280 AI Range Report

[JD338]

Guys,

I got my M700 in 280 AI back from the gunsmith. I had the action blueprinted and installed a Hart 24" #5 Flutted barrel 1-9 twist and Tubb recoil lug. For now I am using a Leupold VXIII 2.5x8 but will change to a VXIII 4.5x14.
Started load development with the 160 gr AccuBond and RL22. After 75 rounds, (50 fire forming) I have the following results:

60.0 grs RL22
GM210M
R-P Case
COL 3.495", .015" off the lands
3 shot groups of .295", 218"
moving up to 61.0 grs.

58.0 grs RL22
GM215M
R-P Case
COL 3.495"
3 shot group of .575" ( first 2 shots were .161")


59.0 grs RL22
GM215M
R-P Case
COL 3.495"
3 shot group of .510" (first and third shots measure .153")

moving up to 60.0 grs and 61.0 grs.

I am happy with the way this rifle is shooting, considering I am using R-P brass and I haven't squared up the primer pockets or turned the case necks. I may be pushing the limits of the 8x scope while trying to achive sub 1/4 MOA. My goal is to hit 3000 fps with the 160 gr AB. This would be a great long range deer, antelope, and caribou load that will buck the wind and take out the vitals from any angle.

If anyone is interested, I will keep you posted with future results.

Regards,

JD338

[Michael Eichele]

That is good info. I have been thinking of having a 280 improved put together for my LR sheep rifle. 308 accuracy with near 7mm mag performance. I like that idea.

Are you going to try the 162 AMAX??

[4ked Horn]

I'm interested.

Somewhere down the line I'm going to own a .280AI and all this load info will be helpful I"m sure.

[JD338]

I am happy to share my results, hope it will help you guys out in the future.
I am a Nosler fan so I will stick stick with the AccuBond. Once I get the 160 gr set, I will work up a load for the 140 gr.

BTW, my fire forming load was 140 gr Nosler BT with 57.0 grs of RL19 and a Fed GM210M primer. This is a proven load in my 280 Remington.
20 shot group was around 1.5" but I wasn't very serious about the group. I was pressed for time, wanted fire formed cases. I will shoot for group the next time I FF cases.

Regards,

JD338

[jab22]

DJ, would you mind telling what these types of improvements costs? Ballpark is good enough, I have no idea what we are talking about. Im assuming this included the AI conversion since you mentioned fire forming your cases.

Red Dog

[JD338]

red dog,

The cost was around $1000.00 for materials and labor. It was a little more than I expected but the results are well worth the investment.
I have settled on the 160 gr AB with 62.0 grs RL22.
Consistantly shoots in the .2's at 100 yds.

Regards,

JD338

[jab22]

Thanks, Who did your project?