Just finished a backpack elk hunt with my Savage 110 Ultralite in 280AI. 7.2 pounds with 5 rounds scoped. Shoots sub moa. Leupold VX5 3-15x44 with Seekins Rings and Leupold 20MOA Backcountry Rail. Last 200yd grouping with Hornady 162 ELDX
I'm currently having a 280AI built and have for many years hunted with a 300wm. I faced the same questions you're asking and also considered a 300wsm and 7mm. Ultimately it was the wide range of loads, bullet weights, reduced recoil and ballistic performance of the AI that intrigued me. Personal...