.22 NOSLER Review & Shoot 100-500 Yards

Published on January 22, 2026
Duration: 10:29

This comprehensive review by Buckeye Ballistics details the build and performance of a custom AR-15 chambered in .22 Nosler. The host, demonstrating high authority, provides practical insights into handloading, long-range accuracy out to 500 yards, and compares the .22 Nosler's capabilities against the 5.56 NATO. The review highlights the rifle's accuracy, light recoil, and the effectiveness of specific components like the Midway USA barrel and Vortex optic.

Quick Summary

The .22 Nosler cartridge offers superior performance over the 5.56 NATO due to its larger case capacity and higher velocity, enabling easier and more consistent hits on targets at extended ranges like 500 yards. A custom AR-15 build featuring an STS lower, Blackhawk furniture, and a Midway USA barrel demonstrated excellent accuracy and manageable recoil, comparable to 5.56 NATO.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Rifle Build Overview
  2. 00:48.22 Nosler vs. 5.56 NATO
  3. 01:08Range Setup
  4. 01:43Initial Shooting & Recoil
  5. 02:39100-Yard Accuracy
  6. 03:18Long Range Engagement
  7. 08:21Final Performance Assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the advantages of the .22 Nosler cartridge over the 5.56 NATO?

The .22 Nosler boasts a wider case for increased capacity and higher muzzle velocity compared to the 5.56 NATO. This translates to better performance at longer ranges, making it significantly easier to hit targets at distances like 500 yards.

What components were used in the custom .22 Nosler AR-15 build?

The custom AR-15 build featured an STS lower receiver, Blackhawk furniture, and a Midway USA fluted stainless barrel. It was chambered in .22 Nosler and required 6.8 SPC magazines due to its case dimensions.

How accurate is the .22 Nosler at 500 yards?

With proper handloads (e.g., 29.5 gr TAC, 55 gr Varmageddon) achieving 3345 fps, and precise MOA adjustments calculated using ballistic data, the .22 Nosler demonstrated excellent accuracy, allowing for consistent hits on steel targets at 500 yards.

What is the felt recoil like for the .22 Nosler?

The felt recoil for the .22 Nosler is surprisingly light, often described as similar to a 5.56 NATO. This is further mitigated by the use of a muzzle brake, making the rifle comfortable to shoot even during extended range sessions.

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