What cal should i build?

I am in no hurry to build the gun. So with that out of the way.
I have a LA rem700 Bare action.
I was thinking .280ai or some thing along the 7mm line.
It is a 06 bolt face with the factory trigger still on it.
I want o reach out to 1000yds for steel but only 500max if I get the chance to hunt with it.
Black bear, deer, elk, steel are my intended uses.
What call any why you'll you go with it?
Go easy on me it's my first post. Thanks Jake.

I built a 280AI last year and love the round. I load Berger 180gr Hybrids and it will ring steel all day at 1000 yards and 500 yards on game is very realistic as well.

6.5-280ackley

6.5 creedmore...lol. Sorry couldn't help it.

280AI is a great round. With elk and bear in the mix, so is the classic -06.

That question is like opening pandora's Box.......everyone is going to suggestion virtually every cartridge that can reach out 1000 yards in a L/A configuration. There are also 250 similar posts with an easy search. With that said, it's your first post, so all good.

Bigger us always better.

Elitejake80 said:

I am in no hurry to build the gun. So with that out of the way.
I have a LA rem700 Bare action.
I was thinking .280ai or some thing along the 7mm line.
It is a 06 bolt face with the factory trigger still on it.
I want o reach out to 1000yds for steel but only 500max if I get the chance to hunt with it.
Black bear, deer, elk, steel are my intended uses.
What call any why you'll you go with it?
Go easy on me it's my first post. Thanks Jake.

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280 AI throated for 180 ELDM's, those bullets are straight up awesome.

I've been reading the previous posts for several days. I indeed see 1000 answers to the question. But the best part is I'm starting without a need stay in a cal or at a velocity level or any big demands. I'm digging the 280ai just bc it is a long action and I already have a 7-08 that's lights out.
I have just been reading. About the Sherman shorts and what he has to offer. Mind numbing after a few hours.

The stock and remage barrel maker and optics are the next biggest questions.

Thanks Jake.

I'm not sure of they are compatible in your configuration, but I like the Ultra Mag Family and would go with a 7 RUM....if that is too big then a 7mm Rem Mag

Your bolt face is the limiting factor. LA has a lot of options, but your non magnum BF creates some issue. Most of the 7 mm cartridges with legitimate lr potential need a mag bf.
I'm a 30 cal fan and the ole 06 can do what your asking, especially if the chamber is throated for high bc bullets. 30.06 AI is an option also
I'd order a ptg bolt (after trueing the action) with a m16 extractor in a mag bf and unlock pandora's box if it were me. Good luck.

I like the way you're thinking on the .280AI. I just received my Savage .280AI build last Thursday and went to work with barrel break-in yesterday. The Criterion pre-fit barrel it wears is already showing outstanding potential to be a tack driver. You may want to consider doing one of their Remage barrels. Contact "James" at NSS (Northland Shooters Supply) for good info on what they have to offer....

JW74 said:

I built a 280AI last year and love the round. I load Berger 180gr Hybrids and it will ring steel all day at 1000 yards and 500 yards on game is very realistic as well.

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What colors of cerakote are on that stock?

Nothing you can't buy factory ammo for! I like the 280AI idea!
I'm busy and fire forming and all that wildcat stuff takes time I don't have.
Animals don't care if it's a 280 AI or the hottest new Thor's Hammer!
Dead is dead!