The chart below is computed using the Long Range Science ballistic calculator for some common 280 Ackley Improved factory loads. These are for comparison with preset environmental data.
280 Ackley Improved Drop Chart
| Yd | Vel fps | Energy ft·lb | Drop MIL | Drop MOA | Wind MIL | Wind MOA | TOF s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 2900 | 2989 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.000 |
| 100 | 2752 | 2692 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.14 | 0.47 | 0.106 |
| 200 | 2608 | 2417 | 0.39 | 1.34 | 0.28 | 0.95 | 0.218 |
| 300 | 2468 | 2164 | 0.99 | 3.41 | 0.43 | 1.47 | 0.337 |
| 400 | 2331 | 1931 | 1.69 | 5.81 | 0.59 | 2.01 | 0.462 |
| 500 | 2199 | 1719 | 2.47 | 8.48 | 0.75 | 2.59 | 0.594 |
| 600 | 2071 | 1524 | 3.32 | 11.40 | 0.93 | 3.20 | 0.735 |
| 700 | 1947 | 1347 | 4.25 | 14.60 | 1.12 | 3.85 | 0.884 |
| 800 | 1827 | 1186 | 5.26 | 18.09 | 1.32 | 4.53 | 1.043 |
| 900 | 1711 | 1041 | 6.37 | 21.92 | 1.53 | 5.27 | 1.213 |
| 1000 | 1599 | 909 | 7.60 | 26.11 | 1.76 | 6.05 | 1.395 |
| 1100 | 1491 | 790 | 8.94 | 30.73 | 2.00 | 6.89 | 1.589 |
| 1200 | 1386 | 683 | 10.42 | 35.83 | 2.27 | 7.79 | 1.798 |
| 1300 | 1286 | 588 | 12.06 | 41.47 | 2.55 | 8.76 | 2.023 |
Drop and wind are come-up corrections (dial/hold up). Wind is a 10 mph full-value crosswind via lag-time approximation. Values assume a 100 yd zero and standard atmosphere.
These numbers are a factory-load reference, not verified DOPE. Differences in your actual muzzle velocity, barrel length, and local air density shift the solution. Confirm your true velocity with a chronograph and validate on target before trusting any chart downrange.
Key Takeaways
- Supersonic to ~1,489 yards: With the Nosler 160 gr AccuBond LR, enters the transonic zone there in standard atmosphere.
- Holds 1,000+ ft·lb to ~930 yards: With the Nosler 160 gr AccuBond LR, a common energy threshold for larger game.
- ~2.5 MIL / 8.5 MOA at 500 yards, ~7.6 MIL / 26.1 MOA at 1,000.
- ~1.8 MIL of wind at 1,000 yards in a 10 mph full-value crosswind. Wind is your dominant error source at distance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a 280 Ackley Improved drop at 1,000 yards?
With the Nosler 160 gr AccuBond LR at 2,900 fps and a 100-yard zero, roughly 7.6 MIL (26.1 MOA), about 273 inches, under standard conditions. Switch to the 150 gr AccuBond above to see the lighter load's numbers, and true either to your own rifle before relying on it at distance.
Is the 280 Ackley Improved supersonic at 1,000 yards?
With the Nosler 160 gr AccuBond LR it retains about 1599 fps at 1,000 yards and stays supersonic to roughly 1,489 yards. Colder, higher-altitude air extends that range further; hot low-elevation air shortens it.
Should I use G1 or G7 BC for the 280 Ackley Improved?
Use G7 for modern boat-tail bullets like the ones shown here. The G7 standard projectile matches their shape, so the drag curve tracks reality better across the trajectory.
What zero does this 280 Ackley Improved chart assume?
A 100-yard zero with 1.8 inches of sight height. A different zero shifts the whole table. Enter your own zero in the Ballistics Calculator to regenerate it for your setup.
You Might Also Need
- Ballistics Calculator: run either load with your own velocity, zero, and conditions.
- Bullet Stability Calculator: confirm your 1:9 twist stabilizes these bullets in your air.
- MOA ↔ MIL Converter: switch any correction above between units.
- Ranging Calculator: range your target before you dial.
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