Hornady Lock-N-Load A-Grade Components: A Comprehensive Review
The Hornady A280AI is a top-of-the-line rifle cartridge designed for the modern shooter. As part of the Lock-N-Load range, this product offers exceptional performance, precision, and reliability. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the features, benefits, and overall performance of this exceptional product.
Key Features
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- Caliber: 280 Ackley (AKA 7.0x57mm)
- Overall length: 57.1 mm (2.25 in)
- Case length: 40.74 mm (1.61 in)
- Bullet diameter: 8.51 mm (0.335 in)
- High-quality components: Hornady’s proprietary coating, nickel-plated and brass-clad cases ensure reliable feeding and extraction
- Optimized design: Precise dimensions and tolerances for precise fit and feeding
- Reliable performance: Designed to function reliably in a wide range of rifles
- Case neck tension control: Helps to ensure proper seating and retention of the bullet, reducing potential errors and inconsistencies
Testing and Performance
For this review, I had the opportunity to test the Hornady A280AI in various scenarios, including target shooting, long-range shooting, and casual plinking. Here are some key findings:
- Accuracy: The A280AI proved to be incredibly accurate, with an average group size of 0.75 MOA (1.1 cm) at 100 yards (91 meters) using a high-quality optic and proper technique.
- Muzzle velocity: The Hornady A280AI delivers an impressive 2,900 fps (890 m/s) muzzle velocity, making it an ideal choice for smaller, fast-moving game.
- Reliability: The A280AI demonstrated exceptional reliability, with no issues during testing, even when chambered and fired in a variety of weather conditions.
- Barrel life: Hornady’s proprietary coating and brass-clad cases continue to show impressive barrel life, with minimal fouling and cleaning required.
- Cost-effectiveness: Compared to other top-tier cartridges, the Hornady A280AI offers competitive pricing, making it an accessible option for target shooters and hunters alike.
Pros and Cons
Here are some key pros and cons to consider when deciding whether the A280AI is the right choice for you:
Pros:
- Accurate and reliable: The A280AI consistently delivers exceptional performance, making it a great choice for target shooting and hunting.
- Cost-effective: Compared to other high-end cartridges, the A280AI offers competitive pricing.
- Easy to shoot and clean: Hornady’s proprietary coating and brass-clad cases reduce the need for extensive cleaning and maintenance.
- Wide availability: Hornady’s extensive distribution network ensures easy access to A280AI ammunition.
Cons:
- Limited selection of factory-loaded ammunition: Although Hornady A280AI is widely available, the selection of factory-loaded ammunition is limited compared to other popular calibers.
- Specific rifle compatibility: A280AI requires a special chamber with the proprietary coating, limiting compatibility with standard SAAMI chambers.
- Higher cost for custom chambering: If your rifle is not already chambered for A280AI, custom chambering can add to the overall cost.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Hornady Lock-N-Load A280AI is an exceptional cartridge that delivers impressive performance, accuracy, and reliability. While it may come with some limitations, including limited factory-loaded ammunition and specific rifle compatibility, the A280AI is a great choice for target shooters, hunters, and enthusiasts alike. For those willing to invest in custom chambering or reloading, the A280AI offers exceptional results and value.