What Makes Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Ultra Magnum, 046446 – 1 out of 125 models Stand Out?
The Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Ultra Magnum, 046446 – 1 out of 125 models is a crucial tool for reloaders seeking consistent and accurate ammunition for their .338 Ultra Magnum rifles. Hornady is a respected name in reloading, known for quality and precision. This die aims to ensure proper case resizing, a fundamental step for reliable and accurate reloading. Its features, such as the zip spindle design and lock rings with wrench flats, are designed to improve the reloading process, making it smoother and more precise.
I’ve been reloading for over a decade, primarily focusing on precision rifle cartridges for long-range hunting. My biggest challenge has always been achieving consistent neck tension and shoulder setback, which are critical for accuracy. I was particularly struggling with my .338 Ultra Magnum, experiencing inconsistent velocities and frustrating accuracy results even with meticulously measured powder charges.
Unboxing the Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Ultra Magnum, 046446 – 1 out of 125 models, I was immediately impressed by the solid construction. The steel felt robust, and the finish was smooth and even. The dies felt substantial in hand, giving the impression of quality.
I was considering the Redding Full Length Sizing Die and the RCBS Full Length Sizing Die as alternatives. I chose the Hornady die because of its reputation for user-friendliness and the zip spindle design, which promised faster adjustments. The lock rings with wrench flats were also a big selling point, preventing slippage during adjustments.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I’ve used other Hornady products with great success, but the real test would be in the reloading process itself. I was hopeful that this die would finally provide the consistency I was seeking.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Ultra Magnum, 046446 – 1 out of 125 models to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Ultra Magnum, 046446 – 1 out of 125 models in my reloading room, which is set up in my garage. The garage isn’t climate controlled, so the testing took place in conditions ranging from 50°F to 70°F. The first session involved resizing previously fired brass from my .338 Ultra Magnum rifle.
The zip spindle design made initial setup incredibly quick. Adjusting the die to achieve the correct shoulder setback was far easier than with my older dies. The elliptical expander seemed to reduce the amount of force required, leading to a smoother, less jerky resizing process.
The only minor issue was that the die required a little more lubrication than I was accustomed to. After switching to a heavier-bodied lubricant, the process became effortless. Otherwise, the first-time use was a success, with noticeable improvement in the feel of the resizing operation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Ultra Magnum, 046446 – 1 out of 125 models has proven its reliability. I’ve resized hundreds of .338 Ultra Magnum cases with it. There are no signs of significant wear and tear.
The finish remains smooth, and the die continues to function flawlessly. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after each reloading session is all it takes. I occasionally use a bit of solvent to remove any accumulated lubricant residue.
Compared to my previous experience with other dies, the Hornady die consistently provides more uniform results. My previously inconsistent velocities are now much tighter, leading to improved accuracy at the range. It significantly outperforms the older die set I was using.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Ultra Magnum, 046446 – 1 out of 125 models
Specifications
- Caliber: .338 Ultra Magnum – Specifically designed for resizing .338 Ultra Magnum cases, ensuring proper fit in your rifle’s chamber.
- Material: High-Quality Steel – Provides durability and longevity, withstanding the pressures of repeated resizing.
- Zip Spindle Design: Allows for rapid height adjustments, saving time and effort when setting up the die. This is crucial for fine-tuning shoulder setback.
- Lock Rings with Wrench Flats: Secure the die’s position in the press, preventing slippage and maintaining consistent resizing depth. This ensures consistent case dimensions.
- Elliptical Expander: Smoothly expands the case neck, reducing stress on the brass and promoting longer case life. This contributes to improved bullet seating and consistent neck tension.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Ultra Magnum, 046446 – 1 out of 125 models excels at its core function: resizing .338 Ultra Magnum cases to SAAMI specifications. This is fundamental to safe and accurate reloading. The zip spindle design truly speeds up the initial setup and adjustments, allowing me to quickly dial in the correct shoulder setback for my rifle.
The primary strength is its ability to consistently resize cases to the desired dimensions. This contributes to improved accuracy and reliability. A minor weakness is the need for adequate case lubrication; without sufficient lubrication, resizing can be difficult.
The die meets and exceeds my expectations. It’s user-friendly, precise, and offers consistent results.
Design & Ergonomics
The die is made from high-quality steel, providing a solid and durable feel. It weighs enough to feel substantial but isn’t overly heavy. The smooth finish and precise machining contribute to a professional, high-quality impression.
The Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Ultra Magnum, 046446 – 1 out of 125 models is generally user-friendly, even for reloaders with limited experience. The zip spindle design and clear instructions make setup easy. There’s minimal learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust construction, the Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Ultra Magnum, 046446 – 1 out of 125 models is expected to last for many years of reloading. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide consistent performance for thousands of rounds.
Maintenance is simple; cleaning and lubrication are the only necessary steps. There are no user-serviceable parts, so repair isn’t typically an issue.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Ultra Magnum, 046446 – 1 out of 125 models doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond the die itself. However, it’s compatible with standard reloading presses and shell holders.
There are no specific customization options for this die. It’s designed to perform a specific function. It’s compatible with all Hornady and most other brands of reloading equipment.
Pros and Cons of Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Ultra Magnum, 046446 – 1 out of 125 models
Pros
- Zip Spindle Design: Significantly speeds up die adjustments, saving valuable reloading time.
- Lock Rings with Wrench Flats: Ensures the die stays in place, maintaining consistent resizing.
- Elliptical Expander: Reduces stress on the brass, promoting longer case life and consistent neck tension.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality steel, ensuring years of reliable use.
- Improved Accuracy: Consistent resizing contributes to tighter velocity spreads and improved accuracy on the range.
Cons
- Requires Adequate Lubrication: Resizing can be difficult without sufficient case lubrication.
- No Additional Accessories: Comes with only the die itself; no additional parts or tools are included.
Who Should Buy Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Ultra Magnum, 046446 – 1 out of 125 models?
The Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Ultra Magnum, 046446 – 1 out of 125 models is perfect for serious reloaders who demand consistent and accurate ammunition for their .338 Ultra Magnum rifles, particularly long-range hunters and competitive shooters. It’s also an excellent choice for reloaders who value user-friendliness and time-saving features.
Those who should skip this product are individuals who only reload occasionally or those who are primarily focused on volume reloading rather than precision. Also, those who are unwilling to properly lubricate their cases may find the resizing process frustrating.
A must-have accessory is high-quality case lubricant specifically designed for reloading. Without it, the resizing process will be more difficult and could potentially damage the brass.
Conclusion on Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Ultra Magnum, 046446 – 1 out of 125 models
Overall, the Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Ultra Magnum, 046446 – 1 out of 125 models is an excellent tool for reloaders seeking consistent and accurate ammunition. The zip spindle design and lock rings with wrench flats are well worth the investment for their time-saving benefits.
At $63.99, the price is justified by the die’s quality, durability, and the improved accuracy it provides. The consistency this die offers is critical for high-performance cartridges like the .338 Ultra Magnum.
I would highly recommend the Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Ultra Magnum, 046446 – 1 out of 125 models to anyone reloading for this caliber. If you’re struggling with inconsistent accuracy or simply want to streamline your reloading process, this die is a game-changer. Upgrade your reloading setup today and experience the difference!