280 AI Loading End-to-End: Everything You Need to Know, Tips & Tricks

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I just finished my 280 AI Full Custom Build! So, It's time to load some ammo. Before getting into a demo, I'll go over what 280 AI is, the cartridge, its parent case, and what you need to know. Once we load some ammo, we'll take it to the field and put it to work. To see the results, check out this video!
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[@billburton9212]

I have been using a 280 AI since 1980 . Shot a Marco polo with it, over 20 bull Elk and a dozen African plains game , a dozen mule deer and 4 Antelope . Used Berger 168 and Nosler partition before changing to Bersers.. I love my 280 AI . The action is a FN Mauser which is as smooth as silk

[@BrentSeagraves]

Awesome build! I had a dream many years ago of building a 280ai... that dream came to life last year. The build is as follows, Defiance Ruckus LA, Proof research Carbon finished at 24' in 1:8 twist, Pure Precision Altitude stock, Hawkins M5 Obendorf bottom metal, and finally topped off with Leupold VX5 4-20x52. I found some boxes of factory loads through some western friends as I am in central NC and at the beginning of this journey you could forget finding it locally. I have since then found Hornady 162g ELDx locally. The 162 ELDx surprisingly shot remarkably well with velocities averaging 2962 fps, ES of 14.1 and SD of 5.7 over a 5 shot group. Those numbers have stayed very consistent thus far. I have worked up several loads using 140 Nosler partitions and accubonds as well as the 160g variant in both which were great! Between the caliber and twist of the barrel this has by far been the easiest rifle to work loads up for and generally will shoot anything I load in the chamber! I have also worked some outstanding loads with both the hammer 162 HHT (59.7g H4831sc, 2995 fps ES: 12.1 SD: 5.5 w/ a .841" group @ 300 yards) and the 153 HHT. I have settled on a magic load with the 153 HHT over 54.5g of H4350 at 3005 fps, ES of 5.5 and SD of 2.2 over a 5 round group! This combo is holding a measured .548" (.262 MOA) group at 200 yards (zero)! After speaking with Steve at Hammer Bullets we both agreed that I am probably leaving some velocity on the table with that recipe but with the numbers its holding I am not going to chase it! Loved the build and reloading video as they were great and informative as are all your videos!

[@ThePleasedDoge]

"I had a dream many years ago of building a 280ai... that dream came to life last year.... " That about sums things up in western Canada. A year of wait on your action with added import "doody", and then another half a year or more lead time to get a barrel blank chambered for it. All the while hoping the gunsmith is competent enough not to ruin your components. 😓🤬

[@Accuracy1st]

I'm trying to decide what to do with some of my 7mm barrels on hand. I have 8 and 9 and 9.5 twist - 4, 5, and 6 groove from ACE, K&P, Benchmark, and Brux. My preference for 280AI and 708 is using a 9 or 9.5 twist respectively. I was holding my 8 twists for 7PRC, 7RemMag, 7mm-300WM or or 7LPRC which I am leaning towards due to the availability of Lapua brass. That Hornady 162 ELDX factory ammo is shooting faster in your rifle than the 155 factory Federal Terminal Ascent is in 2 of my 280AIs. Those are both around 2900-2915fps. There are 2 boxes of that Hornady stuff at a store about 20 min from me. I considered picking them up but they want $57.99/box and I have found that Hornady brass is one and done. Absolute garbage for reloading in my experience unless all your loads are shooting about as fast as an arrow out of your toy bow you had as a toddler. I made a substantial purchase of Norma Tipstrike 7mm 160 grain bullets on clearance, which are outstanding on whitetail. I plan on comparing loads with that bullet in 2 Tikka builds, one in 280AI and the other in 708. Both will have 24" barrels. Your rifle sounds like a top tier build. Congrats. You picked a BKS cartridge too.

[@rubenrodriguez7266]

Getting 2850 from a 22” barrel with the 162 ELDX over H4831SC and it is a killer!

[@Accuracy1st]

@@rubenrodriguez7266 The first testing I did in my first 280AI has a close load. 168 BVLD at 2930fps and H4831SC, 24" barrel

[@ronlowney4700]

😁 WE APPRECIATE YOU LISTENING TO US! 🤗

[@dougmccune9307]

Love seeing anything about the 280 AI. Thanks!

[@Ultimatereloader]

I'm becoming a huge fan of the 280AI!

