Let’s Dive into Hornady Primer Pocket Large Reamer Heads
The Hornady Primer Pocket Large Reamer Heads offer a simple yet effective solution to a common reloading problem: removing primer crimps from military-surplus brass. Military brass, known for its durability, often features a crimped primer pocket to ensure the primer stays seated during the rigors of combat. Reloading this brass requires removing or swaging this crimp, and the Hornady reamer heads provide a straightforward method for doing so.
I ventured down the path of reloading a few years ago in order to get the most accurate ammo possible. The problem I ran into, though, was inconsistent seating depth with my large primers when working with surplus .308 brass. I needed a reliable method for removing the crimp in those primer pockets.
My initial impression upon unboxing the Hornady Primer Pocket Large Reamer Heads was that of sturdy, no-nonsense tools. The hardened steel construction felt reassuring, suggesting longevity and durability. I’ve used hand-held chamfering tools and universal reaming tools, but nothing felt as precise and easy to control as these Hornady reamer heads.
I initially considered universal primer pocket reamers from RCBS and Lyman, but I decided on the Hornady model. This was due to Hornady’s reputation for quality and the simplicity of its design, which seemed less prone to over-reaming than some of the more complex tools. I was eager to see if these little tools could solve my primer seating problem.
The initial excitement was tempered with a touch of skepticism, as I’ve been burned by reloading tools before. However, the Hornady Primer Pocket Large Reamer Heads offered a promising simplicity. The potential for consistent and reliable primer pocket preparation was certainly exciting!
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Primer Pocket Large Reamer Heads to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hornady Primer Pocket Large Reamer Heads at my reloading bench, preparing a batch of .308 Winchester cases I’d collected from a local range. These cases were a mix of commercial and military surplus, easily identifiable by the telltale primer crimps. I utilized the Hornady reamer heads with my Hornady case prep center, and the difference between the ease of use and the performance was immediately noticeable.
Performance was consistent and effective, even when dealing with varying degrees of crimp. I encountered no issues even in a slightly dusty reloading environment. The reamer heads cut smoothly and cleanly, leaving a consistent chamfer on the primer pockets.
Using the reamer heads was surprisingly intuitive; no learning curve. The tool provided a tactile feel for the amount of material being removed.
The first surprise came with the consistency. I had grown used to inconsistent seating depths caused by varying crimp amounts. Now, every primer seated with perfect consistency.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hornady Primer Pocket Large Reamer Heads have proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear.
The hardened steel shows no signs of dulling or chipping, even after processing hundreds of cases. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe with a cloth removes any residue.
Compared to previous methods involving hand tools, the Hornady reamer heads are far superior. They provide a faster, more consistent, and less fatiguing solution for removing primer crimps. The frustration of inconsistent primer seating is now a distant memory.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Primer Pocket Large Reamer Heads
Specifications
Manufacturer: Hornady.
Hornady’s commitment to quality and innovation is well-known in the reloading world, adding credibility to these reamer heads.Size: Large.
This designates them for use with large rifle and large pistol primer pockets, a common size for cartridges like .308 Winchester and .45 ACP.Material: Hardened stainless steel.
Hardened stainless steel provides excellent durability and resistance to wear, ensuring a long lifespan.Function: Removes primer crimps from large primer pockets.
This specification is vital for reloaders who wish to use military-surplus brass.
The specifications highlight the tool’s intended purpose and construction, crucial considerations for any reloader. The hardened steel is a key component for reliable performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Primer Pocket Large Reamer Heads perform their intended function exceptionally well. They effectively remove primer crimps, allowing for consistent primer seating.
The tool’s strength lies in its simplicity and ease of use. The weakness is that it is only designed for large primer pockets.
They meet and exceed expectations, providing a reliable and consistent solution for a common reloading problem. The uniformity achieved in primer seating is a major benefit.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hornady Primer Pocket Large Reamer Heads are simple and functional in design. The materials used are of high quality, and the tool feels robust in hand.
There’s virtually no learning curve, which makes it user-friendly for both novice and experienced reloaders. The ease of use is a testament to the thoughtful design.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the hardened steel construction, these reamer heads are expected to last for many years. With proper care, they should provide a lifetime of service.
Maintenance is minimal; cleaning with a dry cloth is usually sufficient. The simplicity of the design minimizes the risk of damage or wear.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady Primer Pocket Large Reamer Heads themselves do not have customization options. They are designed to be used with a case prep center or similar tool that accepts 8-32 threaded accessories.
They are compatible with most case prep centers and handles that accept standard 8-32 threads. This compatibility makes them a versatile addition to any reloading bench.
Pros and Cons of Hornady Primer Pocket Large Reamer Heads
Pros
- Simple and effective: Easy to use and reliably removes primer crimps.
- Durable construction: Hardened steel ensures a long lifespan.
- Consistent results: Provides uniform primer pocket depth for consistent seating.
- Compatible: Works with standard case prep centers.
- Affordable: Provides excellent value for money.
Cons
- Limited to large primer pockets: Cannot be used with small primer pockets.
- Requires case prep center: Needs a compatible tool for operation.
Who Should Buy Hornady Primer Pocket Large Reamer Heads?
These reamer heads are perfect for reloaders who work with military-surplus brass. They are also useful for anyone seeking more consistent primer seating depths.
Those who only reload commercial brass with non-crimped primer pockets can skip this product. Also, individuals who prefer hand-held chamfering tools might not find this necessary.
A case prep center or handle with 8-32 threads is a must-have accessory. A deburring tool can also be useful for further refining the primer pocket.
Conclusion on Hornady Primer Pocket Large Reamer Heads
The Hornady Primer Pocket Large Reamer Heads are a valuable addition to any reloader’s toolkit. The tool offers a simple and effective solution for removing primer crimps, leading to more consistent and reliable reloads.
The price is justified by the quality, durability, and performance. This makes the reamer heads a worthwhile investment for serious reloaders.
I would definitely recommend the Hornady Primer Pocket Large Reamer Heads to anyone seeking a reliable solution for primer crimp removal. They are a game-changer for working with military brass! Add these to your bench and say goodbye to inconsistent primer seating.