I hunt in NZ with a M700 converted to 280ai with a 26 inch Shilen barrel 1:8 twist and a McMillan edge stock and VX5 3-15. It shoots 180 ELDM at 2870fps in front of H1000. Great in the wind, very accurate, recoil is very manageable. Extremely reliable on red deer, pigs and tahr with 2 inch exits being normal. Excellent out to 650 yards and very portable at 9lbs all up. Great to see the 280ai getting some attention. Brilliant blend of performance, recoil and weight.
7mm-08 and the 280AI. Short barrel, long barrel. Sub 250yd or thick woods out to 500 yd open range. Love these two cartridges for re-loading. 120-175g bullets. Tons of powder options. Can use two other cartridges if you can't find brass. Can actually shoot factory ammo of one of those different cartridges and end up with fire formed new brass. Two great cartridges in the best caliber ever, .284".
I know the 7mm-08. The 280 AI is new to me. I’ve been focusing on an old sporterized 6.5x55 model 38 Swedish Mauser. It is a pawn shop find that shoots the lights out with 120 gr. Bullets for some reason. Original barrel.
Yea!! The 280AI is my favorite!!! So glad you choose it to build. But I’m glad you do this with any caliber! Even the ones I’m not fond of. Please keep it going Gavin!
My custom 280 AI on a 700LH sports a 24” 1-8.4tw Proof STEEL sporter and it’s a straight killer. 120gr TTSX going around 3400 and 143gr Hammer Hunter going about 3200. Great to see the cartridge get some love from you Gavin.
Gavin, love this style of video, I'm an old joiner from N.Ireland who does blacksmithing & has an old Myford ML7 engineering lathe. Basically I don't undera 1/4 of what you are talking about, but I did it fascinating. I just appreciate a professional doing his job. Keep it up! And if you ever test the capability of my beloved 6.5x55 swedish, I will be glued to that video.
Great to see the Pristine LA. I've been using the SA version on my competition rifle for Mammoth - thousands of rounds through it and it just keeps delivering the goods regardless of how many miles it's been bouncing around in my ruck and shooting in rough conditions 👍🏻
Holy crap. I just got the last parts in for an almost identical build. Woox Superleggera, Preferred Carbon Barrel at 22 inches chambered in 280 AI all on a Tikka T3 Stainless Action. Waiting on a barrel vise to come in and then putting it together.
Gavin I’m so happy you did the .280 Ackley . I love them . I know it’s like pixie dust but RL - 17 with 168 Berger’s in a carbon proof 22” barrel is gold for accuracy in the one I load for . Can’t wait to see your load development, 7828 ,N-560 or Retumbo will be on my next test list . I didn’t get accuracy with H-1000 , every barrel is different.Thanks for all you bring us .
I’ve had really good luck with IMR 7828 ssc with the 162 eld-ms and had really good accuracy out of my 1-8 twist 22” proof cf barrel. I switched up to the 180 eld-ms for the higher bc and the .319 sectional density. I have an N570 load that shoots sub MOA 10 shot groups with mean radiuses under 0.33”, but it’s a little slow at 2706 fps.
@@SammyMoore-tg5gs I was only getting 2810 with 168 vld hunters and RL 17 .Pressured at .3 grains more with light bolt lift . I want the accuracy with a reasonable speed to do the job !
@@brucegillespie654 try n560 and n565. I was getting 2970 with n560 and 2890 with n565 with the 162 gr eld-ms. I think with the imr 7828 ssc I was getting 2860, but it was shooting 1 moa 10 shot groups.
What a peach of a rifle. Very nice. 40 degrees shoulder looks steep but probably makes measuring headspace more accurate. I love this content you do. superb.
This is the nicest gun i have ever seen you build. It looks so traditional but has all it needs to really stretch the legs. I love that stock and may be lookingg into one in the future
How are you controlling your SD & ES with such a long powder column? I'll bet if you filmed the muzzle with high-speed photography, about 25% of your powder is exiting the muzzle unburnt.
