Torn between the 280 ai and the 7mm rem mag

[xsn10s]

I was pretty sure I'd build a Long Range Hunter in 7mm Rem Mag ( or buy one) for shooting 180gr bullets. But now I'm starting to like the idea of a 280 AI since it can come close with a 26" barrel. It'll serve dual duty of hunting elk at probably not great distances, but possible targets out to a mile. Who's out there with set up with 24-28" barrels?
Update: Sorry I should of mentioned I'll probably be focusing on 175gr-180gr bullet weight class. Loads for that weight and 24-28 inch barrels would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

[cohunt]

I often look at available options in factory rifles and ammo when I compare 2 cartridges ballistics to get a larger picture-- I often times compare the cost of componants as well as quality of brass.
Check out available twist rates for the bullets you intend to shoot, i know there are factory 1:9.5, 1:9.25, 1:9,& 1:8 twist offered in 7rm factory rifles

 

[djfriesen]

If you can live with the length, go 280AI. Just make sure you have the proper twist. I have a 7RM, but the 9.5" twist really limits me on the longer heavies.

Side note on the AI: I've read recently some differences between Ackley's original wildcat, and the new SAMMI 280AI. Don't know enough to give you a conclusion, but it might warrant further investigation on your part prior to selecting that chambering.

 

[xsn10s]

Yes apparently 0.014" difference. I'm not concerned on that since I can compensate when reloading. But thanks for the heads up.

 

[Knuckleballz]

You can find 7mm rem mag at walmart, or any store that sells ammo anywhere you travel to hunt. Can't say the same for 280ai.

 

[xsn10s]

That is true but I reload and haven't bought factory hunting ammo in 30 years. Plus I have a lot of 270 win brass I could convert. But ammo availability is something I do consider.

 

[codym]

I have a 26' 9 twist 280 ai. I can push the 160-168 class bullet up and over 3k but found accuracy to be in the 2920/2950 area depending on bullet. I love my 280 ai but think the sweet spot for hunting is the 160-168 class bullet. Personally if I wanted a long range 7mm to shoot the heavier bullets 180-195 class, I would do a 28 nosler or 7stw. I think for what you are describing the 280 ai will be a great choice just go with a properly twisted barrel for your elevation and get it throated for the 180's.

 

[jlvandersnick]

never had an AI but I have had several 7RM's. My current one has a 26 inch proof cf 8.4 twist barrel. Rifle shoots 180 vld's at 2965fps...consistently under 1/2 moa.
I have a picture of a 2 1/4 inch 950 yd three shot group around here somewhere.
69.1 grn H1000 norma brass fed 215 primers
Sammi spec chamber
If I were to build another 7RM ....I'd lengthen the throat some to get even more velocity, or to get same velocity with less pressure. This load isn't showing pressure but is sneaking real close

 

[xsn10s]

Personally if I wanted a long range 7mm to shoot the heavier bullets 180-195 class, I would do a 28 nosler or 7stw.

Yes I thought about a 28 Nosler. But I want this rifle to be something I'd be happy with for a long time. And I considered a 7mm-300 WM for a faster, yet economical LR rifle. I'm just thinking I'll get a longer barrel life and less recoil with the AI. Recoil isn't an issue now for me, but I'm 55 year old and people tend to like recoil less as they get older.

 

[dgarrett]

I would go with the 7mm if I was going to go with bullets over the 160ish grain .

 

[Sniper97]

I think either will do what you want. Im weird in that I like the idea of more rare cartridges, but that's just me. Recoil definitely effects the shooter whether you believe it or not, but these two are quite similar. I don't think you can go wrong with either, juts depends on what you want to carry out in the field. Longer go Ackley.

 

[codym]

Yes I thought about a 28 Nosler. But I want this rifle to be something I'd be happy with for a long time. And I considered a 7mm-300 WM for a faster, yet economical LR rifle. I'm just thinking I'll get a longer barrel life and less recoil with the AI. Recoil isn't an issue now for me, but I'm 55 year old and people tend to like recoil less as they get older.

Like I said I love my 280 ai. I think if you set it up right you will be very happy with it. In reality the 280 ai, 7saum, and the 7rem mag are really similiar just kind of pick your poison kind of deal. SA with mag bolt face, LA with standard BF or LA Mag BF. Brass would be a bigger consideration. Can you live with the nosler 280 AI brass (I can so far its been fine) or do you prefer whoever makes 7 rem mag brass ( I don't have one so I don't know).

 

[Sniper97]

Like I said I love my 280 ai. I think if you set it up right you will be very happy with it. In reality the 280 ai, 7saum, and the 7rem mag are really similiar just kind of pick your poison kind of deal. SA with mag bolt face, LA with standard BF or LA Mag BF. Brass would be a bigger consideration. Can you live with the nosler 280 AI brass (I can so far its been fine) or do you prefer whoever makes 7 rem mag brass ( I don't have one so I don't know).

I agree, I would focus more on the components available than the ballistics.

 

[xsn10s]

I can live with Nosler, or make some from regular 280 rem. But I have a ton of 270 win and 30-06 brass so theoretically I could use them also.