What Makes Hornady Full Length Die, 357 Sig, .355, 046576 – 1 out of 125 models Stand Out?
The Hornady Full Length Die, 357 Sig, .355, 046576 – 1 out of 125 models is a critical component for any reloader looking to produce accurate and reliable ammunition in the increasingly popular .357 SIG caliber. As part of Hornady’s extensive line of reloading dies, this full-length die is designed to resize the entire case, ensuring proper chambering in your firearm. With features like the Zip Spindle design, lock rings with wrench flats, and an elliptical expander, this die aims to provide a smooth and consistent reloading experience.
I’ve been reloading for over a decade, focusing on precision and consistency, especially for my semi-automatic pistols. The .357 SIG has always been a bit of a finicky cartridge to reload due to its bottlenecked design; finding a die that could reliably and smoothly resize the cases without excessive wear or deformation became a personal quest. When my existing die set started showing signs of age and producing inconsistent results, I decided to upgrade, and the Hornady Full Length Die immediately caught my attention.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed with the solid feel and smooth finish of the die. The weight felt substantial, suggesting durable construction, and the machining appeared precise. The lock rings with wrench flats are a welcome addition, offering a secure and consistent hold without the risk of damage from over-tightening with pliers.
I was previously using a die set from a competitor known for budget-friendly options, and another high-end set lauded for their precision. While the budget dies were adequate, I consistently faced case deformation. The high-end option was excellent, but came with a prohibitively higher price. I chose the Hornady die based on Hornady’s reputation for quality and innovation in reloading equipment, as well as the reported improvements in case resizing consistency it offered compared to my older dies.
My first impression was definitely one of excitement. The features suggested that Hornady had put considerable thought into the design of this die. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it lived up to my expectations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Full Length Die, 357 Sig, .355, 046576 – 1 out of 125 models to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Hornady Full Length Die at my home reloading bench, using a variety of once-fired .357 SIG brass from different manufacturers. I carefully set up the die in my single-stage press, following Hornady’s instructions for proper adjustment. My initial goal was to resize 50 cases and assess the consistency and smoothness of the operation.
The die performed exceptionally well right from the start. Resizing the bottlenecked .357 SIG cases felt significantly smoother than with my previous dies. There were no signs of excessive force or sticking. Each case came out perfectly resized.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of reloading with the Hornady Full Length Die, I can confidently say that it has become an indispensable part of my reloading setup. The die has consistently produced high-quality, precisely resized cases without any issues. I have reloaded hundreds of rounds with it, and it shows no signs of wear or decline in performance.
The durability of the die is impressive. Even after prolonged use, the finish remains smooth, and the internal components operate flawlessly. Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward; a quick wipe down with a clean cloth and a light coat of gun oil after each reloading session is all that’s required. It outperforms my previous dies significantly in terms of resizing consistency and the smoothness of operation. The elliptical expander truly helps to reduce case neck deformation and improves bullet seating.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Full Length Die, 357 Sig, .355, 046576 – 1 out of 125 models
Specifications
- Caliber: .357 SIG. Designed specifically for this bottlenecked pistol cartridge.
- Bullet Diameter: .355 inches. The correct diameter for .357 SIG projectiles.
- Type: Full Length Resizing Die. Resizes the entire case body to factory specifications.
- Features: Zip Spindle Design, Lock Rings with Wrench Flats, Elliptical Expander, and Smooth Finish. These features enhance usability and performance.
These specifications are crucial for achieving accurate and reliable ammunition. The .357 SIG is a high-pressure cartridge, so precise resizing is essential for safe and consistent chambering and firing. The Hornady Full Length Die’s features contribute directly to this goal.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Full Length Die excels in its primary function: resizing .357 SIG brass. The die consistently produces cases that meet SAAMI specifications. This ensures reliable feeding and chambering in my firearms.
The Zip Spindle design simplifies die adjustment and makes it easier to set the proper resizing depth. The elliptical expander minimizes case neck stretching and improves bullet seating, leading to enhanced accuracy. One minor area for potential improvement could be clearer markings on the die body for easier identification within a set. However, this is a minor quibble. The die meets and exceeds my expectations for a high-quality resizing die.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hornady Full Length Die is well-designed and thoughtfully crafted. The materials used are of high quality, and the die feels solid and durable. The lock rings with wrench flats are a significant improvement over traditional lock rings, providing a secure hold and preventing damage from over-tightening.
The die is user-friendly and requires minimal setup. The smooth finish ensures that cases resize easily without excessive friction. The design is intuitive. The Zip Spindle makes fine adjustments quick and easy.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Hornady Full Length Die is built to last. The steel construction and smooth finish ensure that it can withstand years of use. Proper maintenance, including regular cleaning and lubrication, will further extend its lifespan.
The die is easy to disassemble for cleaning and inspection. Replacement parts are readily available from Hornady, should they ever be needed. This die should last for many years with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady Full Length Die is a standalone die, designed to be used as part of a reloading setup. It does not come with any additional accessories. However, it is compatible with standard reloading presses and shell holders.
While there are no specific customization options for the die itself, reloaders can use different bullet seating dies and crimping dies to further refine their ammunition. The Hornady die is designed to work seamlessly with other Hornady reloading components, as well as those from other reputable manufacturers.
Pros and Cons of Hornady Full Length Die, 357 Sig, .355, 046576 – 1 out of 125 models
Pros
- Smooth and Consistent Resizing: The Hornady Full Length Die produces precisely resized cases with minimal effort.
- Zip Spindle Design: Simplifies die adjustment and allows for easy fine-tuning.
- Elliptical Expander: Minimizes case neck stretching and improves bullet seating.
- Durable Construction: Built to last, even with heavy use.
- Lock Rings with Wrench Flats: Provides a secure hold and prevents damage from over-tightening.
Cons
- Die markings could be clearer for easier identification.
- Premium price compared to some budget-friendly options.
Who Should Buy Hornady Full Length Die, 357 Sig, .355, 046576 – 1 out of 125 models?
This die is perfect for serious reloaders who prioritize accuracy and consistency in their .357 SIG ammunition. It’s also ideal for those who reload in high volumes and need a durable, reliable die that can withstand frequent use. Competitive shooters and self-defense practitioners who rely on consistent ammunition performance will also benefit greatly from this die.
Someone who is just starting out in reloading and is on a very tight budget might consider a less expensive option. However, the long-term benefits of the Hornady die, in terms of durability and performance, make it a worthwhile investment. A quality shell holder is a must-have accessory for use with this die.
Conclusion on Hornady Full Length Die, 357 Sig, .355, 046576 – 1 out of 125 models
The Hornady Full Length Die, 357 Sig, .355, 046576 – 1 out of 125 models is a top-tier reloading die that delivers exceptional performance and durability. The Zip Spindle design, elliptical expander, and lock rings with wrench flats set it apart from the competition and make it a pleasure to use. While it may be slightly more expensive than some other options, the investment is well worth it for the increased accuracy and reliability it provides.
The price is justified given the quality of construction and the performance benefits it offers. I would wholeheartedly recommend this die to any serious reloader looking to produce high-quality .357 SIG ammunition. Upgrade your reloading setup today with the Hornady Full Length Die, and experience the difference that quality makes!