What Makes Hornady Shell Holder, Number 20, 390560 – 1 out of 38 models Stand Out?
The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 20, 390560 – 1 out of 38 models, might seem like a small, insignificant piece of reloading equipment, but it’s a cornerstone of precision and consistency. Hornady has a reputation for quality, and even their simplest tools are designed with the reloader in mind. This particular shell holder, designed to accommodate cartridges like the .380 ACP and .221 Remington Fireball, is a testament to that commitment.
As an experienced reloader, I’ve seen firsthand how a subpar shell holder can derail an entire reloading session, leading to inconsistent crimps, primer seating issues, and even damaged cases. I specifically sought out the Hornady shell holder because I needed a reliable and durable tool to ensure precise cartridge alignment during the reloading process. When you’re chasing that perfect sub-MOA load, every detail matters.
Upon receiving the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 20, 390560, I was immediately impressed by its solid construction and heft. It felt like a substantial piece of steel, far removed from the flimsy, stamped shell holders I’ve encountered in the past. The machining was clean and precise, and the fit and finish were excellent.
Compared to some generic shell holders I’ve used, the Hornady model felt like a significant upgrade. The RCBS shell holders are a close competitor, but I have found the Hornady to have a more consistent fit across different brass manufacturers. The Lee Precision shell holders are a budget-friendly option, but I don’t trust them to hold up to the high-volume reloading I often do for various competition loads.
My first impression was one of quiet confidence. I wasn’t blown away by flashy features, but rather, by the understated quality that promised a reliable and consistent reloading experience. This is a tool built for serious work, and I was eager to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Shell Holder, Number 20, 390560 – 1 out of 38 models to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 20, 390560, during a reloading session dedicated to creating precision .221 Remington Fireball rounds for an upcoming varmint hunt. The environment was my well-organized reloading bench in my garage. The shop was heated, dry, and well-lit.
The shell holder performed flawlessly. Cartridges seated perfectly every time. There was absolutely no wobble or play, and the smooth, consistent action of the press was immediately noticeable.
There were no issues or surprises during the first-time use. The shell holder did exactly what it was designed to do: hold the cartridge securely and consistently. The fit was snug but not overly tight, allowing for easy insertion and removal of cases.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 20, 390560, has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. It shows no signs of wear and tear despite processing thousands of rounds. The finish is still intact, and the fit remains precise.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. A quick wipe down with a clean cloth after each reloading session is all that’s required. I occasionally apply a light coat of gun oil to prevent rust.
This shell holder has far exceeded my expectations. It’s significantly more durable and consistent than previous shell holders I’ve used. The difference in precision and reliability is noticeable in the finished product, translating to tighter groups and more consistent velocities.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Shell Holder, Number 20, 390560 – 1 out of 38 models
Specifications
The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 20, 390560, is designed for use with a variety of cartridges, including .380 ACP, .221 Remington Fireball, 6mm TCU, .222 Remington Magnum, 7x47mm Helm, .20 Tactical, and .204 Ruger. This versatility makes it a valuable addition to any reloader’s toolkit.
The shell holder is precision machined from solid steel and then heat treated. This process ensures exceptional durability and resistance to wear and tear, guaranteeing years of reliable service. The heat treatment is critical in preventing deformation under the immense pressure of reloading.
This particular shell holder fits all Hornady reloading presses and accessories, including the Handheld Priming Tool and Cam-Lock Case Trimmer. It also designed to be compatible with most brands of reloading presses on the market today, offering broad compatibility.
These specifications are crucial because they ensure the shell holder can withstand the rigors of reloading and provide consistent, reliable performance. The precise dimensions and durable materials are essential for achieving accurate and consistent results.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 20, 390560, performs its job exceptionally well. It securely holds cartridges in place during all stages of the reloading process, from depriming to bullet seating. This eliminates any wobble or play that could compromise accuracy.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and precision. The shell holder’s tight tolerances guarantee consistent alignment of the cartridge with the dies, improving the quality and uniformity of each reload.
While simple, there are no real weaknesses to note. It does what it is designed to do, and it does it well. It meets and exceeds all expectations I had for a shell holder.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 20, 390560’s build quality is excellent, with the use of high-quality steel lending it a substantial weight and feel. It is comfortable and easy to manipulate, with a design that facilitates smooth and efficient reloading.
There is no real learning curve associated with this product. It is a simple and straightforward tool that is easy to use right out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 20, 390560, is built to last a lifetime. Its hardened steel construction ensures it can withstand years of heavy use.
Maintaining the shell holder is simple. Regular cleaning and lubrication will keep it in optimal condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
This is a shell holder, so there are no accessories that come with the product, nor are there any customization options. It is designed to be a simple, reliable tool that performs its core function without any unnecessary frills. However, it’s compatible with all Hornady reloading presses and accessories, as well as most other brands.
Pros and Cons of Hornady Shell Holder, Number 20, 390560 – 1 out of 38 models
Pros
- Precision Machined: Ensures consistent cartridge alignment and precise reloading.
- Durable Construction: Made from hardened steel for long-lasting performance.
- Universal Compatibility: Works with all Hornady presses and most other brands.
- Easy to Use: Simple and straightforward design requires no learning curve.
- Enhanced Reloading Accuracy: Holds cartridges firmly in place, improving the quality of each reload.
Cons
- Price: Slightly more expensive than some budget shell holders.
- Limited Functionality: It is a basic shell holder with no advanced features.
Who Should Buy Hornady Shell Holder, Number 20, 390560?
This shell holder is perfect for serious reloaders who value precision, durability, and reliability. Those seeking consistent and accurate results will find this shell holder an indispensable tool. It’s also great for high-volume reloaders who need equipment that can withstand constant use.
Those on a very tight budget or who only reload occasionally might be able to get away with a cheaper shell holder. However, the long-term cost savings and improved results make the Hornady shell holder a worthwhile investment for serious reloaders.
A must-have accessory to pair with this shell holder is a high-quality reloading press.
Conclusion on Hornady Shell Holder, Number 20, 390560 – 1 out of 38 models
The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 20, 390560, is a simple but essential tool for any serious reloader. Its precision machining, durable construction, and universal compatibility make it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to improve the quality and consistency of their reloads.
The price is justified by the improved accuracy and long-lasting performance. Cheaper shell holders may seem appealing at first, but they often lack the precision and durability needed for consistent results.
I would absolutely recommend this shell holder to anyone looking for a reliable and accurate reloading tool. It is a small investment that can make a big difference in the quality of your reloads. Don’t settle for subpar reloading results – upgrade to the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 20, 390560, and experience the difference precision makes!