Hornady Vibratory Tricklers Review

Let’s Talk About Hornady Vibratory Tricklers

Reloading ammunition is a precision sport, demanding consistent powder charges for optimal accuracy and performance. Enter the Hornady Vibratory Tricklers, a device designed to elevate this process. Hornady, a trusted name in reloading, offers this trickler as a solution for achieving precise powder measurements every single time. I’ve always strived for consistency in my reloads; even small variations can impact shot placement, especially at longer distances. This is why I was seeking a more precise method than my current manual trickler.

I decided to give the Hornady Vibratory Tricklers a try after struggling to get consistent powder throws with stick powders using my old manual trickler. Unboxing revealed a compact, modular design, with a black and red color scheme synonymous with the Hornady brand. The materials felt durable, a combination of plastic and metal that seemed robust enough for repeated use. The build quality appeared solid, with no obvious flaws or imperfections.

I considered other options, like the RCBS Chargemaster Link and the Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper. However, their higher price points and larger footprints didn’t align with my immediate needs and available bench space. I was intrigued by the Hornady Vibratory Tricklers‘ promise of precision at a more accessible price. My initial thought was cautiously optimistic; I was eager to see if this device could deliver on its promise of improved accuracy and efficiency.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Vibratory Tricklers to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Hornady Vibratory Tricklers at my home reloading bench, preparing .308 Winchester cartridges for an upcoming long-range shooting match. I experimented with various powder types, including ball, flake, and extruded stick powders. The trickler performed remarkably well with ball and flake powders, delivering smooth and consistent trickling. Stick powders proved slightly more challenging, requiring a bit more patience and adjustment of the vibration settings.

The Hornady Vibratory Tricklers felt intuitive to use, requiring minimal setup and familiarization. The variable speed settings were easy to adjust, allowing me to fine-tune the trickling rate for different powder types. The backlit LED buttons were a welcome feature, especially in my dimly lit reloading room. After the first few uses, I noticed a significant improvement in the consistency of my powder charges, leading to tighter groupings on the range.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Hornady Vibratory Tricklers have proven to be a reliable and valuable addition to my reloading setup. The device has held up well, showing no signs of wear and tear despite regular use. Cleaning is straightforward, thanks to the modular design that allows for easy disassembly. A quick wipe down with a soft cloth is usually all it takes to remove any spilled powder.

Compared to my previous manual trickler, the Hornady Vibratory Tricklers have significantly reduced the time and effort required to achieve precise powder charges. It allows me to focus more on other aspects of the reloading process. While manual tricklers are better than nothing, the Hornady Vibratory Tricklers bring you closer to automated powder dispensing without the larger investment. This device has become an indispensable tool for achieving consistent and accurate reloads.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Vibratory Tricklers

Specifications

The Hornady Vibratory Tricklers are powered by two AAA batteries (not included), offering portability and convenience. Its dimensions are compact enough to fit comfortably on most reloading benches. The unit weighs approximately 0.5 pounds without batteries, making it lightweight and easy to move around. The Hornady Vibratory Tricklers are finished in a black and red color scheme.

These specifications matter because they contribute to the overall user experience and versatility of the device. The battery-powered operation allows for use in areas without access to electricity. The lightweight and compact design makes it easy to store and transport. The ability to trickle all forms of powder gives you more freedom with what you choose to reload with.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady Vibratory Tricklers excel at accurately dispensing powder into a scale pan, allowing reloaders to achieve precise charge weights. The variable speed settings enable users to adjust the trickling rate for different powder types and desired levels of precision. I found that the high setting works well for quickly approaching the target weight, while the low and variable settings are ideal for fine-tuning the charge. The modular design enhances functionality by allowing users to position the trickler body where needed.

The main strength lies in its ability to deliver consistent and accurate powder charges, leading to improved reloading accuracy. The Hornady Vibratory Tricklers can have issues with very fine powders bridging inside the dispensing tube. This can be mitigated by tapping the sides of the trickler while in operation. Overall, it meets and often exceeds expectations, providing a reliable and efficient way to trickle powder.

Design & Ergonomics

The Hornady Vibratory Tricklers feature a thoughtfully designed modular construction, allowing the user to position it based on their needs. The backlit LED buttons provide clear visibility in low-light conditions, enhancing ease of use. The compact size ensures that it doesn’t take up too much space on the reloading bench. The weight makes it easily portable for reloaders who move their equipment frequently.

The Hornady Vibratory Tricklers are user-friendly, requiring minimal setup and offering intuitive operation. The variable speed settings and modular design contribute to a seamless reloading experience. The learning curve is virtually non-existent, even for novice reloaders.

Durability & Maintenance

The Hornady Vibratory Tricklers are constructed from durable materials, ensuring long-lasting performance under normal reloading conditions. The device is built to withstand the rigors of regular use without showing signs of premature wear. With proper care and maintenance, the Hornady Vibratory Tricklers are expected to last for many years.

Maintaining the Hornady Vibratory Tricklers is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove spilled powder. The modular design facilitates easy disassembly and cleaning of individual components. This keeps the device functioning optimally. Replacement parts, if needed, are readily available from Hornady and various reloading suppliers.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady Vibratory Tricklers do not come with a wide array of accessories, as its primary function is powder trickling. However, the modular design allows for some degree of customization. Users can position the trickler body independently of the base. The Hornady Vibratory Tricklers are compatible with most standard powder scales and reloading benches.

The lack of extensive customization options is not a significant drawback, as the device excels at its core function. The focus is on simplicity and reliability. The ability to integrate with existing reloading setups makes it a versatile addition to any reloader’s arsenal.

Pros and Cons of Hornady Vibratory Tricklers

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Hornady Vibratory Tricklers?

The Hornady Vibratory Tricklers are perfect for reloaders seeking to improve the accuracy and consistency of their handloads. This is especially true for those involved in precision shooting, long-range competitions, or varmint hunting. It’s also well-suited for reloaders who want to save time and effort compared to manual trickling methods.

Those primarily focused on high-volume reloading, where speed is more important than extreme precision, might find a fully automated powder dispenser more suitable. This is because while faster than manual dispensing, the Hornady Vibratory Tricklers still require the user to monitor the powder weight as it trickles into the scale pan. For must-have accessories, consider investing in a quality digital powder scale for accurate measurements.

Conclusion on Hornady Vibratory Tricklers

The Hornady Vibratory Tricklers offer a significant improvement over manual trickling methods, providing reloaders with a more accurate and efficient way to measure powder charges. The device is well-designed, easy to use, and offers excellent value for the price. It’s modular nature allows you to fit it on your bench in whatever way you like.

The $64.79 price point is justified by the improved accuracy and consistency it brings to the reloading process. The Hornady Vibratory Tricklers deliver results that translate to tighter groupings on the range. I would absolutely recommend the Hornady Vibratory Tricklers to any reloader looking to elevate their craft. Upgrade your reloading setup today and experience the precision and convenience of the Hornady Vibratory Tricklers!