[@Accuracy1st]

@@Ultimatereloader That is exactly how I felt after I got my first one last year. When compared to all the other 7s I have or use to have it certainly is a top choice for recoil, velocity, all around do all cartridge. Just wait til you hunt with it. I'm ordering more barrels after work today to build more

[@chriscosby2459]

​@@UltimatereloaderI have about 800 once fired 270 Win, 30-06, and 280 Remington cases. I am eager to see how well they fire form to 280AI. Thanks for this series on the 280 AI.

[@FMDad-dm5qo]

King of the Ackley Improved cartridges; has a serious fan club. Only AI you ever really hear about, in my experience.

[@TomL3grandsons]

Recently purchased a 280 AI, thanks for all the information.

[@Ultimatereloader]

Good deal!

[@talisikid1618]

Love my ridgeline in 280AI!

[@trevorWroe-Street]

Love my 260AI so much I decided to have a 280AI built. Thanks for the information.

[@dopeass791]

I have a 6.5x55AI, its awesome!

[@cpakkala]

Favorite build so far.

[@onceaintenough]

My main gun for 10 years, love it!

[@martinduke4644]

Great Job, Gavin. I’ve been shooting a 280AI for more than 30 years using 60.0 H4350 with a 140 Nosler AB at 3,125-3,150. Absolutely smokes White-taileds! My rifle is a 1:10. Keep you the great work.

[@jimmoser4146]

I bought a new Rem. 700 SPS Rifle in 270 Win. and took the Barrel off of the action. I bought a new "Take-Off" Rem 700 24" Barrel in 7mm-08 and I chucked it up in the lathe and chambered it to 280 Ackley Improved with a PT&G Reamer. I have a 280 rem. in a Win. Mod. 70 FWT that I really like so I had loaded ammo that I used to fireform myself 65 hunting rounds of 280 Ack. Imp. Brass. I fireformed this brass and broke in my barrel using the 280 Rem. load that had a Hornady 162 gr. BTSP Interlock bullet. The 65 rounds of Win. Mod. 70 loads I I fired at squirrels only had two misses out of 65 shots fired so the accuracy with the Hornady Interlock 165 gr BTSP was proof I was on the right trail. I reloaded a dozen of my fireformed cases with IMR- 4831, AA-3100, RL-22, IMR7797, and IMR-4955. and used the Hornady 162 gr. ELD-M Bullet which shot very accurately, and I ran all of them across the Chronograph. Once I picked my powder, which was the IMR-4955 powder, I switched over to the Hornady 162 gr. ELD-X bullet and throttled my velocity down from around 3100 fps to just under 3000 fps. I used this load to kill two Mule Deer Bucks in two seasons, but I shot both of them at about 225± yds with head shots so I didn't get to see what type of meat damage this ELD-X bullet would do. I am a meat hunter, and I have seen on the Forums that a lot of the guys are saying the ELD-X Bullet can turn meat to Jello! I will probably go to a more meat-friendly bullet as long as I get the accuracy I am getting right now. The 3-shot group I get at 100 yds with my 280 AI is covered with a dime and 57.5 grs. of IMR-4955 over a CCI 200 Primer gives me 2965 fps. with no pressure signs. I settled on the Enduron IMR-4955 Powder because of its burning qualities such as copper fouling eliminator, insensitivity to temperature changes, ideal loading density etc.

[@user-qs1kq9sh7k]

a men thank you for the 280 ai, you the man......

[@2abuggy699]

I've just had my first custom rifle built by my local gunsmith in South Dakota in 280AI. It's a factory 700 action that was accurized with a Preferred Barrel in 26 inch on a McMillan mc3 stock. I haven't gotten to handload for it yet but I already love the cartridge and this video will certainly be handy when I finally have enough brass formed. Love the content, will we ever get a Ron Spomer collaboration? He loves the 280AI.

[@gerry6.8]

The comments you showed asking for the 280 AI also showed there's a lot of interest in the 6.8 Western. ADG has started making brass and there's lots of good bullets to choose from like the 170 Berger and Ballistic Tip and 175 gr Sierra.

[@ronlowney4700]

🤠 Just as the 30-06 and 270 Winchester are 2 of the 5 Most Popular Elk Capable Cartridges - And The 2 Most Popular Non-Magnum Cartridges in a Standard Length Action - The 280 AI Deserves To Be in That Elite Cartridge Discussion (Especially For Handloaders)! IT IS AN ALL TIME GREAT CARTRIDGE, Especially For Hunting in North America! 🤑

[@chrisparker9886]

The .280 Remington has been there for years! 😂

[@karlweiby2307]

Great build! Would love to see a follow up once you’ve done more testing. I just finally recieved my barrel from C6 as I also plan on putting together a 280AI. It’d be cool to see you dive into more projects like this. Maybe into some wildcats and fire forming procedures. Maybe from the Sherman wildcat lineup.

