Hornady Full Length Die, 32 ACP .311in, 046507 – 1 out of 125 models Review

What Makes Hornady Full Length Die, 32 ACP .311in, 046507 – 1 out of 125 models Stand Out?

The Hornady Full Length Die, 32 ACP .311in, 046507 – 1 out of 125 models isn’t just another piece of reloading equipment; it’s a precision instrument designed to bring consistency and accuracy to your reloading bench. Crafted by Hornady, a name synonymous with quality in the reloading world, this full-length die aims to resize your .32 ACP brass back to factory specifications, ensuring reliable feeding and chambering in your firearms. With features like the Zip Spindle design, lock rings with wrench flats, and an elliptical expander, this die promises a smoother, more efficient reloading process.

My journey to this die began with a nagging problem: inconsistent rounds. I was finding that some of my handloads were a tight fit in my vintage Walther PP, and I suspected the brass wasn’t being resized properly. I needed a die that could consistently resize .32 ACP brass, and the Hornady name kept coming up in my research.

Upon unboxing, the Hornady Full Length Die exudes quality. The steel is smoothly finished, and the threads are clean and precise. The weight feels substantial, hinting at durability and longevity, unlike some of the cheaper, lighter dies I’ve used in the past.

I considered the RCBS and Lyman full-length dies for .32 ACP as well. However, I chose the Hornady for its reported smoother operation and the inclusion of the Zip Spindle design, which I hoped would make adjustments easier. My initial impression was definitely positive; the die felt solid, well-made, and ready to tackle the resizing process.


Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Full Length Die, 32 ACP .311in, 046507 – 1 out of 125 models to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test run with the Hornady Full Length Die took place in my reloading room, a space dedicated to the meticulous process of crafting ammunition. I was resizing brass fired from my Walther PP and a Beretta Model 1935, both known for their finicky feeding requirements. The die performed admirably.

The Zip Spindle design was a noticeable improvement over my older dies, allowing for quicker and more precise adjustments of the decapping pin. Even after resizing brass that had been sitting in a dusty bin for years, the Hornady Full Length Die maintained its smooth operation.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Hornady Full Length Die continues to perform flawlessly. There are no signs of wear and tear on the die body or internal components. Regular cleaning with a brush and a light coat of oil has kept it in top condition, showcasing the durability of Hornady’s craftsmanship.

Compared to my previous experiences with other dies, the Hornady die is a clear winner. It consistently produces resized brass that chambers smoothly and reliably. This die outperforms my older dies in terms of both ease of use and the consistency of the finished product.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Full Length Die, 32 ACP .311in, 046507 – 1 out of 125 models

Specifications

The Hornady Full Length Die, 32 ACP .311in, 046507 – 1 out of 125 models is specifically designed for resizing .32 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) brass. It features a .311-inch sizing button, optimized for bullets of that diameter. The die is constructed from hardened steel for lasting durability and precise resizing.

The Zip Spindle design allows for rapid and easy adjustment of the decapping pin. Lock rings with wrench flats ensure secure die placement in your reloading press. The elliptical expander helps to reduce case neck stretching during resizing. These specifications are critical for ensuring proper bullet seating and consistent chambering of your reloaded ammunition.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady Full Length Die excels at its primary function: resizing .32 ACP brass to SAAMI specifications. It provides a smooth, consistent resizing process. The brass comes out perfectly sized and ready for priming, powder charging, and bullet seating.

The die’s strengths lie in its precision and ease of use. However, the one area that could be improved is the instructions. It would be helpful if the instructions were more detailed, especially for novice reloaders. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a full-length resizing die.

Design & Ergonomics

The Hornady Full Length Die is built with a focus on functionality and durability. The materials used are high-quality, and the finish is smooth and consistent. The die body is robust and feels solid in hand.

The Zip Spindle and lock rings with wrench flats make adjustments easy and secure. There is a slight learning curve for adjusting the decapping pin depth. Overall, the design is user-friendly for experienced reloaders.

Durability & Maintenance

The Hornady Full Length Die is built to last. The hardened steel construction ensures resistance to wear and tear. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple: regular cleaning with a brush and occasional lubrication with a light gun oil. The die is relatively easy to disassemble for thorough cleaning and inspection.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady Full Length Die, 32 ACP .311in, 046507 – 1 out of 125 models comes as a standalone die and doesn’t include any additional accessories in the box. While it’s designed to work with standard reloading presses, you may want to consider purchasing a dedicated die wrench for tightening the lock ring. Although there aren’t direct customization options for this die, its compatibility with standard reloading presses makes it versatile with other Hornady and third-party reloading tools.

Pros and Cons of Hornady Full Length Die, 32 ACP .311in, 046507 – 1 out of 125 models

Pros

  • Zip Spindle Design: Makes decapping pin adjustments quick and easy.
  • Elliptical Expander: Reduces case neck stretching, extending brass life.
  • Lock Rings with Wrench Flats: Ensures secure die placement in the press.
  • Consistent Resizing: Produces reliably sized brass for smooth chambering.
  • Durable Construction: Built to last with hardened steel.

Cons

  • Instructions Could Be More Detailed: May not be comprehensive enough for novice reloaders.
  • Price: Slightly more expensive than some competing dies.


Who Should Buy Hornady Full Length Die, 32 ACP .311in, 046507 – 1 out of 125 models?

The Hornady Full Length Die, 32 ACP .311in, 046507 – 1 out of 125 models is perfect for reloaders who demand consistent and accurate results when reloading .32 ACP ammunition. It is well-suited for target shooters, competitive shooters, and anyone who relies on their handloads for self-defense or hunting small game.

If you’re a complete novice with reloading or primarily load straight-walled pistol cartridges, you might want to start with a simpler, less expensive die set. However, for those serious about precision reloading, this is an excellent choice.

A quality reloading press and a set of calipers are must-have accessories to use this die effectively. A separate bullet seating die for .32 ACP is also recommended.

Conclusion on Hornady Full Length Die, 32 ACP .311in, 046507 – 1 out of 125 models

In summary, the Hornady Full Length Die, 32 ACP .311in, 046507 – 1 out of 125 models is a well-designed and durable tool that delivers consistent results. Priced at $53.99, it offers excellent value for serious reloaders seeking precision and reliability. The Hornady die is a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to improve the consistency and accuracy of their .32 ACP handloads.

If you’re tired of inconsistent resizing and want a die that will last for years, I wholeheartedly recommend the Hornady Full Length Die. Upgrade your reloading bench today and experience the difference that quality makes!

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