Awesome build man would love to have that rifle. I love the 280 ackley almost as much as my ol reliable 308 thanks for the video man keep up the good work God bless
I built a 280AI last winter using a old Remington 721 action and stock and I bought a a already pre crowned and pre treaded barrel short chambered from Shilens it’s a 1-8 twist and 26” long the rifle had a 30-06 barrel and it wasn’t accurate with the factory barrel because the chamber was bored crooked to the bore
One of my favorite builds that you’ve done. Definitely a beautiful piece of functional art. Thanks for sharing the process with us. I’m glad that many folks asked for a custom hunting rifle in 280 AI. Something that I am interested in learning about and doing myself. I have a 270 Win and 300 WSM both Savages so a 284/7mm caliber build like this 280 AI or 7 PRC or 7mm 08, or fast twist 7 REM Mag would be up my alley. Same with a 6 mm Creedmoor or 6.5 PRC. I checked the website for the price of the stock and it’s $700 which is on par with most custom stocks outside of Boyd’s of course. If one wanted to save money on this build they could use a quality stainless steel barrel. Plus a scope about half the price. Thanks again for sharing and I am looking forward to the reloading videos for 280 AI.
Awesome build! Been looking at the 280AI for a while now. Ready to see a load development video. Maybe when @Whoteewho gets his Weatherby model 307 y’all could do a shootout Custom vs Standard.
I am super impressed with the new Woox Superleggera Hunting Stock, and Hawkins Precision Hunter Bottom Metal and Magazine. Hopefully we will see this stock at dealers in South Africa.
Yes! Thats the best build to date! I love the stock, way cool to blend old and new. The long action is also awesome, especially because it allows for Savage barrels! 280 AI is an awesome cartrdge, no, like it really really is awesome. Like i said, best build to date.
Wish I knew in the 80s and 90s what I know now. I would have had 280AI a long time ago. Just figured it wouldn't impress me much since I had 270s, 280s, and 30-06s and 7RemMags. I now have 3 and I am very impressed. The one with a Bartlein 24" 9T shoots 139LRX at 3300fps over superformance. I have a Bix n Andy trigger in my newest 280AI. Comparing it to the TT Diamond and Jewel, it is just as nice. I'm considering Bix n Andy on all future projects.
I know you’re a gunsmith but I’d like for you to do something with either an aero profusion solus, Bergara, or Remington 700 with a preferred barrel blanks or shilen alternut. I believe that’s probably the most diy “custom” build and I’m interested in seeing the accuracy levels that can be achieved with that kind of setup
I was probably one of the guys saying 280ai. With the popularity of 7 prc I have become more aware of other similar players… I’m attracted to the lower recoil and feel unlikely that I’ll ever end up past 500 yards so it’s more then sufficient!
I am so glad u built it. I am a 280AI fan. Mine 280AI has a 1@8 twist 26-inch barrel. I've been loading up some test loads. With Hornady ELD X 175 gr. And ELD M 180 gr bullets. I'm planning on trying Berger 150 and 168 gr Classic Hunter. And Elite Hunter 175 gr bullet. I am using IMR 7828ssc and H1000. For the 150 gr, maybe try the H4831sc powder. Hope u do more load development.
How about a Rimfire PRS rifle on Voodoo or Rim-X action. 24 - 26 inch 1.125 diameter bull barrel. 1 in 12 or 1 in 14 twist Exceptional built quality as always.
280 REM fan, have an old 1908 Mauser re-chambered and sporterized in 280REM. Tighter mauser twist rate works well with 175gr bullets, this was the fault of the 280 in my opinion.
What Cerakote product number do you use for black? I'm using Jet Black V-169 for what I've come to believe the ultimate black for high-temp barrels @1800f and I've had zero issues in other categories such as protection against cleaning and other chemicals used in a gunsmith shop. Its also UV stable. The short curing time is a bonus. About the only complaint is the smell. I use my best protection when shooting any of the V-series. V-136T gets great reviews when subbing in for FDE, with all the FDE variants available V-136T seems to bridge that spectrum very well.
I love the 280 AI. I load 162 gr ELD-X in mine. Would be interesting to see the velocities and accuracy you get with a 175 ELD-X. Looking forward to the reloading video on 280 AI.
What powder are u using? After trying the Hornady ELD 175 and 180 gr bullets. Then i'm going to try the 162 gr M & X's. Along with Berger 150 and 168 gr Classic Hunter bullets. And Elite Hunter 175 gr.
Great Video, I am wanting to buy the youngest son a 280 AI. Question Gavin, you said that is a Remington 700 Action/ Clone, so did you blue print the Action, or would you consider truing the bolt and lugs, possibly timing the barrel. I am glad you did a 1 and 8 twist that is smart . I was thinking of the Hornady 175 gr ELD-X in a 280 AI would be the ticket.
