At this point, I think I have it narrowed down to 280 Rem or 280 AI. If I go the Ruger #1 route it will definitely have to be a custom because they weigh more than I want, the Dakota in 280 is beautiful but I'm not sure I want to spend 6K to get what I want. If I can find a reasonable priced one in another caliber, I would have it re-barreled.
You guys have some beautiful rifles. thank you for sharing.
Had a really nice #1 tack driver in .280 Rem. Great rifle but, for me, too nice to take elk hunting. Used it in nice weather for antelope but sold it and bought a Ruger All Weather Hawkeye in .280 Rem instead.
A .270 Win/150g/2910fps or .280 Rem/155g/2870fps high bullet will give you a good 600-700 yard elk rifle at 7000 feet altitude, with only about 18 ft-lbs recoil. Daughter #1 will be using the former with a Nosler 150g ABLR for elk this fall, I'm working up the latter with Federal 155g Terminal Ascent. Both deliver about 2100fps and 1500fpe at 700 yards. With a 26" barrel on a #1 you should be able to hit 3000fps M.V. with either without any problems.
