How to ensure reliable feed in a .280 Remington rifle?

Choosing the Right Ammunition

When hunting mule deer with a .280 Remington rifle, it’s essential to select ammunition that is specifically designed for the cartridge. Look for loads with a bullet weight between 100 and 140 grains, as these will provide the best balance between penetration and expansion. A muzzle velocity of around 2,800-3,000 feet per second is also desirable, as it will help to ensure a clean and humane kill.

Chamber Preparation and Cleaning

To ensure reliable feed in your .280 Remington rifle, it’s crucial to maintain a clean and well-lubricated chamber. Use a chamber gauging tool to verify that your rifle’s chamber is within the specified tolerances, and clean the chamber and bolt face after each use to prevent the buildup of residue. A chamber cleaning brush with fine bristles is ideal for removing debris and residue without damaging the chamber.

Cartridge Dimension and Neck Tension

Proper cartridge dimensions and neck tension are critical to reliable feeding in a .280 Remington rifle. Check your rifle’s manual to ensure that you are loading cartridges with the correct overall length, and use a case neck tension gauge to verify that the neck tension is within the recommended range (typically 10-15 pounds). This will help to prevent case head separation and ensure that the cartridge feeds smoothly into the chamber.