Is the 280 Ackley Improved the best long action cartridge?

In this video we set out to find the best long action rifle cartridge, and there is no doubt in our minds that the 280 Ackley Improved is that cartridge.

00:51 - Cartridge evaluation parameters and cartridges to compare
02:46 - Cartridge data overview
05:45 - Importance of sectional density in cartridge evaluation
08:20 - How the 280 Ackley stands out
11:15 - Rifle cartridge trajectory
15:00 - Comparing the 280 Ackley with the 7mm Remington Magnum
18:15 - Differences between hunting bullet and high BC bullets
19:30 - Others to consider - 270 Winchester, 30-06, and 35 Whelen
22:50 - Conclusion

We compare the 240 Weatherby, 25-06, 6.5-06 A Square, 6.5-284 Norma, .270 Winchester, 280 Remington, 280 Ackley Improved, 30-06, 338-06 and 35 Whelen to determine which cartridge is ultimately the best.

We start by analyzing load data from Nosler partitions with ~.250 sectional density between the 240 Weatherby, 25-06, 6.5-06 A Square, 6.5-284 Norma, .270 Winchester, 280 Remington, 280 Ackley Improved, 30-06, 338-06 and 35 Whelen to calculate maximum point blank range, identify wind drift, and the ability to hold 1800fps and 1000ft-lb of energy.

We then look at the trajectory of the 240 Weatherby, 25-06, 6.5-06 A Square, 6.5-284 Norma, .270 Winchester, 280 Remington, 280 Ackley Improved, 30-06, 338-06 and 35 Whelen to identify the differences in trajectory with a 100 yard zero. At this distance the 280 Ackley Improved really starts to differentiate itself.

The 280 Ackley Improved is so efficient, we compare it to the 7mm Remington Magnum. While the 7mm Remington Magnum is faster, it does not significantly outperform the 280 Ackley Improved further making the 280 Ackley Improved stand out as an excellent cartridge choice.

We wrap up the video with alternatives to the 280 Ackley Improved talking through the 270 winchester, 30-06, and 35 Whelen as having great capabilities for. a hunting cartridge.