[@chriscosby2459]

The 280 AI is one the best cartridges out there.

[@chipsterb4946]

Very cool build. I love that stock/chassis whatever it is. Barnes has load data for 110-175 grain bullets. That’s an impressive range of bullet weight IMHO. 1:9 twist is the fastest they specify even for the 175 grain. I am going to build a rifle using the ARC Coup De Grace action and am pretty sure 280 AI will be the chambering.

[@blacksaxcam]

I'd love to see Gavin do a piece on reloading copper monos for the 280AI, I think it's a great use-case!

[@jessdurfee3817]

Hi Gavin, can you do one of these builds with affordable products. I personally do not have the money to even buy some of this stuff. I believe I am not alone in this. I enjoy your videos and love watching you work.

[@davidrobinson-qo7ue]

Awsome rifle build I think I need one just like it!!

[@GuyGooding-q9o]

Great build !! I'd love to see you do a 25-06 AI fast twist for the new high bc bullets !

[@Keggertotap]

6.5 x 06 better array of bullets why just get stuck @120 in .256 w .264 85-160 130 s rock. They all do really and u can AI also and use .270 full length brass there’s 5 different chambers. In 6.5 x06 Just the A square is fine caliber

[@shawnengstrom3906]

I'm in love with that rifle.

[@superbeast-lq3ft]

Load both up with the same powder and same pressure and the old 7 mm will beat it by 100+ fps with heavy bullets .

[@montaego]

Same issue with the Forster seater on Nosler ABLR. Also, using a mandrel to set neck tension can be tricky with 280ai and one can crush the shoulder if not careful.

[@k2svpete]

I've used Gordon's Reloading database as a first stop for developing loads with great results. I've loaded using the optimum barrel time data and that's yielded excellent results.

[@faridasayesh4804]

Reloader 23 was my best powder for the 280ai.

[@Keggertotap]

That is what I was leaning on rl 23 best of both worlds 22 can get funny in extreme cold slower that h4831 .270 best powder I do .270 or did w great results and the .243

[@mikehenderson8578]

Use two different trays for empty cases and a second tray for powder charged cases. prevents a double charge. Be safe.

[@willieungerer4312]

I have a savage model 110(was a 25-06). Also did the 1-8 twist, 26” barrel. Shooting 175gr eld-x. BTO 3.433. 54.0 gr of H4831SC running at 2705fps. ES was 16fps. Shooting sub 1/2 moa. It was my ELK riffle. I’m back in South Africa and waiting for it to be shipped. I can’t wait for it to arrive. It’s going to be my primary hunting rifle.

[@SammyMoore-tg5gs]

Switch to a slower burning powder, like n560/565/570, Retumbo, RL26 (if you can find that gold dust). I have a 22” barrel shooting 57.5 gr of n570, and I’m getting 2706 fps with the 180 gr hornady eld-m bullets.

[@willieungerer4312]

@SammyMoore-tg5gs thank you. I'm going to experiment with other powders once I get it back. It was the only powder I could get hold of at the time(couldn't even get IMR 7828SSC back in 2022 at my local sporting goods and gun shops). But the speed and precision I got, I can't complain

[@CLB-xl7jt]

Had my first 280 Ackley built last year. Have taken several deer and a bear with it so far. Love it. Would you mind telling me about the rest/rail set up at the end of the video? Thanks for all the great content.

[@bustabass9025]

Got a Weatherby 307 Range XP coming in 280 AI. It's going to be another Western rig for mulies, elk, and pronghorns. Don't need all the micro/gyro guaging stuff. Bullets, powder, case, primer, press...I'm good.

[@twojeepstoomany]

Nice build! I built a lightweight 280 AI last year for hunting instead of packing my 14 pound Savage 7 rem mag through the woods. I used a Lone Peak Arms Fusion Titanium action, XLR Element 4.0 Magnesium chassis, with carbon folding buttstock, a Carbon Six 1:8 carbon fiber barrel 26” long with Remage nut, and a Nightforce NX8 4-32 F1 scope. I shoot it with my Banish 30 suppressor in the long configuration. Total weight with suppressor is 10 pounds! It shoots .3 MOA to .5 MOA 5 shot groups at both 100 and 500 yards. I’m using Berger 168 grain classic hunter bullets with 56.4 grains of IMR 7828 SSC and I’m getting 2790 fps with an ES of 14! I had 2 more accuracy nodes. One at 59.2 grains with 2906 fps and another at 61.2 grains and 3053 fps. I chose the lower power and slower accuracy node due to minimal recoil so I can spot my own rounds. What and awesome cartridge, it does everything my old long range 7 mag does, with the same bullets and same powder, but with 4 pounds less weight and less powder charge and less recoil! I just built another one but with a 20” barrel instead so it’s not quite so long with the suppressor. Keep the 280 AI reloading and building going!