If you do you may get 100 to 150 fps velocity, maybe not. The sharper shoulder and reduced body taper can help with accuracy and case life on hand loads. The sharper shoulder can give you more consistent headspace by easier to control shoulder bump. This improves consistency. The less body taper won't push as much case metal forward during the shooting and resize cycle. This reduces case growth that needs trimming.
Really only helps if your hand loading, if you are then you might as well if you want the velocity. But if you’re not looking for that velocity then it’s probably also not worth bothering with, but it also won’t really hurt anything so long as it’s done by a competent gunsmith
Just be aware that the typical way to rechamber a cartridge into an AI is to remove a thread to shorten the chamber. The neck/shoulder junction of an AI cartridge is slightly closer the bolt than its parent. That way, there is a jam fit of the parent cartridge at the shoulder/neck junction to hold the case in place as it is fireformed into the AI shape. For the SAAMI 280AI, the neck/shoulder junction is 0.0182" closer to the bolt. It is possible to fireform brass if you don't shorten the chamber, but that means you will need to do something like form a false shoulder or jam the bullet into the lands to avoid potential case separation issues.
@@jaydunbar7538 I am a hand loader, factory 280 Remington is a bit anemic as it's pressure limits are set up for it's original platform, the Remington 740. Although the Encore isn't as robust as a bolt action.
Good day Sir I'm from south Africa shooting a 280AI 30"barrel 1:9twist H1000 powder 180gr Hornady eldm struggle to get nice groups any advice will be appreciated.
I would like that build as a hunting rifle. Looks somewhat traditional for being Wood stocked but with a fusion of modern design and features. I would be keen to have that built in Australia with my choice of action and a blued, fluted barrel on a Kelbly Nanook action. Add a Swarovski Z6 and there hgoes nearly 10 K .280 AI of course. Can you do an episode / build featuring Kelbly action.
Not forgotten, but stuck with an old enough chamber and case design (and 51,000 psi pressure limit) to limit it in today's market. In factory ammo form, it is slower than the shorter, but higher pressure 7mm-08. The 7x57's chamber was also designed to work with bullets designed like those used in the 30-30 with a mild taper for most of the ogive and a round nose. When fit with today's higher-BC hunting bullets, the cartridge overall length exceeds the SAAMI and CIP specifications (not a problem for handloaders with longer actions, though). With older cartridges like this one, you can get stuck in a chicken-and-egg issue of case strength. The cases are often designed around the relatively low pressure with thinner walls and base to save brass and increase propellant capacity. It would be simple enough to make stronger cases, but that would reduce powder capacity and performance for those sticking to traditional loads (the more recent 6.5 Grendel has the same issue). The 7x57 also was designed for actions with a length between the modern short and standard (30-06 length). In the US, it typically required the same acton as a 270 or 280 but had less performance. Between that and American's dislike of metric cartridges, it never did real well in the US. On the other hand, the case is similar in length to the 7mm PRC, so with the right barrel twist and improved chamber, it would work well with modern high-BC bullets designed for that cartridge. An up dated version would be a nice, modern hunting cartridge for 30-06 length actions. A 7mm PRC-lite.
@@jfess1911 It was a professional hunter who had 1500 confirmed dead elephants with his 7x57 mauser and he shot a lot of other things too.When I discovered the caliber, it was indeed 7x57 R in a breaking weapon with two shotgun barrels and a rifled barrel.And I thought that caliber was absolutely amazing so I got a rifle in 7x57 mauser and it's the same loading tool for both and it's easy to get bullets and bras.
@@klimatbluffen The 7x57 is indeed a very good cartridge, especially in a rifle like yours that is not limited to the 78mm (3.07") max overall length. The cartridge was just designed around a 173 grain round-nose bullet at what is now considered moderate pressures. You can look up the round-nosed military bullet used by Bell in Africa. Because of this, the cartridge is limited in its official CIP or SAAMI form when compared to its modern competitors. It can be pushed well beyond that by handloaders, but many hunters depend on factory ammo. You might have seen some of weird bullets with a wide shoulder on the ogive and a what looks like the nose of a smaller diameter bullet sticking out of it (seen in Wikipedia photos: Sellier and Bellot also sells one). Those are designed to get the best accuracy and still meet the official COAL. If loaded to a longer COAL with high-BC bullets, long range performance can be impressive, even at CIP/SAAMI pressures. I suspect that some 7x57 brass can take higher pressures since it is often made on the same production lines as more modern cartridges and with similar tooling. But because the spec is for the lower pressures, some brands or lots of brass may be relatively weak.
