Let’s Dive into Hornady 2 Die Set, 17/223, .172 Diameter 546204 – 1 out of 140 models
For years, I’ve chased the perfect .17/223 round. Factory ammo is accurate enough for varmints, but nothing beats the satisfaction of dialing in a load precisely tailored to my rifle. That’s where the Hornady 2 Die Set, 17/223, .172 Diameter 546204 – 1 out of 140 models comes into play – a critical tool for any serious reloader venturing into the world of the .17 caliber AR platform.
I’ve been reloading for over a decade, primarily focusing on larger calibers. My recent foray into the .17/223 world stemmed from a growing gopher population decimating my uncle’s alfalfa fields. He needed something accurate, flat-shooting, and relatively quiet to dispatch these pests without spooking the cattle. The Hornady dies promised the precision I needed to craft the ideal gopher-getter load.
Unboxing the Hornady 2 Die Set was straightforward. The dies themselves felt solid and well-machined. The finish was clean, and everything was well-oiled, ready to thread into my RCBS Rock Chucker press. Compared to my Redding competition dies for long-range precision, these felt more geared toward practical accuracy and high-volume reloading.
Initially, I was a bit skeptical; could a 2-die set really provide the control I wanted, especially compared to using a separate neck sizing die? I ultimately chose this set over a 3-die option from another brand because of Hornady’s reputation for quality and their inline bullet seating system. My first impression was cautiously optimistic, hoping the performance would justify the brand loyalty.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady 2 Die Set, 17/223, .172 Diameter 546204 – 1 out of 140 models to the Test
First Use Experience
The initial test took place in my reloading room, transforming into a mini-production line for .17/223 rounds. I started with once-fired .223 brass, meticulously cleaned and prepped. Using the Hornady dies, I quickly started resizing and seating bullets, aiming for a consistent overall length and neck tension.
The process was remarkably smooth. The dies operated flawlessly, even when pushing the small .172 bullets into the case necks. There were no signs of bullet deformation or excessive pressure needed to seat. The consistent neck tension, achieved with the Hornady dies, translated to more uniform velocities during the subsequent range testing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several hundred rounds, the Hornady 2 Die Set continued to perform reliably. I paid close attention to the internal die surfaces, expecting to see some wear from the constant case friction. To my surprise, the finish remained smooth and unblemished. The dies have proved to be incredibly durable.
Cleaning the dies was straightforward. A quick wipe down with a solvent-soaked patch, followed by a light oiling, kept them in perfect working order. Compared to some of my older dies that required more meticulous scrubbing, the Hornady set was a breeze to maintain. This Hornady die set outperformed my expectations considering the small caliber and potential for brass shavings to cause issues.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady 2 Die Set, 17/223, .172 Diameter 546204 – 1 out of 140 models
Specifications
The Hornady 2 Die Set, 17/223, .172 Diameter 546204 – 1 out of 140 models is specifically designed for reloading .17/223 cartridges using .172 diameter bullets. This set includes two essential dies: a full-length sizing die and a bullet seating die. The materials used are hardened steel, ensuring durability and resistance to wear. This is a critical factor when working with high-pressure cartridges.
The full-length sizing die resizes the entire case back to factory specifications, ensuring reliable chambering in any .17/223 rifle. The bullet seating die precisely seats the bullet to the desired depth. It is contributing to consistent pressures and accuracy. The inline bullet seating system is a key feature, aligning the bullet, case neck, and seating stem perfectly before seating.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady 2 Die Set performs its primary function – resizing and seating bullets – exceptionally well. The full-length sizing die consistently produces cases that chamber smoothly and eject without issue. The bullet seating die, with its inline seating system, is where this set truly shines. The rounds displayed improved accuracy and consistency.
The main strength of this die set is its simplicity and ease of use. It’s straightforward for both novice and experienced reloaders. A minor weakness might be the lack of a separate neck sizing die for those who prefer to optimize case life. Ultimately, it meets my expectations and delivers consistent, accurate rounds.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hornady 2 Die Set boasts a clean, functional design. The dies are robust and feel substantial in hand. The smooth finish and precise threading ensure they install easily into any standard reloading press. The die set also features Hornady’s Sure-Loc lock rings that clamp around the entire die.
The ergonomic design extends to the adjustment knobs on the seating die, making it easy to dial in precise seating depths. There’s no excessive learning curve associated with these dies. Setup and adjustment are intuitive, thanks to the well-engineered design.
Durability & Maintenance
Given Hornady’s reputation, I expect this die set to last for many years, if not decades, with proper care. The hardened steel construction should withstand the rigors of frequent use. The internal components are relatively simple, minimizing the potential for mechanical failure.
Maintaining the Hornady 2 Die Set is incredibly easy. Regular cleaning with a solvent and a light coat of oil is all that’s needed to keep them functioning optimally. I foresee no issues with long-term durability, as Hornady products are built to withstand heavy use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady 2 Die Set doesn’t include any additional accessories beyond the two dies themselves. However, it’s compatible with standard shell holders and other reloading tools. There aren’t any specific customization options for the dies themselves. But the reloader can adjust seating depth and crimp (if desired) to fine-tune their loads.
The dies are designed to work with any standard reloading press and shell holder designed for the .223 Remington cartridge family. This broad compatibility makes it easy to integrate the Hornady set into an existing reloading setup.
Pros and Cons of Hornady 2 Die Set, 17/223, .172 Diameter 546204 – 1 out of 140 models
Pros
- Excellent accuracy and consistency due to the inline bullet seating system.
- Durable construction ensures long-term reliability.
- Simple and easy to use, even for novice reloaders.
- Smooth operation and consistent results.
- Compatibility with standard reloading presses and shell holders.
Cons
- Lacks a separate neck sizing die, potentially reducing case life for dedicated reloaders.
- Does not include a shell holder, requiring a separate purchase.
Who Should Buy Hornady 2 Die Set, 17/223, .172 Diameter 546204 – 1 out of 140 models?
This Hornady 2 Die Set is perfect for varmint hunters and target shooters looking to craft accurate .17/223 ammunition. It benefits reloaders who prioritize simplicity and consistency. It’s also a good choice for reloaders who are new to the .17/223 caliber.
Those who are obsessed with maximizing case life or prefer more advanced reloading techniques might want to consider a set with a separate neck sizing die. A shell holder designed for .223 Remington is a must-have accessory to operate the die set.
Conclusion on Hornady 2 Die Set, 17/223, .172 Diameter 546204 – 1 out of 140 models
The Hornady 2 Die Set, 17/223, .172 Diameter 546204 – 1 out of 140 models is a solid investment for anyone serious about reloading accurate .17/223 ammunition. Its simplicity, durability, and consistent performance make it a standout choice. At a price of $110.99, the value proposition is excellent, especially considering the accuracy gains achieved.
I wholeheartedly recommend this die set to anyone looking to delve into the world of .17/223 reloading. Get yourself this Hornady die set and start crafting those gopher-busting rounds!