Hornady 3 Die Taper Crimp Set for 45 Auto 546555 – 1 out of 4 models Review

What Makes Hornady 3 Die Taper Crimp Set for 45 Auto 546555 – 1 out of 4 models Stand Out?

The Hornady 3 Die Taper Crimp Set for 45 Auto 546555 – 1 out of 4 models promises to be a comprehensive solution for reloading enthusiasts, offering a streamlined approach to seating and crimping 45 Auto rounds. Hornady, a respected name in reloading, aims to deliver precision and consistency with this set, featuring a taper-crimp seater die, expander die, and titanium-ring full-length sizer die. Is this the all-in-one solution it claims to be, or does it fall short of the mark?

My journey to this die set began with a frustrating inconsistency in my reloaded 45 Auto rounds. I was experiencing feeding issues and variations in accuracy, leading me to suspect my bullet seating and crimping process. I needed a reliable, precise system to eliminate these inconsistencies and produce consistent, high-quality ammunition.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the solid build quality of the dies. They felt substantial and well-machined, a testament to Hornady’s reputation. The non-slip Zip-Spindle design and the smooth finish instilled confidence right away.

I considered the RCBS 3-Die Set and the Lee Precision 4-Die Set, but ultimately chose the Hornady set due to its taper crimp feature and the promise of the innovative Zip-Spindle design for fine adjustments. These features seemed best suited to addressing my specific issues with 45 Auto rounds. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping this set would finally bring the consistency I craved to my reloading process.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady 3 Die Taper Crimp Set for 45 Auto 546555 – 1 out of 4 models to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test took place at my local shooting range’s reloading bench. I decided to load 100 rounds of 45 Auto using a mixed batch of brass I had collected over several range sessions. Setup was straightforward, and the instructions provided by Hornady were clear and concise.

The standout experience of the first session was how smoothly the Zip-Spindle design allowed for adjustments. Achieving the precise crimp depth I wanted was significantly easier than with my previous die set, which required constant readjustments. The finished rounds looked uniform and felt consistent, a stark contrast to my previous results.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Hornady 3 Die Taper Crimp Set continues to impress. The dies show minimal signs of wear, even after processing thousands of rounds. The titanium nitride coating on the sizing ring seems to be holding up remarkably well.

Maintenance is a breeze. I simply wipe down the dies after each reloading session and occasionally apply a light coat of gun oil. I’ve disassembled the dies a few times for a more thorough cleaning, and the locking retainer spring makes this process quick and painless. Compared to my previous die sets, which often required tedious scrubbing and disassembly, the Hornady set is a welcome improvement.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady 3 Die Taper Crimp Set for 45 Auto 546555 – 1 out of 4 models

Specifications

• The Hornady 3 Die Taper Crimp Set for 45 Auto 546555 – 1 out of 4 models includes a taper-crimp seater die, a pistol-style expander die, and a titanium-ring full-length sizer die. These components are designed to work together for precise bullet seating and crimping.
• The set features Hornady’s Zip-Spindle design, which allows for quick and easy adjustments. This is a significant improvement over traditional spindle designs, providing more precise control over crimp depth.
• The dies are constructed from high-quality steel and feature a smooth, polished finish. This ensures smooth operation and long-lasting durability.
• The sizing die features a titanium nitride coated sizing ring. This provides exceptional wear resistance and reduces friction during sizing.
• The set includes Hornady’s Sure-Loc lock rings, which clamp the entire die to hold the ring in place. This prevents the die from loosening during use.
• The expander die features an elliptical expander. This provides smooth neck sizing and reduces friction and case neck stretch.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady 3 Die Taper Crimp Set for 45 Auto excels at producing consistent, high-quality reloads. The taper crimp die ensures a secure bullet hold without damaging the bullet jacket. The expander die properly prepares the case mouth for seating, preventing bullet deformation.

The Hornady set far exceeded my expectations and has significantly improved the consistency and accuracy of my reloaded 45 Auto ammunition. The Zip-Spindle is a game-changer, allowing for precise adjustments and repeatable results. This is a huge improvement over other dies I have used in the past.

Design & Ergonomics

The dies are well-designed and easy to use. The smooth finish and precise machining contribute to a satisfying reloading experience. The Zip-Spindle adjustment system is intuitive and allows for quick and easy changes to crimp depth.

The build quality is exceptional, with the dies feeling solid and durable in hand. The weight is appropriate for their size, and the smooth finish makes them comfortable to handle. The design is clearly focused on precision and ease of use, making the reloading process more enjoyable.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience so far, I expect this die set to last for many years with proper care. The high-quality materials and construction ensure long-lasting durability. The titanium nitride coating on the sizing ring adds an extra layer of protection against wear and tear.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. A quick wipe down after each use is usually sufficient to keep the dies in good working order. Periodically, I disassemble the dies for a more thorough cleaning, which is made easy by the locking retainer spring.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady 3 Die Taper Crimp Set comes with everything you need to start reloading 45 Auto rounds. There are no additional accessories required for basic operation.

While there are no specific “customization” options for the dies themselves, they are compatible with standard reloading presses and shell holders. This allows you to use them with your existing reloading equipment.

Pros and Cons of Hornady 3 Die Taper Crimp Set for 45 Auto 546555 – 1 out of 4 models

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Who Should Buy Hornady 3 Die Taper Crimp Set for 45 Auto 546555 – 1 out of 4 models?

This die set is perfect for reloaders who are looking for a precise and reliable way to seat and crimp 45 Auto rounds. It’s ideal for competitive shooters, accuracy enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to produce consistent, high-quality ammunition. Reloaders who value ease of use and fine-tuning adjustments will also appreciate the Hornady set.

This product might not be the best choice for reloaders on a tight budget, as there are less expensive die sets available. Someone who reloads very infrequently or is just starting out may also find a simpler, less feature-rich die set more suitable.

A quality reloading press and shell holder are essential accessories. Investing in a good powder measure and scale is also recommended for achieving consistent powder charges and optimal accuracy.

Conclusion on Hornady 3 Die Taper Crimp Set for 45 Auto 546555 – 1 out of 4 models

The Hornady 3 Die Taper Crimp Set for 45 Auto 546555 – 1 out of 4 models is a worthwhile investment for reloaders who demand precision and consistency. The Zip-Spindle design and high-quality construction make it a joy to use, and the results speak for themselves. My 45 Auto rounds have never been more accurate or reliable.

While the price may be slightly higher than some competitors, the performance and durability justify the cost. This is a die set that will last for years and provide consistent results, making it a great value in the long run.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Hornady 3 Die Taper Crimp Set for 45 Auto to anyone looking to elevate their reloading game. Take your 45 Auto reloading to the next level with this exceptional die set.