Looking for 280 AI load data with N160 powder

YaakRiver

FNG
Joined
Feb 9, 2024
Messages
81
Location
Yaak, MT
I had a good load worked up for my rifle with IMR 7828 SSC. I can't find that powder anywhere nearby, at least not for a reasonable price. The burn rate chart puts N160 right in the same burn rate but I can't find any load data for that powder. I had been using 162 ELD-X bullets but I have a few others. Any help would be appreciated.
 

xebadir

FNG
Joined
Jan 23, 2025
Messages
1
Nothing to offer, but curious to hear your experience as I'm working up a load in a similar grain weight and looking at powder choices.

The 280AI Nosler manual has a 140gr bullet working with N160 from 55.5-59.5gr but then favor N165 starting about that range. They also have a 160gr bullet running 56-60gr of N165. From what I've read seems like most don't go far past the Hogdon powders. Seems like N160 is a little faster burning than what you've been running, N165 is closer.
 
Joined
Mar 16, 2021
Messages
3,741
Location
Western Iowa
Here is a max load simulation from Gordon's. I used a 22" barrel and SAMMI COL. In a 24" it calculated 2933 MV.

62 grains of N165 only gets you 2844 MV in a 22". 2906 MV in a 24". It is a less efficient powder with the 162.

1738967833781.png
 

SCHUNTER73

Lil-Rokslider
Joined
Aug 25, 2021
Messages
260
If you have access to RAMSHOT Hunter, my 280ai does very well with 54 gr of with the 162 eld x.

Getting an avg of 2850 ft lbs in a 24” barrel.
 
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