Nosler 35631 Varmageddon 22 Caliber .224 62 GR Flat Base Hollow Point (FBHP) 10 Review

The Truth About Using the Nosler 35631 Varmageddon 22 Caliber .224 62 GR Flat Base Hollow Point (FBHP) 10

For years, I’ve relied on Nosler bullets for their reputation for quality, consistency, and outright reliability, and the Nosler 35631 Varmageddon 22 Caliber .224 62 GR Flat Base Hollow Point (FBHP) 10 is no exception. My workbench, whether at home, in the field, or within the controlled environment of a lab, demands precision and predictable performance, making component selection critical. The specific need that led me to this particular bullet was a desire for a heavier-for-caliber option in .224 that could offer robust terminal performance without compromising ballistic efficiency. I’d previously experimented with lighter, faster projectiles but found them lacking in certain critical areas, particularly in terms of retained energy and expansion on medium-sized varmints at longer ranges.

Initial impressions of these Varmageddon bullets were very positive. The copper jacket appears uniform, and the flat base design, while less common in high-performance rifle bullets these days, suggests a focus on stability and predictable flight. There’s a certain heft to the 62 grain weight that feels substantial, a departure from the often-fragile nature of some varmint bullets. Compared to some other manufacturers’ offerings, which often feature polymer tips or boattail designs, Nosler’s approach here feels more traditional yet technologically advanced, promising a solid balance of speed and terminal effect. My immediate reaction was one of quiet optimism; this felt like a component that was engineered with a clear purpose in mind.

Real-World Testing: Putting Nosler 35631 Varmageddon 22 Caliber .224 62 GR Flat Base Hollow Point (FBHP) 10 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of these Nosler Varmageddon bullets took place at my local outdoor range, specifically from a bench rest setup designed for accuracy testing. I was loading them into .223 Remington brass, aiming to push them through a moderately fast-twist barrel known for its ability to stabilize heavier projectiles. The goal was to assess both extreme accuracy at 100 yards and to get a feel for how they grouped at longer distances, say 300 yards.

Performance was remarkably consistent across the board. Even with standard reloading practices, these flat base hollow point projectiles showed an immediate propensity for tight groupings. The velocities achieved were respectable, and more importantly, they remained consistent from shot to shot, indicating excellent uniformity in manufacturing. There were no surprising flyers or erratic behavior, which is always a welcome sign when working with new components.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several reloading sessions and subsequent range visits, these Varmageddon bullets have proven their mettle. I’ve now loaded and fired well over a hundred of these rounds, and the performance hasn’t degraded. The copper jacket has shown no signs of unusual wear or deformation during the seating or crimping process, even when subjected to moderate press forces.

Maintenance for loaded ammunition is, of course, minimal. However, the ease with which they load and the consistent accuracy they provide mean less time troubleshooting and more time actually shooting. Compared to some other varmint bullets I’ve used that sometimes required very precise seating depths or delicate handling, these 62 grain FBHP rounds from Nosler are refreshingly straightforward. Their reliability in consistently producing tight groups over multiple range days, even after being handled and stored, speaks volumes about their quality.

Breaking Down the Features of Nosler 35631 Varmageddon 22 Caliber .224 62 GR Flat Base Hollow Point (FBHP) 10

Specifications

The Nosler 35631 Varmageddon 22 Caliber .224 62 GR Flat Base Hollow Point (FBHP) 10 comes with a clear set of specifications that are crucial for any reloader. Each bullet is precisely engineered to a 62 grain weight, a significant factor for achieving both accuracy and effective terminal ballistics in the .224 caliber. The projectile caliber is standard .224, making it compatible with a vast array of rifle barrels in popular cartridges like the .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO.

These projectiles feature a Flat Base Hollow Point (FBHP) design, which is key to their intended performance. The flat base promotes good stability at moderate to high velocities, while the hollow point cavity is engineered for rapid expansion upon impact. The sectional density of 0.176 is respectable for this weight and caliber, indicating good penetration potential combined with expansion. Finally, the offering of a 100 Bullet quantity provides a good starting point for reloaders, offering enough rounds for serious load development and initial field testing without committing to a massive bulk purchase.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its core function, the Nosler 35631 Varmageddon 22 Caliber .224 62 GR Flat Base Hollow Point (FBHP) 10 excels. When properly loaded, these bullets deliver exceptional accuracy, consistently producing sub-MOA groups at 100 yards from a well-tuned rifle. Their primary job is varmint elimination, and they perform admirably in this role, demonstrating rapid and decisive terminal effects.

