Hornady Bench Rest Metering Inserts Review

Let’s Dive into Hornady Bench Rest Metering Inserts

The Hornady Bench Rest Metering Inserts are designed to give reloaders ultimate control and precision over their powder charges. Hornady, a trusted name in the reloading world, aims to enhance the functionality of their Lock-N-Load Bench Rest Powder Measure with this finely crafted accessory. The micrometer adjustment and easy interchangeability promise consistent and accurate powder dispensing, a critical aspect of precision reloading.

My pursuit of consistently accurate ammunition for long-range shooting is what brought me to these inserts. I’ve been frustrated with powder measures that drift or are difficult to adjust precisely.

Upon opening the package, the Hornady Bench Rest Metering Inserts exuded quality. The steel construction felt robust and the silver finish gave them a professional look. They felt heavier than expected, instilling confidence in their longevity and precision engineering.

Compared to standard powder measure rotors or fixed cavity measures, these inserts offer a distinct advantage through their micrometer adjustability. I considered the Redding BR-30 and the RCBS Uniflow, but the Hornady system’s ease of interchangeability and fine adjustment ultimately won me over. I found the promise of returning to precise settings without tedious recalibration particularly appealing.

My initial reaction was one of excitement tempered with a bit of skepticism, hoping it lived up to its promise of drastically improving my loading process. I was eager to mount them in my powder measure and start developing some loads.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Bench Rest Metering Inserts to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test occurred at my reloading bench while preparing .308 Winchester ammunition for a precision rifle match. I focused on consistent powder charges for optimal velocity and accuracy. The Hornady Bench Rest Metering Insert was installed quickly and easily thanks to the Lock-N-Load system.

Even with fine powders, the metering inserts performed admirably, consistently dispensing charges with minimal variation. I found the adjustment process incredibly intuitive, allowing for precise changes to the powder load. The temperature in my garage varied slightly throughout the day, but I noticed no effect on the insert’s performance.

Getting used to the micrometer adjustment took a little time, but the repeatability was immediately apparent. One minor issue was getting a small amount of powder trapped between the drum and the body of the meter.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Hornady Bench Rest Metering Inserts continue to deliver exceptional results. They have become an indispensable part of my reloading process.

The steel construction shows no signs of wear, even with frequent use and cleaning. I have maintained the inserts by periodically cleaning them with a dry brush and compressed air. Compared to my previous experiences with other powder measures, the Hornady inserts are significantly more consistent and require less frequent recalibration.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Bench Rest Metering Inserts

Specifications

• The Hornady Bench Rest Metering Insert is designed for use with the Hornady Lock-N-Load Bench Rest Powder Measure. It allows for rapid switching between different powder types and charge weights.
• The material is steel, providing durability and resistance to wear. This ensures precise powder metering for a long period.
• Each package contains one metering insert. The silver color of the insert makes it easy to identify.
• The micrometer adjustment feature enables fine-tuning of powder charges, allowing for precise control over the reloading process. This feature is critical for achieving consistent velocities and improved accuracy.
• The quick-change design allows users to switch inserts with the push of a button. This saves time and effort when changing powders or experimenting with different loads.

These specifications are crucial for any reloader seeking to produce consistent and accurate ammunition. The steel construction guarantees long-term reliability, while the micrometer adjustment offers unparalleled precision.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady Bench Rest Metering Inserts excel in providing consistent and accurate powder charges. This consistency translates directly into improved accuracy and tighter groups on the range.

The major strength lies in the micrometer adjustment, which permits incredibly fine adjustments. A minor drawback is the initial setup required to establish a baseline for different powders. The Hornady Bench Rest Metering Inserts exceed expectations, especially when compared to other powder dispensing methods.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, with a solid steel construction that instills confidence. The weight is appropriate for a precision instrument, feeling substantial without being cumbersome.

The micrometer adjustment is user-friendly, and a visual reference helps track changes. There is a slight learning curve for setting up various powders initially.

Durability & Maintenance

The steel construction suggests exceptional durability. With proper care, they should last for many years.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a dry brush and compressed air to remove any powder residue.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady Bench Rest Metering Inserts are primarily an accessory for the Hornady Lock-N-Load Bench Rest Powder Measure. There aren’t many “accessories” for the inserts themselves.

You can purchase additional inserts for different powders or charge ranges. The Hornady Lock-N-Load system makes it compatible with all Hornady Lock-N-Load bushings and accessories.

Pros and Cons of Hornady Bench Rest Metering Inserts

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Who Should Buy Hornady Bench Rest Metering Inserts?

The Hornady Bench Rest Metering Inserts are perfect for precision reloaders, competitive shooters, and anyone demanding consistent and accurate ammunition. They are ideal for handloaders who require fine control over powder charges for specific calibers or load recipes.

Casual reloaders who primarily focus on high-volume loading rather than ultimate precision might find the cost and level of detail unnecessary. Someone only loading plinking rounds might be better served with a simpler, less expensive powder measure. A must-have modification would be a dedicated stand to hold the powder measure and improve stability.

Conclusion on Hornady Bench Rest Metering Inserts

The Hornady Bench Rest Metering Inserts are a significant upgrade for any reloader using the Hornady Lock-N-Load Bench Rest Powder Measure. They provide unparalleled precision and consistency in powder dispensing.

The price is justified by the enhanced accuracy and time-saving features. The Hornady Bench Rest Metering Inserts is a worthwhile investment for serious reloaders.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Hornady Bench Rest Metering Inserts to anyone seeking to improve the accuracy and consistency of their reloads. Take control of your powder charges and experience the difference that precision makes!