressed
Overview
The Accuracy International AWS (Arctic Warfare Suppressed) is a bolt-action sniper rifle derived from the AW series and chambered in .308 Winchester, purpose-built around an integral suppressor for covert precision shooting. Its special 406mm barrel is fitted with a removable aluminium-alloy integral suppressor that surrounds the barrel; the barrel and suppressor together measure 711mm, keeping the rifle's overall length within the normal envelope of a standard AW. Optimised for subsonic ammunition, the AWS produces a report comparable to a .22 LR match round while delivering an effective range of roughly 300 metres. Like the rest of the Arctic Warfare family, it uses an aluminium chassis stock with a folding stock, integrated adjustable bipod, adjustable butt pad, cheek pad, rear monopod and a 10-round detachable box magazine. The barrel/suppressor unit can be removed and swapped for a standard AW or AWP barrel in about three minutes, making the rifle readily reconfigurable in the field.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 6800 g (239.9 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 7200 g (254.0 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1150 mm (45.28") |
| Folded Length | 900 mm (35.43") |
| Barrel Length | 406 mm (15.98") |
| 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 | 320 m/s (1050 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 498 J (367 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 300 m (328 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 229 mm (9.02") |
| 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: Integral Suppressor, Free Floating Barrel, Folding Stock, Adjustable Cheek Piece, Adjustable Butt Pad, Integrated Adjustable Bipod, Rear Monopod, Quick Change Barrel, Subsonic Optimized, Cold Weather Operation
Base model
Service history
Operators
- British Armed Forces
- German Special Forces
Production
Production years: 1996-present
Production numbers not publicly disclosed. Marketed to military and law enforcement special operations units requiring suppressed precision capability.
Origin
Country of origin: United Kingdom
Designer: Dave Walls
Notes
The integral suppressor is fitted over a shortened match barrel rather than screwed onto the muzzle, allowing subsonic .308 loads to run quietly without a sonic crack. The AWS retains the 60-degree bolt throw, aluminium chassis and cold-weather reliability of the AW series. The special barrel uses a 1-in-9-inch (229mm) twist to stabilise heavier subsonic projectiles.
Background
The AWS answered a specialist requirement for a suppressed precision rifle that could take a shot without betraying the shooter's position. By integrating the suppressor into the barrel assembly and tuning it for subsonic ammunition, Accuracy International produced a rifle whose muzzle signature is no louder than a rimfire match round, ideal for close-quarter counter-sniper and covert reconnaissance work.