The hollow point design reliably initiates expansion, leading to significant wound channels. This means that small to medium varmints are typically dispatched quickly and humanely. The 62 grain weight also provides a good balance of retained energy downrange, offering better performance at moderate to longer distances compared to lighter bullets. I experienced very few, if any, instances of the bullet failing to expand or over-penetrating without significant tissue damage.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of these Nosler Varmageddon bullets emphasizes function over form, but this doesn’t detract from their effectiveness. The flat base is a departure from more aerodynamically optimized designs, but it contributes to excellent stability, particularly at the muzzle and in flight. The copper jacket is smoothly finished, aiding in consistent seating and minimizing barrel fouling.

From a reloading perspective, the flat base makes them straightforward to seat; there’s no complex seating profile to worry about. The hollow point cavity is precise and symmetrical, which is crucial for predictable expansion. While not “ergonomic” in the traditional sense of a tool, the consistent symmetry and quality of manufacture translate directly into a predictable and reliable shooting experience, which is the ultimate ergonomic benefit for a projectile.

Durability & Maintenance

As bullets themselves, the durability and maintenance aspects are primarily about how they withstand the reloading process and their inherent resistance to deformation. The Nosler 35631 Varmageddon 22 Caliber .224 62 GR Flat Base Hollow Point (FBHP) 10 bullets have proven to be quite robust. I’ve seated them multiple times without noticing any significant jacket separation or deformation from standard press operation.

The copper jacket appears to be of good thickness, offering reasonable protection against barrel leading, though as with any projectile, a clean barrel is always recommended for optimal performance. There are no intricate parts to maintain; their longevity is tied to their initial quality and how they are handled before being fired. They are, in essence, a consumable component, but the quality of manufacture suggests they will perform consistently throughout their intended lifespan as a projectile.

Accessories and Customization Options

These Nosler Varmageddon bullets are, by nature, components intended for handloaders. As such, they don’t come with accessories in the traditional sense. However, the primary “customization” lies within the reloading process itself. The 62 grain FBHP bullet is designed to be compatible with standard dies and processes for the .224 caliber.

Reloaders can customize their loads by adjusting powder charges, primers, and even case preparation techniques to optimize accuracy and velocity for their specific firearm. The 100-pack bulk option is a practical choice for those who plan on developing a dedicated load and want a sufficient supply. For those seeking to maximize performance, researching and selecting appropriate powders known for their stability with heavier .224 bullets would be the most impactful “accessory.”

Pros and Cons of Nosler 35631 Varmageddon 22 Caliber .224 62 GR Flat Base Hollow Point (FBHP) 10

Who Should Buy Nosler 35631 Varmageddon 22 Caliber .224 62 GR Flat Base Hollow Point (FBHP) 10?

This bullet is an excellent choice for dedicated varmint hunters and precision rifle shooters who reload their own ammunition. If you own a .223 Remington, 5.56 NATO, or other .224 caliber rifle with a twist rate capable of stabilizing a 62 grain bullet, and your primary target is prairie dogs, groundhogs, or similar small to medium-sized varmints, these are a fantastic option. They are also well-suited for reloaders looking to develop a highly accurate load for practice or competition where kinetic energy transfer is a consideration.

Those who should probably skip these Nosler Varmageddon bullets are individuals looking for projectiles for larger game hunting, as they lack the necessary penetration characteristics. Additionally, shooters who prefer factory ammunition or are not involved in handloading will find these components unusable on their own. For those who do opt for these bullets, ensuring you have a rifle with at least a 1:9″ or faster twist rate is crucial for optimal stability and accuracy.

Conclusion on Nosler 35631 Varmageddon 22 Caliber .224 62 GR Flat Base Hollow Point (FBHP) 10

The Nosler 35631 Varmageddon 22 Caliber .224 62 GR Flat Base Hollow Point (FBHP) 10 represents a superb blend of accuracy, terminal performance, and manufacturing quality. For the handloader dedicated to varmint control or precision shooting in the .224 caliber, these bullets deliver reliably. Their consistent performance and the reputable Nosler name behind them justify the investment, especially when you factor in the ability to tailor loads for your specific firearm.

The value proposition is strong for those who appreciate well-engineered components that translate directly into tangible results on the range or in the field. I would wholeheartedly recommend these Nosler Varmageddon bullets to any experienced handloader looking for a highly accurate, effective, and reliable projectile for varminting. If you’re looking to squeeze the most accuracy and terminal performance out of your .224 caliber rifle for smaller quarry, this 100-pack bulk offering is an excellent choice that won’t disappoint.