Introduction
Explore the Nosler Custom Competition, a precision bullet designed for competitive shooters who prioritize accuracy and consistency at extended ranges. Introduced by Nosler, Inc. in Bend, Oregon, the Custom Competition features a lead-core construction with advanced jacket technology, complying with standard range regulations.
Renowned for its high ballistic coefficient and precise manufacturing, the Custom Competition delivers exceptional long-range performance, making it a top choice for precision rifle competitors in disciplines like PRS and F-Class. Its aerodynamic design ensures reliable results across varied shooting scenarios, from calm ranges to windy conditions.
- Caliber Range: Available from .224 to .338 inches, supporting cartridges like .223 Remington, 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Winchester, and .300 Winchester Magnum.
- Weight Options: Spans 52 to 300 grains, with key variants like 77-grain .224, 140-grain 6.5mm, and 168-grain .308.
- Target Focus: Optimized for minimal dispersion and stable flight, ideal for long-range competition at 600+ yards.
Technical Characteristics
The Nosler Custom Competition is crafted for shooters seeking unmatched precision and reliability. Its advanced design and features make it a standout in competitive shooting.
- Hollow-Point Design: Features a small meplat for reduced drag and increased aerodynamic efficiency.
- Custom Quality Jacket: Engineered to exhibit unmatched accuracy with ultra-precise construction.
- Form-Fitted Lead-Alloy Core: Provides maximum bullet stability and balance.
- Boat-Tail Profile: Pronounced boat-tail design enhances flight characteristics over a wide range of velocities.
- Velocity and Range: Optimized for muzzle velocities of 2,500-3,500 fps, effective to 1,000+ yards with excellent wind resistance.
- Reduced Fouling: Smooth jacket reduces barrel fouling by 10-15% compared to standard match bullets, extending cleaning intervals.
Reloading demands precision, using standard dies and SAAMI-compliant COAL to manage pressures. Maintain case neck tension (0.002-0.004″) for optimal accuracy, as the Custom Competition’s sensitive design excels in competition but requires careful load development.
Ballistics and Performance
With G1 BCs ranging from 0.220 to 0.800, the Custom Competition offers strong long-range stability and wind resistance, supported by high sectional density for minimal drop. Field tests show a 140-grain 6.5mm Custom Competition achieving 0.3-0.5 MOA at 600 yards with ES/SD under 10 fps from a 1:8 twist barrel. The 77-grain .224 is ideal for mid-range targets, while the 168-grain .308 excels for extreme long-range, maintaining velocity to 1,000 yards.
The Expert Ballistics Table below lists key Custom Competition variants from Nosler specifications, sorted by diameter then weight. BCs are G1; verify on Nosler’s site for updates.
| Diameter (inches) | Weight (grains) | Ballistic Coefficient (BC) | Sectional Density |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.224 | 52 | 0.220 | 0.148 |
| 0.224 | 69 | 0.305 | 0.196 |
| 0.224 | 77 | 0.340 | 0.219 |
| 0.224 | 80 | 0.415 | 0.228 |
| 0.243 | 107 | 0.525 | 0.259 |
| 0.264 | 123 | 0.510 | 0.252 |
| 0.264 | 140 | 0.529 | 0.287 |
| 0.277 | 115 | 0.375 | 0.214 |
| 0.284 | 168 | 0.520 | 0.298 |
| 0.308 | 155 | 0.450 | 0.233 |
| 0.308 | 168 | 0.462 | 0.253 |
| 0.308 | 175 | 0.505 | 0.264 |
| 0.308 | 190 | 0.530 | 0.286 |
| 0.308 | 220 | 0.690 | 0.331 |
| 0.323 | 200 | 0.520 | 0.273 |
| 0.338 | 250 | 0.590 | 0.313 |
| 0.338 | 300 | 0.800 | 0.375 |
Groups of 0.3-0.5 MOA achievable; excels to 1,000 yards with proper shot placement.
Comparison Bullets
The Custom Competition competes with Berger Hybrid Target (hybrid ogive) and Hornady A-Tip Match (aluminum-tipped). Its BCs (0.220-0.800) are comparable to Berger (0.524-0.841) and A-Tip (0.500-0.850), offering solid long-range performance. The Custom Competition’s consistency matches A-Tip at mid-range but trails Berger by 5-10% in wind drift at 800+ yards. Against Berger 109gr 6mm, the Custom Competition 107gr 6mm drops 5% more at 800 yards; versus A-Tip 110gr 6mm, it shows similar grouping but 5% lower BC in some weights. Advantages: affordable ($0.30-$0.50 per bullet), proven reliability. Drawbacks: slightly lower BC than Berger, less jump tolerance.
| Bullet | Diameter Range (inches) | Weight Range (grains) | BC Range | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nosler Custom Competition | 0.224-0.338 | 52-300 | 0.220-0.800 | Hollow point, boat tail |
| Berger Hybrid Target | 0.224-0.375 | 85-410 | 0.524-0.841 | Hybrid ogive, consistent BC |
| Hornady A-Tip Match | 0.224-0.338 | 90-250 | 0.500-0.850 | Aluminum tip, low drag |
Field reports show Custom Competition matching A-Tip in accuracy but trailing Berger by 0.2 MOA at 800 yards.
Applications and Practical Aspects
Ideal for target:
- 69-80gr .224 for mid-range PRS;
- 107gr 6mm for 600-800 yard competition;
- 123-140gr 6.5mm for long-range F-Class;
- 168gr 7mm for extreme distance;
- 155-220gr .308 for 1,000+ yard targets.
Delivers 0.3-0.5 MOA in tuned rifles, ideal for precise scoring.
Reloading
- Load Data: Refer to Nosler’s reloading manual or website for Custom Competition-specific data, as the hollow-point design requires precise velocity management for stability.
- Starting Charges: Begin 5-10% below maximum loads for comparable match bullets to avoid over-pressure; increase gradually while checking for pressure signs.
- Seating Consistency: Ensure precise seating depths (0.010-0.050″ off lands) to maximize accuracy, as the Custom Competition’s profile is sensitive to inconsistencies.
- Crimp Application: Apply a light crimp if needed for secure bullet retention, particularly in semi-auto rifles, ensuring reliable feeding.
- Barrel Twist Compatibility: Match barrel twist rate to Custom Competition weight (e.g., 1:12 for 77gr .224, 1:8 for 140gr 6.5mm) for proper stabilization and optimal accuracy.
- Velocity Check: Chronograph to confirm velocities above 2,500 fps for stable flight, targeting extreme spreads under 10 fps.
- Storage: Store in sealed containers to protect from moisture; suitable for all competition applications per design.
Conclusion
Nosler Custom Competition is a premier precision bullet, combining reliable ballistic coefficients with exceptional consistency. Its performance and affordability make it ideal for competitive shooters targeting long-range accuracy. Visit official website.
