Let’s Dive into Hornady New Dimension Series II Three-Dies Rifle Set .45-70 Government
The venerable .45-70 Government cartridge, a true icon of American firearms history, demands respect and precision when reloading. That’s where the Hornady New Dimension Series II Three-Dies Rifle Set .45-70 Government comes into play, promising consistent and reliable results for reloaders of all skill levels. This die set aims to deliver the accuracy and consistency needed to tame the big bore.
I’ve been reloading for over a decade, primarily focusing on bottleneck cartridges for precision rifles. My introduction to the .45-70 was through an inherited Marlin 1895 lever-action, a beautiful rifle that begged to be fed with hand-loaded ammunition. I was looking for a die set that could handle both traditional lead bullets and the newer, polymer-tipped projectiles designed for improved ballistics in lever guns.
Upon unboxing the Hornady New Dimension Series II Three-Dies Rifle Set .45-70 Government, I was immediately impressed with the fit and finish. The dies felt solid and well-machined, reflecting the Hornady reputation for quality. The included case ensured everything was protected.
I considered die sets from RCBS and Lee, both reputable manufacturers. However, the Hornady set’s reputation for ease of adjustment and its ability to accommodate various bullet types steered me in this direction. The user feedback specifically mentioning success with FTX bullets sealed the deal.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While I’ve used Hornady products before with great success, the .45-70 presents unique challenges due to its size and inherent variability. However, the quality of the dies instilled confidence.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady New Dimension Series II Three-Dies Rifle Set .45-70 Government to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, utilizing my trusty Redding Big Boss II press. I loaded a variety of rounds, experimenting with different powder charges and bullet weights, including the aforementioned Hornady FTX bullets. The Hornady dies performed flawlessly.
The conditions were fairly standard for a late summer day – warm with a slight breeze. The dies handled resizing the large .45-70 cases with surprising ease, and bullet seating was consistent and precise. I found the seating die particularly well-suited for the FTX bullets, preventing any deformation of the polymer tip. There were no issues with crushing or bulging cases during bullet seating, a common problem with less refined die sets.
The dies required minimal adjustment and were easy to set up thanks to the clear instructions. The bullet seating die, in particular, allowed for precise adjustment of seating depth, which is crucial for achieving optimal accuracy with different bullet profiles. I encountered no significant issues during the first reloading session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hornady New Dimension Series II Three-Dies Rifle Set .45-70 Government continues to perform admirably. The dies show no signs of wear, and the threads remain smooth and precise. The finish on the dies has held up well, resisting rust and corrosion.
The dies are relatively easy to clean. A quick wipe-down with a solvent-soaked cloth is usually sufficient to remove any powder residue or lubricant. Occasional lubrication of the threads ensures smooth operation and prevents premature wear. They are easy to clean and maintain.
Compared to my previous experiences with other die sets (primarily for smaller calibers), the Hornady set offers a noticeable improvement in consistency and ease of use. Bullet seating is particularly precise, resulting in more uniform cartridges and improved accuracy. I have not had a single case collapse or deform, unlike experiences with other die brands I’ve owned.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady New Dimension Series II Three-Dies Rifle Set .45-70 Government
Specifications
- Caliber: .45-70 Government. This die set is specifically designed for this cartridge.
- Die Type: Three-die set. This includes a sizing die, a seating die, and an expander die.
- Sizing Die: Full-length sizing die. It ensures proper case dimensions for reliable feeding and chambering.
- Seating Die: Features a floating bullet alignment sleeve. This is for precise bullet seating and reduced bullet runout.
- Expander Die: Expands the case mouth. This allows easy bullet insertion without damaging the case.
- Material: High-quality, heat-treated steel. The steel ensures durability and long-lasting performance.
- Finish: Polished and corrosion-resistant finish. This finish protects the dies from rust and wear.
These specifications are critical for reloaders seeking consistent and accurate results. The full-length sizing die ensures reliable chambering, even in older or slightly out-of-spec rifles. The floating bullet alignment sleeve in the seating die is especially beneficial for achieving optimal accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady New Dimension Series II Three-Dies Rifle Set .45-70 Government performs its job exceptionally well. The dies consistently produce accurate and reliable ammunition. The seating die’s ability to prevent bullet deformation, particularly with the polymer-tipped FTX bullets, is a significant advantage.
The set’s strengths lie in its precision, ease of adjustment, and durability. One potential weakness could be the lack of a carbide sizing die, which would require more lubrication. It definitely meets expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The dies are well-machined and feature a polished finish. This offers smooth operation. The compact design makes them easy to store and handle.
The dies are user-friendly. Even a novice reloader can easily set them up and use them effectively. The instructions are clear and concise, and the adjustments are straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from high-quality, heat-treated steel, these dies are built to last. With proper care and maintenance, they should provide years of reliable service. The durable construction ensures a long lifespan.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The corrosion-resistant finish helps to protect the dies from rust and wear, further extending their lifespan. Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady New Dimension Series II Three-Dies Rifle Set .45-70 Government comes with the essential dies needed for reloading the .45-70 cartridge. While no additional accessories are included in the set itself, Hornady offers a wide range of reloading tools and accessories that complement these dies. These include shell holders, case preparation tools, and bullet feeders.
The dies are compatible with standard reloading presses and shell holders. This makes them easy to integrate into existing reloading setups. The universal design enhances versatility.
Pros and Cons of Hornady New Dimension Series II Three-Dies Rifle Set .45-70 Government
Pros
- Precise Bullet Seating: The floating bullet alignment sleeve ensures consistent bullet seating depth, reducing bullet runout and improving accuracy.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality, heat-treated steel, these dies are built to last.
- Easy to Adjust: Simple and intuitive adjustments allow for quick and precise setup.
- Accommodates Various Bullet Types: Works well with both traditional lead bullets and modern polymer-tipped projectiles.
- Reliable Case Sizing: The full-length sizing die ensures proper case dimensions for reliable feeding and chambering.
Cons
- No carbide sizing die. Requires more lubrication.
- The included plastic case could be more robust for long-term storage and transport.
Who Should Buy Hornady New Dimension Series II Three-Dies Rifle Set .45-70 Government?
This die set is perfect for:
- .45-70 Reloaders: Specifically designed for reloading the .45-70 Government cartridge.
- Lever-Action Rifle Owners: Works great with lever-action rifles chambered in .45-70.
- Hunters: Reloaders aiming for consistent and accurate hunting loads.
- Accuracy Enthusiasts: Those seeking to minimize bullet runout and improve overall accuracy.
Who should skip this product? If you don’t reload .45-70, these dies are not for you.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality case lubricant. The use of carbide dies may reduce the need for it.
Conclusion on Hornady New Dimension Series II Three-Dies Rifle Set .45-70 Government
The Hornady New Dimension Series II Three-Dies Rifle Set .45-70 Government is an excellent choice for reloaders seeking precision, reliability, and ease of use. It stands out in a crowded market of reloading equipment.
At $70.91, the price is justified by the quality of materials, precise machining, and consistent performance. It offers excellent value for reloaders who demand the best. It’s a smart investment.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Hornady New Dimension Series II Three-Dies Rifle Set .45-70 Government to anyone reloading the .45-70 cartridge, especially those using lever-action rifles and polymer-tipped bullets. The dies will help you create accurate and reliable ammunition. Start reloading today and experience the difference.