Dont mean to hijack, but if you are going to shoot 180's, why not get a .300 RUM ? I mean it can push a 180, 300+ fps faster. I understand the .284, 180gr VLD has a .659 BC, where as the 185 .30 cal has a .549. But at 1000 yards the speed is almost identicle.
Berger reccomends a 1 in 9 twist for the 180's by the way. It's all on their website Berger Hunting Bullets
My velocity is 3050 FPS, and I seat them at 3.665 OAL so they fit in the mag. I have had better luck seating the Bergers deeper, rather than at the lands. My hunting buddy killed a whitetail this year from 1105 yards using this load. Here are some pictures of 1000 yard groups with the 180's.
That's very good for a 180 bullet out of the 7 RM. Back in the day when loaded for the 7 RM the best I could do was about 3000 for a 160 bullet using IMR4350 outof a 24" tube.
What length barrels and what powders are you guys using?
My 3050 FPS load is an accuracy load in my rifle and was by no means the fastest I could get. I used to shoot 140's at 3500 FPS but going to the 180's takes this rifle to a whole new class.