SteveBurton
Formerly 'Jackmonkey'
I don't own one but from your choices I would go with the 280ai.
Haven't heard of it to tell the truth.i would be going with a 6.5x47 but cant find a rifle chambered in itWhat about 6.5SLR? .260 Rem case capacity with 6.5x47L neck and shoulders....
My daughter (and other family members too) have been slaying game with one for a few years. Mule deer mostly, with a pronghorn in there too.
From 35 to 637 yards. With either a 130 AR Hyb or 140HVLD.
I'm looked at a few wild cats but I do not have all of the funds to do a full custom build right now.i am thanking of holding off for awhile and having a custom built if I could ever get ahold of my local gun smithSince you put elk into the equation then my vote is on the 280AI, all day. Without elk I would have voted the 6.5 creed or 260. Heck even the 6 creed or 6BR / 6BRA would suit you really well for up to deer size game.
You said that you handload so I have to ask, why limit yourself to so few cartridges? There are several good wildcats out there that could serve you well. Just pick up a used R700 or Tikka and send it off to get barreled for the cartridge of your choice. It'd be a little more expensive than a factory rifle but opens up your options considerably.