Recently picked up a 280 AI and was wondering if anyone could share some load information. I have no experience loading for this caliber and have no bullet preference at this time. I am sure the bullet weight I am looking at will be from 140 to 160. Any information would be helpful.
Scott

In the Nosler reloading guide fifth edition they list loading information for the 280 Improved. IMR4831 is what they have listed for the most accurate powder tested for their 140gr Ballistic tip, this also applies to their Partition & CT offerings as well. The starting load is listed at 54.5gr & the max is listed at 58.5gr.
For the 150 bullets they list H4831sc as the most accurate powder tested. Starting at 56.5gr & the max was listed as 60.5gr.
For 160gr bullets they list AA3100 starting at 54.5gr, max 58.5gr.
I just tried IMR4350 in charge weights of 53.5gr & 54gr for a 140gr Ballistic tip. I was not too impressed with it. I think I am going to move on to IMR4831 & see how that is going to work.
Good luck, I hope that you like it.

Rl22 is always my powder of choice for the 280AI.

RL22 and 4831sc as well as N165. H4831sc has been superbly accurate and very easy to find a load for. Follow the book data and you can find a sweet load quickly with 150gr pills.

RL 22 as Ramrod said is the powder of choice and 140g ballistic tips, cant go wrong.

Best load I've found for the 280 AI is 66-67 grs of Re25 behind a 150 Nosler BT - vel=3225 fps with a 26" barrel and PSI is ~65,000. This is maximum and you should work up to it.