[@user-qs1kq9sh7k]

more reloading own 280 ai please ..............

[@Mike-ix4fs]

If you watch Erik Cortina’s videos on reloading he states ya need 3 things. 1.Combustion low ES means consistent fire. 2. Harmonics- seating depth or barrel tuner 3. Quality bullets with consistent B.C. Your Hornady 180 load has 1 and 3. Your missing #2. Maybe play with seating depth and see what happens??

[@PetersonCartridgeCo]

Great video Gavin! 👏

[@Ultimatereloader]

This brass is great!

[@ziruk-king4466]

Most efficient cartridges ever --go to for anything around the world

[@forrestebert5276]

I load the Berger 168 Hunting VLD Nosler Brass CCI BR2 primer and 63 grains of Retumbo. Deadly accurate and in a 700 Remington action 1:8 twist STS.fluted barrel! I seat the bullet out as far as I can and be able to use the magazine. I don’t own a 7 mag due to this caliber less powder and recoil with better accuracy a total package!

[@Keggertotap]

I was thinking h 1000 but like the 6.5.x55 slower works with the larger pills not listed in the Sierra manual rl 22 which Iam not a real fan but like rl 23

[@Keggertotap]

6.506 like rl 26

[@keithchikowski5583]

That is a beautiful rifle, I’m jealous

[@danbisone1587]

I have a Kimber Stainless Select Grade 84L that shoots sub half MOA. I shot a 1.075" group at 300 yards with 145 grain LRX being pushed by 56.0 grains of IMR 4350. The gun also loves 150 grain partitions, and groups excellent with H4831SC. Groups open up beyond 400 yards, but that's the wind and ES affecting the bullet path. I also have a 300 WSM, but the 280 is easier to shoot and groups better.

[@ronlowney4700]

THANKS AGAIN! 🥳

[@kirkmartin2223]

I've been thinking of doing a fast twist 270AI. I think it would be a monster with the Berger EOL.

[@brucegillespie654]

Great build

[@mikebarney339]

I had a rifle built. Defiance anti with 3B bartlien in a pure precision stock. Took a little playing to get where I wanted to be. Hornady bullets were not cutting it. I ended up with a Berger 168 in nosler brass. I don't get the SD's that I normally get from my handloads. But the bergers just stack (a couple 5 shot groups at .5 moa) H4831SC ~2850

[@ethancuny3913]

Now that you’ve done the 280 AI at 270 AI

[@MScholtz]

I'm going to be honest, I was most exited to see the forster co-ax back. I watched your press shootout years ago, which was when I was looking myself. But I noticed every time you loaded the co-ax was there and its great to see it back again. I love mine, and it loads magnificent ammo

[@chipsterb4946]

I started with a Hornady single stage press but wish I’d just bought the Co-Ax. I also have the Forster bench priming tool and that’s fantastic.

[@leonhart2452]

Not only equal velcity but does it with less powder. With everything else being equal you get a bit less recoil.

[@shanerhodes925]

With a 165 game king. I shot exact same velocity yesterday as the 7 rem mag. Withing ten fps of one another. I'm selling my magnum.

[@vaughanrichards698]

Stunning rifle and cartridge combo! But you'll find the 7mag is around 100fps faster than the PRC and 200fps or more faster than the AI with the same projectile. But love that woox stock

[@creigh68]

Does the stock already have a nick in it!? Beautiful build my man. Now I have to find a way to get one.

[@cornbreadburgess1950]

Thanks for sharing brother 🙏😁

[@samwoodson3781]

I was recently playing with the idea of setting up a .280ai to NRL Hunter open light spec or possibly buying one for factory division. I liked the idea of it being a .30/06 derivative since I also have a .35 Whelen and my dad has an /06 but I’ve heard that it’s not a simple conversion to .280ai, the brass ends up being too short or something like that. Also heard that you almost need to have a custom chamber to shoot heavy 7mm bullets so it sounded like more of a project than I’m willing to take on at the moment. Might still look into a factory Weatherby in .280 or 7PRC, main reason I was going to build was to get something left handed that could take detachable magazines.

