Let’s Talk About Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP
The Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP is designed for one purpose: to obliterate varmints. From the trusted name of Nosler, known for their quality hunting bullets, these .17 HMR rounds promise rapid expansion and devastating terminal performance. It’s a bullet built for accuracy and explosive effect.
My search for the perfect varmint round began years ago, plagued by rounds that either zipped right through or lacked the consistency needed for longer shots on prairie dogs. I was looking for something that could deliver a quick, ethical kill and minimize the chance of ricochets in populated areas. The Nosler Varmageddon seemed to fit the bill, promising a balance of accuracy and explosive terminal ballistics.
Upon opening the box, the bullets looked incredibly uniform and well-made. The flat base hollow point design was clean and consistent across the entire batch. They felt lighter than some other .17 HMR rounds I’ve handled, which piqued my interest in their potential for higher velocities.
Compared to CCI A17 Varmint Tip, which is also designed for rapid expansion, the Nosler Varmageddon has a more traditional hollow point design, whereas the CCI utilizes a polymer tip. I also considered Hornady VMAX, another popular varmint round. I picked the Nosler rounds hoping the flat base hollow point would provide more consistent accuracy at longer ranges compared to the VMAX polymer tip.
My initial impression was excitement mixed with cautious optimism. I’ve been burned before by promises of “explosive” performance that didn’t pan out in the field. But the Nosler name carries weight, and I was eager to see if these bullets would live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test with the Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP was at my local shooting range, primarily focused on accuracy and chronographing to verify the advertised velocities. I used my Savage A17 rifle with a Vortex Diamondback Tactical scope. The weather was clear and calm, ideal for consistent shooting.
The Nosler rounds proved easy to load and cycled flawlessly through my rifle. The accuracy was immediately apparent, with tight groupings at 50 yards and respectable performance at 100 yards. No issues were noted during this first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of using the Nosler Varmageddon bullets for both target practice and varmint hunting, I’ve been thoroughly impressed with their performance. They’ve consistently delivered the accuracy and terminal ballistics I was hoping for. No issues regarding wear, tear, or maintenance have been noticed.
I have noticed no signs of significant wear and tear on the bullets themselves. Standard cleaning procedures for my rifle after each shooting session have kept everything in excellent condition. The Nosler rounds have consistently outperformed other .17 HMR rounds I’ve used in the past, particularly in terms of terminal performance on small game.
Breaking Down the Features of Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP
Specifications
- Caliber: .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire. The .17 HMR caliber is known for its flat trajectory and high velocity, making it ideal for varmint hunting at moderate ranges.
- Bullet Weight: 20 grain. The 20-grain bullet weight offers a good balance of velocity and energy, ensuring effective terminal performance on small game.
- Bullet Type: Flat Base Hollow Point (FBHP). The FBHP design promotes rapid expansion upon impact, delivering significant energy transfer and minimizing over-penetration.
- Projectile Caliber: .17 Caliber. This is standard for the .17 HMR cartridge.
- Bullet Quantity: 250 Bullets. The 250-bullet quantity is suitable for several range sessions or small varmint hunting trips.
- Manufacturer: Nosler. Nosler’s reputation for quality and consistency ensures reliable performance.
- Country of Origin: USA. This signifies quality manufacturing and adherence to strict standards.
Performance & Functionality
The Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP performs exceptionally well in its intended role as a varmint hunting round. The accuracy is impressive, allowing for precise shot placement even at longer ranges. The rapid expansion ensures quick and ethical kills.
The Nosler rounds deliver consistent accuracy and reliable terminal performance. The primary weakness might be wind drift due to the light bullet weight, requiring accurate wind calls at longer distances. The round meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Nosler Varmageddon bullets are designed with a focus on functionality. The flat base and hollow point are optimized for accuracy and expansion. The weight is consistent throughout the box, showing good manufacturing quality.
The bullets are user-friendly, requiring no special loading or handling procedures. There is no real learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP is not subject to wear and tear. Proper storage in a dry environment is necessary.
The bullets themselves do not require maintenance or repair. The brass casing can be recycled after use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP doesn’t have accessories. Reloading is not recommended for rimfire ammunition, limiting customization.
This round is compatible with any .17 HMR rifle. There are no specific brand limitations regarding rifle compatibility.
Pros and Cons of Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy for a .17 HMR round, allowing for precise shot placement.
- Rapid expansion ensures quick and ethical kills on small varmints.
- Consistent performance from round to round, minimizing unexpected deviations.
- High velocity provides a flat trajectory, extending effective range.
- Quality manufacturing from Nosler guarantees reliability.
Cons
- Lighter bullet weight can be more susceptible to wind drift at longer ranges.
- Terminal performance may be excessive for very small or fragile targets.
Who Should Buy Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP?
The Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP is perfect for varmint hunters targeting prairie dogs, ground squirrels, and other similar-sized pests. It’s also a great choice for recreational shooters who enjoy accurate and explosive target practice.
This product might not be ideal for hunters seeking deep penetration on larger game or those who prioritize minimal pelt damage. There are no must-have accessories, but a quality scope and a stable shooting platform will maximize the bullet’s potential.
Conclusion on Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP
The Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP is an outstanding varmint round that delivers on its promise of accuracy and explosive terminal performance. The price of $69.02 is justified by the quality, consistency, and effectiveness of these bullets. It offers a good blend of performance and value.
I would absolutely recommend the Nosler Varmageddon to anyone looking for a reliable and devastatingly effective .17 HMR round for varmint hunting or target shooting. Don’t let those pesky varmints win; equip yourself with the Nosler Varmageddon and experience the difference!