This next fall I have been invited for my first elk hunt with some local guys. I have been looking for the best elk factory loads for the .280. The federal 150 noslers do real well on whitetails but was looking at the fed. High Energy 140 gr Bear Claw Premium loads which are must faster that other factory ammo. Federal also makes a 160 grain Bear Claw but not in the High Energy loading. Any ideas on what factory loads would be best? thanks!
.280 Load Selection for Elk
- Thread starter semo
- Start date
I have heard third-hand that CCI Speer's 160 grain factory Grand Slam load is a superb performer on elk. Advertised at 2890 fps and 2967 ft-lbs at the muzzle. If I were pursuing elk, this is the first load I would try. Check them out at http://www.speer-bullets.com/
Good luck.
Good luck.
RiverRider
New member
I shoot only handloads with my .280, so I am not well-versed on what the factories have to offer. But, I'd go with the heavier bullets such as a 160-grain or heavier, and I'd probably select a load offering a premium bullet such as a Nosler Partition or Swift A-Frame, or Winchester's Fail Safe (if that one is even available in .280).
If and when I ever need to use factory ammo, I use Federal if it's available. I think it's a notch above the rest.
If and when I ever need to use factory ammo, I use Federal if it's available. I think it's a notch above the rest.