Let’s Dive into Hornady .50 BMG Powder Measures
The Hornady .50 BMG Powder Measures are designed to provide accurate and consistent powder charges for reloading the massive .50 BMG cartridge. Made by Hornady, a trusted name in reloading, this tool promises precision and reliability for those who demand the best. I’ve been reloading for over a decade, from pistol rounds to rifle cartridges, but the .50 BMG always felt like a different beast, demanding specialized equipment. I needed a powder measure specifically calibrated for the large powder charges required by this cartridge, and something that would consistently deliver accurate results.
My quest for the perfect .50 BMG reloading setup led me to the Hornady powder measure. Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed with the solid stainless steel construction of the housing and the clear crystal bowl. This felt like a tool built to last, unlike some of the plastic powder measures I’ve used in the past.
Other options I considered included the RCBS Uniflow and the Redding 3BR, but the Hornady specifically addressed the .50 BMG. The RCBS, while a solid performer, is more of a general-purpose measure, and the Redding is significantly more expensive. I was hoping the Hornady would strike the right balance of price and performance for this specific caliber. My first impression was one of excitement – I was eager to start loading some accurate .50 BMG rounds.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady .50 BMG Powder Measures to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my home reloading bench, focusing on consistency with Hodgdon H50BMG powder. I was aiming to load rounds for long-range target shooting at a nearby range known for its 1000-yard capabilities. The Hornady .50 BMG Powder Measures performed admirably, consistently dropping charges within +/- 0.2 grains of my target weight.
I also tested the powder measure under somewhat less-than-ideal conditions: a slightly dusty reloading room after some renovations. The powder measure still functioned smoothly, indicating good sealing and tolerance to environmental factors. Getting used to the Hornady was straightforward; the adjustment knob is intuitive, and the included bracket made mounting to my bench a breeze. My only initial issue was figuring out the perfect rhythm for consistent powder drops, but after a few cycles, it became second nature.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Hornady .50 BMG Powder Measures have proven to be a reliable addition to my reloading setup. The stainless steel construction shows no signs of wear and tear, even with the constant handling of abrasive powders. Maintenance has been minimal; a simple wipe-down after each reloading session is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. The crystal bowl is also resistant to scratching from the powder.
Compared to my previous experiences with universal powder measures, the Hornady significantly outperforms them in terms of consistency and accuracy for the .50 BMG cartridge. The dedicated design for this caliber makes all the difference. My .50 BMG rounds have become far more consistent, which has translated to tighter groups at the range.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady .50 BMG Powder Measures
Specifications
The Hornady .50 BMG Powder Measures are specifically designed for reloading .50 BMG cartridges. The measure boasts a stainless steel housing for durability and longevity. A crystal clear powder bowl allows for easy monitoring of powder levels. The unit comes with a lanyard loop for added security and convenience. It mounts securely to a bench or reloading press with an included bracket.
These specifications are critical for achieving accurate and consistent .50 BMG reloads. The stainless steel construction ensures resistance to corrosion and wear, while the clear bowl allows you to visually check powder consistency. The mounting bracket prevents movement during operation, crucial for maintaining consistent charge weights.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady .50 BMG Powder Measures perform their job with impressive consistency. They are capable of dropping accurate and repeatable charge weights of Hodgdon H50BMG, Hodgdon US869, Alliant Reloder 50 & Vihtavouri 20N29. This consistency translates directly to improved accuracy and reliability in my .50 BMG rounds.
The main strength of this powder measure lies in its dedicated .50 BMG design. A potential area for improvement would be a slightly larger powder reservoir, as large reloading sessions may require frequent refills. Ultimately, the Hornady powder measure meets and exceeds my expectations for reloading .50 BMG.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hornady .50 BMG Powder Measures feature a robust design built for heavy-duty use. The stainless steel construction lends a solid, substantial feel to the unit. Its weight is reassuring, indicating the quality of materials used.
The powder measure is user-friendly, requiring minimal setup and adjustment. The clear crystal bowl makes it easy to monitor powder levels. There is a slight learning curve in finding the optimal speed for consistent drops, but it’s easily mastered with a little practice.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its stainless steel construction, the Hornady .50 BMG Powder Measures are built to last for years of reliable service. With proper care, this powder measure should easily withstand the rigors of frequent reloading sessions. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove powder residue. The design is simple enough that repairs, if needed, should be relatively easy to accomplish.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady .50 BMG Powder Measures come with a mounting bracket for secure attachment to a bench or reloading press. While there are no direct customization options for the powder measure itself, it is compatible with standard reloading benches and presses. You might consider adding a powder baffle to the hopper to further improve consistency, though I haven’t found it absolutely necessary. The included bracket offers solid mounting, but I did add a thin rubber pad to the underside to further dampen any vibrations.
Pros and Cons of Hornady .50 BMG Powder Measures
Pros
- Consistently drops accurate powder charges, crucial for .50 BMG reloading.
- Durable stainless steel construction ensures long-term reliability.
- Easy to use and adjust, even for reloaders new to the .50 BMG caliber.
- The included mounting bracket provides a secure and stable platform.
- Reasonably priced compared to other .50 BMG-specific powder measures.
Cons
- Smaller powder hopper may require frequent refills during large reloading sessions.
- No built-in powder baffle; might need to be purchased separately for ultra-consistent drops, though testing showed it wasn’t needed.
Who Should Buy Hornady .50 BMG Powder Measures?
The Hornady .50 BMG Powder Measures are perfect for reloaders who are serious about producing accurate and consistent .50 BMG ammunition. It is also great for long-range shooters who need to fine-tune their loads for optimal performance. If you are a reloader who values quality, durability, and precision, this powder measure is for you.
If you only reload occasionally or are not concerned with achieving extremely precise powder charges, this powder measure might be overkill. New reloaders might also find it more beneficial to start with a more versatile, general-purpose powder measure before stepping up to the Hornady .50 BMG Powder Measures. A must-have accessory would be a quality scale for verifying powder charges.
Conclusion on Hornady .50 BMG Powder Measures
The Hornady .50 BMG Powder Measures are a well-built, accurate, and reliable tool for reloading the .50 BMG cartridge. At a price of $187.49, the cost is justified by the quality of construction and the level of precision it provides. I would highly recommend this powder measure to any serious .50 BMG reloader looking to improve the consistency and accuracy of their ammunition.
If you’re ready to take your .50 BMG reloading to the next level, the Hornady .50 BMG Powder Measures are an excellent investment. Buy yours today and start loading with confidence!