Looking for 280 AI load data with N160 powder

YaakRiver

FNG
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Feb 9, 2024
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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
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Jan 23, 2025
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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
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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
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Aug 25, 2021
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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.
 
OP
YaakRiver

YaakRiver

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Feb 9, 2024
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Yaak, MT
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.
I'll let you know how it goes. I do have 165 as well.
 
OP
YaakRiver

YaakRiver

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Joined
Feb 9, 2024
Messages
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Location
Yaak, MT
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.

View attachment 835777
That's really helpful. Thanks for taking the time to run that. I would be happy with 2844 if it grouped well.
 
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YaakRiver

YaakRiver

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Joined
Feb 9, 2024
Messages
85
Location
Yaak, MT
Ram shot big game and SB 6.5 would be worth a look too. I’m getting 2628 MV in an 18” barrel with 46.5 grains of SB 6.5 and 162 ELDX in my 7-08.
My son shoots a 7mm-08. We had a great load with RL17 but .... I will drop a grain off of your load and try it in his rifle. Thanks.
 
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