Top mistakes to avoid when reloading .280 Remington?

Over-estimating Case Capacity

One of the most common mistakes when reloading the .280 Remington is over-estimating the case capacity. This cartridge has a relatively low case volume, and exceeding its capacity can lead to excessive powder loads, which in turn can cause the case to over-expand and potentially fail. To avoid this, it’s essential to use a reliable case capacity chart and start with a conservative load. A good rule of thumb is to begin with a load that’s around 80-90% of the maximum capacity, and then work up from there. For example, if the maximum case capacity is 47 grains of water, start with a load of 37-39 grains and adjust from there.

Under-sizing Bullets

Another critical mistake is under-sizing bullets. The .280 Remington is a relatively fast cartridge, and using bullets that are under-sized can compromise their integrity and accuracy. To avoid this, use bullets that are properly seated to the recommended depth, and ensure they are seated squarely in the case. It’s also essential to use a proper seating die and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for seating depth.

Proper Case Preparation and Bullet Selection

Finally, proper case preparation and bullet selection are crucial when reloading the .280 Remington. This includes trimming cases to the correct length, de-capping and re-priming cases as needed, and selecting bullets that are specifically designed for this cartridge. For example, when hunting mule deer, a 130-140 grain bullet with a high ballistic coefficient is a good choice, as it will provide the necessary weight and accuracy for effective hunting.