[@dougkahler7152]

I just ordered my 280 AI today. I’m not planning on running heavy high for caliber BC bullet. I’m thinking of 150 Nosler ALBRs and hopefully getting 3100fps maybe a touch more. I heard I’m goin* to need reloader 33 so the next search is on for some more 33. I know it would be easier to pull 🧚‍♀️ dust out of my behind then finding any reloader 33 for the foreseeable future. Lol. Wish me luck.

[@just_jon7748]

Excellent choice. Mine loves N570 and the 195 Berger EOL. Running 64.4 grains at 2890 fps from 26" barrel.

[@SammyMoore-tg5gs]

How are you getting that much powder in the case and getting that velocity? 59 gr of n570 behind a 180 eld-m gets me 2706 fps out of a 22” barrel. Less powder and less barrel, but 59.5 gr was a compressed load for me.

[@just_jon7748]

I'm running a 3.6" COAL (Browning X-Bolt) and the load is slightly compressed. I hit pressure at 64.8 grains.

[@SammyMoore-tg5gs]

@@just_jon7748 that’s 0.16” longer than my coal which is 20/1000 off the lands. What brass and primer are you running?

[@just_jon7748]

@@SammyMoore-tg5gs I'm using peterson brass and Federal 215M,,

[@just_jon7748]

@@SammyMoore-tg5gs Peterson and Federal 215M.

[@letsmove1559]

Thinking about a 98 action with 280AI

[@holdenivey6068]

300 wsm next!!

[@stephanelevesque6153]

i build my 280ai with my old parker hale 270 win, i love this caliber, not to much recoil and good performance, i shoot 162g hornady and i have a 3/4 moa, it's enought for my plinking therapie :P

[@Accuracy1st]

Recommendation: with the Peterson brass, or fireforming 280 Rem brass, if you are getting 0.007 growth with one firing with the Peterson brass, I have found that it is best to only neck size it for the 2nd firing instead of FL sizing. Of course, this is if the 1x fired brass easily chambers back in the rifle before you do prep on it. I have found all 1x fired brass easily fits in all 3 of my 280AIs. Once you get your 2nd firing you'll better establish what shoulder bump your brass needs. This has boosted repeatable accuracy for me, more specifically for this cartridge. I think it is a coincidence you mentioned rebarreling a 30-06 to 280AI. I bought six Tikka Hunter T3x left hand rifles that were not selling at auction for the longest time. I put low bids on all and got them. Every one is being converted to 280AI, 708 for sure and I'm toying with 270-280AI (270 O'Connor) and 6.5-06AI.

[@BrentSeagraves]

I used Nosler in the beginning but now have a good supply of Peterson brass for mine which haven't noticed any stretching that effects loading after the first firing

[@Accuracy1st]

@@BrentSeagraves Well, you can certainly get ammo suitable after the 1st firing and FL sizing, no question. But if you want optimum chamber fit and there's 0.007 growth from virgin brass to 1x fired, those cases are not where they need to be yet for best chamber fit much of the time. I got multiple great loads with 1x fired Norma brass and Peterson brass and FL sizing prior to 2nd firing. Those loads just got a lot better when I modified my load method by neck sizing the 1x fired brass, which still lengthened another 0.002 upon firing again. So, when I was bumping the shoulder back initially on the 1x fired brass 0.002 to 0.003 those cases were actually too short still at 4 to 5 thousandths clearance. Since I've done it both ways, I'll stick with my current method having seen the results and compared group sizes, ES/SD.

[@BrentSeagraves]

@@Accuracy1st oh no doubt! I for sure appreciate the advice! Im still what I consider a "born again novice" to reloading, especially the very detailed and newer equipment and methods. I reloaded alot as a child and young adult with my grandfather but lost the interest when he passed. 5 years ago or so after finally getting settled in our new house I decided to go through his many boxes of reloading and decided that was what my bonus would be for! So essentially re-learning as I go with the help of the knowledge of guys like yourself and some others.