I know this will shoot well, what I wonder about is how the velocity compares to 7mm Mag with the same barrel length? Also how do powder charges compare between the 280AI vs 7mm Mag?
@@jaydunbar7538 With load data in books or online sources or factory loads, their velocities seldom if ever match what I'm getting from my rifles. So asking someone that has comparable rifles in both calibers that has worked up good loads in both will have more realistic velocity reading to compare. Isn't this sort of thing what these people on here are for, asking questions about things? If I could afford to buy/build rifles in all the calibers I wanted to get data from I would. Like most people I do have a budget on the rifles I want. Comparing the 280, 280 AI, 7 mm Mag, 7 PRC interest me. I have a 280, I know what it can do. Learning what these other cartridges can do helps me decide if getting one of the others would be a cost effective option.
I’d be curious to see how it shoots with the 162gr 7mm projectiles like the ELD M and X. Still solid performers and you could probably get pretty close to 3000fps.
I would kill to have a rifle like that one. Oh boy. But I could t afford that in my wildest dreams. But maybe someday. Right before I'm dead I'll be able to have one lol
I hunt in NZ with a M700 converted to 280ai with a 26 inch Shilen barrel 1:8 twist and a McMillan edge stock and VX5 3-15. It shoots 180 ELDM at 2870fps in front of H1000. Great in the wind, very accurate, recoil is very manageable. Extremely reliable on red deer, pigs and tahr with 2 inch exits being normal. Excellent out to 650 yards and very portable at 9lbs all up. Great to see the 280ai getting some attention. Brilliant blend of performance, recoil and weight.
7mm-08 and the 280AI. Short barrel, long barrel. Sub 250yd or thick woods out to 500 yd open range. Love these two cartridges for re-loading. 120-175g bullets. Tons of powder options. Can use two other cartridges if you can't find brass. Can actually shoot factory ammo of one of those different cartridges and end up with fire formed new brass. Two great cartridges in the best caliber ever, .284".
My boy has 7mm-08 and I reload 280ai
I 100% agree with you 😅
7mm-08 plus ➕️ 👍🏻
I know the 7mm-08. The 280 AI is new to me. I’ve been focusing on an old sporterized 6.5x55 model 38 Swedish Mauser. It is a pawn shop find that shoots the lights out with 120 gr. Bullets for some reason. Original barrel.
Yea!! The 280AI is my favorite!!! So glad you choose it to build. But I’m glad you do this with any caliber! Even the ones I’m not fond of. Please keep it going Gavin!
You definitely can't go wrong you will always have ammo for this gun one way or another.
Love my 280 ai. Shoots tight. Wish there were more suppliers for brass.
Son of a gun! That 280 AI shoots... Maybe i can get some trigger time with it?
My custom 280 AI on a 700LH sports a 24” 1-8.4tw Proof STEEL sporter and it’s a straight killer. 120gr TTSX going around 3400 and 143gr Hammer Hunter going about 3200. Great to see the cartridge get some love from you Gavin.
Gavin, love this style of video, I'm an old joiner from N.Ireland who does blacksmithing & has an old Myford ML7 engineering lathe. Basically I don't undera 1/4 of what you are talking about, but I did it fascinating. I just appreciate a professional doing his job. Keep it up! And if you ever test the capability of my beloved 6.5x55 swedish, I will be glued to that video.
Thanks for listening to us, and the content we want.
Great to see the Pristine LA. I've been using the SA version on my competition rifle for Mammoth - thousands of rounds through it and it just keeps delivering the goods regardless of how many miles it's been bouncing around in my ruck and shooting in rough conditions 👍🏻
Holy crap. I just got the last parts in for an almost identical build. Woox Superleggera, Preferred Carbon Barrel at 22 inches chambered in 280 AI all on a Tikka T3 Stainless Action. Waiting on a barrel vise to come in and then putting it together.
I used to own a 22-250 AI. I think that was the coolest rifle I ever had.
Gavin I’m so happy you did the .280 Ackley . I love them . I know it’s like pixie dust but RL - 17 with 168 Berger’s in a carbon proof 22” barrel is gold for accuracy in the one I load for . Can’t wait to see your load development, 7828 ,N-560 or Retumbo will be on my next test list . I didn’t get accuracy with H-1000 , every barrel is different.Thanks for all you bring us .
