Let’s Dive into Nosler 26123 Varmageddon 6mm .243 70 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box
The Nosler 26123 Varmageddon 6mm .243 70 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box represents a compelling option for varmint hunters and target shooters seeking consistent performance and devastating terminal effects. Nosler has long been a trusted name in the ammunition and bullet manufacturing world, known for its dedication to quality and innovation. This particular offering, the Varmageddon line, is designed to deliver rapid expansion and high accuracy, making it a formidable choice for taking down small game at various distances.
I was looking for a reliable and accurate bullet for my .243 Winchester that would be effective on coyotes and groundhogs out to 300 yards. I needed something that grouped well and provided consistent terminal performance, ethically dispatching the target animals. The Nosler Varmageddon line seemed to fit the bill perfectly.
Upon receiving the Nosler 26123 Varmageddon 6mm .243 70 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box, I was immediately impressed with the packaging and overall presentation. The bullets were neatly arranged, and the polymer tips looked pristine. They felt well-made, and the copper jackets appeared uniform, suggesting a high level of quality control.
Compared to other varmint bullets I’ve used, like the Hornady V-Max and Sierra BlitzKing, the Nosler Varmageddon seemed to strike a balance between aggressive expansion and controlled penetration. The V-Max can sometimes fragment too quickly on larger varmints like coyotes, while the BlitzKing might not always provide as rapid of an expansion on smaller targets. I chose the Nosler Varmageddon hoping for a more consistent performance across a range of varmint sizes.
My first impression was one of excitement and anticipation. These bullets looked like they meant business, and I was eager to see how they performed at the range and in the field. I felt confident that they would deliver the accuracy and terminal performance I was seeking, based on Nosler’s reputation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Nosler 26123 Varmageddon 6mm .243 70 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Nosler 26123 Varmageddon 6mm .243 70 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box primarily at my local shooting range, focusing on accuracy at 100 and 200 yards. I also used them on a recent coyote hunting trip on some private farmland. The weather conditions during testing were varied, including a sunny day with a slight breeze and a colder, overcast day with intermittent light rain.
The Nosler Varmageddon bullets performed exceptionally well in both conditions. They grouped tightly, consistently producing sub-MOA groups from my custom-built .243 Winchester rifle. Even in the light rain, the bullets maintained their accuracy and did not seem to be affected by the moisture.
These bullets were easy to load and shot consistently. I did not experience any issues with feeding or extraction during testing. They paired beautifully with my standard powder load, requiring no significant adjustments to achieve optimal performance.
After the first use, I was extremely pleased with the accuracy and consistency of the Nosler Varmageddon bullets. They lived up to their reputation and delivered the performance I had hoped for. My only initial surprise was just how tight the groups were compared to some other varmint rounds I had tested in the same rifle.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Nosler 26123 Varmageddon 6mm .243 70 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box has proven to be incredibly reliable. The bullets have held up well to repeated loading and firing. I’ve seen no significant signs of wear and tear on the jackets or tips.
The bullets have maintained their accuracy and terminal performance over time. I have used them on multiple coyote and groundhog hunts, and they have consistently delivered clean, ethical kills. The polymer tip initiates rapid expansion, creating devastating wound channels on the target animal.
Maintenance is straightforward. Since these are jacketed bullets, cleaning the rifle after use is standard. I experienced no unusual fouling or residue buildup. They outperform most other varmint bullets I’ve used in terms of consistency and terminal effectiveness on a range of target sizes.
Breaking Down the Features of Nosler 26123 Varmageddon 6mm .243 70 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box
Specifications
- The Nosler 26123 Varmageddon bullets are chambered in 6mm .243 Caliber, making them compatible with any firearm chambered for that cartridge. This is a very popular and versatile caliber, widely used for both varmint hunting and target shooting.
- These bullets have a weight of 70 grains, which is an optimal weight for achieving high velocities and flat trajectories in the .243 Winchester. This weight is light enough to provide excellent speed while still retaining sufficient energy for ethical kills on varmints.
- The bullet type is Flat Base Tipped (FBT). This design combines the benefits of a flat base for stability and a polymer tip for rapid expansion upon impact.
- The sectional density is 0.169. This specification is a measure of a bullet’s penetration ability, with a higher number indicating better penetration.
- The Varmageddon bullets feature a polymer tip. This is crucial for initiating rapid expansion, especially at longer ranges where velocity might be slightly reduced.