[@Accuracy1st]

@@BrentSeagraves I offer any intel you want to read within the limitations of KZbin comments. I got my start in the 80s while working for a custom ammo and firearms store in Arizona. Talk about an eye opening experience. I had never heard of any aftermarket custom barrels or actions. I thought you just bought a Remington, Ruger, Winchester, Browning or whatever off the rack, roll some ammo and hope for the best prior to working at that place. When I started the only variable in a handload was powder charge. When those experts got done with me I had 4 custom rifles built with Hart, Shilen, Lilja, and Obermeyer barrels, and spent 10x the amount of time I used to spend on brass prep alone. I was wt sorting brass, bullets, primers, measuring all bullets from base to ogive, etc. That was roughly 1992. By the way, how do you like the Nosler 280AI brass? I got a steal on 4 new boxes at Cabela's and 400 pieces straight from Nosler that are blemished and haven't opened any yet. I only have experience with the Norma 280 Rem fireformed brass and the Peterson cases. I'm going to tour the Peterson plant in PA when I go pick up 2 more rifles from my gun builder next month. Hoping to leave with a pile of 280AI, 708, and anything else they may have in stock that I shoot

[@BrentSeagraves]

@@Accuracy1st haven't had any noticeable issues out of the Nosler but I do prefer the Peterson over the Nosler as it just feels more robust in the hand. If you get up to Peterson keep me in mind on brass for 280ai and 7-08! I'll gladly pay what you paid and shipping to get it to me! I love to have 3-4 boxes of each. I've sent my email in another response to keep in touch about these calibers. If you're not already I find quite a bit of very helpful info to me on Len Backus Long Range Hunting forum

[@docholiday6650]

Why were you using H1000 in 280AI? That is way too slow for that size case. N160 or N560 would be a much better fit in 280AI.

[@TommyboyGTP]

Can you load and test light for caliber projectiles that you can use for varmint and predator hunting? Thanks for another great video!

[@Ultimatereloader]

That's a great idea- thanks for the suggestion!

[@CBHAustralia]

@@Ultimatereloader Not a varmint projectile but got excellent accuracy and great results on Fallow deer using Australian made Woodleigh 140gn PPSP. Aim hold squeeze, and the rest is history.

[@shanerhodes925]

Mine is a Kimber 84 pro dissolve. I've been using 162 eldx over h 4831 59 gr of it. In Peterson's brass and it's shoots really good and velocity has been really good too. I love it both the rifle and the caliber. It's no where near as nice as that rifle you built but it's good for me. I would like to try some 168 acubind long range. Or something of that nature and see what I can do with them and just picked up some n165 see how that does with the 165 game changer bullets. High hopes for that load too.

[@isam950]

My 280 I had to play with seating depth a lot to get it to shoot, and my dad has had the same. Something with the geometry of the ai stuff that is seating picky.

[@calebdavis3110]

Shooting half MoA groups with Barns and 3100 fps with 280 ai! Elk don’t like it out to 300 so far looking to reach out further this year.

[@Ultimatereloader]

Nice, sounds like a great elk load!

[@scottscheuerman8714]

I re-barreled a old 721 Remington from a 30-06 to a 280 AI using a Shilens barrel with a 1-8 twist and being 26” I have been shooting 154 grain sst with H 4831 sc I also had loaded some to begin with imr 4831 an I conographed the loads and the H 4831 sc was faster and more consistent than the imr 4831 which was slower contrary to the reload manual that I got the load data out of I have some Nosler ballistic tips loaded now to try and I bought some 162 sst to load also seems like the velocity spread was within about 18 FPS which I didn’t think was bad and that was a couple of tenths of max I was getting 2932 FPS average

[@scorch101]

Hi Gavin, I have a 280AI in a Savage Model 110 Long Range Hunter. I shoot the 162 ELDM. I had bad results using the specified load data for Ramshot Hunter but actually got very good results, (near 3,000 ft/sec) using StaBall 6.5 with group sizes averaging less than 1MOA. I must say I prefer my 7mm PRC for really tight groups shooting the 180gr ELDM in a semi-custom build rifle using American Rifle Co Coup d'Grace action in a Xylo chassis and Proof Carbon Fiber barrel. Both guns are among my favorites along with my 300PRC in a Ruger Precision. Carry on.

[@rubenrodriguez7266]

Great series and beautiful rifle! That 180 Berger has been good to me in a 22” .280 AI as well. 12 shots go into about 1 MOA (or half MOA if I cherry picked some random 3 shot groups.) Thoughts on using a magnum primer for the .280 AI? Any benefit? My current AI loads are developed using LR-mag primers, but I am not sure if it’s necessary.

[@robertbroxson4582]

I’m amazed! I’d like that rifle the way it is. So what’s the chance of a guy like me purchasing it?

[@tommarshall4849]

Zermatt SR3 action, 24 inch Proof light sendero 1/8 twist, McMillan game hunter stock. 175 Berger elite hunter, 61 grains R26 2905fps. Averages .5-.7 moa 5 shot groups

[@letsmove1559]

.280 AI excellent job what would that cost to have built thanks

[@bustabass9025]

If you have to ask, you can't afford it. 😂

[@brocnelson731]

really liking the performance i have seen running n555 under a 145 barns lrx 3160 fps

[@stevekrippner]

What length barrel ?

