What Makes Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 Stand Out?
The Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 is a seemingly simple tool, but it’s an absolutely essential piece of equipment for any serious reloader striving for ultimate accuracy. This little device, manufactured by Hornady, allows reloaders to meticulously add those final, critical tenths of a grain of powder to achieve precise and consistent charge weights. Its reputation for ease of use, coupled with its ability to significantly improve reloading accuracy, makes it a standout in the crowded world of reloading tools.
My journey to the Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 started with a growing frustration with inconsistent velocities. I was chasing tighter groups and more predictable ballistic performance at longer ranges. I realized that even with a quality powder measure, variations in powder throws were unavoidable, and those tiny discrepancies were impacting my results.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the simplicity and robust construction of the Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100. The wide, stable base provides a solid foundation, preventing accidental spills, while the powder reservoir seems adequately sized for precise adjustments. The materials felt durable and well-made, suggesting a long lifespan of reliable use.
I considered a few other tricklers before settling on the Hornady model. Some were more expensive, featuring digital readouts or automated dispensing. However, I ultimately valued the Hornady‘s straightforward, manual operation for its inherent reliability and ease of learning, and I value that the Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 does not need batteries.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I knew the Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 wouldn’t magically transform my reloading process overnight, but I was hopeful that it would provide a noticeable improvement in consistency and, ultimately, accuracy.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 during a reloading session for my .308 Winchester rifle. The goal was to create a batch of match-grade ammunition for an upcoming long-range shooting competition. I set up the trickler alongside my electronic scale and powder measure, carefully dispensing powder charges slightly below the target weight.
Using the trickler was surprisingly intuitive. The adjustment knob provided a smooth and consistent flow of powder, allowing me to incrementally add those crucial tenths of a grain with precision. The stable base kept everything steady, even on a slightly cluttered reloading bench.
After a couple of hours, I had loaded nearly 50 rounds, each with a charge weight that was absolutely spot-on. I found that using the Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 made me slow down and focus more intently on each round.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 has become an indispensable part of my reloading setup. It consistently delivers the same smooth, precise powder dispensing as it did on day one. There are no signs of wear and tear.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. A quick wipe with a soft cloth is usually all it takes to keep the Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 clean and functioning perfectly. I’ve compared the resulting accuracy of my handloads with and without the trickler, and the difference is undeniable.
Using the Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 has resulted in tighter groupings, lower velocity spreads, and more consistent performance at all ranges. It has significantly improved the consistency and accuracy of my handloads.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100
Specifications
The Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 is a manual powder dispensing device designed for precise reloading. Its key specifications include a wide, stable base to prevent tipping, a small powder reservoir to ensure fine control over powder flow, and a smooth-turning adjustment knob for incremental powder dispensing. The overall height is approximately 3 inches, making it suitable for use with most electronic scales.
These specifications matter because they directly contribute to the trickler’s accuracy and ease of use. The stable base ensures that even a slight bump to your reloading bench won’t disrupt your measurements, while the small powder reservoir allows for extremely fine adjustments. The smooth adjustment knob enables users to add powder in tiny, consistent increments, achieving the desired charge weight with minimal effort.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 excels at its primary function: precisely adding small amounts of powder to achieve the desired charge weight. It is remarkably accurate when used with a quality electronic scale. The Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 is easy to use, even for novice reloaders.
One of its strengths is its simplicity. There are no complicated settings or adjustments to master. The smooth-turning adjustment knob allows for a consistent flow of powder, minimizing the risk of overcharging. Its weakness is that it’s manual. This is slower than automated dispensing, and requires attention and some dexterity.
The Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 exceeds expectations by consistently providing a high level of precision and control. It consistently delivers accurate and repeatable results.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 boasts a simple but effective design. The materials used are durable and feel substantial, inspiring confidence in its longevity. Its weight is balanced for stability.
The Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 is extremely user-friendly. The learning curve is practically nonexistent, and the controls are intuitive. It’s designed to be straightforward and reliable.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its solid construction and simple design, the Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 is expected to last for many years with proper care. It should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal. Occasional cleaning with a soft cloth and perhaps a quick wipe with a dry brush is all that’s typically required to keep the Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 in good working condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 does not come with any additional accessories or customization options. It is designed as a standalone tool for precise powder dispensing.
The Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 is compatible with virtually any electronic scale or powder measure that reloaders might already own. Its simplicity makes it easy to integrate into any existing reloading setup.
Pros and Cons of Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100
Pros
- Extremely accurate powder dispensing for consistent charge weights.
- Simple and easy to use, even for beginners.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting reliability.
- Affordable price makes it accessible to reloaders of all levels.
- Stable base prevents accidental spills and ensures consistent performance.
Cons
- Manual operation can be slower than automated dispensing methods.
- Requires a separate scale for weighing powder charges.
Who Should Buy Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100?
The Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 is perfect for any reloader who strives for ultimate accuracy and consistency in their ammunition. This includes competitive shooters, long-range enthusiasts, and hunters who demand the highest possible performance from their handloads. It is also ideal for reloaders who are just starting out.
Those who are only concerned with high-volume reloading and are less concerned with achieving extreme accuracy might find the manual operation too time-consuming. They may prefer an automated powder dispensing system.
A high-quality electronic scale is a must-have accessory for use with the Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100. Without an accurate scale, the trickler’s precision is rendered meaningless.
Conclusion on Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100
The Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 is a simple but incredibly effective tool that delivers on its promise of precise powder dispensing. It allows reloaders to fine-tune their charge weights, resulting in more consistent velocities and improved accuracy.
At a price of $24.29, the Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 offers exceptional value. Its durable construction ensures that it will provide years of reliable service.
I would absolutely recommend the Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 to any reloader who is serious about achieving the highest possible levels of accuracy in their ammunition. Invest in the Hornady Powder Trickler, 050100 today and experience the difference that precision powder dispensing can make in your shooting performance.