Hornady 300 HAM’R, .308 Caliber Dieset 2, – 1 out of 2 models Review

What Makes Hornady 300 HAM’R, .308 Caliber Dieset 2, – 1 out of 2 models Stand Out?

For those venturing into the world of the 300 HAM’R cartridge, a reliable die set is not just a convenience; it’s a necessity. The Hornady 300 HAM’R, .308 Caliber Dieset 2, – 1 out of 2 models offers a pathway to crafting consistent and accurate ammunition, a critical aspect for this relatively new, high-performance round. Hornady, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in reloading, aims to provide handloaders with the tools needed to unlock the 300 HAM’R’s potential.

I first encountered the 300 HAM’R when a close friend, an avid hog hunter in Texas, raved about its ballistic performance and terminal effectiveness out of AR-15 platforms. I needed a die set that would allow me to reliably reload this cartridge, achieving consistent neck tension and proper bullet seating depth. My search led me to the Hornady 300 HAM’R, .308 Caliber Dieset 2, – 1 out of 2 models, intrigued by Hornady’s reputation for quality and the potential for optimized handloads.

The dieset arrived in Hornady’s standard red packaging, which instantly signals a level of quality. Upon opening it, the dies felt solid, well-machined, and properly finished. I immediately noted the smooth threads and precise tolerances.

Compared to a standard .308 Winchester dieset, this one is specifically tailored for the 300 HAM’R’s unique dimensions and performance characteristics. While I’ve used Lee and RCBS die sets in the past for other cartridges, I opted for the Hornady set for this specific cartridge, hoping for a perfect match and optimized results. I wanted to take the guesswork out of reloading this relatively new round.

My initial excitement was palpable; I was eager to get started loading and see how this dieset would perform. I had high expectations, fueled by Hornady’s brand reputation, and the promise of crafting precise, high-performing 300 HAM’R ammunition.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady 300 HAM’R, .308 Caliber Dieset 2, – 1 out of 2 models to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Hornady 300 HAM’R, .308 Caliber Dieset 2, – 1 out of 2 models took place in my home reloading room, a space carefully climate-controlled for consistent powder measurements and primer seating. I tested the dieset with mixed brass from various manufacturers, as is common when acquiring range brass or once-fired cases. I wanted to see how forgiving the dieset would be with varying brass thicknesses and compositions.

The dies performed flawlessly. The resizing die smoothly reformed the brass to the correct dimensions, and the expander ball provided consistent neck tension without excessive force. The seating die allowed for precise bullet placement, and the crimping die applied a uniform crimp without crushing the case shoulder. I encountered no issues related to excessive friction or resistance while using the dies.

The dieset was incredibly easy to use, even for someone with moderate reloading experience. The instructions were clear and concise, and the dies themselves required no special adjustments or modifications. I appreciated the user-friendliness, especially when working with a less common cartridge like the 300 HAM’R. There were no negative surprises in the entire reloading process.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Hornady 300 HAM’R, .308 Caliber Dieset 2, – 1 out of 2 models continues to perform reliably and consistently. The dies have proven to be durable and well-made, showing no signs of wear or tear. Even after resizing hundreds of cases, the dies still maintain their smooth operation and precise tolerances.

The dies require minimal maintenance; a quick wipe down with a clean cloth after each reloading session is usually sufficient. Occasionally, I apply a light coat of case lube to the dies to prevent brass from sticking, but this is only necessary after prolonged use. The dies have consistently outperformed my expectations compared to my past experiences with other die sets.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady 300 HAM’R, .308 Caliber Dieset 2, – 1 out of 2 models

Specifications

• Caliber: 300 HAM’R. This is specifically designed for this proprietary cartridge, ensuring proper case forming and bullet seating.
• Die Type: Two-die set. This typically includes a sizing/de-capping die and a seating die.
• Sizing Die: Full-length sizing die. This ensures proper case dimensions for reliable chambering in 300 HAM’R rifles.
• Seating Die: Bullet seating die with micrometer adjustment (may vary depending on the specific set). This helps with achieving precise seating depth, critical for accuracy.
• Material: High-quality steel. This offers long-lasting durability and resistance to wear and tear.
• Compatibility: Standard 7/8″-14 threads. This allows for use with most reloading presses.
• Hornady Lock-N-Load Compatibility: Some versions are compatible with Hornady’s Lock-N-Load quick-change system, though specifics were unavailable. This enables faster die changes on compatible presses.

