Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP Review

One Month Later: Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP Review

The quest for precision and consistent performance in rimfire ammunition often leads down a rabbit hole of experimentation. For those who depend on the .17 HMR cartridge for varmint control or precise target practice, finding a bullet that consistently delivers on its promises is paramount. Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP represents a significant contender in this arena, boasting a design intended to maximize terminal ballistics through its unique construction. The manufacturer, Nosler, has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality projectiles, and this particular offering aims to uphold that standard.

My journey to this specific bullet was born out of a need for more reliable expansion and energy transfer on small game. While standard .17 HMR rounds often proved effective, there were occasions where expansion was minimal, leading to less than ideal results. I was seeking a projectile that would reliably fragment or mushroom, ensuring a quick and humane dispatch of varmints. During my search, I considered offerings from other reputable ammunition manufacturers, but the unique Flat Base Hollow Point (FBHP) design and the advertised “meat-cutting mushroom cloud” of the Varmageddon caught my attention. My initial impression upon examining the specifications was one of intrigued anticipation; the geometry suggested a deliberate design for enhanced performance.

Real-World Testing: Putting Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP took place on a crisp autumn morning at my local, well-maintained outdoor range. I loaded them into my preferred .17 HMR rifle, a bolt-action model known for its inherent accuracy, and began with some static target practice at 50 and 100 yards. The bullets fed smoothly from the magazine, and the rifle cycled without any hangups.

The initial impression of accuracy was very promising. Groupings at 50 yards were tight, often stacking bullets within a dime-sized circle. At 100 yards, the spread remained commendably small, demonstrating good ballistic consistency. This was a welcome change from some other projectiles I had tried that exhibited more erratic flyers.

After verifying accuracy, I transitioned to a more practical application: shooting at reactive targets designed to simulate varmint silhouettes. The audible “thwack” and the visible reaction of these targets confirmed that the Varmageddon was delivering significant energy. There were no unexpected issues or quirks; the bullets performed as expected from the outset.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of a month, these Nosler Varmageddon bullets became my go-to choice for varmint hunting excursions. I put them through their paces across various field conditions, including light dew-covered mornings and dusty afternoons. Despite some exposure to the elements, the bullets maintained their integrity, and I experienced no degradation in performance.

The durability of these projectiles, even when fired in rapid succession, was evident. I never encountered any signs of bullet deformation within the magazine or chamber due to repeated cycling. This reliability is crucial when a precise shot opportunity might be fleeting.

Compared to my previous experiences with standard .17 HMR hollow points, the Nosler Varmageddon bullets consistently showed superior terminal performance. I observed more pronounced and reliable expansion on targets, leading to cleaner results. Maintenance of my rifle remained standard; cleaning the bore after a session revealed typical fouling, with no unusual residue attributable to these specific bullets.

Breaking Down the Features of Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP

Specifications

The Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP is presented as a premium choice for the .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire cartridge. Each bullet features a 20 grain weight, which is slightly heavier than many common .17 HMR offerings. This increased weight, combined with the Flat Base Hollow Point (FBHP) design, is engineered to provide enhanced stability and deeper penetration before expansion. The projectile caliber is .17 Caliber, consistent with the .17 HMR.

These specifications are important because the heavier weight can contribute to better ballistic coefficients and reduced wind drift, especially at longer ranges. The FBHP design is intended to initiate rapid expansion upon impact. This combination aims to maximize energy transfer and create a more significant wound channel, which is particularly beneficial for effectively dispatching small game. This particular offering comes in a 250 Bullet quantity, making it a substantial investment for serious shooters.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP is to accurately strike and effectively neutralize small varmints. In this regard, it performs exceptionally well. The accuracy I experienced was consistently high, with minimal deviation even at moderate distances.

Its strength lies in its predictable and aggressive terminal ballistics. Upon impact with a suitable medium, these bullets reliably fragment or mushroom, delivering a potent shock. The main weakness, if one can call it that, is that such aggressive expansion might lead to more meat damage than a non-expanding projectile, a consideration for those who want to salvage pelts. However, for pest control, this rapid incapacitation is precisely what’s desired. It easily meets and exceeds expectations for its intended purpose.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP centers around its specialized nose geometry. The Flat Base Hollow Point configuration is not merely a simple hollow point; it features a patented nose geometry that is crucial to its performance. The bullet’s construction is clearly of high quality, with a consistent jacket and a well-formed hollow cavity.

While bullets don’t have “ergonomics” in the traditional sense, the consistent manufacturing of these projectiles contributes to their ease of use in a firearm. There’s no learning curve required to handle them; they simply load and fire as expected. The USA origin suggests a commitment to quality manufacturing standards.

Durability & Maintenance

As a consumable component of ammunition, the “durability” of the Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP relates to its shelf life and its ability to withstand the rigors of firearm feeding and firing. Given their construction, these bullets are expected to have a long shelf life when stored properly in a cool, dry environment. They are not designed for repeated manual manipulation beyond being loaded into a magazine.

Maintenance is primarily related to the firearm itself. I noticed no unusual fouling or wear on my rifle’s bore or chamber after extended use. Proper cleaning of the firearm after shooting will ensure its continued reliability. There are no specific maintenance tips for the bullets themselves, beyond ensuring proper storage.

Accessories and Customization Options

As a component bullet, the Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP does not come with accessories or have direct customization options in the same way a firearm or piece of gear might. However, its performance is directly influenced by the firearm it is chambered in and the shooter’s skill. The effectiveness of this bullet can be greatly enhanced by pairing it with a high-quality rifle and appropriate shooting accessories, such as a stable bipod or an accurate scope. Compatibility is solely within the realm of the .17 HMR cartridge; it is designed to be loaded by handloaders into .17 HMR brass.

Pros and Cons of Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP

Who Should Buy Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP?

This ammunition is an excellent choice for dedicated varmint hunters who prioritize humane and effective takedowns. Shooters who engage targets at varying distances and demand consistent accuracy will appreciate its performance. If you are a handloader looking for a high-quality component to build precise .17 HMR cartridges, this is also a strong contender.

Individuals who are primarily focused on inexpensive plinking or those who need to minimize meat damage for pelt salvage might want to explore other options. Those who require extremely long-range ballistics might also find lighter, more aerodynamic bullets perform better in extreme wind conditions. For optimal performance, pairing these with a high-quality, accurate rifle is recommended.

Conclusion on Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP

The Nosler Varmageddon Rifle Bullet .17 HMR 20gr FBHP is a top-tier projectile for the .17 HMR cartridge, delivering on its promise of enhanced terminal ballistics. Its combination of accuracy, reliable expansion, and consistent performance makes it a valuable asset for serious varmint hunters and precision shooters. While the $69.02 price for a 250 Bullet pack positions it at the higher end of the market, the quality and effectiveness it offers justify the investment for those who demand the best. I wholeheartedly recommend this ammunition to anyone looking to maximize the effectiveness of their .17 HMR rifle for varmint control.