I have been running a .280AI for just over 25 years. Awesome caliber.
I have a 24" barrel on mine and my hand loads return 2940fps with a 150gr bullet.
3000fps+ would be a hot load in my rifle. I use the 140gr bullets at 3020fps on everything.
I have mostly used it on Aussie game - pigs, goats, wild dogs, fallow and red deer.
Hits them like the hammer of Thor.
If you wanted to chase Sambar deer then upgrade to the 160gr bullet.
If you decide to to take it back to Africa then I don't think you will notice the difference between the .280AI and the 7mm Rem mag you used last time.
Brass and reloading dies are easy to get over here in Australia.
I originally used standard .280 Rem brass and fire formed them back then as it was still a wildcat.
Rebel Guns in Brisbane have a set of RCBS .280AI dies and brass currently in stock.
The Tikka is an easy gun to convert to .280 AI.
