Quick Answer
The .280 Remington is a capable cartridge for big game hunting, but it's best suited for smaller to medium-sized big game, including mule deer and elk under 500 pounds. While it can be used for other big game, it may not be the best choice for larger animals like bears or moose.
Cartridge Capabilities
The .280 Remington is a 7mm cartridge with a flat trajectory and moderate recoil. It’s a good choice for hunting mule deer at ranges up to 300 yards, and its flat trajectory makes it suitable for shooting uphill or with a lot of wind deflection. Ballistically, the .280 Remington is similar to the .30-06 Springfield, but with a slightly wider bullet.
Hunting Applications
When hunting with a .280 Remington, it’s essential to choose a bullet that’s suitable for the job. For mule deer, a 130-150 grain bullet is a good choice, while for elk, a heavier 150-170 grain bullet may be necessary. When hunting in dense cover or at close range, a 140 grain bullet with a high BC (ballistic coefficient) may be a better choice. For example, the 140 grain Sierra MatchKing has a high BC of .540, making it a good choice for hunting mule deer at longer ranges.
Range and Load Considerations
When hunting with a .280 Remington, it’s essential to consider the range at which you’ll be shooting. At ranges over 400 yards, a heavier bullet with a higher BC may be necessary to ensure adequate penetration and expansion. In addition, a load with a higher case capacity may be necessary to achieve reliable expansion and penetration. For example, a load with a 140 grain bullet and a 2.550 inch case length may be more effective at longer ranges than a load with a 130 grain bullet and a 2.480 inch case length.
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