The AI version is a 40 degree shoulder, with minimal case taper (0.454" at the shoulder based on Sierra's and Nosler's loading manuals). The neck length of the AI version is quite long (don't remember the exact measurement off the top of my head...).

One advantage of the 30-06 AI version is that standard factory 30-06 Spr. ammo can be fired in the AI chamber.

The JDJ version is a minimal case taper, short 0.250" neck and 60 degree shoulder. Holds more powder (in fact JD's load data puts it right there, in terms of case capacity, with the 300RSAUM...).

Velocity wise, the Ackley version, at least in my experience is right there with the JDJ version. I've been able to virtually duplicate the ballistics I got from my older 30-06 JDJ rechambered T/C bbl from my MGM 30-06AI bbl. Some of that can be attributed to the older style rifling in use by T/C at that time (created more pressure...). JD's bbls reportedly get a bit more velocity than the older T/C bbls (ones with equal lands/grooves).

From the JDJ version, I was able to push 168 Nosler BT's at 2715 FPS using IMR4064. H4350 with the same Nosler 168 BT's would chrono slower at around 2625fps. 150's at 2850 FPS (one load chrono'd 2915 fps but was too hot...), and I stopped at 2550 FPS on 180's even though I wasn't at max. Couldn't keep my scope from shifting with the 180's, even with the T'SOB.

My 30-06AI will do a solid 2728 fps with Nosler 168's and H4831sc. Using H4350 and the same Nosler 168 BT bullet, I can get 2691 FPS, while the exact same load of H4350 and the Hornady 165 SST bullet chrono'd 2650 FPS. Neither of these two loads are at Max charge wt. Using RL17 at a load that shows absolutely no pressure signs did 2650 FPS with the Berger 168 VLD. I hunted with this load last fall. I've not shot any other bullet weight from the 30-06AI.

I am having MGM (as I mentioned in an earlier post) modify my existing 30-06 AI bbl to become a 30-280AI. This will allow me to use the excellent Nosler 280AI brass, simply necked up to 30 cal, with no fireforming. It will hold a bit more powder, and "could" see a slight increase in velocity over the 30-06AI chambering... Main reason I'm doing it is to eliminate fireforming. I can't wait to get the barrel back...

The 30-06 would be a great round, and handloaded, should be able to beat the 308 Win by ~100 fps or so in 15" bbls.

Regarding reloading dies, my 30-06 JDJ dies (Hornady) were $68 from SSK. My 30-06 AI dies (Redding) were $65 or $68 (can't remember the exact cost...) from, I think, Midsouth Shooters Supply or Natchez (I getting CRS ... cant remember stuff... :))

Regards,

Rog