The only thing I don't like about the 280 is the shoulder is a little different than the 30-06/270/25-06 so you have to fireform the shells. If you have a bolt gun I was told it can work, but it won't work in my Rem. 742, so I will just have to buy the brass. Good thing my grandpa kept plenty of ammo around 
so it will be a while before I NEED to get more brass.
I have never heard of that. I think with the semi-auto what you need to use when you reload is what they call a "small base" die. That may be hard to find for the 280 though. But I don't believe the 280 is any different than a 270 or 30-06 when it comes to reloading. If your 742 was in 270 or 30-06, you'd likely still need the small base die.
Negative. The shoulder of the 280 sits farther forward/higher on the case than the 270/30-06. Hold the rounds side by side and you'll see. The deeper chamber kept the 270 shell I'd necked to 280 from being fully engaged by the bolt and prevented the firing pin from hitting the primer. Both my 740 30-06 and 742 280 Rem shoot just fine using the Lee Deluxe dies, no need for the "small base" dies (unless those dies are considered small base?)
Either way, sorry to jack your thread OP
When it comes to ammunition and firearms, jarheads are sooooooo darn nit-picky, aren't they?. Everything's gotta fit just right! Kidding aside, interesting stuff, iusmc2002. Thanks for adding to the thread. You too BC.
Ya know, thats funny because I had a mustang Lt tell me pretty much the same thing when he was trying to attach a SAW drum to an M240 during a MG leaders course that he was in charge of and I was instructing! He didn't put it that nicely though
Unfortunately, the 280 is a worthless round and I doubt you could GIVE that rifle away. But if you wanted to try, I think I know a guy that would probably take it from you. He collects old and useless guns
