A .280ai convert here.
Sorry you all lost a freind I don't think I had any posting with him.
I've read a bit on the these, more so the effectiveness of the round.
If I'm reading all this right the Original Ackley version chamber is 14thou longer than the Nosler spec production 280AI approved by SAAMI?
So, potentially using SAAMI standard spec cases in an old chamber will have excessive headspace.
I realise 14thou is a lot but i use metric for daily use being an Aussie so I don't work on imperial measurements unless discussing reloading.
I think I understand the issue and the proccess .
If done safely with appropriate loads or filler can the "Factory AI " case be fireformed to a P.O.Ackley spec .280ai chamber?
I am a novice and have no Wildcat experience but given the case is wider along the body , does it reduce the need to blow out the case body taper?
There is still the issue of the excessive headspace but can it be safely overcome with fireforming loads?
Also, the difference in the base diameter of cases. I think I read there were slight difference between the case base dia of .308 and .30-06 I'm using those as reference as I think a lot of cartridges can be derived from their cases.
The question is how critical is the variation? Let's say it's up to 5 though.
The reason I ask is I have a few Tikka rifles. Would they cut the bolt face the same for .270, .30-06 family of cases as the .308 , .243 cases?
I purchased a new .25-05 for my.280ai expecting it to have the appropriate bolt face and the correct magazine.
I hear some countries expect appropriate headstamps when entering with firearms and ammo.
It might be needed nice to have it headstamped correctly, be it for safety sake matching guns to ammo or the time comes sorting out our loading room is someone else problem.
I suspect my chamber is cut at SAAMI spec. Given the timing etc.
I have not found any issue but I will check a fired case against a new unfired Nosler .280ai for reference.
When I can contact my gunsmith I will ask him too to be sure.
I know he has .22-250ai and 7mm-08ai reamers.
I know Mr Ackley did not apply his wisdom to every cartridge or test a prototype so I wonder which ones are his. I also read that the principle or practice of the 40 ° shoulder is very effective on some cases with little improvement on others.
Is the .280ai the Only improved case that has been tampered with by the corporation's? Is it the only one with commercially available headstamped cases?
@phorwath can you chime in please.