[@brocnelson731]

24"

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Not sure it was mentioned, but what effective barrel length did you go with (not including the muzzle brake)?

[@bjornalm9950]

What are the steps from a 30.06 case to the 280 AI? A lot of work?

[@davidwarner9272]

Can you use a hydraulic cylinder rod for a rifle barrel, and if not why and if so what is required if anything. Your response would be greatly appreciated. Thanks D.W.

[@DisDaddey]

what ur thoughts on the 6.8 Western?

[@stevenzagrodnik7243]

280AI w 180 hybrid for FO Class: 8T barrel what length? 1.25" diameter full length of barrel. Manson reamer what part # and freebore? No turn neck for Peterson brass? Barrel life # of rounds b4 not competitive? Build on Barnard P action doable?

[@heathgarner9645]

If your over book data with the AI, do you not think you would be over with the 7mm rem?

[@shanerorko8076]

284 Shehane is fairly close to 280 AI, very similar cartridges.

[@CBHAustralia]

But the .280a.i is a sleek looking cartridge.

[@jamesahoffman]

Video idea, pick up a surplus K-31 in 7.5x55mm swiss (308 caliber bullet) and geek out handloading the round for hunting season, and think on how to "tweak" the rifle, given the age, most are great shooters, with a unique action, and are pleasant to shoot.

[@jrhunt414]

Unfortunately the big ring safety is so large that it hits your face. Still have to come out of position to run the straight pull.

[@jamesahoffman]

@@jrhunt414 you do with most bolt action rifles anyway!

[@jrhunt414]

@@jamesahoffman I don’t with any of my bolt actions. First time I shot my K31 I slammed the safety into my eye socket and cursed the engineer that designed such a marvel of an action and then put that giant ring safety on it effectively making the whole straight pull design pointless.

[@hugtango]

the 280AI is a "mini 33XC"

[@friedrichknicely3012]

What is the overall length of the the loaded 180 grain Eld-M and Berger bullets?

[@jamesb3199]

Did you use the Sami spec or original 40 degree

[@tonydevich7937]

Nice looking rifle

[@mitchschumacher255]

Gavin I have a Ruger No.1 in 280 Remington. Thoughts on loading hot 280 compared to going to AI? My thinking is with a strong falling block action you could go a little hotter with just 280 Remington.

[@jola689]

I would like to get into reloading and I have a browning a bolt II medallion converted from 280 remington to 280 ai. I have a question: can I use a 280 ai die set to reload 280 remington brass so it can be fire formed? How does a case sizer work if the shoulder and the new taper is different? Thanks!

[@jessjosh4119]

Let see some 28 nosler content and compare 280 AI against 28 nosler

[@glennwatson2751]

what expander mandrel are you using

[@robbiek5oh]

Don’t overlook the 160/162 class pills; they work well with H4350, H4831, and IMR-7828 range powders. My 24” factory Kimber sends the 162eldx at 2,875fps w/ ~54.0 of either H4350 or RL-16. Both powders are sub MOA for 5 shots; RL-16 is 1/2” MOA. H-4831 shoots well, but is not any faster than the 4350 powders. RL-23 increases the speed to 2,910ish, but it takes 59.0 of powder. IMR-7828 is the speed king, and will get you an honest 3k below the hornady book max. Even the shower RL-16 load carries 1,500 fps to 1k yards, so I do t see the need to use the slow powders when RL-16 and H-4350 work so well and have excellent temp stability.

[@DrewEdwardBacklas]

H4831sc

[@stevekrippner]

Building a load right now and finding good success with 62.5 gr of reloder 26 and a 145 Barnes lrx averaging 3050 ft ! Took an audad at 400 yds with a 120 Barnes 1 shot this is my new favorite hunting cartridge very versatile!

[@jaymiller393]

Kinda Slow for that weight

[@JohnWest-yc9ol]

60.2 grains of N560 3260 140 ttsx it doesn't seem like I'm pushing my 280 ai still have plenty of room in the case

[@stevekrippner]

What length barrel ? I’m running 22” maybe there’s room for more velocity but this is where I feel max is for my set up as im pretty new to reloading and don’t want any catastrophic failures…🤷‍♂️

[@JohnWest-yc9ol]

@@stevekrippner I don't blame you I have a 24 inch barrel bullet seated out further than Barnes recommended leaves me with room with Hornady brass for more powder I just don't need more velocity than that I get under .5 groups

[@Rsbangera]

here is a crazy ideA 50bmg neck down to 6.5 creedmore .😮

[@TODinWY]

You are certainly RIGHT.

