.284 cartridge choice

2

2DaMtns

New member
Hello all,

I am having a rifle built on a Mauser action and was going to go with a 280, but the smith doesn't have a .280 reamer and is having a heck of a time finding one to rent. That is the last major hang up before getting this thing finished. From what I understand, a barrel blank for a .280 would be the same as for a 7mm magnum or a 7mm-08, it's just the reamer and subsequent chamber that are different. Is this right? I am thinking about having him try to get a reamer for one of these other cartridges, but just want to see what the verdict is. He is out of town, so I can't ask him right now. Thanks.
 
Correct, a .284 blank is just that. They are typically 9.5" twist. I'd go with the 7mm-08 if you only hunt deer. I've owned three 7mmMag rifles over 40 years and none of them were consistant over the chrony with bullets under 150gr. Lighter bullets made a mess. Of course, it goes without saying that the component cost difference will be sizable.
 
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Being a Mauser action, I think 7mm Mauser would be a natural choice.
I assume it is a '98 and could be loaded heavier than the usual '93-'95 Spanish or Latin American Mauser. It would not be likely to need any magazine modifications, either.
 
Thanks Scorch, I will send him the link when he gets back in town.

Thanks for the other replies as well. I have always made fun of the macho dudes who use a 7mm mag to take the 150 lb white tails that are common around here, so I had all but decided on the 7-08 if I don't stick with the 280. However, I may have to sell it to pay some bills, unfortunately, and I think the magnum might sell more quickly. I'll ponder over it till I talk to him again.
 
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