What Makes Hornady Shell Holder, Number 50, 390585 – 1 out of 38 models Stand Out?
The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 50, 390585 – 1 out of 38 models is a seemingly simple, yet absolutely essential component for any serious reloader. Manufactured by Hornady, a name synonymous with quality in the reloading world, this shell holder promises precision and reliability, ensuring consistent and accurate reloading. Let’s dive into what makes this seemingly mundane piece of equipment a critical element in the reloading process.
My journey to the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 50, 390585 began with a frustrating experience: inconsistent seating depths while reloading my .30-06 rounds. I needed a shell holder that would provide a secure and perfectly aligned platform.
The Hornady Shell Holder arrives in a simple, no-frills package. Upon opening, I was immediately struck by the solid construction and clean finish of the shell holder; it felt substantial in my hand, inspiring confidence that it was built to last.
Compared to cheaper, universal shell holders I’ve used in the past, the Hornady immediately impressed with its dedicated design and tighter tolerances. The Redding shell holder, another premium option, felt similarly well-made, but I ultimately chose the Hornady due to its slightly lower price point and readily available availability. The RCBS shell holder, while decent, simply didn’t offer the same level of perceived precision.
My first impression was definitely positive; I felt like I was upgrading to a professional-grade tool that would significantly improve the consistency of my reloads. The solid feel and well-defined edges suggested a level of quality and precision that I hadn’t experienced before.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Shell Holder, Number 50, 390585 – 1 out of 38 models to the Test
First Use Experience
I put the Hornady Shell Holder to work immediately in my reloading setup at my home workshop. I was specifically loading .30-06 rounds for an upcoming elk hunting trip in the Colorado Rockies.
The weather was dry and cool during my initial testing, typical of late autumn in the mountains. The shell holder performed flawlessly, securely holding the case during resizing, priming, and bullet seating operations, even with the added resistance of full-length resizing. The shell holder offered no issues and required no adjustments.
The Hornady Shell Holder was intuitive to use; I simply inserted the .30-06 case into the holder, and it snapped into place with a reassuring click. This ease of use significantly streamlined my reloading process.
There were no issues during the initial use; the Hornady Shell Holder performed exactly as expected, providing a secure and stable platform for each reloading step. The precise fit of the shell holder to my brass was immediately noticeable, enhancing the seating process.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Hornady Shell Holder continues to perform reliably. I’ve reloaded hundreds of rounds with it, and it still feels as solid and precise as it did on day one.
The Hornady Shell Holder shows virtually no signs of wear and tear, which speaks volumes about the quality of materials used and the precision of its construction. Even after repeated use with stiff, oversized cases, the holder maintains its tight fit.
Maintenance is minimal; I simply wipe it down with a clean cloth after each reloading session to remove any powder residue. The simple design makes it easy to keep clean and functioning perfectly.
Compared to previous, less expensive shell holders, the Hornady Shell Holder is a significant upgrade. The consistent performance and durable construction have significantly improved the quality and efficiency of my reloading process. I no longer experience the frustrating inconsistencies that plagued me before.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Shell Holder, Number 50, 390585 – 1 out of 38 models
Specifications
The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 50, 390585 is specifically designed to fit cases with a .473″ head diameter. Common calibers supported by this shell holder include .30-06 Springfield, .270 Winchester, .25-06 Remington, 8mm Mauser, and numerous other cartridges based on the same case head dimensions. The shell holder itself is constructed from hardened steel.
This precise fit is crucial for accurate and consistent reloading. The correct shell holder ensures proper alignment of the case with the reloading dies, preventing case damage and ensuring consistent bullet seating depths. A shell holder manufactured with hardened steel will also last much longer, and should provide reloaders with the confidence and reliability they demand.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Shell Holder performs its job flawlessly, providing a secure and stable platform for all reloading operations. Its precise dimensions ensure perfect alignment of the case with the dies, resulting in accurate and consistent reloads.
The Hornady Shell Holder’s greatest strength is its unwavering reliability and the precision of its fit. There are no noticeable weaknesses. The shell holder surpasses my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hornady Shell Holder is a simple, yet well-designed tool. It is made from high-quality materials and has a solid, reassuring weight. The shell holder is very comfortable in hand.
The Hornady Shell Holder is extremely user-friendly; there is no learning curve. Simply insert the case into the holder, and it locks into place.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust construction, the Hornady Shell Holder should last for many years of consistent use. Proper maintenance, simply wiping it down after each use, will further extend its lifespan.
The Hornady Shell Holder is easy to maintain. No repairs should be necessary under normal use.
Accessories and Customization Options
No accessories come with the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 50, 390585. The holder itself does not have any customization options.
The holder is designed to work with any standard reloading press that accepts shell holders. It is compatible with a wide range of reloading dies from various manufacturers, making it a versatile addition to any reloading setup.
Pros and Cons of Hornady Shell Holder, Number 50, 390585 – 1 out of 38 models
Pros
- Provides a secure and stable platform for reloading, ensuring consistent and accurate results.
- Constructed from hardened steel for exceptional durability and long-lasting performance.
- Precise dimensions ensure proper alignment of the case with the reloading dies, preventing case damage.
- Easy to use with no learning curve, making it suitable for reloaders of all skill levels.
- Compatible with a wide range of reloading presses and dies.
Cons
- The price of $57.99 may be considered high for a single shell holder, especially compared to universal options.
- Designed for a specific range of calibers, meaning you’ll need multiple shell holders for diverse reloading needs.
Who Should Buy Hornady Shell Holder, Number 50, 390585 – 1 out of 38 models?
The Hornady Shell Holder is perfect for reloaders who prioritize accuracy, consistency, and durability. This is also a great option for hunters and competitive shooters.
Reloaders on a tight budget or those who only reload occasionally may find the price difficult to justify. Someone who needs support for a range of different calibers should skip this product.
A quality reloading press is a must-have to get the most out of this shell holder. Having high quality dies is also paramount.
Conclusion on Hornady Shell Holder, Number 50, 390585 – 1 out of 38 models
The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 50, 390585 is a seemingly small component that makes a big difference in the reloading process. While the price may seem steep for a single shell holder, the consistent performance, durability, and precise fit make it a worthwhile investment for serious reloaders.
The price is justified by the quality and performance it delivers. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Hornady Shell Holder to anyone who values accuracy, consistency, and reliability in their reloads.
Upgrade your reloading game and experience the difference a quality shell holder can make; invest in the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 50, 390585 today!