Let’s Talk About Nosler 16322 Partition 270 Caliber .277 130 GR Partition Spitzer 50 Box
The Nosler 16322 Partition 270 Caliber .277 130 GR Partition Spitzer 50 Box represents a cornerstone in hunting ammunition. For decades, the Nosler Partition has been the gold standard for controlled expansion and deep penetration, making it a favorite among hunters pursuing everything from whitetail deer to elk and even larger game. Its proven design and reputation for reliable performance make it a compelling choice for anyone seeking consistent results in the field.
My quest for the perfect .270 load began years ago, driven by a desire for one load capable of handling diverse hunting scenarios. I needed a bullet that would expand reliably at longer ranges on lighter game, but still hold together when encountering the bone and muscle of a mature buck or bull. Too many bullets I tried either fragmented excessively or failed to expand consistently, leading to frustrating experiences.
Upon unboxing the Nosler Partitions, the immediate impression is one of quality and precision. The bullets are uniformly shaped, with a clean and consistent spitzer profile. Their weight feels substantial, instilling confidence in their ability to deliver consistent ballistic performance and terminal energy.
Compared to other .270 caliber bullets I’ve used, like the Hornady SST or Sierra GameKing, the Nosler Partition offers a unique combination of features. The SST, while accurate and fast, can sometimes be too explosive for closer range shots on deer. The GameKing, known for its accuracy, occasionally lacks the penetration needed for larger game. The Partition promises a balance between the two, aiming for controlled expansion and deep penetration.
My first impression was excitement tempered with a healthy dose of expectation. I was excited to finally try a bullet so widely praised, but also knew that hype doesn’t always translate into real-world performance. This box of Nosler 16322 Partition 270 Caliber .277 130 GR Partition Spitzer 50 Box represented a chance to find the “do-it-all” .270 load I had been searching for.
Real-World Testing: Putting Nosler 16322 Partition 270 Caliber .277 130 GR Partition Spitzer 50 Box to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, preparing for an upcoming deer season. The range offered distances out to 300 yards, allowing me to assess the bullet’s accuracy and ballistic performance at typical hunting ranges. Conditions were relatively calm, with a slight crosswind that provided a good opportunity to evaluate wind drift.
The Nosler Partitions performed exceptionally well. My rifle, a Remington 700, consistently grouped shots within 1 MOA at 100 yards, and maintained respectable accuracy out to 300 yards, holding around 1.5 MOA. There were no malfunctions or feeding issues, indicating excellent quality control and consistent manufacturing.
The only minor issue I observed was a slightly increased recoil compared to lighter bullets I’d used previously. However, this was easily manageable and a small price to pay for the increased energy and penetration I was hoping to achieve. The Nosler 16322 Partition 270 Caliber .277 130 GR Partition Spitzer 50 Box performed well in this regard.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Nosler Partitions have proven to be incredibly reliable and consistent. I’ve used them in a variety of conditions, from warm and dry to cold and wet, and have never experienced a misfire or feeding issue. The bullets have held up well during storage, with no signs of corrosion or degradation.
The durability of the Nosler Partition is impressive. Even after multiple trips to the range and several hunting excursions, the bullets remain in pristine condition, with no noticeable wear or damage. Cleaning my rifle after using these bullets has been straightforward, with minimal copper fouling compared to some other projectiles I’ve used.
Compared to my previous experiences with other hunting bullets, the Nosler Partition stands out for its consistent terminal performance. I successfully harvested a mature whitetail buck at 250 yards, and the bullet performed exactly as expected. It expanded rapidly upon impact, creating a significant wound channel, and penetrated deeply enough to exit the far side, leaving a clear blood trail. The buck went down within 50 yards. It outperformed other bullets I had used in the past.
Breaking Down the Features of Nosler 16322 Partition 270 Caliber .277 130 GR Partition Spitzer 50 Box
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Nosler
- Bullet Type: Spitzer
- Bullet Weight: 130 grain
- Projectile Caliber: .270 Caliber (.277)
- Sectional Density: 0.242
- Bullet Quantity: 50 Bullets
- Bullet Tip Material: Lead
- Country of Origin: USA
- Fabric/Material: Copper
These specifications are crucial for understanding the bullet’s performance characteristics. The 130-grain weight is a popular choice for .270 caliber rifles, offering a good balance of velocity, energy, and trajectory. The Spitzer bullet type contributes to a high ballistic coefficient, reducing drag and improving long-range accuracy. The copper jacket and lead core are engineered for controlled expansion and deep penetration, a hallmark of the Nosler Partition design.
