Nosler Varmageddon .22 Caliber 55 GR FBT – 100 Count Review

Taking the Nosler 17240 Varmageddon 22 Caliber .224 55 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box for a Spin

The Nosler 17240 Varmageddon 22 Caliber .224 55 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box promises devastating terminal performance for varmint hunters and target shooters alike. Nosler is a name synonymous with quality, and the Varmageddon line aims to deliver accuracy and explosive results at an affordable price. This review will delve into whether these bullets live up to the hype, examining their performance in real-world conditions.

My varmint hunting has grown exponentially in the past several years. I was searching for a reliable and accurate bullet that would deliver consistent results on small game without breaking the bank. I wanted a bullet that would expand rapidly and efficiently, ensuring quick, humane kills.

Upon unboxing, the bullets appeared consistent in shape and size, with a clean polymer tip and well-formed flat base. The copper jackets looked uniform, and there were no visible imperfections. The packaging was simple but effective, protecting the bullets from damage during transit.

I considered using Hornady V-Max bullets, but I wanted to give the Nosler Varmageddon a try due to Nosler‘s reputation for quality and the promising design. I also looked at Sierra BlitzKing bullets, but the price point of the Varmageddon was a deciding factor. My initial impression was excitement; they appeared to be well-made bullets that could deliver excellent performance for the price.

Real-World Testing: Putting Nosler 17240 Varmageddon 22 Caliber .224 55 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Nosler Varmageddon bullets at a local shooting range and on a prairie dog hunt in Wyoming. The range testing focused on accuracy at 100 yards, while the prairie dog hunt was the ultimate test of terminal performance. The bullets performed exceptionally well in both environments.

The conditions during the prairie dog hunt were typical for Wyoming: sunny, windy, and dusty. Despite the wind, the bullets maintained good accuracy, and the terminal performance was devastating. The bullets were easy to load and functioned flawlessly in my .223 rifle. After the first range session, I was immediately impressed with the accuracy and lack of malfunctions.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Nosler Varmageddon bullets have proven to be reliable and consistent. I’ve fired hundreds of rounds with no issues related to the bullets themselves. The consistency in accuracy and terminal performance is remarkable.

I haven’t noticed any significant signs of wear and tear on my rifle from using these bullets. They’ve been easy to clean, and there has been minimal fouling in the barrel. These bullets have exceeded my expectations. They are significantly better than some of the cheaper bulk .223 rounds I’ve used in the past.

Breaking Down the Features of Nosler 17240 Varmageddon 22 Caliber .224 55 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box

Specifications

• Caliber: .22 Caliber (.224 diameter). This is a standard size for .223 Remington and 5.56mm NATO rifles, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of firearms.
• Weight: 55 grain. This weight provides a good balance of velocity and ballistic coefficient for varmint hunting at moderate ranges.
• Bullet Type: Flat Base Tipped (FBT). The flat base provides stability during flight, while the polymer tip initiates rapid expansion upon impact.
• Construction: Copper jacket with a lead core. This construction ensures reliable feeding and consistent performance.
• Quantity: 100 bullets per box. This is a convenient quantity for reloading and stocking up for extended shooting sessions.
• Country of Origin: USA. This ensures high-quality manufacturing standards and materials.

These specifications matter because they contribute to the bullet’s accuracy, terminal performance, and overall reliability. The Flat Base Tipped (FBT) design is particularly important for varmint hunting, as it promotes rapid expansion and devastating wound channels. The consistent weight and dimensions of the bullets ensure consistent accuracy and reliable feeding in semi-automatic rifles.

Performance & Functionality

The Nosler 17240 Varmageddon 22 Caliber .224 55 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box performs exceptionally well as a varmint hunting bullet. The bullets are accurate, reliable, and deliver devastating terminal performance on small game. They meet and exceed expectations for a bullet in this price range.

The strengths include their accuracy, consistency, and explosive expansion. The weakness is that in very windy conditions, the light weight can be more affected than heavier projectiles.

Design & Ergonomics

The bullets are designed with a simple and effective profile, optimized for both accuracy and terminal performance. The polymer tip is cleanly molded and provides a consistent point of impact. The materials used are of high quality, and the bullets feel well-made and durable.

There is no learning curve associated with using these bullets; they are easy to load and perform consistently in a variety of rifles.

Durability & Maintenance

As bullets, they are inherently durable before firing. They don’t require any maintenance besides proper storage to prevent corrosion. The bullets are clean-burning and don’t leave excessive fouling in the barrel.

Accessories and Customization Options

As bullets, there are no specific accessories that come with the Nosler 17240 Varmageddon 22 Caliber .224 55 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box. They are compatible with standard .223 Remington reloading dies and equipment. You can customize your load by adjusting powder charges, seating depths, and crimp tension.

They work with any standard AR-15 magazine designed for .223/5.56.

Pros and Cons of Nosler 17240 Varmageddon 22 Caliber .224 55 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box

Who Should Buy Nosler 17240 Varmageddon 22 Caliber .224 55 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box?

These bullets are perfect for varmint hunters and target shooters looking for an affordable and reliable option. They are ideal for use on prairie dogs, groundhogs, squirrels, and other small game. This bullet is a great choice for reloaders seeking consistent accuracy and explosive terminal effects.

Anyone hunting larger game, like deer or hogs, or someone needing deep penetration, should skip this product. A different bullet design would be more appropriate.

A must-have modification, for reloaders, would be a high-quality set of .223 Remington reloading dies.

Conclusion on Nosler 17240 Varmageddon 22 Caliber .224 55 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box

The Nosler 17240 Varmageddon 22 Caliber .224 55 GR Flat Base Tipped (FBT) 100 Box is an excellent choice for varmint hunters and target shooters who want performance without emptying their wallets. The accuracy, consistency, and terminal performance of these bullets are impressive, especially considering their price point. The value proposition is excellent.

I would highly recommend these bullets to anyone looking for a reliable and effective varmint hunting option. If you are a varmint hunter or target shooter seeking a high-quality, affordable bullet, I urge you to give the Nosler Varmageddon a try. You won’t be disappointed!