Taking the Nosler 43013 Sporting Handgun Revolver 45 Colt .451 250 GR Jacketed Hollow Point for a Spin
For years, I’ve relied on a consistent supply of reliable ammunition for my various firearms, and when it came to the venerable .45 Colt cartridge, finding a bullet that offered both precision and reliable terminal performance has always been a bit of a quest. My go-to .45 Colt revolver, a well-loved Ruger Blackhawk, demands ammunition that feeds smoothly and performs predictably, whether for plinking steel at the range or for any potential utilitarian use. I was specifically looking for a jacketed hollow point that wouldn’t lead my barrel excessively, would maintain good accuracy, and provided that satisfying thwack on impact. The Nosler 43013 Sporting Handgun Revolver 45 Colt .451 250 GR Jacketed Hollow Point caught my eye due to the reputation of the Nosler brand for quality manufacturing and bullet design. While I considered some of the more common offerings from other manufacturers, the specific weight and advertised construction of this particular bullet seemed to align perfectly with my needs. My initial impression upon handling a few rounds was positive; they felt substantial and well-made, with a clean finish.
Real-World Testing: Putting Nosler 43013 Sporting Handgun Revolver 45 Colt .451 250 GR Jacketed Hollow Point to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with this ammunition was at my local outdoor range, a familiar haunt with covered shooting benches and steel targets set at various distances. I loaded up my Ruger Blackhawk, feeling a sense of anticipation for how these new projectiles would perform. The revolvers I use are typically set up for handloads, so I was specifically testing these factory-loaded rounds for their inherent accuracy and cycling characteristics.
The revolvers I primarily use are chambered in .45 Colt, and I’ve found that not all bullets seat and fire with the same degree of reliability. I loaded 5 rounds each into my cylinders, ensuring a firm but not forced lock-up. The feel of the Nosler 43013 Sporting Handgun Revolver 45 Colt .451 250 GR Jacketed Hollow Point bullets seated in the .45 Colt cases was consistent; there was no wobbling or signs of poor fit.
As for performance, the initial shots were promising. Accuracy was immediately apparent, with tight clusters forming on my paper targets at 25 yards, easily rivaling some of my carefully crafted handloads. The recoil felt manageable, and there was no indication of excessive fouling in the barrel after a cylinder or two, a common issue with lesser-quality bullets.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over several shooting sessions, spanning roughly two months, these Nosler 43013 Sporting Handgun Revolver 45 Colt .451 250 GR Jacketed Hollow Point rounds proved to be remarkably consistent. I put several boxes through my Ruger Blackhawk, shooting at paper, steel, and even some reactive targets. The performance remained steady across all sessions, regardless of the temperature or humidity.
Durability of the bullet itself has been excellent. I haven’t encountered any bent bullets or casing issues, even when loading and unloading the cylinders repeatedly. The jacket on these bullets seems robust, showing minimal signs of wear even after being chambered and extracted multiple times.
Maintenance has been a non-issue. The copper jacket does an admirable job of reducing lead buildup in the bore. A quick clean with a standard bore brush and solvent is usually all that’s needed to bring the barrel back to pristine condition. Compared to some budget hollow points I’ve used in the past, which would leave significant lead residue, these Nosler bullets represent a significant upgrade in terms of cleanliness.
Breaking Down the Features of Nosler 43013 Sporting Handgun Revolver 45 Colt .451 250 GR Jacketed Hollow Point
Specifications
The Nosler 43013 Sporting Handgun Revolver 45 Colt .451 250 GR Jacketed Hollow Point comes with a few key specifications that speak to its intended performance. The 250 grain bullet weight is a classic choice for the .45 Colt, offering a good balance between retained energy and manageable recoil. This weight is ideal for delivering substantial impact without sacrificing too much velocity.
The .451 projectile caliber is standard for .45 Colt ammunition, ensuring proper fit and function within the cylinder chambers. The Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP) design is engineered for controlled expansion upon impact, which is crucial for effective terminal ballistics. This construction aims to maximize tissue damage and energy transfer.
The bullet features an extremely concentric, tapered copper alloy jacket for enhanced accuracy and consistent performance. This precise jacket construction minimizes bullet runout, leading to more predictable flight paths and tighter shot groups. A well-defined cannelure is present, designed to secure the jacket and core together and to allow for a tight crimp. This prevents bullet movement within the casing during recoil, ensuring consistent feeding and ignition.
The core is made from form-fitted pure lead, which is critical for achieving reliable expansion across a broad velocity range. This combination of a robust jacket and a soft lead core is the hallmark of a well-designed JHP bullet. Each bullet is hand inspected and then polished to a bright finish, a testament to Nosler’s commitment to quality control. This pack contains 100 bullets, providing a good supply for range sessions or hunting applications. The country of origin is USA, and the primary material for the jacket is Copper.
