JimF,
You list some good points pertaining to Ackley Improved cartridges. While some people only search for velocity improvements there are other attributes to the improved cartridge. To me one of the more outstanding results from the improved cartridge is almost never having to trim the cases. Another is an item I CAN'T PROVE but I believe you can reduce the ES (extreme spread) on velocities with the Ackley Improved design. Like I said, I can't prove it but I think it is there as compared to the factory cartridge.
I am just about finished with my long range varminter chambered for the 6.5/08 Ackley Improved. In BJ's list of cartridges this one is at the bottom on velocity gain. I opted for the AI version for the reasons stated above. Only time and a fair amount of shooting over a chronograph will tell me if I have achieved my goals.........we shall see.
Your critique was well thought out and presented fairly--I thank you for jumping in with your thoughts on the Ackley design.
Ol' John
