The .280 Remington, a cartridge often overshadowed by its more popular cousins, offers a compelling blend of accuracy, flat trajectory, and manageable recoil. This guide provides a comprehensive ballistics table for the .280 Remington, coupled with insightful analysis to help you understand its performance characteristics. Remember that actual ballistics can vary based on factors like barrel length, twist rate, ammunition manufacturer, and atmospheric conditions. This table represents average values under standard conditions.
Understanding Ballistic Data
Before diving into the table, let's define key ballistic terms:
- Muzzle Velocity (MV): The speed of the bullet as it leaves the barrel, typically measured in feet per second (fps).
- Muzzle Energy (ME): The kinetic energy of the bullet at the muzzle, expressed in foot-pounds (ft-lbs). This indicates the bullet's impact potential.
- Trajectory: The path the bullet follows in flight. Understanding bullet drop is crucial for accurate long-range shooting.
- Wind Drift: The sideways deflection of the bullet due to wind. Wind significantly affects accuracy at longer ranges.
- Bullet Drop: The vertical distance the bullet falls below its line of sight at a given range.
.280 Remington Ballistics Table (Approximate Values)
| Bullet Weight (grains) | Muzzle Velocity (fps) | Muzzle Energy (ft-lbs) | 100-yard Drop (inches) | 200-yard Drop (inches) | 300-yard Drop (inches) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 140 | 2800 | 2500 | 8 | 35 | 80 | Excellent all-around performance |
| 150 | 2700 | 2700 | 9 | 40 | 90 | Good balance of energy and trajectory |
| 160 | 2600 | 2850 | 10 | 45 | 100 | Increased energy, slightly more drop |
| 175 | 2500 | 3000 | 12 | 55 | 120 | High energy, heavier recoil |
Note: These values are approximations and may vary. Always consult your ammunition manufacturer's data for precise ballistic information specific to their loads.
Factors Affecting Ballistics
Several factors influence the actual ballistic performance of your .280 Remington:
- Barrel Length: Longer barrels generally yield higher muzzle velocities and energies.
- Twist Rate: The rate of rifling in the barrel affects bullet stability and accuracy.
- Ammunition Manufacturer: Different manufacturers produce ammunition with varying performance characteristics.
- Altitude & Temperature: Higher altitudes and lower temperatures can slightly increase muzzle velocity.
- Wind: Wind is a significant factor affecting trajectory and accuracy, particularly at longer ranges.
Choosing the Right Ammunition
The ideal .280 Remington ammunition will depend on your intended use. For hunting larger game, heavier bullets with higher energy might be preferred. For target shooting or hunting smaller game, lighter bullets offer a flatter trajectory and less recoil. Experimentation is key to finding the best ammunition for your specific rifle and shooting style.
Conclusion
The .280 Remington offers a versatile and effective cartridge for various shooting applications. Understanding its ballistics is crucial for achieving optimal accuracy and performance. Remember to always practice safe firearm handling and consult relevant resources for the most up-to-date and accurate ballistic information.
