Hornady Full Length Die, 300 Weatherby, .308, – 1 out of 125 models Review

What Makes Hornady Full Length Die, 300 Weatherby, .308, – 1 out of 125 models Stand Out?

Reloading ammunition is a precision sport, a craft demanding quality tools. The Hornady Full Length Die, 300 Weatherby, .308, – 1 out of 125 models promises to be a cornerstone of that craft, providing the means to resize brass casings back to factory specifications. For a seasoned reloader like myself, the promise of consistent sizing, leading to improved accuracy and reliability, is always enticing, and Hornady has built a reputation I respect.

After years of relying on a mixed bag of reloading dies, I needed a reliable, full-length sizing die specifically for my .300 Weatherby Magnum and .308 Winchester. I wanted a die that would consistently resize cases, eliminating the dreaded “tight chamber” issue and ensuring smooth feeding in my rifles. My goal was to achieve greater consistency in my reloads, ultimately translating to tighter groups on the range and more ethical harvests in the field.

The Hornady Full Length Die arrives in standard Hornady packaging, functional if not flashy. My initial impression was that it felt solid and well-machined, a critical aspect for a tool subjected to significant pressure. The finish appeared smooth and even, suggesting good attention to detail in the manufacturing process.

I considered dies from RCBS and Redding, both reputable names in reloading. I ultimately chose the Hornady die because of its competitive price point and features like the zip spindle design and elliptical expander, which seemed promising for smoother operation. Hornady’s reputation for producing quality reloading tools at a reasonable price also swayed my decision.

I was cautiously optimistic. Full-length sizing dies can be finicky. I hoped the Hornady die would live up to its promise of consistent sizing and smooth operation, but I was also prepared to tweak and adjust as needed, as is often the case with reloading equipment.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Full Length Die, 300 Weatherby, .308, – 1 out of 125 models to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place in my reloading room, preparing ammunition for an upcoming elk hunt and a series of precision rifle matches. I used the die with my Hornady Lock-N-Load AP press, processing both .300 Weatherby Magnum and .308 Winchester brass. The die performed admirably.

The zip spindle design allowed for quick and easy adjustments, a notable improvement over some of my older dies. The elliptical expander lived up to its promise, providing a smoother resizing experience with less noticeable drag. I processed cases in both dry and lubricated conditions (using Hornady Unique Case Lube), and the die performed consistently well in both scenarios. No significant issues arose during this initial session.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Hornady Full Length Die has proven to be a reliable workhorse. I’ve processed hundreds of rounds with it, and it consistently delivers properly sized cases. There are no signs of excessive wear or tear.

Maintaining the die is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after each use is usually sufficient. Occasionally, I’ll apply a thin coat of gun oil to prevent rust. The die continues to perform as well as it did on day one, exceeding my expectations for a die in this price range. It has undoubtedly improved the consistency and reliability of my reloads compared to my previous setup.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Full Length Die, 300 Weatherby, .308, – 1 out of 125 models

Specifications

The Hornady Full Length Die, 300 Weatherby, .308, – 1 out of 125 models is specifically designed for resizing .300 Weatherby Magnum and .308 Winchester brass. It is constructed from hardened steel for durability and long-lasting performance. The die features:

• Zip spindle design: Allows for rapid height adjustments, making it easy to fine-tune the die for optimal case sizing.
• Lock rings with wrench flats: Securely lock the die in place, preventing unwanted movement during the reloading process. The wrench flats provide a solid grip for tightening and loosening the lock ring.
• Elliptical expander: This feature helps to smoothly expand the case neck, reducing stress on the brass and promoting longer case life. It minimizes the chance of neck splits and ensures proper bullet seating.
• Smooth finish: The polished interior surface of the die reduces friction, resulting in smoother case sizing and less effort required on the reloading press.

These specifications are crucial for consistent and accurate reloading. Proper case sizing is essential for reliable feeding and chambering of ammunition, as well as for achieving optimal accuracy.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady Full Length Die excels at its primary function: resizing brass cases. It consistently produces cases that meet SAAMI specifications, ensuring proper chambering and preventing issues like tight bolt closures. The zip spindle design is a standout feature, allowing for incredibly fast and precise adjustments.

The die’s strengths lie in its ease of use, consistent performance, and durable construction. There are no glaring weaknesses, although a slightly more detailed instruction manual would be helpful for novice reloaders. The die has met and exceeded my expectations, providing a noticeable improvement in the quality and consistency of my reloaded ammunition.

Design & Ergonomics

The Hornady Full Length Die features a simple, functional design. It’s made from high-quality steel, giving it a reassuring weight and solid feel. The die is easy to handle and install in a reloading press.

There is virtually no learning curve associated with using this die. Even a beginner can quickly learn to resize cases properly with a little practice and guidance.

Durability & Maintenance

The Hornady Full Length Die is built to last. Its hardened steel construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of repeated use. With proper care, this die should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal. A simple cleaning after each use is all that’s typically required. Occasionally, applying a thin coat of gun oil will help prevent rust and corrosion.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady Full Length Die doesn’t come with a wealth of accessories, as it’s a relatively simple tool. However, it is compatible with Hornady’s Lock-N-Load system, allowing for quick and easy die changes.

It’s also compatible with standard 7/8″-14 threaded reloading presses, making it a versatile addition to any reloader’s toolkit. No specific customization options are available, as the die is designed for a specific purpose: resizing brass cases to factory specifications.

Pros and Cons of Hornady Full Length Die, 300 Weatherby, .308, – 1 out of 125 models

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Who Should Buy Hornady Full Length Die, 300 Weatherby, .308, – 1 out of 125 models?

The Hornady Full Length Die is perfect for reloaders seeking a reliable and affordable tool for resizing .300 Weatherby Magnum and .308 Winchester brass. It’s well-suited for hunters, competitive shooters, and anyone who wants to produce consistent, accurate ammunition.

This die may not be the best choice for reloaders who require highly specialized features or extensive customization options. New reloaders might also benefit from seeking additional guidance beyond the included instructions.

A must-have accessory for this die is a high-quality case lubricant, such as Hornady Unique Case Lube or Imperial Sizing Die Wax. A concentricity gauge can also be helpful for ensuring that reloaded ammunition is as straight and accurate as possible.

Conclusion on Hornady Full Length Die, 300 Weatherby, .308, – 1 out of 125 models

The Hornady Full Length Die, 300 Weatherby, .308, – 1 out of 125 models is a solid performer that delivers consistent results at an attractive price. The zip spindle design and elliptical expander are welcome features that enhance the reloading experience. Its durability and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for any serious reloader.

Given its performance and price point, the value proposition is excellent. The Hornady Full Length Die is a testament to Hornady’s commitment to providing quality reloading tools at a reasonable price.

I would definitely recommend this die to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable way to resize .300 Weatherby Magnum and .308 Winchester brass. Invest in this die, and elevate your reloading game. It’s a tool you’ll rely on for years to come.