Let’s Dive into Hornady 35 Cal .358 FTX Seating Stems
The Hornady 35 Cal .358 FTX Seating Stems are a specialized reloading component designed to improve the consistency and accuracy of ammunition loaded with Hornady FTX bullets in .35 caliber cartridges. These seating stems play a crucial role in ensuring proper bullet seating depth, which is vital for consistent pressures and optimal performance.
My journey to finding the perfect seating stem stemmed from a frustrating pattern of inconsistent seating depths when loading .357 Magnum rounds with Hornady FTX bullets for my lever-action rifle. The standard seating stems I had been using were not ideally shaped for the FTX bullet’s unique profile, leading to slightly skewed seating and variations in crimp.
Upon unboxing the Hornady 35 Cal .358 FTX Seating Stems, the first thing I noticed was the precision of the machining. The stem felt solid and well-made, promising a more consistent seating process than my previous setup. Its internal shape looked to perfectly match the FTX bullet’s ogive.
Compared to standard seating stems from RCBS and Lee, the Hornady FTX seating stem is clearly designed with a specific bullet in mind. While the other stems are more general-purpose, the Hornady stem promised a tailored fit for the FTX bullet, which was the determining factor in my choice.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. While a simple tool, the potential for improvement in seating consistency made me excited to get to the reloading bench and put the Hornady 35 Cal .358 FTX Seating Stems to work.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady 35 Cal .358 FTX Seating Stems to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test took place at my reloading bench, where I loaded a batch of .357 Magnum cartridges using the Hornady 35 Cal .358 FTX Seating Stems. I was particularly interested in seeing how it handled the FTX bullet’s flexible polymer tip.
The performance was immediately noticeable. The seating process felt smoother, and the bullets seated much more consistently, with minimal deformation of the polymer tip. I could see the improvement in seating depth consistency just by visually inspecting the finished rounds.
The stem was incredibly easy to use. The drop-in replacement for my existing seating stem required no modifications to my press. Seating depth adjustments felt more precise than before, and I achieved my desired crimp without issue.
The only minor issue was a slight build-up of lubricant on the stem after seating a large batch of rounds, but this was easily remedied with a quick wipe-down.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Hornady 35 Cal .358 FTX Seating Stems continues to deliver consistent results. My .357 Magnum rounds are seating beautifully.
There are no signs of wear or tear on the stem itself, indicating the durability of the materials used. I have loaded hundreds of rounds with it so far.
Maintenance is simple: I just wipe the stem down with a clean cloth after each reloading session. It has proven to be a worthwhile addition to my reloading equipment.
Compared to my previous seating stems, the Hornady 35 Cal .358 FTX Seating Stems has significantly improved the consistency and accuracy of my .357 Magnum loads. I no longer experience the seating depth variations that plagued me before.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady 35 Cal .358 FTX Seating Stems
Specifications
The Hornady 35 Cal .358 FTX Seating Stems is designed for use with .35 caliber bullets with a diameter of .358 inches. Specifically, it is optimized for the Hornady FTX bullets, which feature a unique spitzer profile and a flexible polymer tip. This stem is also intended to be used with .35 Remington, with bullet weights of 200 grain.
The optimized internal geometry of the seating stem is what truly sets it apart. The shape of the stem prevents damage to the bullet’s tip and ensures consistent seating depth, which contributes directly to improved accuracy and reliable cartridge performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady 35 Cal .358 FTX Seating Stems performs its job exceptionally well. The improved seating consistency translates to more uniform pressures during firing and tighter groupings on the target.
The primary strength of the Hornady 35 Cal .358 FTX Seating Stems lies in its precision design. The only area for potential improvement might be a more durable coating on the stem to further minimize lubricant build-up.
The Hornady 35 Cal .358 FTX Seating Stems exceeds my expectations, delivering consistent and accurate results with Hornady FTX bullets. It is now an indispensable part of my reloading process.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hornady 35 Cal .358 FTX Seating Stems is a simple, yet well-designed tool. The materials used are durable and feel substantial.
The stem is incredibly user-friendly. It drops directly into most reloading presses that accept standard seating stems.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hornady 35 Cal .358 FTX Seating Stems is constructed from durable materials, ensuring a long service life. Proper care and maintenance will keep the stem in excellent condition for years to come.
Maintenance involves only wiping the stem clean after use, requiring minimal effort. This simple maintenance ensures consistent performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady 35 Cal .358 FTX Seating Stems comes as a standalone seating stem. No accessories are included, as it is designed as a direct replacement for existing seating stems in compatible reloading presses.
This seating stem is specifically designed for use with Hornady FTX bullets, making it a dedicated tool for reloading these specific projectiles. It may not be ideally suited for use with other bullet types.
Pros and Cons of Hornady 35 Cal .358 FTX Seating Stems
Pros
- Improved Seating Consistency: Ensures uniform seating depth, leading to more consistent pressures and improved accuracy.
- Optimized for FTX Bullets: Specifically designed to prevent damage to the flexible polymer tip of Hornady FTX bullets.
- Easy to Use: A direct replacement for existing seating stems, requiring no modifications to your reloading press.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials for long-lasting performance.
- Enhanced Accuracy: Contributes to tighter groupings on the target due to improved seating consistency.
Cons
- Not a Universal Seating Stem: Optimized specifically for Hornady FTX bullets, potentially limiting its versatility.
- Lubricant Build-Up: May require occasional wiping down to remove lubricant residue, especially when seating large batches of rounds.
Who Should Buy Hornady 35 Cal .358 FTX Seating Stems?
The Hornady 35 Cal .358 FTX Seating Stems is perfect for reloaders who regularly load .35 caliber cartridges, especially .357 Magnum or .35 Remington, with Hornady FTX bullets. It is also ideal for shooters who prioritize accuracy and consistency in their reloads.
Reloaders who primarily use other bullet types or those seeking a more universal seating stem may want to skip this product. This is a specialized tool.
A must-have modification would be a dedicated die set for FTX bullets. This will allow the user to get the most out of the seating stem.
Conclusion on Hornady 35 Cal .358 FTX Seating Stems
The Hornady 35 Cal .358 FTX Seating Stems is a specialized tool that delivers exceptional performance when used with Hornady FTX bullets. Its optimized design ensures consistent seating depth and protects the bullet’s polymer tip, resulting in improved accuracy and reliable cartridge performance.
At a price of $6.99, the Hornady 35 Cal .358 FTX Seating Stems represents excellent value for money. It is a small investment that yields significant improvements in reloading consistency and accuracy.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Hornady 35 Cal .358 FTX Seating Stems to any reloader looking to improve the performance of their .35 caliber ammunition loaded with Hornady FTX bullets. Add this seating stem to your reloading setup and experience the difference it can make!