Let’s Talk About Hornady Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge With Five
As a seasoned handloader with over a decade under my belt, I’ve always preached the importance of precision. We’re not just throwing powder and projectiles together; we’re crafting ammunition, and crafting demands meticulous attention to detail. That’s where the Hornady Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge With Five enters the picture. Hornady promises increased brass life, improved accuracy, and enhanced safety with this tool, but does it deliver? This review aims to answer that question and provide you with an in-depth look at its capabilities.
I had a growing frustration with inconsistent case sizing. My rounds were showing signs of overworking the brass, leading to shorter case life and questionable accuracy at longer ranges. I needed a reliable way to measure headspace and ensure proper shoulder bump during resizing.
Unboxing the Hornady Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge With Five was straightforward. The gauge body is solid, and the five bushings feel robust. The thumbscrew for attaching to calipers is a welcome addition. Initial impressions were positive; it felt like a quality tool ready to get to work.
I considered the RCBS Precision Mic and the Forster Datum Dial Indicator. I chose the Hornady because of its Lock-N-Load compatibility with my existing reloading press and its reputation for ease of use. It seemed like a seamless addition to my current setup.
I was cautiously optimistic. I’d used other Hornady products with success, but the proof is always in the pudding. I was eager to see if it lived up to the claims of enhancing precision and extending brass life.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge With Five to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was at my home reloading bench. I was processing a batch of .308 Winchester brass for my precision rifle. I wanted to establish a baseline measurement of my fire-formed brass and compare it to my resized cases.
The gauge worked flawlessly. It provided consistent and repeatable measurements. The different bushings allowed me to quickly switch between case types. I immediately noticed how much I was over-sizing my cases with my current die setup.
It was intuitive to use. I didn’t even need to crack open the instructions. After a few measurements, I was able to dial in my sizing die perfectly. This instantly improved the fit in my rifle’s chamber.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Hornady Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge With Five has become an indispensable part of my reloading process. It is used during every reloading session. It helps ensure consistent and accurate ammo.
The tool shows no signs of wear and tear. The finish is durable, and the bushings are holding up well to repeated use. It’s clear this tool is built to last.
Maintenance is a breeze. A quick wipe down with a clean cloth after each use is all it takes. The gauge feels solid and reliable, far exceeding my expectations compared to other, more cumbersome measuring methods I’ve used in the past.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge With Five
Specifications
- The Hornady Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge features an aluminum body. This is compatible with standard dial or digital calipers.
- Five interchangeable bushings are included. These bushings cover most bottleneck cases from .17 Remington through belted magnums.
- The bushings measure the case shoulder. This allows for accurate headspace measurement.
- The gauge attaches to calipers with a thumbscrew. This offers a secure and easy connection.
- It is compatible with Hornady’s Lock-N-Load system. This means it can be easily integrated with other Hornady reloading tools.
These specifications are critical for reloaders aiming for consistency and precision. Accurate headspace measurements ensure proper chambering, improve accuracy, and reduce the risk of case head separations.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge With Five performs its job exceptionally well. It provides precise and repeatable measurements, allowing for consistent case sizing. It greatly enhances the overall quality and consistency of my reloads.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and accuracy. There is no complicated setup or calculations required. The only drawback is that it requires separate calipers. This is to provide the measurements.
The tool met my expectations. It has significantly improved my ability to control headspace. This leads to better accuracy and longer brass life.
Design & Ergonomics
The gauge is well-designed and feels solid in hand. The aluminum body is lightweight yet durable, and the bushings are precisely machined. Its simple design makes it easy to use, even for novice reloaders.
The thumbscrew attachment is a thoughtful touch. It ensures a secure connection to the calipers. There’s no learning curve. It’s ready to use right out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hornady Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge With Five is built to last. Its durable construction ensures it will withstand years of use. The materials are high-quality. This is evidenced by the lack of wear and tear after months of use.
Maintaining the gauge is simple. A quick wipe down after each use is all that’s needed. No special cleaning solutions or tools are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge With Five comes with five bushings. These cover a wide range of calibers. It doesn’t require any additional accessories to function.
Because the bushings are caliber-specific, users may need to purchase additional bushings for less common calibers not included in the set. The tool is compatible with standard dial or digital calipers. This offers flexibility in measurement options.
Pros and Cons of Hornady Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge With Five
Pros
- Simple and Easy to Use: No complicated setup or calculations are needed.
- Precise and Repeatable Measurements: Ensures consistent case sizing for improved accuracy.
- Durable Construction: Built to last with high-quality materials.
- Wide Caliber Coverage: Includes five bushings to cover most bottleneck cases.
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for the money compared to other headspace gauges.
Cons
- Requires Separate Calipers: Does not include calipers, which must be purchased separately.
- Limited Caliber Coverage: Additional bushings may be needed for less common calibers.
Who Should Buy Hornady Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge With Five?
The Hornady Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge With Five is perfect for reloaders of all skill levels. These reloaders seek to improve the accuracy and consistency of their ammunition. It’s also ideal for those looking to extend the life of their brass by ensuring proper case sizing. Hunters and competitive shooters who demand the highest level of precision in their reloads will find this tool invaluable.
This product isn’t necessary for those who only reload straight-walled pistol cartridges. Those who rely on factory ammunition and don’t handload will not benefit from this product.
A quality set of digital calipers is a must-have accessory to fully utilize the Hornady Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge With Five.
Conclusion on Hornady Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge With Five
The Hornady Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge With Five is a valuable tool for any serious reloader. It is a tool that emphasizes precision and consistency. It offers a simple and effective way to measure headspace. This ensures proper case sizing and extends brass life.
The price is justified. It provides significant benefits in terms of accuracy and brass longevity. This translates to cost savings over time.
I would highly recommend the Hornady Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge With Five to anyone looking to improve their reloading process. It’s a worthwhile investment that will pay for itself in increased accuracy. It helps increase brass life. Take control of your reloading process. Experience the precision and consistency that the Hornady Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge With Five can bring to your bench.