What Makes Hornady Full Length Die, Cowboy 44-40 Win, .429, – 1 out of 125 models Stand Out?
The Hornady Full Length Die, Cowboy 44-40 Win, .429, – 1 out of 125 models isn’t just another reloading die; it’s a specialized tool designed to bring precision and reliability to the classic 44-40 Winchester cartridge, particularly for cowboy action shooting. This die, manufactured by Hornady, features a zip spindle design, lock rings with wrench flats, an elliptical expander, and a smooth finish, all contributing to a smoother and more consistent reloading experience. It’s these details that separate it from generic dies and cater specifically to the needs of those who appreciate the nuances of reloading for historical firearms.
My foray into reloading the 44-40 began with a growing frustration. Factory ammunition was becoming increasingly expensive and difficult to find, plus, its performance lacked the consistency I needed for accurate cowboy action shooting. I needed a die that could handle the unique challenges of the 44-40 case, known for being thin and prone to collapse during resizing.
The Hornady die arrived well-packaged and visually impressive. The smooth finish and precise machining were immediately evident, hinting at the quality I hoped for. Holding it, the weight felt substantial, suggesting durable construction, essential for handling the stresses of repeated resizing.
Compared to a standard RCBS full-length die I’d used for other calibers, the Hornady offering stood out with its elliptical expander. This seemed like a thoughtful design intended to minimize case stretching and improve bullet alignment. Another die I considered was the Lee 4-Die set, but I decided against it, as I have had quality issues with other Lee dies in the past.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The features seemed promising, but the true test would be how it performed in the reloading process itself. I was eager to see if it could live up to the hype and deliver the consistent, accurate ammunition I was seeking.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Full Length Die, Cowboy 44-40 Win, .429, – 1 out of 125 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place in my home reloading setup, a well-lit and organized space where I meticulously prepare ammunition for both competition and recreational shooting. I tested the Hornady Full Length Die, Cowboy 44-40 Win, .429, – 1 out of 125 models with a batch of mixed-brass 44-40 cases, some of which had seen multiple reloads. The goal was to evaluate its ability to consistently resize cases while minimizing the risk of collapse.
The die performed admirably even with the older, more brittle brass. The elliptical expander proved its worth, creating a smooth and gradual expansion that seemed to prevent case neck splits. I found the resizing process significantly smoother than with my old standard die.
The zip spindle design also stood out, allowing for quick and easy adjustments. This was a welcome change compared to the tedious adjustments required with other dies I’ve used. There were no immediate issues, and the first few rounds of reloaded ammunition chambered perfectly in my 1873 Winchester replica.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Hornady Full Length Die, Cowboy 44-40 Win, .429, – 1 out of 125 models has proven to be a reliable and valuable tool. I’ve reloaded hundreds of rounds with it, and it continues to deliver consistent results. The smooth finish on the die body has resisted scratches and wear, maintaining its precision.
The die has shown no signs of wear and tear. I regularly clean it with a dry cloth and a touch of gun oil to prevent rust, which is a simple process. Compared to my previous die, the Hornady offers a noticeable improvement in case longevity and overall accuracy.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Full Length Die, Cowboy 44-40 Win, .429, – 1 out of 125 models
Specifications
- Caliber: 44-40 Winchester. This die is specifically designed to resize and prepare cases for this historical cartridge.
- Bullet Diameter: .429″. This specifies the diameter of the bullet that the die is intended to work with.
- Die Type: Full Length. This means the die resizes the entire length of the case, ensuring proper chambering in firearms.
- Features: Zip spindle design, lock rings with wrench flats, elliptical expander, smooth finish. These features collectively enhance the reloading process.
- Model: Cowboy. This indicates it’s tailored for cowboy action shooting, often involving lead bullets and lower pressures.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the quality and consistency of the reloaded ammunition. A full-length die ensures proper chambering, while the .429″ bullet diameter guarantees correct bullet seating and accuracy. The specialized features, like the elliptical expander, minimize case damage, prolonging brass life and improving accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Full Length Die, Cowboy 44-40 Win, .429, – 1 out of 125 models performs its primary function—resizing 44-40 cases—exceptionally well. Its accuracy in maintaining consistent case dimensions is noteworthy. Reliability has been flawless, with no instances of stuck cases or malfunctions.
The die’s strengths lie in its smooth operation and user-friendly design. The zip spindle allows for quick adjustments. One potential improvement could be clearer instructions for first-time users, though experienced reloaders will find it intuitive. It exceeds my expectations by delivering both consistent results and a more enjoyable reloading experience.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with the die crafted from high-quality steel. Its weight feels substantial, indicating durability. The smooth finish contributes to easy handling and prevents brass from sticking.
The design is very user-friendly. The lock rings with wrench flats allow for secure and precise adjustments. The die has a small learning curve; new reloaders may have to familiarize themselves with the process.
Durability & Maintenance
The die’s robust construction suggests it will last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning and light lubrication are sufficient to maintain its performance. There are no complex parts that require specialized tools for repair, which makes it simple to maintain.
Accessories and Customization Options
The die itself doesn’t come with additional accessories, but it’s designed to be compatible with standard reloading presses and shell holders. It’s fully compatible with Hornady shell holders for the 44-40. There aren’t specific customization options for the die itself, but reloaders can fine-tune their ammunition using different powders and bullets to achieve desired performance.
Pros and Cons of Hornady Full Length Die, Cowboy 44-40 Win, .429, – 1 out of 125 models
Pros
- Elliptical expander significantly reduces case stretching and improves bullet alignment.
- Zip spindle design allows for quick and easy adjustments.
- Lock rings with wrench flats provide secure and precise settings.
- The die is specifically designed for the 44-40 cartridge, ensuring optimal performance.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting reliability.
Cons
- Instructions could be more detailed for novice reloaders.
- The price point might be higher compared to more generic dies.
Who Should Buy Hornady Full Length Die, Cowboy 44-40 Win, .429, – 1 out of 125 models?
This die is perfect for cowboy action shooters who require accurate and reliable ammunition. It is also well-suited for reloaders who appreciate the nuances of the 44-40 cartridge and want to maximize case life. It’s also a good choice for anyone who wants to achieve consistent results with this caliber.
Those who should skip this product might include reloaders on a very tight budget or those who only occasionally reload the 44-40 and don’t require the specialized features. A necessary accessory is a quality shell holder for the 44-40 cartridge.
Conclusion on Hornady Full Length Die, Cowboy 44-40 Win, .429, – 1 out of 125 models
The Hornady Full Length Die, Cowboy 44-40 Win, .429, – 1 out of 125 models is a specialized tool that delivers exceptional performance for reloaders of the 44-40 Winchester cartridge. Its innovative features, such as the elliptical expander and zip spindle design, provide tangible benefits in terms of case life, accuracy, and ease of use. At $53.49, the price is justified by the die’s quality and the improved results it provides.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this die to anyone serious about reloading the 44-40. It’s a worthwhile investment that will pay dividends in terms of consistent, accurate, and reliable ammunition. If you’re looking to elevate your 44-40 reloading game, this die is a must-have!