One line of IWI firearms that we have been waiting for to have an airsoft version is the Galil ACE. Whilst the classic Galil rifles such as the ARM and SAR already have their airsoft versions, plus the Tavor and UZI, we have been wondering why no Galil ACE has been made for airsoft. Introduced into service in 2008, the Galil ACE is now having its second generation which was announced by IWI USA a few days ago.

IWI has dispensed with the polymer portions of the hanguard and went full metal with the second Generation M-Lok rail system. The second generation will be available in three models:

Galil ACE GEN II Pistol – 7.62x39mm with Stabilizing Brace and 8.3″ Barrel

Galil ACE GEN II Rifle – 5.56 NATO with Side Folding Adjustable Buttstock

Galil ACE GEN II Rifle – 7.62x39mm with Side Folding Adjustable Buttstock

According to IWI USA, the following are the improvements seen in the Galill ACE Gen II as based on feedback:

• Charging handle (reciprocating) on the left side of the milled steel receiver allowing for weak hand operation.
• Weight reduction with the use of modern polymers.
• AKM/AK-47 magazine compatibility. (Note that the Galil ACE GEN II rifle is assembled in the US from imported and US parts under 18 U.S.C § 922(r). You should only use magazines made in the USA in your Galil ACE GEN II rifle. Use of an imported magazine may put you in violation of 18 U.S.C § 922(r).)
• Full length 2-piece Picatinny style top rail. (GEN II)
• Free Float M-LOK rail forearm. (GEN II)
• Updated Trigger profile. (GEN II)
• Updated and shorted safety profile and throw. (GEN II)
• Side folding adjustable telescoping buttstock with M4 stock compatibility. Rifles ship with Magpul CTR and riser. Pistols with brace ship with SB Tactical SBA-3. (GEN II)

The Firearm Blog is among the first to go over the details and they detail the differences between the Gen II and Gen I Galil ACE:

Now, we wait for an airsoft version as we expect our readers to always ask the question and we always answer, that it’s up to the company that has the IWI licence for airsoft to start initiating development.