What Makes Hornady Shell Holder, Number 12, 390552 – 1 out of 38 models Stand Out?
The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 12, 390552 – 1 out of 38 models, from the reputable Hornady brand, might seem like a small, insignificant piece of reloading equipment. But, in reality, it’s the unsung hero that ensures your reloading press operates smoothly and consistently, allowing you to create reliable and accurate ammunition. Precision machined from solid steel and heat-treated for durability, this shell holder promises seamless operation with a wide range of cartridges. This particular model accommodates popular calibers like .380 ACP, .221 Remington Fireball, and .204 Ruger, making it a versatile addition to any reloader’s bench.
My reloading setup was growing, and I was tired of constantly switching out shell holders for different calibers. I needed a shell holder that could handle a variety of my most-used cartridges, and I wanted a brand I could trust.
Upon opening the package, the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 12, 390552 – 1 out of 38 models felt solid and well-made. The steel had a nice weight to it, inspiring confidence in its durability, and the machining was clean and precise.
I’ve used shell holders from RCBS and Lee in the past, and while they’ve served their purpose, they sometimes lacked the precise fit and finish I desired. The Hornady shell holder immediately felt like a step up in quality, boasting a tighter tolerance and smoother action.
My initial excitement was definitely justified; it felt like a quality piece of equipment that would improve my reloading process. It was a pleasant surprise to find such a well-made tool at this price point.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Shell Holder, Number 12, 390552 – 1 out of 38 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was at my home reloading bench, where I primarily reload for .380 ACP and .223 Remington (using a different shell holder for .223, of course!). I focused on the .380 ACP since that was the first caliber I wanted to reload with the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 12, 390552 – 1 out of 38 models. The weather was a comfortable 70 degrees, and the humidity was low, perfect for a reloading session.
The shell holder worked flawlessly with the .380 ACP cases. It held the cases securely and allowed for smooth and consistent movement through each stage of the reloading process.
Using the shell holder was intuitive and required no learning curve. I simply inserted the shell into the holder, and it was ready to go.
There were no immediate issues after the first use; the shell holder performed exactly as expected. Its smooth operation and secure grip on the cases made the reloading process more efficient and enjoyable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of reloading various cartridges compatible with the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 12, 390552 – 1 out of 38 models, it has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. The shell holder still performs as well as it did on day one.
There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear. The steel construction has held up beautifully, even after numerous uses and cleaning cycles.
Cleaning and maintaining the shell holder is incredibly simple; a quick wipe-down with a clean cloth removes any residue. I occasionally use a bit of gun oil to keep it running smoothly, but that’s about it.
Compared to my previous experiences with other shell holders, the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 12, 390552 – 1 out of 38 models definitely outperforms them in terms of precision, durability, and overall user experience. The Hornady shell holder has become an essential part of my reloading setup, and I trust it to deliver consistent performance every time.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Shell Holder, Number 12, 390552 – 1 out of 38 models
Specifications
Caliber Compatibility: This Hornady #12 shell holder is specifically designed for cartridges like .380 ACP, .221 Remington Fireball, 6mm TCU, .222 Remington Magnum, 7x47mm Helm, .20 Tactical, and .204 Ruger. This versatility allows reloaders to handle multiple calibers with a single tool.
Material: Constructed from precision-machined solid steel, then heat-treated. This ensures exceptional strength, durability, and resistance to wear, even under heavy use.
Compatibility: Designed to fit all Hornady reloading presses and accessories, including the Handheld Priming Tool and Cam-Lock Case Trimmer. It’s also compatible with most other brands of reloading presses.
Precision Machining: The precision machining ensures tight tolerances and a perfect fit for the specified cartridges. This results in smooth and consistent operation throughout the reloading process.
Heat Treatment: The heat treatment process hardens the steel, increasing its strength and resistance to deformation. This extends the lifespan of the shell holder and ensures reliable performance over time.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the reliability and accuracy of the reloading process. The high-quality materials and precise manufacturing ensure that the shell holder securely holds the cartridge case and maintains proper alignment during each stage of reloading.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 12, 390552 – 1 out of 38 models performs its job exceptionally well, providing a secure and stable platform for reloading. It ensures proper alignment and smooth operation throughout the reloading process.
The strengths of this shell holder lie in its precision, durability, and compatibility with various presses and accessories. The main weakness might be its limited caliber compatibility; it’s only designed for specific cartridges.
It definitely meets and even exceeds my expectations, especially considering the price point. Its performance and reliability make it a valuable tool for any reloader.
Design & Ergonomics
The shell holder’s design is simple yet effective, prioritizing functionality and ease of use. The materials used are high-quality steel, providing a solid and durable feel.
The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 12, 390552 – 1 out of 38 models is incredibly user-friendly; there’s no learning curve involved. Simply insert the cartridge case, and you’re ready to go.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust steel construction and heat treatment, this shell holder is built to last for years, even with frequent use.
Maintaining the shell holder is easy; a quick wipe-down after each use is generally sufficient. Occasional lubrication with gun oil can further extend its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 12, 390552 – 1 out of 38 models itself doesn’t have any customization options, as it’s a straightforward tool designed for a specific purpose. However, it is fully compatible with Hornady‘s Handheld Priming Tool and Cam-Lock Case Trimmer.
The shell holder’s compatibility with various brands of presses allows for flexible integration into existing reloading setups. You can use it with presses from Hornady, RCBS, Lee, and others, providing a versatile solution for reloaders.
Pros and Cons of Hornady Shell Holder, Number 12, 390552 – 1 out of 38 models
Pros
- Precision Machined: Ensures tight tolerances and smooth operation.
- Durable Construction: Made from solid steel and heat-treated for long-lasting performance.
- Wide Compatibility: Works with Hornady and most other reloading press brands.
- Secure Case Holding: Keeps cases firmly in place during reloading.
- Affordable Price: Excellent value for the quality and performance offered.
Cons
- Limited Caliber Range: Only compatible with specific cartridges.
- No Customization: No options for adjusting or modifying the shell holder.
Who Should Buy Hornady Shell Holder, Number 12, 390552 – 1 out of 38 models?
The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 12, 390552 – 1 out of 38 models is perfect for reloaders who frequently work with cartridges like .380 ACP, .221 Remington Fireball, or .204 Ruger. It’s also ideal for reloaders who want a durable and reliable shell holder that will last for years.
Those who only reload a single caliber might not need this specific shell holder if they already have one for that caliber. Novice reloaders who are just starting out may find a universal shell holder more versatile until they settle on their preferred calibers.
A must-have accessory is a good reloading press, ideally from Hornady, to ensure full compatibility. Additionally, a quality set of reloading dies for the compatible calibers is essential.
Conclusion on Hornady Shell Holder, Number 12, 390552 – 1 out of 38 models
In summary, the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 12, 390552 – 1 out of 38 models is a well-made, durable, and reliable tool that enhances the reloading experience. Its precision machining and solid steel construction provide a secure and stable platform for reloading, ensuring consistent results.
At a price of $5.84, this shell holder offers excellent value for money. Its performance and longevity justify the investment, making it a worthwhile addition to any reloader’s bench.
I would absolutely recommend the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 12, 390552 – 1 out of 38 models to any reloader looking for a high-quality and reliable tool. Upgrade your reloading setup with this essential component and experience the difference it makes in your ammunition crafting.