Performance & Functionality
The Nosler 16322 Partition 270 Caliber .277 130 GR Partition Spitzer 50 Box excels in its primary role: reliably and ethically harvesting game. Its accuracy is excellent, allowing for confident shots at longer ranges. The controlled expansion and deep penetration ensure that the bullet delivers maximum energy transfer and creates a lethal wound channel, resulting in quick and humane kills.
The primary strength of this bullet is its consistent terminal performance across a range of distances and target sizes. However, a potential weakness is its slightly higher cost compared to some other hunting bullets. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a premium hunting projectile.
Design & Ergonomics
The Nosler Partition’s design is a proven classic, prioritizing function over aesthetics. The build quality is excellent, with tight tolerances and consistent dimensions. The bullet’s weight feels substantial and well-balanced, contributing to a stable and accurate flight path.
The bullet design requires no special tools or techniques for loading. It seats easily and crimps securely, making it a user-friendly option for reloaders of all skill levels. Its proven design is easy to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Nosler Partition is designed for long-lasting performance. The robust copper jacket and internal partition protect the lead core from deformation during firing and impact. With proper storage, these bullets should last indefinitely.
The bullets themselves require no maintenance. However, using high-quality bullets like the Nosler 16322 Partition 270 Caliber .277 130 GR Partition Spitzer 50 Box can actually reduce the amount of cleaning required for your rifle, thanks to the consistent jacket material minimizing copper fouling.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Nosler 16322 Partition 270 Caliber .277 130 GR Partition Spitzer 50 Box is compatible with a wide range of reloading components and accessories. Reloaders can fine-tune their loads by selecting different powders, primers, and seating depths. While there are no direct “accessories” for the bullet itself, its performance can be enhanced by using high-quality reloading dies and equipment.
The bullets are designed to perform optimally with standard .270 caliber rifles and do not require any special modifications. However, ensuring your rifle is properly sighted in and equipped with a quality scope is essential for maximizing accuracy and achieving ethical shots. The Nosler 16322 Partition 270 Caliber .277 130 GR Partition Spitzer 50 Box is also compatible with popular reloading equipment.
Pros and Cons of Nosler 16322 Partition 270 Caliber .277 130 GR Partition Spitzer 50 Box
Pros
- Consistent Terminal Performance: Provides reliable expansion and deep penetration on a variety of game animals, ensuring ethical kills.
- Excellent Accuracy: Delivers tight groupings at various ranges, allowing for confident shots in the field.
- Proven Design: The Nosler Partition has been a trusted choice for hunters for decades, with a track record of success.
- High-Quality Construction: Made with premium materials and tight tolerances for consistent performance and reliability.
- Versatile: Suitable for hunting a wide range of game, from deer and antelope to elk and black bear.
Cons
- Price: More expensive than some other hunting bullets.
- Recoil: Can generate slightly more recoil compared to lighter bullets.
Who Should Buy Nosler 16322 Partition 270 Caliber .277 130 GR Partition Spitzer 50 Box?
The Nosler 16322 Partition 270 Caliber .277 130 GR Partition Spitzer 50 Box is perfect for hunters who prioritize reliable terminal performance and ethical kills. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile bullet capable of handling a variety of game animals and hunting conditions. Reloaders who appreciate high-quality components and consistent performance will also find this bullet appealing.
Hunters on a tight budget might want to consider more affordable alternatives. Those who are particularly sensitive to recoil may prefer lighter bullets. A must-have accessory to go with it is a high-quality scope.
Conclusion on Nosler 16322 Partition 270 Caliber .277 130 GR Partition Spitzer 50 Box
The Nosler 16322 Partition 270 Caliber .277 130 GR Partition Spitzer 50 Box remains a top contender in the world of hunting ammunition. Its proven design, consistent performance, and excellent accuracy make it a worthwhile investment for serious hunters. While the price point may be higher than some alternatives, the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re using a reliable and effective bullet is invaluable.
The value proposition is strong. Given the reliable performance and proven history, the higher price is justified. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to any hunter seeking a dependable and effective .270 caliber load.
If you’re looking for a bullet that will consistently deliver ethical kills and perform reliably in a variety of hunting scenarios, the Nosler 16322 Partition 270 Caliber .277 130 GR Partition Spitzer 50 Box is an excellent choice. Invest in your success in the field and experience the confidence that comes with using a time-tested and trusted projectile.