Hornady Shell Holder Number 30 Review

Let’s Dive into Hornady Shell Holder Number 30

Reloading ammunition is a meticulous process, where precision is paramount for consistent performance and safety. One of the unsung heroes in this process is the shell holder, a small but critical component that securely holds the cartridge case during various stages of reloading. Today, we’re taking a deep dive into the Hornady Shell Holder Number 30, a tool designed to handle the .445 Super Magnum cartridge. This isn’t just a simple piece of steel; it’s a precision-machined component that ensures proper alignment and consistent results, and this review will tell you if it’s worth your money.

My journey to this particular shell holder began when I started reloading for my .445 Super Magnum, a caliber I use primarily for handgun hunting. Finding the right tools for this less common caliber can be challenging. I needed a shell holder that would offer a secure fit, precise alignment, and reliable performance, and the Hornady Shell Holder Number 30 seemed to fit the bill.

Upon unboxing, or rather, removing it from its simple packaging, my initial impression was positive. The Hornady Shell Holder Number 30 felt solid and well-made, with a reassuring weight that spoke to its Steel construction. The machining appeared clean and precise, and there were no obvious defects or imperfections. The build quality looked robust enough to withstand the pressures of repeated use.

Compared to some generic, universal shell holders I’ve used in the past, the Hornady Shell Holder Number 30 immediately stood out. Universal holders often lack the precise fit needed for consistent reloading. I had considered shell holders from RCBS and Lee, but opted for the Hornady because of its reputation for precision and the availability of specific holders for less common calibers like the .445 Super Magnum.

My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of caution, knowing that compatibility issues can sometimes arise between different brands of reloading equipment. I was hopeful that the Hornady Shell Holder Number 30 would live up to its promise of fitting most brands of presses and provide the consistent performance I needed for my reloading bench.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Shell Holder Number 30 to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Hornady Shell Holder Number 30 in my reloading setup, which includes both a RCBS Rock Chucker press and a hand priming tool. The initial testing was focused on resizing and de-priming spent .445 Super Magnum cases. I conducted the tests at my reloading bench in my garage.

The holder performed admirably in the RCBS Rock Chucker press during resizing. It held the cartridge case securely and aligned it perfectly with the resizing die. The wet and dusty conditions of my garage didn’t seem to affect the holder’s grip or function. It worked perfectly, even though conditions were not ideal.

I encountered an immediate issue when attempting to use the holder with my RCBS hand priming tool. The Hornady Shell Holder Number 30 lacks the beveling on the bottom opening that is present on RCBS shell holders. This made it incompatible with the priming tool. This was a surprise and a disappointment, as I prefer to prime my cases off-press for better feel and consistency.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Hornady Shell Holder Number 30 continues to perform well in the RCBS Rock Chucker press. The Steel shows no signs of wear or deformation, even after resizing hundreds of cases. The holder still fits securely and aligns the cases properly.

The Steel construction is very durable. The only maintenance I’ve performed is occasional wiping with a clean cloth to remove any residue from resizing lubricant or powder. This is easy to do and keeps the holder in top condition.

In comparison to my previous experiences with less precise, universal shell holders, the Hornady Shell Holder Number 30 has been a significant upgrade. It offers better alignment, more secure grip, and more consistent results. It has exceeded my expectations, except for the issue with the RCBS hand priming tool.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Shell Holder Number 30

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Hornady.
• Caliber: .445 Super Magnum. This ensures a precise fit for cases of that caliber.
• Additional Features: Shell Holder. It securely holds the cartridge case during the reloading process.
• Fabric/Material: Steel. Provides durability and resistance to deformation under pressure.
• Size: 30. The size is the Hornady designation for this specific shell holder.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the accuracy and consistency of the reloading process. The Steel construction and precise machining ensure the shell holder will withstand the high pressures involved in resizing and seating bullets, which ensures consistent results. The correct size is critical for a snug and safe fit within the reloading press.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady Shell Holder Number 30 performs its primary job of holding .445 Super Magnum cases securely and aligning them properly with reloading dies exceptionally well. It shines in resizing and bullet seating operations. However, the incompatibility with the RCBS hand priming tool is a significant drawback.

The strength of this shell holder is its precision and durability. The primary weakness is the limited compatibility with certain hand priming tools, which makes it important to consider your entire reloading setup before purchasing. Despite this limitation, it meets expectations for use within a reloading press, like the RCBS Rock Chucker.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Hornady Shell Holder Number 30 is excellent. It is made from solid Steel. The weight feels substantial, indicating a robust construction that is designed to last.

The design is simple and functional, with no unnecessary frills. There is no learning curve. It’s immediately user-friendly within compatible presses.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its Steel construction, the Hornady Shell Holder Number 30 should last for many years with proper care. The Steel is resistant to wear and deformation under normal reloading pressures.

Maintenance is minimal. Just clean the shell holder periodically to remove any lubricant or residue. This will ensure smooth operation and prevent corrosion.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady Shell Holder Number 30 doesn’t come with any accessories. This is standard for shell holders. There are no customization options available, as it is a simple, functional tool.

While there are no direct accessories, the Hornady Shell Holder Number 30 should be compatible with most reloading presses that accept standard shell holders. Be aware of potential compatibility issues with hand priming tools, as noted earlier. This is an important consideration when choosing reloading gear.

Pros and Cons of Hornady Shell Holder Number 30

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Who Should Buy Hornady Shell Holder Number 30?

The Hornady Shell Holder Number 30 is perfect for reloaders who are working with the .445 Super Magnum cartridge and using a standard reloading press. It is also a good choice for those who prioritize precision and durability in their reloading tools.

Those who rely heavily on RCBS hand priming tools should skip this product due to the compatibility issues. You will need an RCBS shell holder to properly work with the hand priming tool.

A must-have accessory to pair with the Hornady Shell Holder Number 30 is a high-quality set of reloading dies specifically designed for the .445 Super Magnum. A quality set of dies will ensure proper case resizing and bullet seating.

Conclusion on Hornady Shell Holder Number 30

The Hornady Shell Holder Number 30 is a well-made, precise tool that performs its primary function admirably. It holds .445 Super Magnum cases securely and aligns them properly within a reloading press. The Steel construction ensures durability and long-lasting performance.

At a price of $6.49, the value proposition is excellent. It’s a small investment that can significantly improve the consistency and accuracy of your reloads.

I would personally recommend the Hornady Shell Holder Number 30 to anyone reloading for the .445 Super Magnum, provided they are aware of the potential compatibility issues with certain hand priming tools. If you need a reliable shell holder for your reloading press, this is a solid choice. Add this to your reloading bench today.