- Each box contains 100 bullets, providing an ample supply for practice and hunting. This quantity allows for thorough load development and extended use without needing frequent restocking.
- The bullets are made from copper, a standard material for jacketed bullets. Copper provides excellent accuracy, consistent weight, and reliable expansion.
- These bullets are proudly made in the USA. This is important to many consumers, who prefer to support American manufacturing.
Performance & Functionality
The Nosler 26123 Varmageddon 6mm .243 70 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box performs its job exceptionally well. These bullets deliver excellent accuracy, consistent expansion, and reliable terminal performance on varmints. They consistently grouped under 1 MOA in my rifle.
One of its major strengths is its rapid expansion, thanks to the polymer tip. This creates a large wound cavity and ensures a quick, ethical kill. The bullet’s flat base also contributes to its stability and accuracy, even at longer ranges.
These bullets exceeded my expectations in terms of accuracy and terminal performance. They were much more accurate in my rifle than other comparable varmint bullets. They also provided more consistent expansion on coyotes than some other options I had used in the past.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Nosler 26123 Varmageddon bullets is excellent. The materials used, including the copper jacket and polymer tip, are of high quality and consistently manufactured. The bullets feel well-balanced, and the uniform dimensions inspire confidence in their accuracy potential.
The design is simple and effective. The flat base and polymer tip are proven features that contribute to the bullet’s performance. There is virtually no learning curve associated with using these bullets.
Durability & Maintenance
These bullets are designed for single use, but they are durable enough to withstand repeated loading and firing without significant deformation. As long as proper cleaning and maintenance are carried out on the firearm after use, the Nosler Varmageddon bullets should last for many shooting sessions. The bullets do not require any special maintenance or care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Nosler 26123 Varmageddon 6mm .243 70 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box do not come with any accessories. However, they are compatible with a wide range of reloading components and firearm accessories.
These bullets can be paired with various powders, primers, and cases to tailor the load to the specific firearm. They also work well with aftermarket triggers, stocks, and optics. The .243 Winchester is a popular cartridge, so there are many compatible accessories available from various brands.
Pros and Cons of Nosler 26123 Varmageddon 6mm .243 70 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box
Pros
- Excellent Accuracy: Consistently delivers sub-MOA groups, enhancing precision at various ranges.
- Rapid Expansion: The polymer tip ensures devastating terminal effects on varmints.
- Consistent Performance: Reliable and predictable results in different weather conditions.
- High-Quality Components: Made with premium materials for enhanced durability and performance.
- Versatile Application: Effective for both target shooting and varmint hunting.
Cons
- May Be Too Destructive for Some Purposes: The rapid expansion could result in excessive damage to the pelt if harvesting for fur.
- Price: They are slightly more expensive than some other varmint bullet options.
Who Should Buy Nosler 26123 Varmageddon 6mm .243 70 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box?
The Nosler 26123 Varmageddon 6mm .243 70 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box is perfect for varmint hunters, target shooters seeking exceptional accuracy, and reloaders who demand consistent performance. It’s ideal for those who prioritize ethical kills and want a bullet that will deliver devastating terminal effects on small game. This is also a great choice for those who value high-quality components and reliable performance.
Those who prioritize pelt preservation or are looking for the absolute cheapest option should skip this product. Additionally, those who are new to reloading might find the initial load development process a bit challenging, although the readily available load data makes it manageable.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality reloading manual with load data specific to Nosler bullets. A chronograph is also highly recommended to fine-tune the load and ensure consistent velocities.
Conclusion on Nosler 26123 Varmageddon 6mm .243 70 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box
The Nosler 26123 Varmageddon 6mm .243 70 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box is an outstanding choice for anyone seeking a high-performance varmint bullet. They offer a compelling combination of accuracy, terminal performance, and reliability.
The price is justified by the quality and consistency of these bullets. While they may be slightly more expensive than some other options, the enhanced accuracy and devastating terminal effects make them worth the investment.
I would personally recommend the Nosler Varmageddon bullets without hesitation. They have consistently delivered exceptional results in my .243 Winchester rifle, and I am confident that they will perform equally well for other shooters. If you are looking for a top-tier varmint bullet that will enhance your shooting experience, then the Nosler 26123 Varmageddon is an excellent choice. Give them a try and see for yourself the difference that quality and precision can make.