Thread: . 284 Winchester

Originally Posted by chainsaw

Interesting comps @Puffin on 284 vs 280ai - my real word experience aligns closely with the QL model data but with different powders needed to get optimal results. I did a lot of background research into 284 vs 280ai and initially went with 280ai as an “alpine tops rifle”. Partly due to higher top end potential in fps & that partly due to fact that published load data on 284 is scant and very conservative. Anyhooo 1st built a 280ai 24in bbl on REM700 action – load dev eventually ended up with N560 pushing 162 AMAX at 2980 fps. Have also built several 284’s - 2 with 20in bbls giving 2830 – 2850 fps with 160 TMK’s using RL17 or Superformance. And a 284 with 22in bbl that runs 2930 fps with RL17 pushing 162 AMAX’s.
In all cases these loads were not at pressure “max”, but at safe loads giving sub 0.5moa grps – generally a smidge under where pressure signs started showing up.
Yes, the 280ai has the edge but not by much and you really need to stay with a 24in or longer bbl to ring the max out of them, imo.
The 284 cartridge is inherently very efficient and certainly punches above its weight. If you’re after a shorter bbl 7mm for bush bashing then its ticks all the boxes, just be realistic about the drop in speed potential once you chop the bbl

@chainsaw I wonder if you could be so kind as to PM me your R17 loads for @craigc. Of course we understand that we will need to start a few grains under your load. 22" barrel using 162AMAX and 150 ELDX. We are fortunate that we have a few pots of R17.