Let’s Dive into Hornady Match Grade Bushings
The Hornady Match Grade Bushings are a small but crucial component for reloaders striving for ultimate accuracy. These bushings, manufactured by Hornady, are designed for use with Hornady Match Grade Dies, allowing precise control over case neck tension. They promise to eliminate over-sizing and brass fatigue, leading to improved consistency and accuracy in handloaded ammunition.
I decided to try these bushings because I was experiencing inconsistencies in my handloads for my precision .308 bolt action rifle. My goal was to reduce group sizes and improve overall shot-to-shot consistency by controlling neck tension more effectively. The appeal of a self-centering design and the promise of preventing overworking the brass were significant factors in my decision.
Upon unboxing, the Hornady Match Grade Bushing presented itself as a simple, well-machined piece of steel. Its weight felt substantial for its size, conveying a sense of quality and durability. The finish was smooth and uniform, suggesting careful manufacturing tolerances.
I considered other options like Forster or Redding bushings, but ultimately chose the Hornady system because I already had Hornady dies. Sticking with the same brand seemed the most straightforward path to guaranteed compatibility. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The bushing looked and felt like a quality product, but the proof would be in the performance on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Match Grade Bushings to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test with the Hornady Match Grade Bushings took place at my local outdoor shooting range. I was reloading .308 Winchester cartridges for my custom-built bolt action rifle. The conditions were dry and mild, with a slight breeze, which provided a reasonable environment for testing.
Using the bushing was straightforward; it dropped easily into the Hornady Match Grade die. The resizing process felt smooth and consistent. There were no noticeable issues or surprises during the initial resizing of a batch of 50 cases.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of reloading and shooting using the Hornady Match Grade Bushings, I have a better understanding of their long-term performance. The bushings have held up remarkably well, showing no signs of wear or deformation. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a clean cloth removes any residue or debris.
Compared to my previous experience using a standard resizing die without bushings, the Hornady Match Grade Bushings have delivered a noticeable improvement in consistency. My standard deviations in muzzle velocity have decreased, and my group sizes at 100 yards have shrunk slightly. This, combined with careful load development, has made a significant difference.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Match Grade Bushings
Specifications
The Hornady Match Grade Bushings are designed to work with Hornady Match Grade resizing dies. They are constructed from hardened steel and are precision-machined to exacting tolerances.
- Size: The bushings have a .750″ outside diameter with internal diameters varying to accommodate different calibers and brass thicknesses.
- Tolerance: Each bushing is manufactured to a tolerance within .002″, ensuring consistent neck tension.
- Gun Type: Designed for use with rifle cartridges.
- Quantity: Sold individually.
These specifications are vital because they allow reloaders to fine-tune neck tension for optimal accuracy. Consistent neck tension ensures uniform bullet release, leading to improved shot-to-shot consistency and tighter groups. The tight tolerances minimize variations in resizing, further enhancing accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Match Grade Bushings perform their primary function – resizing case necks – exceptionally well. They consistently produce cases with uniform neck tension, which is crucial for accuracy. While the improvement may not be dramatic for every rifle, in my precision .308, the consistency gained is undeniable.
The greatest strength is the ability to precisely control neck tension. A minor weakness is the need to purchase multiple bushings to find the ideal size for your specific brass and bullet combination. Overall, the bushings have exceeded my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hornady Match Grade Bushings feature a simple yet effective design. The hardened steel construction ensures durability and longevity. Their compact size makes them easy to store and handle.
The bushings are designed to be user-friendly, requiring no special tools or skills to install and use. They simply drop into the Hornady Match Grade resizing die. There is no learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hornady Match Grade Bushings are built to last. The hardened steel construction resists wear and deformation, ensuring long-term reliability.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe with a clean cloth after each use is usually sufficient. The bushings require no special lubricants or cleaning agents.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady Match Grade Bushings themselves are accessories designed to be used with Hornady Match Grade resizing dies. There are no customization options for the bushings themselves, but reloaders can purchase a range of different bushing sizes to fine-tune neck tension.
The bushings are compatible with Hornady Match Grade dies and shell holders. While they may work with dies from other brands, compatibility is not guaranteed. Reloaders may wish to purchase a dedicated bushing storage case to keep their bushings organized.
Pros and Cons of Hornady Match Grade Bushings
Pros
- Provides precise control over case neck tension for improved accuracy.
- Helps to reduce bullet runout, promoting more consistent seating.
- Extends brass life by preventing overworking of the case necks.
- Easy to use and install with Hornady Match Grade dies.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
Cons
- Requires purchasing multiple bushings to find the optimal size for a given cartridge and bullet combination.
- Only compatible with Hornady Match Grade resizing dies.
Who Should Buy Hornady Match Grade Bushings?
The Hornady Match Grade Bushings are perfect for precision reloaders, competitive shooters, and anyone seeking to maximize the accuracy of their handloads. They are particularly beneficial for reloaders who use high-quality brass and demand the utmost consistency.
These bushings may not be necessary for casual reloaders or those who primarily load ammunition for hunting or plinking. A must-have accessory is a caliper for measuring outside neck diameter. Also, a micrometer is helpful for measuring the wall thickness of your brass to determine optimal neck tension.
Conclusion on Hornady Match Grade Bushings
The Hornady Match Grade Bushings are a worthwhile investment for serious reloaders who prioritize accuracy and consistency. While they require some initial investment in multiple bushings, the benefits they provide in terms of improved neck tension control and extended brass life are significant.
The price is justified given the quality of construction and the performance benefits they offer. I would definitely recommend these bushings to anyone seeking to take their handloading to the next level. If you’re chasing those tiny groups and consistent velocities, the Hornady Match Grade Bushings are a valuable tool in your reloading arsenal. Take control of your ammunition, and experience the difference!