Hornady Shell Holder, Number 2, 390542 – 1 out of 38 models Review

What Makes Hornady Shell Holder, Number 2, 390542 – 1 out of 38 models Stand Out?

The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 2, 390542 – 1 out of 38 models might seem like a simple piece of reloading equipment, but it’s a critical component for consistent and accurate handloading. Manufactured by Hornady, this particular shell holder is designed to accommodate a range of popular cartridges, including .380 ACP and .221 Remington Fireball, making it a versatile addition to any reloader’s bench. Its precision machining and heat-treated steel construction promise durability and smooth operation, setting it apart from cheaper, less reliable alternatives.

I embarked on a quest for a high-quality shell holder after experiencing inconsistent results with a generic set that came with my first reloading press. Cases were wobbling, primers weren’t seating correctly, and overall, the process was frustrating and produced questionable ammunition. I needed a shell holder that would hold the case firmly and square for reliable reloading.

Upon unboxing the Hornady Shell Holder, I was immediately impressed by its heft and solid feel. The dark finish and clean machining were evident even upon first glance. It was noticeably heavier and more substantial than the shell holders I had been using.

Compared to the RCBS shell holder I borrowed from a friend and a no-name brand from a local gun show, the Hornady stood out in terms of build quality and finish. The RCBS was comparable, but the Hornady seemed to have slightly tighter tolerances. The generic shell holder was laughably inferior, exhibiting rough edges and sloppy dimensions.

My initial impression was one of quiet confidence. I wasn’t blown away by flashy features, but rather reassured by the sense that this was a tool built to last and perform reliably. It felt like a serious piece of equipment for a serious task.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Shell Holder, Number 2, 390542 – 1 out of 38 models to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 2 was at my reloading bench in my garage, where I typically reload for my various handguns and rifles. I was specifically loading .380 ACP for my wife’s carry pistol. The garage environment can fluctuate in temperature and humidity, and on this particular day, it was fairly dusty.

The shell holder performed flawlessly, securely holding the .380 ACP cases during the priming, powder charging, and bullet seating stages. The cases seated squarely and without wobble in the shell holder. This allowed for consistent seating depths and pressures.

Using the Hornady Shell Holder was immediately easier than my previous experiences with the generic holders. There was no fiddling to get the case to seat properly. I didn’t need to readjust anything during the reloading process.

The only minor surprise was that the fit was slightly tighter than expected with some of my older, slightly tarnished brass. A quick wipe down of the brass case with a cloth fixed this issue.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, reloading hundreds of rounds of .380 ACP, .221 Remington Fireball and even some 6mm TCU, the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 2 continues to perform like new. There are no signs of wear and tear. The finish is still intact, and the fit remains tight and secure.

The shell holder requires minimal maintenance. A quick wipe down with a clean cloth after each reloading session is sufficient to keep it in good working order. I have also used a dry lubricant spray to prevent any potential rust, although I have not seen any indication of rust occurring.

Compared to my previous experiences with unreliable shell holders, the Hornady is a revelation. The Hornady Shell Holder consistently delivers reliable performance, reducing frustration and improving the quality of my reloads. It outperforms any other shell holder I’ve used.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Shell Holder, Number 2, 390542 – 1 out of 38 models

Specifications

The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 2, 390542 is specifically designed to accommodate the following cartridges: .380 ACP, .221 Remington Fireball, 6mm TCU, .222 Remington Magnum, 7x47mm Helm, .20 Tactical, and .204 Ruger. It is constructed from solid steel. The steel is heat-treated to increase strength and durability.

These specifications are critical because they determine the compatibility of the shell holder with specific cartridges. The heat-treated steel construction ensures that the shell holder can withstand the pressures and stresses of the reloading process without deforming or breaking. This ensures the consistency and safety of the reloading process.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady Shell Holder performs its job admirably, providing a secure and stable platform for reloading various cartridges. Its accuracy is unquestionable. The reliability and usability are excellent.

The strength lies in its simplicity and precision. The design allows for easy insertion and removal of cases. The only area for potential improvement would be to offer a version with a slightly wider opening for easier use with thicker-rimmed cases.

It exceeds expectations. I expected a decent shell holder. I received one that is extremely good.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Hornady Shell Holder is exceptional. The materials are robust, and the weight feels substantial without being cumbersome. The shell holder is comfortable to use.

The design is user-friendly. There is no learning curve involved.

Durability & Maintenance

This shell holder is built to last. The heat-treated steel construction ensures long-term durability, even with frequent use.

Maintaining the shell holder is simple. Regular cleaning with a dry cloth and occasional lubrication is all that’s required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 2 doesn’t come with any specific accessories, nor does it require any significant customization. Its primary function is to securely hold cases, and it performs this task effectively as-is.

The shell holder is compatible with Hornady’s Handheld Priming Tool and Cam-Lock Case Trimmer, as well as most other brands of reloading presses. This widespread compatibility makes it a versatile addition to any reloader’s setup.

Pros and Cons of Hornady Shell Holder, Number 2, 390542 – 1 out of 38 models