Jack O'Conner
New member
I'm certain that the 280 is a fine hunting cartridge. But I've never encountered one despite guiding each Fall for many years. It's one of those cartridges that has never seen widespread popularity.
Years ago, I read about a fellow who had a custom built 280 barrel with chamber reamed to the PO Ackley style. The barrel length was 24 inches. His handloads approached 7mm MAG which is impressive.
To me, it ALWAYS comes down to the 225 yard shot fired from makeshift field position. The target is an empty one gallon paint can. If a hunter can hit this target consistantly, he will do well. But if he can't hit a big can from this distance, well you know...
The lesser kicking rifles are easier for the so-called average hunter to master. I assume the 280 is easier on the shoulder than a 300 Weatherby which should be a genuine advantage for many of us who do not enjoy recoil.
Years ago, I read about a fellow who had a custom built 280 barrel with chamber reamed to the PO Ackley style. The barrel length was 24 inches. His handloads approached 7mm MAG which is impressive.
To me, it ALWAYS comes down to the 225 yard shot fired from makeshift field position. The target is an empty one gallon paint can. If a hunter can hit this target consistantly, he will do well. But if he can't hit a big can from this distance, well you know...
The lesser kicking rifles are easier for the so-called average hunter to master. I assume the 280 is easier on the shoulder than a 300 Weatherby which should be a genuine advantage for many of us who do not enjoy recoil.