AI Arctic Warfare

[303 Gunner]

I know it's not an Enfield, but I figured this was still the most appropriate forum. Badger, please feel free to move the thread if necessary!

I have a new-to-me AI AWP (1993 production; fixed stock) that I'm working to restore. Biggest issue is it badly needs to be refinished. The previous owner actually complete stripped the finish off both the rifle and the P-H bipod! Does anyone know what these rifles were originally finished with?

Attachment 113631

Information

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[Lee Enfield]

I believe that they are paint over phosphate.

Probably an IR reduction epoxy paint.

The barrel may be stainless...

[browningautorifle]

The barrel may be stainless...

That's what I'm thinking too, specially after post/pics #4.

[Roy W]

That is actually an AWP (Arctic Warfare Police) with a 24" bull barrel.
I have one with the original finish, I will take some photos and post them up for you

[Roy W]

Attachment 113647Attachment 113648Attachment 113649Attachment 113650Attachment 113651

Please see attached photos. Black painted finish on receiver and barrel, dark blacking (oil blacking?) on bipod.

These are quite rare variants of the AW, so you have a nice rifle there

https://www.morphyauctions.com/james...item/2692-391/

[303 Gunner]

Thank-you all! Couldn't believe my luck when I found it at a Cabela's of all places. Not sure what would possess someone to strip the finish from it, but all will be rectified shortly!

[browningautorifle]

all will be rectified shortly!

Are you going to get a stainless blue done or Cerakote or...?

[303 Gunner]

Are you going to get a stainless blue done or Cerakote or...?

Cerakote is the plan. I have an accredited applicator within a couple hours drive, so I figure that will be the best way forward. Spent a while this morning detail stripping the rifle in preparation.

[Lee Enfield]

Cerakote is the plan. I have an accredited applicator within a couple hours drive, so I figure that will be the best way forward. Spent a while this morning detail stripping the rifle in preparation.

Going green?

[303 Gunner]

Going green?

No, I'm going to stick to black, as it's more appropriate for this particular model. Wish I could hunt down a regular AW though! Any time I come across them, they're a bit more than I really want to pay. Haha.