RL26 in 280AI

[Trentcamp]

Hit the jackpot this evening. Went by the local Cabelas and found a couple pounds of RL26 and a box of Nosler brass. My question is where do I start. I've looked for data but no luck. I know several on here have sang its attributes in the 280AI. Just looking for a place to start. Loading for a Factory Kimber with 24" barrel, going to be shooting Hornady 154 gr SST and Interbond. Thanks in advance for any and all assistance.

 

[Jud96]

Sorry can't help you with the load data buddy, but it's nice to see another fellow West Virginian! gun)

 

[jgal72]

My gun shoots great with 59 grains RL26 with 160 Nosler AB. 2950 FPS. That is max in mine. Work up accordingly. 25" pipe.

 

[N2TRKYS]

I'm shooting 63.5 grains with 160 grains AB @ 2970 in a 22" barrel out of my 7 SAUM.

 

[PGJPJ]

For the 168 Berger VLD in my 280ai SAAMI

Nosler brass
Fed 215 primers
60.5 grains RL 26 (is max)
2950 fps
24" barrel

I shoot it at 60.0 grains however.

I know that wasn't the bullet/weight you were looking for, but it's just a reference point.

 

[Trentcamp]

Yeah not the combination I'm shooting but any reference is good. All help is appreciated fellows. Keep it coming. From what I'm seeing I should be able to start at about 58 grains and work up. You guys are shooting 60 with a 160-168, so I should be safe with a 154 there.

 

[BriKW]

I'm getting ready to start load development with that powder in my 280 AI. I'll be shooting a 26 krieger and running the 150gn ABLR. if I dont like what I see, I'll give the 162 ELDX a run.

I just finished loading some this evening. I started with 58gns of R26 and worked up to 61gns in half grn increments. I'm looking for 3100 FPS but that will depend on where I hit pressure. Quickloads indicate I should be a full gn under max. I will keep a close eye on the crony and look for pressure.

Hope they fly well for me.