Rem 700 build

[Slick8]

Alright so let's drop the the .25-06 and compare the 6.5x284 and the 280 AI.

What does the green screen say between these two? Let's say 600yds and in for deer sized game. I know the 6.5x284 is going to beat out the 280 ballistically speaking, and I know they'll both kill things just as dead, but which will do it better?

I'm wanting to have a consistent 1/2 MOA Performer, less would always be better. Also the ability to cleanly take elk sized animals.

The deeper I get into this the harder the decision is getting.

I was going to suggest that the 25AI is a bit overbore and not much if any gain but it looks like you've moved on.

I like both the 280AI and 6.5x284, both great rounds for deer sized game. Both have a few but limited offerings in factory ammo, although you'll never find it at the local hardware store or Academy.

Too me, both of these rounds perform best from a 26 inch barrel but would work in a 24. The decision maker to me would be the ability to take elk sized game. While the 6.5 will surly do it, there's no arguing that the 280 loaded with a quality 160 grain pill is far better.

Good luck and keep us posted.

[bboswell]

6.5x284 has 9 options in Factory ammo from Midway.

Good deal. I just did a quick search of ammoseek for what was currently available. I said upfront that I was no 6.5 expert.

[J.B.]

Like you, I was torn between the 6.5 x 284 and 280AI.

I went 280AI and I am glad I did. You can load 120gr pills to 3,000 fps or load some 168+ gr pills with high BC.

Specs:
.280 Ackley Improved chambered by S&S Precision in Argyle, TX
Rem 700 Long Action Lefthanded trued by S&S Precision
24" Krieger #6 Barrel
Devcon bedded H-S Precision Stock (free float barrel)
Trigger adjusted to 1.5#
20 MOA base (bedded)
Leupold Mk4 Rings
Vortex PST ffp 4-16x50

[Maxlab]

Good deal. I just did a quick search of ammoseek for what was currently available. I said upfront that I was no 6.5 expert.

No problem I just wanted him to know there are factory choices. Either way he goes both these calibers will be great. I personally would reload, that's where there going to shine.

[jnors06]

Thank y'all for the input. Lots of good info here. I will be reloading for sure. With the 280AI I would do barrel break in with factory 280 shells and then be left with a broken in barrel and fire formed brass.

From what I have read and been told here I think the AI will be the better choice for my needs. I do plan to target shoot with it but not really long ranges. So I think the flexibility and capabilities of the 280AI will suit me and cover all of my needs.

[BTLowry]

I have been thinking for several years that I would like to build a long range hunting gun.

Was thinking 7mag but now I am gonna have to do some research on this 280AI.
Comparable to 7mag with less felt recoil really got my attention. Most likely would be used on pigs and deer and maybe an elk

[Mike D]

I don't own a 280 AI but I will never give up my 6.5-284.

Keep in mind if you plan to reload, every single case will have to be fire formed with the 280 AI.

[hardtner]

I don't think you can really go wrong with any of the chamberings mentioned. Custom rifle build will usually outshoot the shooter. Very few people ever fully test their rifles to the limits of what they are capable of. I sure don't. I say go with what you like. I have a custom in .25-06 and a semi-custom in .280AI. I like them both. I don't have a bit of experience with the 6.5's. I'm sure they are great too.

Enjoy the process of putting the gun together. The process of dreaming and scheming about a build is the best part. Load development is a blast. Go with what you want and it will likely shoot great and kill paper and game well.

[Artos]

Keep in mind if you plan to reload, every single case will have to be fire formed with the 280 AI.

Negative...Nosler makes 280AI cases and loaded ammunition ready to go Mikey!! It's like they designed the case for my gun...I have a .311 neck and the last three different lots loaded to .310

NO MORE NECK TURNING OR FIRE FORMING!!

[Cottonfish]

When thinking .280AI, you'll have another choice to make - the original Ackley version or the SAAMI version. With Ackley you'll have to fireform all your own brass from .280 stuff, the SAAMI version can use the factory-produced (Norma, Nosler) AI brass. Different headspace dimensions.........

Been doing a little research myself........

Stu

[jnors06]

When thinking .280AI, you'll have another choice to make - the original Ackley version or the SAAMI version. With Ackley you'll have to fireform all your own brass from .280 stuff, the SAAMI version can use the factory-produced (Norma, Nosler) AI brass. Different headspace dimensions.........

Been doing a little research myself........

Stu

i will go with the SAAMI version just incase it gets more support in the future.

I am very torn between these two calibers, i think they both have alot to offer. I'll end up going back and forth until i place my order and then i may even second guess myself.

right now i am trying to decide on barrel contour, i was set on the sendero fluted, but i am now looking at all the other contours and may go with something a hair lighter non fluted.

I have always thought about and wanted to build a custom rifle. But man once your in the real planning stages the choices get real hard....i haven't even gotten into stocks yet i'm still hung up on caliber and barrel.

[Artos]

When thinking .280AI, you'll have another choice to make - the original Ackley version or the SAAMI version. With Ackley you'll have to fireform all your own brass from .280 stuff, the SAAMI version can use the factory-produced (Norma, Nosler) AI brass. Different headspace dimensions.........

Been doing a little research myself........

Stu

Stu...my gun was made by Jim Borden 20 years ago & is a standard AI (tight neck). I still get the same crush / headspace when firing the Norma 280AI factory brass?? In fact it prints right where the reloads do...only difference is you have a more defined shoulder to the chamber after the first shot.

I have not had any issues with using the pre formed brass at all??

[Cottonfish]

Stu...my gun was made by Jim Borden 20 years ago & is a standard AI (tight neck). I still get the same crush / headspace when firing the Norma 280AI factory brass?? In fact it prints right where the reloads do...only difference is you have a more defined shoulder to the chamber after the first shot.

I have not had any issues with using the pre formed brass at all??

That's good to know, Paul, I've read of some having problems between the two and some folks not....difference is only .014.....it appears that the only .280AI dies commonly available are SAAMI. Original Ackley version dies are apparently expensive customs now. I think I'd make the same decision as the OP and go with the SAAMI version if building a new .280AI. And I think I'd choose the .280AI over the 6.5x284 for greater range of projectile weight and longer barrel life. No matter what you choose, enjoy the build!

Stu

[jnors06]

Well stuff just got real!! Got a check I've been waiting on in the mail.

[hardtner]

Well stuff just got real!! Got a check I've been waiting on in the mail.

Well then.....GO



And report back with what you bought