[@fiasco7P]

What laptop is he using ? Dell XPS ? What year ?

[@ssmellis5799]

How do you like carbon six barrels?

[@Ultimatereloader]

They have been GREAT on the last two builds I used them on! (including this one)

[@Ultimatereloader]

Actually, make that three! Piet's 6.5 SS, the 6GT, and this 280 AI !

[@servandomadrid1121]

Podes hacer tus videos en español por favor

[@Accuracy1st]

I have three 280AIs, 2 on Rem700 actions with Brux barrels and 1 on a Defiance action with a Bartlein bbl. My 4th 280AI will start soon using a Tikka action and an ACE barrel contoured to a Tikka Lite factory contour. All 24" barrels. I've got more Brux on the way and I think I'm going to make a couple at 26". Federal Terminal Ascent 155s is shooting so well in 2 of the 3 rifles I have not bothered to load much yet but in the Bartlein tube I did settle on 3300fps with a 139 LRX over Superformance. I just received 50 pulled 155 Terminal Ascent bullets to load but I think I'll save those for the Tikka. Sure wish I wasn't so ignorant about the AI the last twenty years. It's now among my favorites of all time.

[@TODinWY]

Now build a .280 RCBS and compare it to the AI.

[@TherealBartcephus]

That woox is 🔥. I gotta find something to put one on!!!!!

[@edgarperez6766]

Can someone explain to me how in the hell @ReloadingWeatherby got 3000 out of a 7 rem mag with 195 grain beger bullet ? Either his lying or he didn't care about safe max load...

[@Accuracy1st]

What was bbl length?

[@Iscariot18]

Don't know either, but in one of his recent videos he had a small segment on the dangers of overpressure via brass signs, LOL.

[@edgarperez6766]

@Iscariot18 so he might be running hot loads that can explain why but what I don't understand is why he hates so much on the prc cartridges to the point that he has to be doing that to prove a point

[@bulgedtrunnion7761]

@@Accuracy1st 26"

[@Snailz5]

SAAMI max for 7RM 61k vs 65k for 280 AI so that contributes some to factory load data being close. Also, certain powders give more velocity for certain cartridges due load density vs energy vs case capacity. Reloading Weatherby was probably running 70-75k with a 26 in barrel with strong brass. Plenty of actions can run in those pressure ranges, but the juice isn’t worth the squeeze. I can run a 150gr monolithic up to 3100 fps in a 22” 308 with LVR powder using Lapua Palma brass. It’s probably running around 72k and I don’t have noticeable pressure signs, but the gun shoots far better with 2gr less powder and closer to 3000 fps.

[@33journeyman]

If you think 270 Winchester isn't enough then just go to 30/06. The 280 is just stuck in the middle....I don't consider ethical distances to ever exceed 400 yards...

[@jonathangagnon6261]

The 280 is actually almost always going to hit harder than a 30-06 at any range. It launches the same weight bullets and the same velocities but has a higher bc making it keep more velocity. It’s also always going to have a higher sectional density which means better penetration. But yes the 30-06 will make a slightly bigger hole. But the 280 ackley is a noticeable step up in performance over the 270 win, and has a few advantages over the 30-06 only losing on bullet diameter, but winning with trajectory, sectional density, and energy on target.

[@ronlowney4700]

🤠 My Former Co-worker at a Gun Shop Said It Best - It Is a "Thinking Man's Magnum" (Magnum Performance Without The Magnum Recoil)! The 280 AI is a Proper Choice For North American Big Game Species - Unlike That 6.5 prc (And 6.5 SS) That Your Friend, Pieter Malan, of Impact Shooting Promotes! 😂 But, He is NOT From Here, So We Will Forgive His Ignorance (on Hunting Elk, Moose, Bison, etc...)! 🤭

[@calebdavis3110]

Why shoot The 6.5 PRC when you can shoot 260 AI. And get better performance, and why shoot the seven PRC when you’re getting better performance out of a 280 AI. Cartridges that have been around for 60 years are still out performing all the new stuff.

[@peterschmidt2849]

🤙🏻😎🇺🇸

[@kuronyan3006Ackley]

😉😄✌️👍‼️

[@TheThirdH]

Maybe try VV N550/555 or H4350/4831. Also maybe sticking with the bullets in the 150-168 grain class is optimal.