Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
The Nosler Trophy Grade 280 Ackley Improved ammo delivers precision-loaded cartridges engineered for hunters who need consistent terminal performance across varying impact velocities. Built around the 160-grain Nosler Partition bullet, this load combines the efficiency of the 40-degree shoulder Ackley Improved chamber with a dual-core projectile design that controls expansion while retaining rear core mass for penetration. Muzzle velocity of 2950 feet per second translates to 3091 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle — sufficient for elk, mule deer, and similarly sized game at ranges where the 280 Ackley Improved excels.
Built for the Box
Nosler manufactures Trophy Grade ammunition in production runs subject to tolerances tighter than SAAMI minimums, with each round hand-inspected before packaging. The Partition bullet features a tapered jacket that ruptures at the thin front section on impact, while a solid internal partition retains the rear lead core. This dual-core construction ensures the front half expands to create wound channels while the rear half drives deep — a pattern proven across decades of field use. Brass cases are Nosler Custom stock, boxer-primed and reloadable. The 0.475 G1 ballistic coefficient and 0.283 sectional density deliver flat trajectories with manageable wind drift out to 400 yards.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 280 Remington Ackley Improved 40-Degree Shoulder |
| Bullet Weight | 160 Grains |
| Bullet Type | Nosler Partition Jacketed Soft Point |
| Muzzle Velocity | 2950 Feet Per Second |
| Muzzle Energy | 3091 Foot Pounds |
| Rounds per Box | 20 |
| Case | Nosler Custom Brass |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| G1 Ballistic Coefficient | 0.475 |
| Sectional Density | 0.283 |
| Intended Use | Hunting |
| Manufacturer | Nosler |
The 280 Ackley Improved chamber, formed by fire-forming standard 280 Remington brass or purchasing dedicated headstamped cases, offers 100-150 fps velocity gains over factory 280 Remington loads without increasing peak pressure. Shooters stepping up from standard 280 Remington, 270 Winchester, or 30-06 Springfield will find the 280AI delivers comparable energy to 7mm Remington Magnum with less powder and recoil. For more hunting loads optimized for medium-to-large game, browse our full 280AI ammo selection.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 18 years old for rifle and shotgun ammunition, and at least 21 for handgun ammunition. Ammunition cannot be shipped to certain states, counties, and cities — review our ammunition shipping restrictions before ordering. Store ammunition in a cool, dry location away from heat sources and out of reach of unauthorized users.
- Follow the four universal rules of firearm safety when handling firearms and live ammunition.
- Verify current state and local ammunition regulations before ordering — some jurisdictions restrict online ammunition sales or impose additional transfer requirements.
- This ammunition contains lead components. California residents: see Proposition 65 warnings. Store in original packaging until use; do not expose to extreme heat or moisture.
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