Last reviewed: 2026-04-19 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
Weatherby Select Plus 280 Ackley Improved ammo pairs the improved shoulder angle and capacity of the 280 AI cartridge with a 139-grain Hammer Custom solid hollow point projectile. The 280 Ackley Improved is an improved version of the 280 Remington, featuring a 40-degree shoulder and minimal body taper for increased powder capacity and velocity without a corresponding increase in pressure. This cartridge delivers magnum-class performance from standard-length actions. At 3050 feet per second, this load generates 2871 foot-pounds of muzzle energy and maintains a flat trajectory to 400 yards and beyond, making it a capable choice for elk, mule deer, and pronghorn in open country.
Load Profile
The Hammer Custom bullet is a machined copper solid hollow point designed for deep penetration and controlled expansion across a wide velocity window. The 139-grain weight balances sectional density for penetration with sufficient velocity for flat shooting. Lead-free construction meets non-toxic ammunition requirements in restricted hunting zones and on public land managed by agencies with lead ammunition bans. Weatherby uses Norma brass cases — known for consistent wall thickness and dimensional uniformity — paired with Boxer primers for straightforward reloading. The G1 ballistic coefficient of 0.41 reflects the solid copper construction and monolithic hollow point design.
The Numbers
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Cartridge | 280 Ackley Improved |
| Bullet weight | 139 Grains |
| Bullet type | Solid Hollow Point (Hammer Custom) |
| Muzzle velocity | 3050 Feet Per Second |
| Muzzle energy | 2871 Foot Pounds |
| G1 ballistic coefficient | 0.41 |
| Lead free | Yes |
| Rounds per box | 20 Round |
| Case | Brass (Norma) |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Manufacturer | Weatherby (USA) |
This load suits hunters working 280 Ackley Improved chambered rifles for medium to large game at ranges where retained velocity and energy matter. For additional 280 Ackley Improved ammo options, review our full selection of factory loads and bullet weights for this cartridge.
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.
- Observe the four universal rules of firearm safety at all times: treat every firearm as if it is loaded, never point the muzzle at anything you are not willing to destroy, keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire, and be certain of your target and what lies beyond it.
- Verify that your rifle is chambered for 280 Ackley Improved before loading this ammunition. Do not attempt to fire 280 Ackley Improved cartridges in rifles chambered for 280 Remington or other similar cartridges.
- This ammunition contains copper projectiles. Copper fouling accumulates faster than lead-core bullets — clean your bore every 20-40 rounds to maintain accuracy and prevent excessive fouling buildup.
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