Best reamer for a .280AI (SAAMI spec)

[blackdog]

I'm in the process of building a new .280AI off an old Rem 721 I had laying around. Just waiting another month (hopefully) for the Manners stock to come in so my smith can start putting it all together. I already have a bunch of new Nosler brass that I plan on shooting but I don't believe my gunsmith has a reamer for the SAAMI spec chamber. So, assuming he doesn't and I need to buy one for this project, any recommendations on what would be my best option?

 

[J E Custom]

I'm in the process of building a new .280AI off an old Rem 721 I had laying around. Just waiting another month (hopefully) for the Manners stock to come in so my smith can start putting it all together. I already have a bunch of new Nosler brass that I plan on shooting but I don't believe my gunsmith has a reamer for the SAAMI spec chamber. So, assuming he doesn't and I need to buy one for this project, any recommendations on what would be my best option?

He may have the older 280 AI reamer (Wildcat version). all of the reamer manufactures make and sell the new SAMME reamers now (They have to) unless you ask for something special.

I like the Dave Manson reamers 1st and the PTG next. Clymer also makes good reamers.

J E CUSTOM

 

[blackdog]

Is the 'standard finisher/rougher' on page 4 of their (Dave Manson) current catalog what you're referring to? And is the standard pilot or removable pilot generally preferred or is that something I'll need to discuss with my gunsmith (and I will be discussing all of this with him for sure - just trying to get a little schooling before I do)?

 

[J E Custom]

Is the 'standard finisher/rougher' on page 4 of their (Dave Manson) current catalog what you're referring to? And is the standard pilot or removable pilot generally preferred or is that something I'll need to discuss with my gunsmith (and I will be discussing all of this with him for sure - just trying to get a little schooling before I do)?

Yes. page 4.

What you want is a finishing reamer and head space gauge. Ether The standard pilot or the removable pilot will work, it just depends on your smith, which one he prefers. I use both and
have good luck with both.

J E CUSTOM

 

[Hired Gun]

JE, you need to get out more. JGS reamers are my first choice. No comparison. Compare them side by side and I will point out why. That's where I got my 280AI Saami reamer and every other reamer I can. They stock most of the common calibers ready to ship.

 

[J E Custom]

JE, you need to get out more. JGS reamers are my first choice. No comparison. Compare them side by side and I will point out why. That's where I got my 280AI Saami reamer and every other reamer I can. They stock most of the common calibers ready to ship.

You are right about getting out more. Ha Ha .

To be honest, I have never tried JGS reamers. It is hard to give up on Manson because of the way they cut and finish a chamber they also last(I have some reamers that have been used 10 or more times and they will still cut you if you are not careful when wiping them off.

I have never had to Polish a chamber when I used Dave's reamers because of the finish they leave in it is perfect IMO.

In fairness to JGS I will order a reamer from them and give them a try on one of my personal rifles
because I am cautious about trying something for the first time on someone's build.

J E CUSTOM

 

[Hired Gun]

Just a heads up. They cost a bit more than everyone else. The main difference on the chamber reamers is they stagger their cutting edges randomly. No two are across from each other and none are evenly spaced. Almost impossible to get one to chatter. They have almost no turn over and most of their crew has been there working their way up from a broom. Very consistent quality is the result.

They build many of the reamers for the OEM including some very fancy welded up shotgun tooling that the reamers were $20,000 each. When was the last time you saw a reamer made up of different metals all on the same reamer?

 

[jsthntn247]

Since yall are discussing reamers and chambers, what causes a concentric ring in a chamber. One you can actually see on a piece of fired brass.

 

[Hired Gun]

Rolling a chip or a small piece of swarf welded to a flute. A flush system goes a long ways to preventing this.

 

[blackdog]

Just wanted to say thanks to the guys posting thoughts on my original question. It's much appreciated!

 

[J E Custom]

Since yall are discussing reamers and chambers, what causes a concentric ring in a chamber. One you can actually see on a piece of fired brass.

It is normally from not applying a constant pressure on the reamer or stopping and starting
which allows a chip or other debris to get between the reamer and the chamber wall marking
the chamber.

It is also caused by a dull cutting edge from nicking it. (You can find it by running your fingernail down the cutting edge)

If you drop or damage a reamer they can be re sharpened for about $35.00.

J E CUSTOM