First Impressions of **Nobelsport Noble Target Steel Shotshells 12 ga 2-3/4in 1 oz 1280 fps Size 7
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The Nobelsport Noble Target Steel Shotshells promise high-quality components for consistent target shooting, and as an avid sporting clays enthusiast, I was eager to see if they lived up to the hype. Nobelsport is a name recognized in competitive shooting circles, and the allure of using target-grade components in a readily available shotshell was certainly appealing. Are these shells a budget-friendly way to get match-grade performance, or are they just another shotshell in a crowded market?
My search for consistent and clean-burning target loads led me to these shells. I was struggling with some budget brands that left excessive residue in my shotgun and produced inconsistent patterns, impacting my scores at the club. The marketing copy emphasized high-quality components like hard shot and consistent powder charges, which directly addressed my concerns.
The case of Nobelsport Noble Target Steel Shotshells arrived neatly packaged. The shells themselves looked well-assembled, with a consistent crimp and clean plastic hulls. The vibrant red hull made them easily identifiable from my other target loads – a small but appreciated detail. Picking up a shell, it felt solid and well-weighted, hinting at a consistent powder charge.
I had been using Winchester AA and Federal Gold Medal target loads primarily. I chose the Nobelsport shells because they were significantly cheaper per round, with the promise of similar performance. If these shells could deliver comparable results at a lower cost, it would be a significant win.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. They looked and felt like quality shells, but the true test would be at the range. I hoped that these shells could deliver on their promise of consistent performance and clean burning powder, without breaking the bank.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Nobelsport Noble Target Steel Shotshells 12 ga 2-3/4in 1 oz 1280 fps Size 7
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First Use Experience
I tested the Nobelsport Noble Target Steel Shotshells at my local sporting clays range on a sunny, slightly breezy afternoon. I shot a round of 100 targets, focusing on evaluating the shells’ consistency, recoil, and how clean they burned in my Browning Citori. The courses offered a variety of shots, from close-range rabbits to long-crossing targets.
The Nobelsport shells performed admirably in the favorable weather conditions. Ejection was smooth and consistent. I did not experience any failures to feed or extract. Recoil felt similar to other 1 oz target loads, manageable and not overly jarring.
The shells required virtually no adjustment period. From the first station, I felt confident in their performance. The clean-burning powder was a welcome surprise, as there was noticeably less residue compared to cheaper target loads I had used previously.
My first-time use yielded only one surprise: the shells seemed to produce slightly tighter patterns than my usual Winchester AAs. This wasn’t necessarily a bad thing, but it did require me to adjust my lead on longer shots.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of shooting the Nobelsport Noble Target Steel Shotshells, I am impressed with their consistent performance. I’ve put approximately 1000 rounds through my shotgun without any malfunctions attributed to the shells themselves. My scores at the range have also remained consistent, suggesting that the shells are reliable.
The shells have held up remarkably well over time. I’ve noticed no significant signs of wear and tear on the remaining unfired rounds, even after being stored in my range bag. The crimps remain tight and the hulls show no signs of degradation.
Cleaning my shotgun after using the Nobelsport shells is significantly easier compared to when I used cheaper target loads. The cleaner-burning powder leaves less residue in the barrels and action, reducing cleaning time. A quick scrub with a bore snake is usually sufficient.
The Nobelsport Noble Target Steel Shotshells outperform the budget target loads I previously used in terms of consistency, cleanliness, and overall reliability. They don’t quite match the premium feel and performance of Winchester AA or Federal Gold Medal, but they offer a very compelling value proposition.
Breaking Down the Features of **Nobelsport Noble Target Steel Shotshells 12 ga 2-3/4in 1 oz 1280 fps Size 7
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Specifications
- Gauge: 12 ga. This is the most common shotgun gauge, making these shells compatible with a wide variety of shotguns.
- Shell Length: 2-3/4 inches. This is a standard shell length for 12 gauge, ensuring compatibility with most shotguns chambered for 12 gauge.
- Shot Weight: 1 oz. This is a common shot weight for target loads, providing a good balance of pattern density and manageable recoil.
- Muzzle Velocity: 1280 ft/s. This is a relatively high velocity for target loads, resulting in flatter trajectories and less lead on longer shots.
- Shot Size: 7. Size 7 shot is ideal for trap, skeet, and sporting clays, offering a good balance of pattern density and energy.
- Shot Material: Steel. Steel shot is required for waterfowl hunting in many areas and is becoming more common for target shooting due to environmental concerns.