Which 168gr are u using? I have the 168gr Classic Hunter. VLD hunting and target bullets also.
@@ozark_trapper 168 VLD Hunter
I’ve had really good luck with IMR 7828 ssc with the 162 eld-ms and had really good accuracy out of my 1-8 twist 22” proof cf barrel.
I switched up to the 180 eld-ms for the higher bc and the .319 sectional density. I have an N570 load that shoots sub MOA 10 shot groups with mean radiuses under 0.33”, but it’s a little slow at 2706 fps.
@@SammyMoore-tg5gs I was only getting 2810 with 168 vld hunters and RL 17 .Pressured at .3 grains more with light bolt lift . I want the accuracy with a reasonable speed to do the job !
@@brucegillespie654 try n560 and n565. I was getting 2970 with n560 and 2890 with n565 with the 162 gr eld-ms. I think with the imr 7828 ssc I was getting 2860, but it was shooting 1 moa 10 shot groups.
Perfect timing, just ordered my 280 AI Manson reamer last week 👍
What a peach of a rifle. Very nice. 40 degrees shoulder looks steep but probably makes measuring headspace more accurate.
I love this content you do. superb.
This is my dream rifle, this is amazing.
Another beautiful rifle build. That Woox stock looks sharp. Getting the correct go-no-go set is the best way to go for chambering.
This is the nicest gun i have ever seen you build. It looks so traditional but has all it needs to really stretch the legs. I love that stock and may be lookingg into one in the future
My absolute favorite cartridge. I've taken it out to 2,200 yards and was keeping up with a 37xc ultra long range build.
How are you controlling your SD & ES with such a long powder column? I'll bet if you filmed the muzzle with high-speed photography, about 25% of your powder is exiting the muzzle unburnt.
@LRRPFco52 I'm using a 29" barrel and RL23 powder. I'm getting close to 2,850fps and my SD is 6, and the ES, if I remember, was around 25 - 30fps
I want to see you do a 6.8W mountain gun.
Pretty much my dream rifle, almost classic looks, interesting caliber, and great components....love it.
I was just talking 280AI earlier today with a friend. Similar ballistics to 6.8 Western.
Awesome build man would love to have that rifle. I love the 280 ackley almost as much as my ol reliable 308 thanks for the video man keep up the good work God bless
Thanks for the 10% off. I've been really considering that stock. Just ordered one!
Very cool!
The rifle is beeping beautiful. Shoots great and I'm sure it's a joy to hold. Way too rich for me, but I enjoyed seeing it.
I love the look and choices you made with this rifle. Darren
I love this build, really want to build a “modern” custom rifle it an old caliber, something like a fast twist 270, 30-06ai or even 338-06ai
It looks amazing! The wood mixed with polymers , things are looking steampunk!
If you want to see what's possible for 280AI in reloading vs 7 Mag, 7PRC and 28 Nosler, Little Crow Gun Works is doing a great job with their series.
Are they actually measuring pressure or just looking at primers and cases?
I built a 280AI last winter using a old Remington 721 action and stock and I bought a a already pre crowned and pre treaded barrel short chambered from Shilens it’s a 1-8 twist and 26” long the rifle had a 30-06 barrel and it wasn’t accurate with the factory barrel because the chamber was bored crooked to the bore
Best rifle build so far it’s a great do all rifle
One of my favorite builds that you’ve done. Definitely a beautiful piece of functional art. Thanks for sharing the process with us. I’m glad that many folks asked for a custom hunting rifle in 280 AI. Something that I am interested in learning about and doing myself. I have a 270 Win and 300 WSM both Savages so a 284/7mm caliber build like this 280 AI or 7 PRC or 7mm 08, or fast twist 7 REM Mag would be up my alley. Same with a 6 mm Creedmoor or 6.5 PRC.
I checked the website for the price of the stock and it’s $700 which is on par with most custom stocks outside of Boyd’s of course. If one wanted to save money on this build they could use a quality stainless steel barrel. Plus a scope about half the price.
Thanks again for sharing and I am looking forward to the reloading videos for 280 AI.
Stock looks great. Nice old school vibe.
Very handsome looking gun. Nice work!
Awesome build! Been looking at the 280AI for a while now. Ready to see a load development video. Maybe when @Whoteewho gets his Weatherby model 307 y’all could do a shootout Custom vs Standard.
