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280 Ackley

30 Jan 2019
@ 08:24 am (GMT)

Christopher Lyon

After reading this forum and sight frequently over the past few years I finally decided to join. I have tried to do the research for my question, but I haven't found a satisfactory answer so I thought I would put it out there.

I have planning a 'howage' build in 280 AI using a Mcgowen barrel. I am undecided on the length but it will be between 24-26.

My real hiccup has been the twist rate. I plan on shooting the 162 Eld-m or 180 Eld-m. I have read on this forum that Nathan suggests a 1-9 when shooting the 180 Eld-m out of his 7mm Practical. I realize the 280 ackley will not generate speeds close to the Practical so should I go with a 1-8 twist or 1-8.5?

I live in Utah and my current elevation is 5000 feet. I plan on hunting through out the western states. I don't know how much the added elevation affects bullet stability.

Any thoughts on the best twist rate would be appreciated.

Replies

1
30 Jan 2019
@ 10:56 pm (GMT)

Warwick Marflitt

Re: 280 Ackley
Hey Christopher welcome. I'm guessing that you've read Nathans findings for the 280 Remington in the Cartridge Knowledge base?

https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/.280+Remington.html

If it was me I'd be starting with a 28 inch barrel. It's easy to trim and re-crown... I read the above link and there's a heap of good information in there. Have a read of Nathans 7mm Practical for further insights.Have you got all of Nathans books? Worth every penny and will save you Pound$.... My guess is to stick with 1:9 twist.

https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/7mm+Practical.html

Good luck with your 280 AI keep us posted and pictures always appreciated.
Warwick

31 Jan 2019
@ 09:40 am (GMT)

Christopher Lyon

Re: 280 Ackley
Thanks for you comment. I haven't gotten his books yet. It's on my list. I read through the 280 remington section and I noticed he recommended a 1:9 for for everything up to 180. I just wasn't sure how the new 180 Eld-m's compared with previous 180's and if they would benefit from a faster twist. Once I get the gun all put together I will get some pictures up.
31 Jan 2019
@ 10:47 am (GMT)

James Knight

Re: 280 Ackley
Wherebouts you live in Utah Chris? I live over here in Sandy. I would think a 9" twist would be more than plenty. You might run it by those guys over on www.longrangehunting.com and see what they say. Elkaholic (Rich Sherman) markets a similar round, called the .280 Sherman that is even more improved than the AI version. Please let us know what you end up with and I would also suggest starting out with a 28", hey, why not? Welcome and good luck to you pard! Rev Jim Knight
31 Jan 2019
@ 11:22 am (GMT)

Chris Murphy

Re: 280 Ackley
Hi Chris. I have two 280ai here that i will be testing in the next couple of weeks just waiting on a stock to show up. they are 26" and 1-9 twist i am confident in them stabilizing the 180s maybe not through the trans sonic area but for extended hunting ranges and 1600-1400fps they should do fine.
I will post finding as i get them
01 Feb 2019
@ 09:52 pm (GMT)

Adrian Regnault

Re: 280 Ackley
Go with the 1 in 9 barrel. I have a 1 in 10 and are limited to 160 STMKs or 168 Berger Classic Hunters as the heaviest projectiles that i can shoot accurately, noting that my load development work is pretty much at sea level. I started with a 26 inch barrel and cut it back to 24 once I was satisfied with the velocity I was getting. I'd start with the 28 and take it back from there. Cheers Adrian
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