A Bond

The AXSR rifle has its own trigger specifically designed for it and it has not yet been tested in the AX MKIII so we cannot advise if the AXSR Trigger will work effectively with the AX MKIII (as the AXSR is slightly different from the AX MKIII). The " AI Competition Trigger" is a different trigger and is fitted as standard in the new AT-X rifles and is available as an aftermarket trigger for the AT / AX models.. However the "AI Competition Trigger" should not been used on the AX MKIII rifles as the safety catch set up is different on the AX MKIII (AR Style) from the traditional AT / AX rifles (shroud mounted safety) and it may not function correctly. The AI competition Trigger #C-XTSP003 and the AXSR Trigger #C-XTSP002 are manufactured by the US company called XTSP. The standard Triggers fitted to AW / AE/ AX and AT rifles are manufactured by AI in the UK.

Far from a retrograde step in the design, it is an improvement. Instead of an exposed and separate screw on the adjustment knob on an AXMC, that required more parts and assembly, it is now a one piece machined part. As you can see from the photos below, the first one shows the original adjustment knob and the other two show the new style - you can still use the hex wrench to put torque on it to tighten it, if necessary.

Chris - As you stated you are in NZ so you are in one of the few countries that actually has a choice of the AXSR or the AX MK3. The AXSR is primarily available in the USA whereas the AX MKIII is available in the UK and ROW market outside of the USA. Although they look very similar, they are different due to the USA market being predominantly civilian and the UK / ROW markets are Military, Police and civilian and have more specific requirements. The AX MK3 does indeed have a 3 position safety but it is on the side like an AR, rather than on the bolt shroud as has been done traditionally. I arranged all the photoshoots for the 2020 brochure and can assure you that the AX MKIII rifles used all have a 3 position safety catch. The cycling of the bolt is unaffected by the 2 or 3 position safety catch. They are both smooth. If you have any questions or concerns, please do feel free to contact me. thanks