Hornady Powder Charge Bushing Review

Let’s Dive into Hornady Powder Charge Bushing

Reloading ammunition is a rewarding pursuit, allowing for customization and cost savings, but precision is paramount. Enter the Hornady Powder Charge Bushing, a seemingly simple component that plays a critical role in consistent powder dispensing. These bushings, manufactured by Hornady, are designed for their reloading presses, ensuring accurate and repeatable powder charges. The interchangeable design allows reloaders to quickly switch between different powder loads, making them an essential part of any serious reloader’s toolkit.

For years, I’ve relied on adjustable powder measures, but the need for specific, repeatable charges for competition loads spurred me to explore bushings. I was seeking a solution that minimized variation and sped up the load development process. The allure of dedicated bushings promised less tweaking and more consistent results.

Upon receiving my initial set of Hornady Powder Charge Bushing, I was immediately impressed by the solid construction. The bushings felt substantial, crafted from a nonferrous metal, which I knew was critical for preventing sparks during powder handling. The precisely machined interior surfaces hinted at the accuracy these bushings would deliver. Compared to the universal adjustable powder measure I had been using, these felt much more precise and tailored to specific powder volumes. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; I was eager to put them to the test and see if they lived up to their promise of consistency.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Powder Charge Bushing to the Test

First Use Experience

My first foray into testing the Hornady Powder Charge Bushing took place at my local shooting range, which has a covered reloading area. I was developing a new load for my .223 AR-15, aiming for optimal accuracy at 100 yards. I started by meticulously weighing each powder charge dispensed by the bushing using a calibrated digital scale. The bushing dispensed charges of Hodgdon Varget. The weather was mild and dry, ideal for consistent powder measurements, eliminating humidity as a variable.

The Hornady Powder Charge Bushing proved incredibly easy to use. I simply installed the appropriate bushing for my target powder weight into my Hornady Lock-N-Load AP press and began cycling the handle. There was a slight learning curve in understanding how the powder settled within the bushing, but after a few test cycles, I quickly found a rhythm. The consistency of the powder drops was remarkable, with minimal variation from charge to charge.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Hornady Powder Charge Bushing have become an indispensable part of my reloading process. They have held up exceptionally well, showing no signs of wear or degradation. Regular cleaning is essential, and I’ve found that a simple wipe-down with a dry cloth after each reloading session is sufficient to keep them in top condition.

Compared to my previous experience with adjustable powder measures, the Hornady Powder Charge Bushing offer a significant improvement in both speed and accuracy. They eliminate the guesswork involved in setting the powder charge, allowing me to focus on other aspects of the reloading process. The repeatable nature of these bushings has noticeably tightened my groups at the range, confirming their value in producing consistent ammunition.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Powder Charge Bushing

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Hornady.
• Quantity: One (1) bushing per package.
• Diameter: 2.125 inches. The specified diameter is important because it ensures proper fit within Hornady reloading presses.
• Compatibility: Designed for all Hornady loaders. This ensures that reloaders using Hornady equipment can easily integrate these bushings into their workflow.
• Material: Nonferrous metal. The use of nonferrous metal is crucial for preventing sparks during powder handling, enhancing safety.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady Powder Charge Bushing excels in delivering consistent and repeatable powder charges, a critical element in producing accurate ammunition. They function by dispensing a fixed volume of powder, determined by the internal dimensions of the bushing. The main strength lies in their simplicity and reliability; once the correct bushing is selected, consistent powder drops are almost guaranteed. However, a weakness can arise if the reloader doesn’t meticulously clean the bushing or if the powder granules are excessively fine, leading to bridging and inconsistent charges.

These bushings have consistently met my expectations for accuracy and ease of use. They have streamlined my reloading process and contributed to improved consistency in my handloads.

Design & Ergonomics

The Hornady Powder Charge Bushing features a simple, functional design. The solid metal construction and precise machining give them a robust feel, while the smooth internal surfaces promote consistent powder flow. There is virtually no learning curve involved. It is as simple as selecting the appropriate bushing and installing it in the powder measure.

Durability & Maintenance

The Hornady Powder Charge Bushing are designed for longevity. Their nonferrous metal construction resists corrosion and wear. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove powder residue. With proper care, these bushings should last for many years of reloading.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady Powder Charge Bushing are not customizable in the traditional sense; they are designed to dispense a specific powder charge determined by their internal volume. However, the “customization” lies in the wide range of bushing sizes available, allowing reloaders to select the appropriate bushing for their desired load. While there are no direct accessories for the bushings themselves, they are compatible with all Hornady powder measures and reloading presses. Hornady offers a chart that can be used to estimate the correct bushing for a particular powder and charge weight, although final charge weights should always be verified with a scale.

Pros and Cons of Hornady Powder Charge Bushing