You have probably never seen a handgun like this before. This ain’t no compact pistol that’s for sure. The new Model 48 Nosler Custom Handgun (NCH), designed for handgun hunting/varminting and long-range silhouette duties, features a rifle-size bolt action, combined with a 15″ barrel. The billet aluminum stock takes AR-type pistol grips. The fore-end is long enough to work well on a front rest. We like the rakish lines of Nosler’s new Model 48 but the $2495.00 MSRP is not inexpensive.

Still, the compact size (21″ OAL) and relatively light weight (5.4 lbs.) make this an interesting option for hunters and varminters who venture far afield.

Early production versions have been well-reviewed: “Over the last 40 years, I have shot every conceivable configuration of single-shot handguns including high-end custom rigs. The new Nosler handgun will keep up with the very best of them. In my experience, I have found this handgun to be extremely accurate, well-designed, and user-friendly. The Nosler handgun will be most welcome with handgun hunters, target and steel shooters, or anyone looking to add an exciting dimension to their shooting experience.” — Mark Hampton

The new Nosler Model 48 handgun is offered in a variety of versatile chamberings: 22 Nosler, 24 Nosler, 6mm Creedmoor, 6.5 Creedmoor, 7mm-08 Rem, and .308 Winchester. CLICK HERE for a discussion of M48 NCH options in our Shooters’ Forum.

Nosler Custom Handgun Model 48 Features

1. Shilen Barrel — The M48 NCH features a free-floated Shilen 416R stainless heavy-contour barrel threaded at the muzzle, and supplied with a thread protector. Standard barrel length is 15″ with other lengths between 12″-18″ available on request. Barrel fluting is also available for an additional charge.

2. Aluminum Stock — The CNC-milled billet 6061-T6 aluminum stock will take any grip that fits an AR15. We suggest adding a grip with a broad flat base to provide more stability.

3. Size and Weight — The M48 NCH is 21″ long with 15″ barrel (no brake) and weighs 5.4 pounds — quite a bit lighter than typical hunting rifles.

4. Cerakote Finish — The M48 NCH barreled action and stock both feature Cerakote® finishes. The barreled action and stock are coated separately, allowing for a wide variety of color combinations.

5. Muzzle Brake Option — A Harrell’s Precision Tactical 4-Port Brake (shown below) is available as an extra-cost addition.