.28 Nosler
The .28 Nosler is a powerful and high-performance centerfire rifle cartridge introduced in 2015 by Nosler Inc., a leading manufacturer of bullets, ammunition, and rifles. Designed as a versatile and efficient 7mm (.284 inch) caliber option, the .28 Nosler aims to provide hunters and long-range shooters with superior ballistics, flat trajectory, and effective terminal performance, making it an attractive choice for a variety of applications.
The .28 Nosler is based on a shortened and necked-down .404 Jeffery case, featuring a rebated rim and 35-degree shoulder angle. This design allows for a higher powder capacity, resulting in impressive muzzle velocities and enhanced downrange performance. The cartridge typically utilizes bullet weights ranging from 150 to 195 grains, with muzzle velocities reaching up to 3,100 to 3,400 feet per second, depending on the specific load and bullet weight.
One of the key advantages of the .28 Nosler is its high ballistic coefficient and sectional density, which contribute to a flat trajectory, excellent wind resistance, and deep penetration capabilities. These characteristics make the cartridge highly effective for taking down medium to large-sized game, such as deer, elk, moose, and bear, at extended ranges, while offering manageable recoil compared to some other magnum cartridges.
In addition to its hunting applications, the .28 Nosler has gained recognition among long-range shooting enthusiasts for its inherent accuracy and consistent performance, making it a viable option for target shooting and competition events. The cartridge’s performance can be further optimized with the use of modern, high-quality bullets and propellants.
Factory-loaded ammunition for the .28 Nosler is available from Nosler and a few other manufacturers, while handloaders have access to a wide range of .284 caliber bullets and reloading data, allowing them to customize their ammunition for specific hunting or shooting situations.
