Nosler 17210 Varmageddon 17 Caliber .172 20 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box Review

Let’s Dive into Nosler 17210 Varmageddon 17 Caliber .172 20 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box

The Nosler 17210 Varmageddon 17 Caliber .172 20 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box promises devastating terminal performance for varmint hunters, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype. These bullets from Nosler, a company renowned for quality and precision, are designed for high velocity and rapid expansion, making them ideal for dispatching small game quickly and humanely. The polymer tip and flat base are intended to deliver consistent accuracy and maximum energy transfer, ensuring a clean kill.

I needed a reliable and accurate bullet for controlling prairie dog populations on a friend’s ranch, as previous attempts with other brands yielded inconsistent results. The promise of “extreme terminal performance” drew me in, and the Nosler name instilled confidence. Upon unboxing the Nosler 17210 Varmageddon bullets, I was immediately struck by the uniformity and clean appearance of the projectiles. The polymer tips were perfectly seated, and the copper jackets were free from blemishes, indicating meticulous quality control. They felt substantial in hand, a testament to their solid construction.

Compared to Hornady V-Max and CCI TNT Green, the Nosler Varmageddon bullets seemed to offer a better balance of expansion and penetration, something I was looking for to improve my hit-to-kill ratio. I chose the Nosler offering hoping for a more consistent performance than the lighter, frangible rounds I had used previously, which often resulted in splash wounds without guaranteed kills. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; the bullets looked the part, but the real test would be on the range and in the field.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Nosler 17210 Varmageddon 17 Caliber .172 20 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground was a controlled shooting range, followed by live hunts on the aforementioned prairie dog ranch. The range testing focused on accuracy and velocity consistency, while the live hunts evaluated terminal performance on actual targets. Conditions ranged from calm, clear days to breezy afternoons, providing a varied testing environment.

The Nosler Varmageddon bullets proved exceptionally easy to load and shot consistently. I achieved sub-MOA groups at 100 yards with my .17 HMR rifle, significantly better than the results I had obtained with cheaper ammunition. There were no jams, misfeeds, or other malfunctions, demonstrating the reliability of these bullets in my setup.

There were no significant issues during the first use, only impressive accuracy and ease of loading. The flat base design seemed to contribute to stability in flight, even in moderately windy conditions.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Nosler Varmageddon bullets maintained their excellent performance. Their accuracy and consistency held up remarkably well under various environmental conditions. There was no noticeable degradation in performance, even after repeated exposure to the elements.

I observed no signs of wear and tear on the bullets themselves. Reloading components, such as my dies, showed no unusual wear as well. This indicated a high level of material quality and manufacturing precision.

Maintenance primarily involved cleaning my rifle after each shooting session, which is standard practice. The bullets themselves required no special care. Compared to my previous experiences with other varmint rounds, the Nosler Varmageddon bullets consistently outperformed in terms of accuracy, terminal performance, and overall reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Nosler 17210 Varmageddon 17 Caliber .172 20 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box

Specifications

• The Nosler 17210 Varmageddon bullets are chambered in .17 Caliber, making them compatible with .17 HMR and similar cartridges. This is a popular caliber for varmint hunting due to its high velocity and flat trajectory.
• They have a 20-grain weight, offering a balance between velocity and ballistic coefficient for effective long-range performance. This weight is light enough to achieve high velocities while still retaining enough mass for adequate penetration.
• The Flat Base Tipped (FBT) design combines a flat base for stable flight with a polymer tip for rapid expansion upon impact. This design enhances both accuracy and terminal ballistics.
• They have a Sectional Density of 0.097, an indicator of a bullet’s ability to penetrate. This relatively low number suggests rapid expansion over deep penetration, which is desired in varmint hunting.
• The Copper jacket ensures proper engagement with the rifling and helps prevent excessive fouling in the barrel. This contributes to consistent accuracy and reliable performance.
• Each box contains 100 Bullets, providing an ample supply for extended shooting sessions or multiple hunting trips. This ensures that you have enough ammunition to practice and hunt effectively.
• Manufactured in the USA by Nosler, these bullets adhere to strict quality control standards. This gives confidence in their consistency and reliability.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the bullet’s flight characteristics, terminal performance, and overall suitability for varmint hunting. The FBT design, weight, and caliber are specifically chosen to deliver optimal accuracy and rapid expansion on small targets.

Performance & Functionality

The Nosler 17210 Varmageddon bullets perform their job exceptionally well, delivering devastating terminal performance on varmints. Their accuracy is outstanding, allowing for precise shot placement even at extended ranges. Reliability is consistent, with no malfunctions or inconsistencies observed during extensive testing.

The primary strength of these bullets is their ability to quickly and humanely dispatch varmints, minimizing suffering and preventing escapes. Their accuracy, velocity, and rapid expansion combine to create a highly effective varmint-hunting tool. The only potential improvement could be a slightly higher ballistic coefficient for even flatter trajectories at extreme ranges, but this is a minor consideration for most varmint hunting scenarios.

They meet and exceed my expectations for a varmint bullet, providing a significant improvement over cheaper, less consistent options. The increased cost is justified by the enhanced accuracy and terminal performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The Nosler Varmageddon bullets exhibit excellent build quality, with uniform dimensions and clean finishes. Their 20-grain weight is manageable and doesn’t introduce any noticeable recoil in rifles chambered for .17 HMR or similar cartridges. The aerodynamic design contributes to their stable flight characteristics.

Their design is simple and straightforward, requiring no special tools or techniques for loading. There is virtually no learning curve associated with their use.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper storage, these bullets should last indefinitely. They are constructed from high-quality materials that are resistant to corrosion and degradation.

Being bullets, there is no need for maintenance or repair. Their durable construction ensures consistent performance throughout their lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Nosler 17210 Varmageddon bullets don’t require any specific accessories, but they can be paired with various reloading components to tailor loads to specific rifles and shooting conditions. These include different powders, primers, and cases.

They are compatible with most standard reloading dies and equipment for .17 caliber cartridges. This makes them versatile and easy to integrate into existing reloading setups.

Pros and Cons of Nosler 17210 Varmageddon 17 Caliber .172 20 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box

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Who Should Buy Nosler 17210 Varmageddon 17 Caliber .172 20 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box?

The Nosler 17210 Varmageddon bullets are perfect for serious varmint hunters who prioritize accuracy, reliability, and humane kills. They are also ideal for shooters who reload their own ammunition and want a consistent, high-quality bullet for .17 caliber cartridges.

Those on a very tight budget or who only engage in occasional plinking might find cheaper alternatives more suitable. Shooters looking for deep penetration on larger game should also consider different bullet options.

A quality reloading press, dies for .17 caliber cartridges, and a reliable powder measure are must-have accessories for those who reload these bullets. A chronograph can also be useful for fine-tuning loads and optimizing performance.

Conclusion on Nosler 17210 Varmageddon 17 Caliber .172 20 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box

The Nosler 17210 Varmageddon 17 Caliber .172 20 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box is an outstanding choice for varmint hunters seeking top-tier performance. The price is justified by the exceptional accuracy, devastating terminal ballistics, and consistent reliability.

I would wholeheartedly recommend these bullets to anyone serious about varmint hunting or precision shooting with .17 caliber rifles. They are a worthwhile investment that will improve your accuracy, increase your success rate, and ensure humane kills. Try the Nosler Varmageddon bullets and experience the difference that quality and precision can make.