Would love to see you try the 160CX w/ that fast twist
Built 30/06 AI. Love the gun. I wish more shooters would understand the value of the AI family.
I am super impressed with the new Woox Superleggera Hunting Stock, and Hawkins Precision Hunter Bottom Metal and Magazine. Hopefully we will see this stock at dealers in South Africa.
That build is beautiful and I would LOVE to own it
I would like to see you take the 223 build you did and show what it needs to go to a AI 223.
I have a regular Remington 280 which is nice hardly any recoil.
Gorgeous build👌280 AI is my Jam! Subbed!
Best thing about the .280AI is if you’re ever in a bind you can shoot 280rem safely. I love the 280rem and think the AI is going to be my next one.
Good point!
Yes! Thats the best build to date! I love the stock, way cool to blend old and new. The long action is also awesome, especially because it allows for Savage barrels! 280 AI is an awesome cartrdge, no, like it really really is awesome. Like i said, best build to date.
The 280 AI is my next project.
Wish I knew in the 80s and 90s what I know now. I would have had 280AI a long time ago. Just figured it wouldn't impress me much since I had 270s, 280s, and 30-06s and 7RemMags. I now have 3 and I am very impressed. The one with a Bartlein 24" 9T shoots 139LRX at 3300fps over superformance. I have a Bix n Andy trigger in my newest 280AI. Comparing it to the TT Diamond and Jewel, it is just as nice. I'm considering Bix n Andy on all future projects.
I know you’re a gunsmith but I’d like for you to do something with either an aero profusion solus, Bergara, or Remington 700 with a preferred barrel blanks or shilen alternut. I believe that’s probably the most diy “custom” build and I’m interested in seeing the accuracy levels that can be achieved with that kind of setup
next build you should be a lefty on a crf action in 220 swift. see if you can put the king back on top
I was probably one of the guys saying 280ai. With the popularity of 7 prc I have become more aware of other similar players… I’m attracted to the lower recoil and feel unlikely that I’ll ever end up past 500 yards so it’s more then sufficient!
That is my dream build.
I am so glad u built it. I am a 280AI fan. Mine 280AI has a 1@8 twist 26-inch barrel. I've been loading up some test loads. With Hornady ELD X 175 gr. And ELD M 180 gr bullets. I'm planning on trying Berger 150 and 168 gr Classic Hunter. And Elite Hunter 175 gr bullet. I am using IMR 7828ssc and H1000. For the 150 gr, maybe try the H4831sc powder. Hope u do more load development.
How about a Rimfire PRS rifle on Voodoo or Rim-X action. 24 - 26 inch 1.125 diameter bull barrel.
1 in 12 or 1 in 14 twist
Exceptional built quality as always.
Hey Gavin! It was cool seeing you in SLC airport!
Thank you so much for stopping me to talk, love seeing fans that I normally can’t meet in person!
Super cool very clean bulid.
I would soooo like to see this rifle chambered in 35 Whelen!
Damn, for some reason (perhaps optimism?) I was thinking the headline read .260 AI build. Which is what I want.
Nice looking gun, Gavin... Thanks!
Really love that woox stock, expensive yeah but soo pretty
Looks awesome!
Thank You for the video!!!! Freaking awesome build! I want one!
Lost me at "long action" LOL love the build.
Beautiful build!!!
6.5-06 is also a S.A.A.M.I spec cartridge. Great cartridge should you get the notion for another off the wall build.
.280 ai a gd 1000 yd cartridge.
Awsome build really like this rifle would love to have one just like it
That is a very beautiful rifle. I would love that in 7prc
Great job, Gavin (Joker)
Not a fan of carbon barrels, but it still looks great.
Love the 280AI. Glad to see you build one.
Thanks 👍
Nice choice 👌
Absolutely beautiful ❤
To the ultimate
Can you do a video talking about prefit barrels? Different brands and things to consider if you choose to go that way.
280 REM fan, have an old 1908 Mauser re-chambered and sporterized in 280REM. Tighter mauser twist rate works well with 175gr bullets, this was the fault of the 280 in my opinion.
Very Nice, Good looking rifle.
If youre using standard 280 rem as a no go, would you still be able to fire form 280 rem brass into 280 ai in this chamber?
Nice job!
😁 THANKS! FINALLY! 🥳
Enjoy
Maybe I missed it. What was the barrel contour? How much did the rifle weigh? Any bedding needed or is it a chassis?
