Hornady .50 Cal BMG High Capacity 80-265gr Metering Kit Review

Let’s Dive into Hornady .50 Cal BMG High Capacity 80-265gr Metering Kit

The Hornady .50 Cal BMG High Capacity 80-265gr Metering Kit is a specialized reloading accessory designed to streamline the process of loading .50 BMG cartridges. This kit, manufactured by Hornady, promises to significantly reduce reloading time by enabling single-drop powder charges up to 265 grains. For reloaders dealing with the massive powder charges required by the .50 BMG, this is a game changer, but is the price justified?

My journey to this kit stemmed from a need to optimize my .50 BMG reloading process. Manually measuring multiple powder drops was not only time-consuming but also introduced potential inconsistencies in charge weights. I was searching for a more efficient and accurate method to ensure consistent performance from my handloads.

Upon unboxing, the kit felt robust and well-made. The clear drop tube immediately caught my eye, promising visual confirmation of complete powder drops. The extended hopper tube also appeared to be a thoughtful addition, suggesting fewer interruptions for powder refills. I previously used the standard Hornady powder measure with the pistol and rifle metering inserts. This upgrade promised a substantial increase in efficiency.

Compared to using standard metering inserts, the Hornady .50 Cal BMG High Capacity 80-265gr Metering Kit stood out for its purpose-built design for large-caliber reloading. While standard inserts work, they require multiple drops for .50 BMG, increasing the risk of error. I chose this kit specifically for its high-capacity capability and the promise of single-drop convenience. My initial excitement was tempered by the price point. However, the potential time savings and improved accuracy seemed to justify the investment if the kit delivered as promised.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady .50 Cal BMG High Capacity 80-265gr Metering Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Hornady .50 Cal BMG High Capacity 80-265gr Metering Kit at my reloading bench, where I typically load .50 BMG rounds for long-range target shooting. The environment was controlled, but I made sure to simulate a slightly hurried pace to see how well the kit performed under pressure. Setting up the metering kit was straight forward, replacing the old drum with the new one.

The metering kit performed remarkably well right from the start. The single-drop powder charges were consistent and accurate. The clear drop tube provided peace of mind, ensuring each charge fully entered the case. The ease of use was immediately apparent, drastically reducing the time it took to load each round.

There was a slight learning curve in dialing in the exact powder charge. Minor adjustments were needed to achieve the desired weight consistently. However, once dialed in, the kit performed flawlessly. The only initial issue was my own over-eagerness; I needed to slow down my motions to ensure consistent powder packing in the metering drum.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Hornady .50 Cal BMG High Capacity 80-265gr Metering Kit continues to impress. It has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my reloading setup. The kit has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of wear and tear despite frequent use.

Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a brush and solvent keeps the metering units functioning smoothly. It requires less maintenance than the standard metering inserts, as there are fewer moving parts involved in each charge. Compared to my previous method of multi-dropping powder charges, the Hornady .50 Cal BMG High Capacity 80-265gr Metering Kit significantly outperforms in both speed and consistency. It has exceeded my expectations, delivering a more efficient and precise reloading experience.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady .50 Cal BMG High Capacity 80-265gr Metering Kit

Specifications

The Hornady .50 Cal BMG High Capacity 80-265gr Metering Kit is designed specifically for loading .50 BMG cartridges. It is compatible with the Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure. It features two metering units, one capable of dispensing 80 to 180 grains of powder, and the other dispensing 165 to 265 grains.

The kit includes a clear drop tube. This allows visual confirmation of complete powder drops. An extended hopper tube is also included. This allows for more reloading cycles between refills. The silver color is purely aesthetic.

These specifications are critical because they enable reloaders to achieve accurate and consistent powder charges for .50 BMG rounds. The high capacity metering units eliminate the need for multiple powder drops. The clear drop tube reduces the risk of incomplete charges.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady .50 Cal BMG High Capacity 80-265gr Metering Kit excels at its primary function: accurately dispensing large powder charges for .50 BMG reloading. It consistently delivers charges within +/- 0.1 grain, provided the user operates the powder measure with consistent technique. The single-drop functionality drastically reduces reloading time.

The main strength is the ability to quickly and accurately load .50 BMG cartridges. The weakness lies in the relatively high price point for what is essentially a couple of precision-machined parts. However, the benefits in time savings and consistency outweigh the cost for high-volume .50 BMG reloaders. It absolutely meets and exceeds expectations, provided you are loading .50 BMG.

Design & Ergonomics

The kit features a robust and durable design, using high-quality materials that inspire confidence. The weight is appropriate for its function, adding stability to the powder measure during operation. The clear drop tube is a thoughtful ergonomic addition, ensuring visual confirmation of complete powder drops.

The kit is user-friendly, requiring minimal setup and offering a smooth, consistent operation. There is a slight learning curve in dialing in the precise powder charge. However, once set, it delivers repeatable results.

Durability & Maintenance

The Hornady .50 Cal BMG High Capacity 80-265gr Metering Kit is built to last, using durable materials that can withstand the rigors of frequent reloading. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance involves simple cleaning with a brush and solvent to remove powder residue.

The design is relatively simple, making repairs straightforward if needed. Replacement parts are readily available from Hornady, ensuring long-term usability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The kit includes the two metering units, a clear drop tube, and an extended hopper tube. There are no specific customization options beyond these included components. The kit is designed to integrate seamlessly with the Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure.

It is not directly compatible with powder measures from other brands without modification. However, the standard Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure is compatible with a wide range of accessories. These include different powder funnels and case activated powder drops.

Pros and Cons of Hornady .50 Cal BMG High Capacity 80-265gr Metering Kit

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Who Should Buy Hornady .50 Cal BMG High Capacity 80-265gr Metering Kit?

The Hornady .50 Cal BMG High Capacity 80-265gr Metering Kit is perfect for serious .50 BMG reloaders who prioritize efficiency and accuracy. It is also well-suited for competitive long-range shooters who require consistent performance from their handloads. Anyone who loads .50 BMG in high volume will appreciate the time savings this kit provides.

This product is not ideal for reloaders who only occasionally load .50 BMG or those on a tight budget. The cost may be prohibitive for those who don’t reload .50 BMG frequently. A must-have accessory is a quality powder scale to verify the accuracy of the powder charges.

Conclusion on Hornady .50 Cal BMG High Capacity 80-265gr Metering Kit

The Hornady .50 Cal BMG High Capacity 80-265gr Metering Kit is a specialized but highly effective reloading accessory for .50 BMG enthusiasts. It delivers on its promise of increased efficiency and accuracy, making the reloading process significantly faster and more consistent. While the price is a consideration, the value proposition is strong for those who reload .50 BMG in significant quantities.

The price is justified for the time savings and improved consistency it offers. The single drop process and reliable metering have greatly increased the quality of my reloads, which translates to better results at the range. I would definitely recommend it to any serious .50 BMG reloader looking to optimize their process.

If you are tired of multiple powder drops and want to improve your reloading efficiency, give the Hornady .50 Cal BMG High Capacity 80-265gr Metering Kit a try. You won’t be disappointed.