Let’s Dive into Hornady FTX Seating Stems, 45 Cal, .458, 325 Grain
The Hornady FTX Seating Stems, 45 Cal, .458, 325 Grain might seem like a small piece of equipment, but it plays a crucial role in the reloading process for those who favor the .45-70 Government cartridge. Manufactured by Hornady, these seating stems are designed specifically for use with their FTX (Flex Tip eXtreme) bullets, ensuring consistent and accurate seating depth. This is paramount for optimal performance and safety when reloading.
I reload .45-70 Government rounds primarily for my Marlin 1895 lever-action rifle, used for hunting deer and the occasional black bear in the dense woods of Pennsylvania. My previous seating stem, a generic one, often resulted in inconsistent seating depths, which negatively impacted accuracy and, frankly, gave me a nagging feeling of uncertainty about the consistency of my loads. I needed a solution that provided reliable and repeatable seating, especially for the FTX bullets I favored for their excellent terminal performance.
Upon receiving the Hornady FTX Seating Stems, 45 Cal, .458, 325 Grain, I immediately noticed the precision of the machining. The stem felt solid and well-made, inspiring confidence. Compared to my generic stem, the difference was night and day; this was clearly designed for a specific purpose, not a “one-size-fits-all” approach.
Initially, I was excited to try the Hornady stem. The consistent seating depth promised tighter groups and more confidence in my reloads. I was also cautiously optimistic, hoping it would live up to the hype surrounding Hornady reloading components.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady FTX Seating Stems, 45 Cal, .458, 325 Grain to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Hornady FTX Seating Stems, 45 Cal, .458, 325 Grain was at my home reloading bench. I loaded a batch of .45-70 rounds using Hornady FTX 325-grain bullets, carefully monitoring the seating depth with my calipers. The process was noticeably smoother and more consistent than with my previous seating stem.
I then took these rounds to my local shooting range, which is mostly an outdoor affair. The weather was typical for late fall in Pennsylvania: crisp and damp. Even with slightly cold hands, the reloading process felt controlled and precise.
The Hornady FTX Seating Stems, 45 Cal, .458, 325 Grain were extremely easy to use from the very beginning. I observed that the seating depth consistency was impressive. There were no issues or surprises with the stem during the first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Hornady FTX Seating Stems, 45 Cal, .458, 325 Grain have proven to be a valuable addition to my reloading setup. They hold up exceptionally well, showing no signs of wear and tear despite frequent use. Durability is excellent.
Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe with a clean cloth after each reloading session is all it takes. This stem consistently outperforms my previous generic stem in terms of seating depth consistency and ease of use. I’m far more confident in the quality and consistency of my reloaded .45-70 rounds now.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady FTX Seating Stems, 45 Cal, .458, 325 Grain
Specifications
- The Hornady FTX Seating Stems, 45 Cal, .458, 325 Grain are specifically designed for the .45-70 Government cartridge, utilizing .458 diameter bullets. The Hornady stems are designed for seating 325-grain FTX bullets.
- The stem is crafted from hardened steel, providing exceptional durability. The precision machining ensures a snug fit with the FTX bullet profile, preventing deformation and promoting consistent seating depth. This is crucial for accuracy and reliable ignition.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady FTX Seating Stems, 45 Cal, .458, 325 Grain excels at its primary function: seating FTX bullets to a consistent depth. This directly translates to improved accuracy and more consistent velocities in my reloads. The stem is a critical piece for handloaders using the FTX bullet in .45-70.
Its main strength lies in its dedicated design for FTX bullets. The only real “weakness,” if you could call it that, is that it’s optimized for this specific bullet profile.
It meets and exceeds my expectations for a seating stem. The improved consistency in my reloads is noticeable on the target downrange.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hornady FTX Seating Stems, 45 Cal, .458, 325 Grain boast a simple yet effective design. The steel construction feels robust and durable in hand. The user-friendly design means there’s virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The hardened steel construction of the Hornady FTX Seating Stems, 45 Cal, .458, 325 Grain suggests it will last for many years with proper care. Maintenance is minimal; cleaning with a dry cloth to remove any powder residue is sufficient. The quality is self-evident.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady FTX Seating Stems, 45 Cal, .458, 325 Grain is a standalone component. It does not require any additional accessories for its primary function. Compatibility with other Hornady reloading equipment is seamless, naturally.
Pros and Cons of Hornady FTX Seating Stems, 45 Cal, .458, 325 Grain
Pros
- Exceptional Seating Consistency: The primary benefit is the consistent seating depth achieved with FTX bullets.
- Improved Accuracy: Consistent seating translates to tighter groups on the target.
- Durable Construction: The hardened steel ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy to Use: No learning curve, simple and straightforward operation.
- Affordable Price: At around $7, this is a relatively inexpensive upgrade that yields significant benefits.
Cons
- Not Universally Compatible: Optimized specifically for Hornady FTX bullets.
- Limited to a Single Bullet Weight: Designed for 325-grain FTX bullets only.
Who Should Buy Hornady FTX Seating Stems, 45 Cal, .458, 325 Grain?
The Hornady FTX Seating Stems, 45 Cal, .458, 325 Grain are perfect for reloaders of .45-70 Government rounds who frequently use Hornady 325-grain FTX bullets. Hunters who rely on the FTX bullet for its terminal performance will appreciate the consistency and accuracy this seating stem provides. It’s a great choice.
If you primarily use different bullet types or weights in your .45-70 reloads, or if you’re just getting started with reloading, this might not be the most versatile first purchase. Consider a more generic seating stem first. If you reload .45-70 with lead round nose bullets this will not be appropriate.
The Hornady reloading press and appropriate shell holder are must-have accessories to utilize the Hornady FTX Seating Stems, 45 Cal, .458, 325 Grain. Calipers are also a required tool for checking seating depth.
Conclusion on Hornady FTX Seating Stems, 45 Cal, .458, 325 Grain
In summary, the Hornady FTX Seating Stems, 45 Cal, .458, 325 Grain are a specialized tool that excels at its intended purpose. The value proposition is excellent. For a small investment, you gain significantly improved seating consistency and, consequently, enhanced accuracy in your .45-70 reloads using FTX bullets.
I would absolutely recommend it to fellow reloaders who value consistent performance and rely on Hornady FTX bullets for their .45-70 rifles. The Hornady FTX Seating Stems, 45 Cal, .458, 325 Grain are more than just a piece of equipment; it’s an investment in confidence and accuracy. Upgrade your reloading bench today.