What Cerakote product number do you use for black? I'm using Jet Black V-169 for what I've come to believe the ultimate black for high-temp barrels @1800f and I've had zero issues in other categories such as protection against cleaning and other chemicals used in a gunsmith shop. Its also UV stable. The short curing time is a bonus. About the only complaint is the smell. I use my best protection when shooting any of the V-series. V-136T gets great reviews when subbing in for FDE, with all the FDE variants available V-136T seems to bridge that spectrum very well.
Love the choice of 280 AI build but I prefer 3-lug bolt design actions. Or 6-lug with a 3-lugs split in two.
Needs a action with integrated pic rail and or recoil lug as one piece
Watching this video maxed out my credit card
I love the 280 AI. I load 162 gr ELD-X in mine. Would be interesting to see the velocities and accuracy you get with a 175 ELD-X. Looking forward to the reloading video on 280 AI.
What powder are u using? After trying the Hornady ELD 175 and 180 gr bullets. Then i'm going to try the 162 gr M & X's. Along with Berger 150 and 168 gr Classic Hunter bullets. And Elite Hunter 175 gr.
I’ve got a Win 70 280AI shooting 175ELDX at 2850fps (1:8 24”barrel) I have been super impressed with it so far
What powder are you using with the 175 gr? I started doing load development with 175 gr and 180 gr bullets. Using IMR 7828ssc and H1000 powders.
@@ozark_trapper IMR7828ssc
@@ozark_trapperI’ve gotten 175 eldx to 2700fps using H4350 from a 20” barrel
I may have missed it, but what is the muzzle break on that rifle?…beautiful, beautiful rifle by the way.
Hot looking rifle!
RL26 /H4831sc in the 162-168gr range
HINT::: H4831 with a 150 grain Accubond Long Range is a killer combo. Under 1/2 MOA and velocity over 3000 fps!
I am going to try H4831sc. With Berger 150 gr Classic Hunter bullet.
😍😍😍😍😍😍😍 Really awesome job...... I really WANT !😅
Great Video, I am wanting to buy the youngest son a 280 AI. Question Gavin, you said that is a Remington 700 Action/ Clone, so did you blue print the Action, or would you consider truing the bolt and lugs, possibly timing the barrel.
I am glad you did a 1 and 8 twist that is smart . I was thinking of the Hornady 175 gr ELD-X in a 280 AI would be the ticket.
I'm wondering if I should rechamber my 280 Remington Encore barrel to 280 AI?
If you do you may get 100 to 150 fps velocity, maybe not. The sharper shoulder and reduced body taper can help with accuracy and case life on hand loads.
The sharper shoulder can give you more consistent headspace by easier to control shoulder bump. This improves consistency. The less body taper won't push as much case metal forward during the shooting and resize cycle. This reduces case growth that needs trimming.
Really only helps if your hand loading, if you are then you might as well if you want the velocity. But if you’re not looking for that velocity then it’s probably also not worth bothering with, but it also won’t really hurt anything so long as it’s done by a competent gunsmith
Just be aware that the typical way to rechamber a cartridge into an AI is to remove a thread to shorten the chamber. The neck/shoulder junction of an AI cartridge is slightly closer the bolt than its parent. That way, there is a jam fit of the parent cartridge at the shoulder/neck junction to hold the case in place as it is fireformed into the AI shape. For the SAAMI 280AI, the neck/shoulder junction is 0.0182" closer to the bolt.
It is possible to fireform brass if you don't shorten the chamber, but that means you will need to do something like form a false shoulder or jam the bullet into the lands to avoid potential case separation issues.
@@leonhart2452 The extra velocity is nice, but the reduction of thrust on the action may be helpful on a platform like the Encore.
@@jaydunbar7538 I am a hand loader, factory 280 Remington is a bit anemic as it's pressure limits are set up for it's original platform, the Remington 740. Although the Encore isn't as robust as a bolt action.
Wait- can I rebarrel my 25-06 to a 280ai without having to mess with my action?
Yes
RL 26 is where it’s at in 280 AI
Good day Sir
I'm from south Africa shooting a 280AI 30"barrel 1:9twist H1000 powder 180gr Hornady eldm struggle to get nice groups any advice will be appreciated.
I would like that build as a hunting rifle. Looks somewhat traditional for being Wood stocked but with a fusion of modern design and features. I would be keen to have that built in Australia with my choice of action and a blued, fluted barrel on a Kelbly Nanook action. Add a Swarovski Z6 and there hgoes nearly 10 K
.280 AI of course.
