What Makes Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Federal, 046595 – 1 out of 125 models Stand Out?
The Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Federal, 046595 – 1 out of 125 models is more than just a reloading tool; it’s a gateway to precision and consistency for the serious reloader. Manufactured by Hornady, a name synonymous with quality in the shooting sports industry, this die is designed to full-length resize .338 Federal cases, ensuring proper chambering in your firearm. Its standout features include the zip spindle design, lock rings with wrench flats, an elliptical expander, and a smooth finish, all contributing to a user-friendly and accurate reloading experience.
I was searching for a die set that could consistently produce ammunition that would reliably feed and chamber in my custom .338 Federal AR-10 platform. I needed something more precise than the generic die sets I’d been using, as I was starting to see inconsistencies with chambering. This became critical when I began developing loads for hunting purposes, where reliability is paramount.
Upon unboxing the Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Federal, 046595 – 1 out of 125 models, I was immediately impressed with the clean machining and solid feel. The die felt robust and well-made, instilling confidence in its long-term durability.
Compared to my RCBS and Lee Precision dies, the Hornady die exhibited a smoother finish and more refined design. While those other dies worked, the Hornady offered features like the zip spindle and wrench flats that made adjustments easier and more precise. This promised to streamline the reloading process.
My first impression was excitement; the Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Federal, 046595 – 1 out of 125 models looked and felt like a professional-grade tool that could significantly improve my reloading accuracy.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Federal, 046595 – 1 out of 125 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Federal, 046595 – 1 out of 125 models took place in my reloading room, a controlled environment where I could focus on precise measurements and adjustments. I resized a batch of .338 Federal cases, paying close attention to the ease of operation and the consistency of the resized cases.
The die performed flawlessly, even with slightly tarnished brass. The zip spindle made adjustments simple, and the cases resized smoothly without excessive force.
The Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Federal, 046595 – 1 out of 125 models was incredibly easy to use right out of the box. The adjustments were intuitive, and I didn’t need to consult the instructions extensively.
I did notice that the die required a bit more lubrication than my other dies. It was something easily addressed, but worth noting.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Federal, 046595 – 1 out of 125 models has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear or damage, and the finish remains smooth and corrosion-free.
The Hornady die’s durability has been excellent; it shows no signs of wear even after resizing hundreds of cases. Cleaning is a breeze, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a clean cloth and the occasional application of case lube.
In comparison to my previous reloading experiences, the Hornady die has significantly improved the consistency and reliability of my .338 Federal ammunition. My rounds chamber smoother and the accuracy has improved.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Federal, 046595 – 1 out of 125 models
Specifications
Caliber: .338 Federal. This is the specific cartridge the die is designed to reload, ensuring a proper fit and consistent results.
Full Length Resizing: This die resizes the entire case body, restoring it to its original dimensions for reliable chambering. It’s crucial for consistent performance, especially in semi-automatic rifles like my AR-10.
Zip Spindle Design: This allows for quick and easy adjustments of the die, enabling precise control over the resizing process. The ability to make fine adjustments on the fly is a huge time-saver.
Lock Rings with Wrench Flats: These lock rings securely hold the die in place, preventing unwanted movement and ensuring consistent resizing. The wrench flats make tightening and loosening the rings much easier, giving you more control and preventing damage.
Elliptical Expander: This ensures a smooth and uniform expansion of the case neck, preventing bullet deformation and improving accuracy. A consistent neck tension is key to accuracy.
Smooth Finish: The polished finish reduces friction and ensures smooth case feeding and ejection. This translates into less stress on the brass and a longer case life.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Federal, 046595 – 1 out of 125 models performs its job with exceptional precision and consistency. Cases are resized to factory specifications, ensuring reliable chambering and optimal accuracy.
The die’s strengths lie in its ease of use, precision, and durability. A minor weakness is its greater need for lubrication compared to some competitors.
The die has exceeded my expectations in terms of quality and performance. It provides consistent results and enhances the overall reloading experience.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Federal, 046595 – 1 out of 125 models features a robust steel construction with a smooth, polished finish. The weight of the die feels substantial, indicating high-quality materials and craftsmanship.
The Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Federal, 046595 – 1 out of 125 models is user-friendly, even for reloaders with limited experience. The zip spindle and wrench flats make adjustments straightforward, and the overall design is intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Federal, 046595 – 1 out of 125 models is built to last. Its durable steel construction ensures years of reliable performance.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The smooth finish prevents corrosion and makes cleaning easy.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Federal, 046595 – 1 out of 125 models does not come with any specific accessories, as it is a standalone die. However, it can be used with a variety of reloading presses and shell holders.
The die is compatible with most standard reloading presses and shell holders. There are no specific customization options for the die itself, but you can adjust the resizing depth to fine-tune your ammunition.
Pros and Cons of Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Federal, 046595 – 1 out of 125 modelsPros
- High-quality construction ensures long-lasting durability and reliable performance.
- Zip spindle design allows for quick and precise adjustments, saving time and effort.
- Elliptical expander ensures smooth and uniform case neck expansion, improving accuracy.
- Lock rings with wrench flats securely hold the die in place, preventing unwanted movement.
- Smooth finish reduces friction and ensures smooth case feeding and ejection, extending case life.
Cons
- Requires more lubrication than some other dies, which can be a minor inconvenience.
- Higher price point compared to some budget die sets, although the quality justifies the cost.
Who Should Buy Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Federal, 046595 – 1 out of 125 models?
Pros
- High-quality construction ensures long-lasting durability and reliable performance.
- Zip spindle design allows for quick and precise adjustments, saving time and effort.
- Elliptical expander ensures smooth and uniform case neck expansion, improving accuracy.
- Lock rings with wrench flats securely hold the die in place, preventing unwanted movement.
- Smooth finish reduces friction and ensures smooth case feeding and ejection, extending case life.
Cons
- Requires more lubrication than some other dies, which can be a minor inconvenience.
- Higher price point compared to some budget die sets, although the quality justifies the cost.
The Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Federal, 046595 – 1 out of 125 models is perfect for reloaders who demand precision and consistency in their ammunition. It’s ideal for hunters, competitive shooters, and anyone who wants to optimize the performance of their .338 Federal firearm.
This die might not be the best choice for casual reloaders on a tight budget. Those just starting out may prefer a more affordable die set.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality case lube to ensure smooth resizing.
Conclusion on Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Federal, 046595 – 1 out of 125 models
The Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Federal, 046595 – 1 out of 125 models is a top-tier reloading tool that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. Its high-quality construction, precise design, and user-friendly features make it a worthwhile investment for serious reloaders.
The price is justified by the die’s quality, durability, and the improved consistency it brings to handloading. I wholeheartedly recommend the Hornady Full Length Die, 338 Federal, 046595 – 1 out of 125 models to anyone seeking to enhance the performance of their .338 Federal ammunition. Take your reloading to the next level and experience the precision and consistency that Hornady delivers!