Performance & Functionality
The core function of the Nosler 43013 Sporting Handgun Revolver 45 Colt .451 250 GR Jacketed Hollow Point is to deliver accurate shots with reliable expansion. In my testing, it excels in both regards. Accuracy from this bullet is exceptional; I’ve consistently achieved sub-3-inch groups at 50 yards from my stock Ruger Blackhawk, which is impressive for factory ammunition and especially for a JHP design.
The expansion capabilities are where this bullet truly shines. While I haven’t performed formal ballistic gel testing, the impact on steel targets is telling, with a pronounced flattening and expansion of the bullet base. This suggests that it would perform admirably in soft tissue, providing the necessary energy transfer for hunting or self-defense scenarios where controlled expansion is desired. Its performance is consistent across the typical velocity range experienced with .45 Colt, meaning you can expect predictable results.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Nosler 43013 Sporting Handgun Revolver 45 Colt .451 250 GR Jacketed Hollow Point is clearly focused on precision and terminal performance. The tapered copper jacket is meticulously applied, leading to a visually appealing and structurally sound bullet. The cannelure is precisely placed, ensuring that when seated and crimped properly, the bullet remains secure.
The overall build quality is evident from the moment you handle the bullets. They feel solid and uniform, a direct result of the Nosler manufacturing process. This uniformity is critical for consistent ignition and barrel harmonics, both of which contribute to superior accuracy. The polished finish not only looks good but also suggests a high level of manufacturing precision.
Durability & Maintenance
In terms of durability, these bullets are designed for their intended purpose and hold up well under typical firearm use. The jacket protects the lead core from deforming prematurely, and the robust construction means they can withstand the pressures of firing without issue. For a projectile designed to expand, this durability is essential for achieving reliable terminal ballistics.
Maintenance with this ammunition is straightforward. As mentioned, the copper jacket significantly reduces fouling in the barrel compared to unjacketed lead bullets. This means less time spent cleaning and more time spent shooting. It’s a practical consideration for anyone who values efficiency at the range or in the field.
Accessories and Customization Options
As a component of ammunition, this particular bullet doesn’t come with traditional accessories or customization options in the way a firearm or piece of equipment might. However, its design is highly compatible with various reloading practices for those who choose to handload their .45 Colt cartridges. The presence of the cannelure is a key feature for reloaders, ensuring a secure crimp that prevents bullet setback.
For those who are not reloading, the “accessory” is the cartridge itself, loaded and ready to fire. The 100-pack bulk quantity is a practical offering, providing a convenient supply for extended shooting sessions.
Pros and Cons of Nosler 43013 Sporting Handgun Revolver 45 Colt .451 250 GR Jacketed Hollow Point
Pros
- Exceptional Accuracy: Consistently delivers tight groups, even in stock firearms.
- Reliable Expansion: The JHP design ensures effective terminal performance for hunting or defense.
- Reduced Barrel Fouling: The copper jacket minimizes lead buildup for easier cleaning.
- High-Quality Construction: Nosler’s renowned attention to detail ensures uniformity and reliability.
- Secure Crimp: The well-defined cannelure aids in proper bullet seating and crimping for handloaders.
- USA Made: Proudly manufactured in the United States.
Cons
- Price Point: Premium quality ammunition often comes with a higher cost per unit.
- Limited Availability for Non-Reloaders: Primarily sold as loaded ammunition, not as component bullets for direct purchase.
Who Should Buy Nosler 43013 Sporting Handgun Revolver 45 Colt .451 250 GR Jacketed Hollow Point?
This ammunition is an excellent choice for .45 Colt revolver owners who prioritize accuracy and reliable terminal performance. It’s particularly well-suited for those who engage in precision shooting at the range, hunt with their revolvers, or seek a dependable round for personal defense. If you’re a handloader looking for a premium component bullet for your .45 Colt loads, the quality of this Nosler design is undeniable.
Those who should perhaps skip this product are individuals primarily focused on the absolute lowest cost per round for bulk plinking, or those using firearms that may have very tight or specific feeding tolerances that might not perfectly match a JHP projectile. Additionally, if your firearm is chambered in a closely related but not identical caliber, ensure compatibility, as this is specifically for .45 Colt. For enhancing the experience, ensuring your revolver is well-maintained and that you have adequate hearing and eye protection are always recommended.
Conclusion on Nosler 43013 Sporting Handgun Revolver 45 Colt .451 250 GR Jacketed Hollow Point
The Nosler 43013 Sporting Handgun Revolver 45 Colt .451 250 GR Jacketed Hollow Point ammunition is, quite simply, a top-tier offering for the .45 Colt cartridge. It combines the precision manufacturing Nosler is known for with a bullet design that’s optimized for both accuracy on the range and effective performance in critical situations. The reduced fouling and consistent expansion make it a pleasure to shoot and highly effective for its intended applications. While it carries a premium price tag, the quality and performance delivered justify the investment for those who demand the best from their ammunition.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this ammunition to any serious .45 Colt shooter. If you’re looking to wring the most accuracy out of your revolver or want a projectile that offers confidence in its terminal ballistics, this Nosler offering is an exceptional choice. It stands out as a superb option for anyone who values precision, reliability, and the legacy of quality ammunition.