Hornady Shell Holder, Number 3, 390543 – 1 out of 38 models Review

What Makes Hornady Shell Holder, Number 3, 390543 – 1 out of 38 models Stand Out?

The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 3, 390543 – 1 out of 38 models is a seemingly small, but incredibly vital piece of reloading equipment. From the trusted name of Hornady, this shell holder promises precision and reliability for reloaders working with common cartridges like the .380 ACP and .223 Remington variants. What truly sets it apart is its compatibility with various Hornady reloading tools and its adaptability to fit most reloading presses available, making it a versatile addition to any reloader’s bench.

I was looking for a shell holder that could handle a variety of cartridges without sacrificing precision. I’ve had experiences with shell holders that were either too loose or too tight, leading to inconsistent reloads and potential damage to the brass.

Upon unboxing, the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 3, 390543 – 1 out of 38 models immediately impressed me with its solid steel construction. The weight felt substantial and reassuring, suggesting durability and precision machining.

Compared to the RCBS shell holder and the Lee Precision shell holder I own, the Hornady offering felt more robust and precisely finished. While the RCBS model felt comparable, the Hornady’s compatibility with my Hornady priming tool gave it an edge.

My initial impression was positive; the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 3, 390543 – 1 out of 38 models seemed like a well-made tool that would improve my reloading process. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it lived up to its promise of flawless operation.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Shell Holder, Number 3, 390543 – 1 out of 38 models to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 3, 390543 – 1 out of 38 models in my reloading room, focusing on reloading .380 ACP rounds for my Sig Sauer P238. The room is climate controlled, but reloading can still get dusty with powder residue.

The shell holder performed admirably, securely holding the .380 ACP cases without any slippage or wobble during the resizing, priming, and seating stages. I didn’t encounter any issues, even when dealing with slightly tarnished brass.

The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 3, 390543 – 1 out of 38 models was intuitive to use, requiring no special adjustments or familiarization. It slipped easily into my Hornady Lock-N-Load AP press and held the brass firmly.

I experienced no surprises during the first use – the shell holder performed exactly as expected. It was a smooth and seamless operation, which is exactly what I look for in reloading equipment.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 3, 390543 – 1 out of 38 models continues to perform reliably. I’ve reloaded hundreds of .380 ACP rounds with it, and it shows no signs of wear or diminished performance.

The shell holder’s durability is outstanding; the steel construction remains unblemished, with no noticeable scratches or deformation. It’s clear that Hornady used high-quality materials and manufacturing processes.

Maintaining the shell holder is incredibly simple; a quick wipe with a clean cloth after each reloading session is all that’s required. I’ve never had to use any solvents or lubricants to keep it functioning smoothly.

Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper shell holders, the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 3, 390543 – 1 out of 38 models significantly outperforms them in terms of reliability and precision. It’s a worthwhile investment for any serious reloader.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Shell Holder, Number 3, 390543 – 1 out of 38 models

Specifications

• Caliber Compatibility: Designed for .380 ACP, .221 Remington Fireball, 6mm TCU, .222 Remington Magnum, 7x47mm Helm, .20 Tactical, .204 Ruger, and other similar cartridges. This broad compatibility makes it a versatile choice for reloaders working with different calibers.
• Material: Precision machined from solid steel and heat treated. The steel construction ensures durability and long-term reliability.
• Compatibility: Fits all Hornady accessories, including the Handheld Priming Tool and Cam-Lock Case Trimmer, and is designed to fit most brands of reloading presses. This universality is crucial for reloaders who use equipment from different manufacturers.
• Model Number: 390543. This identifier is important for ensuring you are purchasing the correct shell holder for your needs.

These specifications matter because they contribute directly to the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 3, 390543 – 1 out of 38 models’ performance and overall user experience. The steel construction and precise machining guarantee reliable case support and consistent reloading results.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 3, 390543 – 1 out of 38 models excels at its core function: securely holding cartridge cases during the reloading process. It maintains a tight grip, preventing slippage or misalignment, which leads to accurate and consistent reloading.

The shell holder’s strength lies in its simplicity and robust construction, however, it would be advantageous if it was clearly labelled with the cartridges it supports. A minor improvement would be a slightly smoother finish to reduce friction during case insertion.

The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 3, 390543 – 1 out of 38 models meets and even exceeds expectations for a basic shell holder. It is well made and performs its intended function perfectly.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, with the solid steel construction providing a reassuringly heavy and durable feel. The design is simple and functional, with no unnecessary frills.

The shell holder is incredibly user-friendly; it requires no setup or adjustments. It fits snugly into my reloading press and is easy to insert and remove cases.

Durability & Maintenance

The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 3, 390543 – 1 out of 38 models is built to last a lifetime with proper care. Its solid steel construction is resistant to wear and tear, ensuring reliable performance for years to come.

Maintaining the shell holder is incredibly straightforward; a quick wipe with a clean cloth after each use is all that’s required. There are no intricate parts to disassemble or clean.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 3, 390543 – 1 out of 38 models doesn’t come with any accessories, as it is a standalone product. However, it is compatible with Hornady’s Handheld Priming Tool and Cam-Lock Case Trimmer, enhancing its versatility.

The shell holder is designed to fit most brands of reloading presses, making it compatible with a wide range of reloading setups. This cross-compatibility is a significant advantage for reloaders who use equipment from various manufacturers.

Pros and Cons of Hornady Shell Holder, Number 3, 390543 – 1 out of 38 models