A.I. AS50
Introduction
Accuracy International AS50
Rights side view of a late model Accuracy International AS50. Note the longer accessory rails, bipod on picatinny rail and updates to the furniture, such as the rear monopod.
Source: Unknown author -
© Copyright lies with original owner
United Kingdom
Description
Introduction
The AS50 is a modern era anti-materiel rifle of UK origin. It was developed in the mid 2000's, reportedly in cooperation with NSWC Crane for use by US Navy Seals. It was produced only in limited numbers.
Design
The AS50 is a semi-automatic design using a true direct gas impingement via a gas tube over the barrel. Locking is achieved via a tilting bolt akin to the FN FAL. AS50 uses a heavy barrel with double baffle muzzle brake to mitigate recoil. The receiver is made of steel, with some other elements made of aluminum. Contrary to what some sources indicate the AS50 is not made out of titanium. The weapon can be dismounted by removing the rear stock and buffer assembly.
Firepower
The AS50 fires the 12.7x99mm NATO round from a 5 round detachable magazine. Some sources indicate 10 round magazines being available as well, although this was never listed in sales brochures. Accuracy is quoted as 1.5 MOA. Range is officially listed as over 1 km. Maximum effective range is probably in the area of 1.5 to 1.8 km. Reportedly the AS50 can fire 5 rounds in as little as 1.6 seconds.
Users
The AS50 was reportedly developed for use by US Navy Seals. There is no indication it was actually adopted and in service. The UK MOD acquired test samples. UK SOF units are reported to be a user, again with no real evidence. Some were sold to other nations. The Hong Kong SDU is reported to be one of the export customers.
Details
Media
Accuracy International AS50
Promotional photo of an earlier pattern AS50.
Source: Accuracy International
Copyright: Copyright lies with original owner
Accuracy International AS50
Rights side view of an early model Accuracy International AS50. Note the shorter accessory rails and bipod on a dedicated mount just in front of the receiver.
Source: Unknown author
Copyright: Copyright lies with original owner
Accuracy International AS50
Rights side view of a late model Accuracy International AS50. Note the longer accessory rails, bipod on picatinny rail and updates to the furniture, such as the rear monopod.
Source: Unknown author
Copyright: Copyright lies with original owner
Related articles
Accuracy International AW50
The AS50 is a semi-automatic counterpart to the bolt-action AW50.
Barrett M82
The AS50 was developed to be more accurate than the Barrett M82. The M82 was originally developed for the anti-materiel role, not for maximum accuracy.