Let’s Talk About Nosler Custom Rifle Brass .338 Remington Ultra Magnum
The Nosler Custom Rifle Brass .338 Remington Ultra Magnum is designed for reloaders seeking consistent performance and extended case life in this magnum caliber. Nosler, a name synonymous with quality in the shooting world, aims to provide reloaders with a superior foundation for crafting accurate and reliable ammunition. I’ve always believed that the most accurate rounds are the ones you meticulously craft yourself, starting with quality components.
What prompted my interest in this particular brass? I was developing a long-range hunting load for my custom .338 RUM rifle and needed brass that could withstand repeated firings at high pressures. I’ve had inconsistent results with other brands in the past, leading me to seek out something more reliable.
Upon unboxing, the Nosler brass presented a clean and uniform appearance. The weight felt consistent from case to case, indicating tight manufacturing tolerances. The brass had a bright, polished finish, suggesting a high level of attention to detail.
I considered using brass from Hornady and Remington, both of whom offer .338 RUM brass, but my previous experiences with Nosler bullets swayed me. My reasoning was that if Nosler holds such high standards for their projectiles, the same would likely apply to their brass.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. It certainly looked like quality brass, but the real test would be how it performed in my rifle and held up through multiple reloadings. This wasn’t just about putting rounds downrange, it was about building a long-term, reliable ammunition source for serious hunts.
Real-World Testing: Putting Nosler Custom Rifle Brass .338 Remington Ultra Magnum to the Test
First Use Experience
I conducted my initial testing at a private range, focusing on load development and chronographing various powder charges with the Nosler Custom Rifle Brass .338 Remington Ultra Magnum. The weather was sunny and relatively warm, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, which provided ideal conditions for consistent results. The goal was to see how the brass performed with moderate to heavy powder charges.
The brass loaded smoothly into my Redding Competition dies, demonstrating consistent dimensions. During firing, the primers seated tightly, and there were no signs of excessive pressure, such as flattened primers or difficult extraction. The consistency in velocity, as measured by my MagnetoSpeed chronograph, was impressive, showing minimal standard deviation.
There were no immediate issues during the first firing. However, I did note that the case necks seemed to expand slightly more than with some other brass I’ve used, which would require closer attention during reloading. The brass responded favorably to the initial loading, which was a welcome sign.
Extended Use & Reliability
After five reload cycles, the Nosler Custom Rifle Brass .338 Remington Ultra Magnum is still performing admirably. There are no signs of case head separation or significant stretching. I’ve been annealing the case necks after each firing to maintain consistent neck tension and extend case life.
The brass has shown minimal signs of wear and tear, with only slight discoloration around the case necks. Cleaning the brass after firing is straightforward using my ultrasonic cleaner and stainless-steel pins. The brass returns to its original shine with minimal effort.
Compared to my previous experiences with Remington brass in other magnum calibers, the Nosler brass has outperformed it significantly. The Remington brass tended to stretch and show signs of case head separation after only a few reloadings, while the Nosler brass remains structurally sound. The longevity and reliability of this brass have exceeded my expectations, justifying the initial investment.
Breaking Down the Features of Nosler Custom Rifle Brass .338 Remington Ultra Magnum
Specifications
The Nosler Custom Rifle Brass .338 Remington Ultra Magnum is specifically designed for the .338 RUM chambering. Each package contains 25 pieces of brass. The brass is manufactured in the USA.
The caliber is, of course, .338 Remington Ultra Magnum, intended for large game hunting at extended ranges. The weight of each case is consistent, ensuring uniform powder capacity. The use of high-quality materials contributes to the brass’s durability and resistance to deformation under high pressure.
These specifications matter because they directly impact accuracy and consistency. Consistent case weight and volume translate to more predictable velocities and improved group sizes. The high-quality materials and manufacturing processes ensure that the brass can withstand the pressures of the .338 RUM cartridge, promoting safety and extending case life.
Performance & Functionality
The Nosler Custom Rifle Brass .338 Remington Ultra Magnum performs its job exceptionally well. It provides a consistent and reliable platform for reloading accurate ammunition. The brass’s uniformity contributes to reduced velocity spreads and tighter groups on the target.
Its strengths lie in its consistency, durability, and long case life. The only minor weakness is the slight case neck expansion noted during initial testing, which requires careful attention during reloading. It definitely meets my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, reflecting Nosler’s commitment to precision manufacturing. The brass feels substantial and well-formed, inspiring confidence in its structural integrity. There’s no real learning curve.
The design is straightforward, adhering to standard .338 RUM cartridge dimensions. The bright, polished finish not only looks appealing but also aids in identifying any potential flaws or imperfections.
Durability & Maintenance
This brass is designed for long-term use, withstanding multiple reload cycles when properly cared for. With proper annealing and careful reloading practices, the Nosler Custom Rifle Brass .338 Remington Ultra Magnum should last for many years.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only routine cleaning after each firing. Using an ultrasonic cleaner with stainless steel pins effectively removes fouling and restores the brass to its original condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Nosler Custom Rifle Brass .338 Remington Ultra Magnum itself doesn’t come with any accessories. However, it is fully compatible with standard reloading dies, including those from Redding, RCBS, and Hornady. This allows reloaders to customize their ammunition to suit their specific rifle and intended use.
The brass can be used with a variety of bullets, powders, and primers, providing a wide range of load development options. There are no specific modifications needed.
Pros and Cons of Nosler Custom Rifle Brass .338 Remington Ultra Magnum
Pros
- Exceptional consistency in weight and dimensions, leading to improved accuracy.
- Extended case life, allowing for multiple reload cycles.
- High-quality materials and manufacturing processes ensure durability and reliability.
- Made in the USA, supporting domestic manufacturing and quality control.
- Consistent primer seating.
Cons
- Higher price point compared to some other brands.
- Case necks may expand slightly more than some other brass, requiring careful attention during reloading.
Who Should Buy Nosler Custom Rifle Brass .338 Remington Ultra Magnum?
Perfect for: Long-range hunters seeking the utmost accuracy and reliability in their .338 RUM ammunition. This is also perfect for reloaders who prioritize quality and consistency over cost.
Who should skip this product? Reloaders on a tight budget may find this brass too expensive, or reloaders who only shoot factory ammunition.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality annealing machine is highly recommended to maximize case life. It is also recommended to use a quality set of reloading dies.
Conclusion on Nosler Custom Rifle Brass .338 Remington Ultra Magnum
In summary, the Nosler Custom Rifle Brass .338 Remington Ultra Magnum is a premium product that delivers exceptional performance and longevity. While it may come with a higher price tag than some alternatives, the consistency and durability justify the investment for serious reloaders. You will experience better performance overall.
The price is justified. The superior quality of the brass directly translates to improved accuracy and extended case life.
I would definitely recommend it. If you’re committed to crafting the best possible .338 RUM ammunition, this brass is an excellent starting point. Invest in quality components.