- Primer Style: Centerfire. Centerfire primers are reliable and provide consistent ignition of the powder charge.
- Cartridge Case Material: Plastic. Plastic hulls are lightweight and durable, and can be reloaded if desired.
- Lead Free: Yes. Being lead-free makes these shells suitable for use at ranges that restrict the use of lead ammunition and minimizes environmental impact.
- Number of Rounds: 250. This is a standard case quantity for shotshells, providing ample rounds for multiple shooting sessions.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the performance of the shells. The 1 oz shot weight and 1280 fps muzzle velocity provide a balance of pattern density and manageable recoil, making them comfortable to shoot for extended periods. The use of steel shot makes them environmentally friendly and suitable for a wider range of shooting activities.
Performance & Functionality
The Nobelsport Noble Target Steel Shotshells perform admirably for their intended purpose: target shooting. The consistent patterns and manageable recoil allow for accurate and comfortable shooting. The clean-burning powder minimizes fouling and reduces cleaning time.
A major strength of these shells is their consistency. Shot-to-shot variations in velocity and pattern are minimal, resulting in predictable and reliable performance. A potential weakness is the use of steel shot, which may not be preferred by some shooters due to concerns about barrel wear or perceived lower energy transfer compared to lead shot.
The shells largely meet my expectations. They offer a noticeable improvement over budget target loads, providing consistent performance and cleaner burning powder at a reasonable price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The Nobelsport Noble Target Steel Shotshells feature a standard shotshell design with a plastic hull, crimped closure, and centerfire primer. The vibrant red hull is easily identifiable. The shells feel well-assembled and the crimps are consistently tight.
The shells are user-friendly, requiring no special handling or preparation. They load smoothly into my shotgun and eject cleanly after firing. There is no noticeable learning curve associated with using these shells.
Durability & Maintenance
The Nobelsport Noble Target Steel Shotshells are designed to be single-use cartridges. The plastic hulls are reasonably durable and resistant to damage from handling or storage. However, reloading the hulls may reduce their lifespan.
These shells require minimal maintenance. Cleaning the shotgun after use is the primary maintenance task, and the clean-burning powder reduces the amount of cleaning required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Nobelsport Noble Target Steel Shotshells do not require any specific accessories. They are designed to be used with any shotgun chambered for 12 gauge with 2-3/4 inch shells.
The shells themselves are not customizable. However, shooters can customize their shotgun with different chokes to adjust the pattern density to suit their specific shooting needs. The shells are compatible with popular choke tubes from brands like Briley, Carlson’s, and Patternmaster.
Pros and Cons of **Nobelsport Noble Target Steel Shotshells 12 ga 2-3/4in 1 oz 1280 fps Size 7
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Pros
- Consistent patterns for reliable target breaks.
- Cleaner burning powder reduces fouling and cleaning time.
- Manageable recoil makes them comfortable for extended shooting sessions.
- Lead-free steel shot is environmentally friendly and suitable for ranges with lead restrictions.
- Excellent value for money compared to premium target loads.
Cons
- Steel shot may not be preferred by some shooters due to concerns about barrel wear.
- Pattern may be too tight for very close-range targets.
Who Should Buy **Nobelsport Noble Target Steel Shotshells 12 ga 2-3/4in 1 oz 1280 fps Size 7
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The Nobelsport Noble Target Steel Shotshells are perfect for sporting clays enthusiasts, trap and skeet shooters, and anyone looking for a consistent and affordable target load. They are also a great choice for shooters who need to use steel shot due to environmental regulations or range restrictions.
Someone who primarily hunts waterfowl or uses a shotgun for home defense may not find these shells ideal. Waterfowl hunters typically require larger shot sizes and higher velocities. Self-defense situations usually call for buckshot or slugs.
A must-have accessory would be a quality choke tube set to fine-tune patterns. A bore snake for quick cleaning after shooting is also a good idea.
Conclusion on **Nobelsport Noble Target Steel Shotshells 12 ga 2-3/4in 1 oz 1280 fps Size 7
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The Nobelsport Noble Target Steel Shotshells offer an excellent balance of performance, value, and environmental responsibility. The consistent patterns, clean-burning powder, and manageable recoil make them a pleasure to shoot. While the use of steel shot may not appeal to everyone, it’s a necessary compromise for many shooters.
The price is definitely justified. They provide performance that is comparable to more expensive target loads.
I would personally recommend the Nobelsport Noble Target Steel Shotshells to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable target load. They’re a great choice for recreational shooters and competitive shooters alike. Give them a try – you might be surprised at how well they perform!