These specifications directly impact the performance and user experience by ensuring that reloaders can produce ammunition that is both safe and accurate. Proper case sizing ensures reliable feeding and extraction, while precise bullet seating contributes to consistent pressures and improved accuracy. The high-quality steel construction guarantees long-lasting durability, making it a worthwhile investment for reloaders who plan to load significant amounts of 300 HAM’R ammunition.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady 300 HAM’R, .308 Caliber Dieset 2, – 1 out of 2 models performs admirably, consistently producing high-quality ammunition that meets or exceeds factory specifications. The dies are easy to adjust and use, making them suitable for both novice and experienced reloaders. The resulting ammunition is accurate and reliable.

The dieset’s main strength lies in its ability to produce consistent and accurate ammunition for the 300 HAM’R cartridge. However, the lack of a dedicated crimping die in some sets can be a minor drawback, requiring users to purchase a separate die if a heavy crimp is desired. Overall, the dieset more than meets expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The dieset is constructed from high-quality steel and features a durable finish that resists rust and corrosion. The dies feel solid and well-made, inspiring confidence in their ability to withstand years of use. The dies are comfortable to handle and easy to adjust.

The dies are designed with user-friendliness in mind, making them easy to set up and operate. The clear instructions and intuitive design minimize the learning curve. Even inexperienced reloaders will find the dies easy to master.

Durability & Maintenance

The Hornady 300 HAM’R, .308 Caliber Dieset 2, – 1 out of 2 models is built to last, with a robust construction that can withstand years of use. The high-quality steel resists wear and tear, ensuring that the dies maintain their accuracy and precision over time. This makes it a valuable asset for long-term reloading needs.

The dieset is easy to maintain. Regular cleaning with a clean cloth and occasional lubrication is typically all that is required to keep the dies in optimal condition. This ensures smooth operation and prolonged lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady 300 HAM’R, .308 Caliber Dieset 2, – 1 out of 2 models typically includes only the sizing and seating dies. Depending on the specific set, it may include a shell holder for the 300 HAM’R cartridge, but this is not always the case. Users may need to purchase a shell holder separately.

The dieset itself does not offer many customization options. However, the use of different bullet types and powder loads allows for considerable flexibility in tailoring ammunition to specific needs. Compatibility with Hornady’s Lock-N-Load system allows for faster die changes.

Pros and Cons of Hornady 300 HAM’R, .308 Caliber Dieset 2, – 1 out of 2 models

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Who Should Buy Hornady 300 HAM’R, .308 Caliber Dieset 2, – 1 out of 2 models?

The Hornady 300 HAM’R, .308 Caliber Dieset 2, – 1 out of 2 models is perfect for hunters who rely on the 300 HAM’R for hog hunting or deer hunting, and competitive shooters who demand consistent, high-performing ammunition. Reloaders seeking to optimize their ammunition for accuracy and performance will also appreciate this product. Anyone who owns a 300 HAM’R rifle and wants to explore the benefits of handloading will find this dieset to be an essential tool.

Those who primarily shoot factory ammunition or who are new to reloading and only intend to load common calibers might not need this specific dieset. It is a specialized tool for a specific cartridge. Individuals on a very tight budget might explore less expensive die sets from other manufacturers.

A necessary accessory is a shell holder, if it is not included with the dieset. Case lube is also essential for smooth resizing, especially with new or once-fired brass. A quality reloading press is also a fundamental requirement.

Conclusion on Hornady 300 HAM’R, .308 Caliber Dieset 2, – 1 out of 2 models

The Hornady 300 HAM’R, .308 Caliber Dieset 2, – 1 out of 2 models is a reliable and well-made tool that delivers consistent and accurate results. Its user-friendly design and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for reloaders who are serious about crafting high-quality 300 HAM’R ammunition. The price of $96.01 is justified by the quality and performance of the dieset, making it a solid value for the money.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this dieset to anyone who is looking to reload the 300 HAM’R cartridge. Whether you’re a hunter, a competitive shooter, or simply an enthusiast looking to explore the potential of this exciting round, the Hornady 300 HAM’R, .308 Caliber Dieset 2, – 1 out of 2 models will enable you to craft ammunition that performs to your exact specifications. Get yours today and unlock the full potential of your 300 HAM’R rifle!