Can you do an episode / build featuring Kelbly action.
280 AI is a great cartridge.
I seen a lot of 300wsm on that list
An incredibly good caliber is 7x57 mauser and it is unfortunately completely forgotten.
Not forgotten, but stuck with an old enough chamber and case design (and 51,000 psi pressure limit) to limit it in today's market. In factory ammo form, it is slower than the shorter, but higher pressure 7mm-08. The 7x57's chamber was also designed to work with bullets designed like those used in the 30-30 with a mild taper for most of the ogive and a round nose. When fit with today's higher-BC hunting bullets, the cartridge overall length exceeds the SAAMI and CIP specifications (not a problem for handloaders with longer actions, though). With older cartridges like this one, you can get stuck in a chicken-and-egg issue of case strength. The cases are often designed around the relatively low pressure with thinner walls and base to save brass and increase propellant capacity. It would be simple enough to make stronger cases, but that would reduce powder capacity and performance for those sticking to traditional loads (the more recent 6.5 Grendel has the same issue).
The 7x57 also was designed for actions with a length between the modern short and standard (30-06 length). In the US, it typically required the same acton as a 270 or 280 but had less performance. Between that and American's dislike of metric cartridges, it never did real well in the US.
On the other hand, the case is similar in length to the 7mm PRC, so with the right barrel twist and improved chamber, it would work well with modern high-BC bullets designed for that cartridge. An up dated version would be a nice, modern hunting cartridge for 30-06 length actions. A 7mm PRC-lite.
@@jfess1911 It was a professional hunter who had 1500 confirmed dead elephants with his 7x57 mauser and he shot a lot of other things too.When I discovered the caliber, it was indeed 7x57 R in a breaking weapon with two shotgun barrels and a rifled barrel.And I thought that caliber was absolutely amazing so I got a rifle in 7x57 mauser and it's the same loading tool for both and it's easy to get bullets and bras.
@@klimatbluffen The 7x57 is indeed a very good cartridge, especially in a rifle like yours that is not limited to the 78mm (3.07") max overall length. The cartridge was just designed around a 173 grain round-nose bullet at what is now considered moderate pressures. You can look up the round-nosed military bullet used by Bell in Africa. Because of this, the cartridge is limited in its official CIP or SAAMI form when compared to its modern competitors. It can be pushed well beyond that by handloaders, but many hunters depend on factory ammo.
You might have seen some of weird bullets with a wide shoulder on the ogive and a what looks like the nose of a smaller diameter bullet sticking out of it (seen in Wikipedia photos: Sellier and Bellot also sells one). Those are designed to get the best accuracy and still meet the official COAL. If loaded to a longer COAL with high-BC bullets, long range performance can be impressive, even at CIP/SAAMI pressures.
I suspect that some 7x57 brass can take higher pressures since it is often made on the same production lines as more modern cartridges and with similar tooling. But because the spec is for the lower pressures, some brands or lots of brass may be relatively weak.
What the weight on the rife? Thank you.
Cool scope
6.8 western with load data for 155 grain Barnes LRX bullet please!
I know this will shoot well, what I wonder about is how the velocity compares to 7mm Mag with the same barrel length?
Also how do powder charges compare between the 280AI vs 7mm Mag?
That’s all readily available information already, just open up a reloading book and check the tested data provided.
@@jaydunbar7538 With load data in books or online sources or factory loads, their velocities seldom if ever match what I'm getting from my rifles.
So asking someone that has comparable rifles in both calibers that has worked up good loads in both will have more realistic velocity reading to compare.
Isn't this sort of thing what these people on here are for, asking questions about things?
If I could afford to buy/build rifles in all the calibers I wanted to get data from I would. Like most people I do have a budget on the rifles I want.
Comparing the 280, 280 AI, 7 mm Mag, 7 PRC interest me. I have a 280, I know what it can do. Learning what these other cartridges can do helps me decide if getting one of the others would be a cost effective option.
I like it nice build, woods nice
I’d be curious to see how it shoots with the 162gr 7mm projectiles like the ELD M and X. Still solid performers and you could probably get pretty close to 3000fps.
I would kill to have a rifle like that one. Oh boy. But I could t afford that in my wildest dreams. But maybe someday. Right before I'm dead I'll be able to have one lol