280 AI and 168g VLD's

[clamb4]

I have two 280AI's both custom rifles one with a 23" barrel and one with a 26" barrel. I am interested in loading them with the 168g VDL. Could you guy's with experience with this caliber and bullet give me some load data and expected velocity. I remember Shawn Carlock built a 280AI and said it was good out to 800 yards, but he didn't list a load. I called berger and they E-mailed me standard 280 data but nothing for the 280AI. I would think maybe Retumbo powder would be a good powder to try, I know it works well in 7mm mag. Thanks for the help.

 

[landcbeitner]

According to the Sierra reloading manual 54.5gr of RL-22 was the accuracy load with the 168gr SMK. It had a MV of 2800fps in a 26" barrel. The max load with that powder is 56.4gr and gives a MV of 2900fps. Startling load for RL-22 is 48.8gr. They don't give info for Retumbo with the 280 AI in this manual.

 

[clamb4]

Thanks for the info. I think I will try reloader 22 and retumbo.

 

[cowboy]

Son and I both have 280AI and both are using H4831sc - we get just over 2800 fps. Tried RL22 and got over 2900 fps - all with the 168 VLD's. Settled on the 4831sc because of consistant vel. through chrony.
I would like to here your results and thoughts after you have run some retumbo through yours. I've always wanted to try it but have never got around to it.

 

[clamb4]

I have some time off work between Christmas and new years. Plan on testing the 168g VLD's and 160g AB's with retumbo, RL-22, and possible IMR 4831 since I have all three on hand. Will post results if things go to plan.