What Makes Hornady Shell Plate, Number 14, Steel, 392614 – 1 out of 23 models Stand Out?
The Hornady Shell Plate, Number 14, Steel, 392614 – 1 out of 23 models is a crucial component for anyone serious about progressive reloading, particularly those using Hornady’s Lock-N-Load AP or Pro-Jector presses. It’s a simple-looking piece of steel, but its precision and durability dictate the smoothness and reliability of the entire reloading process. This particular shell plate, number 14, promises to accommodate a specific range of cartridges, making it an essential upgrade or replacement part for dedicated reloaders.
My journey to acquiring this shell plate began, as many reloading stories do, with a quest for consistency and efficiency. I was experiencing occasional hiccups with my progressive press, particularly with shell feeding for the .223 Remington cartridge, and I suspected the shell plate was the culprit. I had heard stories of worn-out or slightly out-of-spec shell plates causing feeding problems, leading to frustrating delays and inconsistent results.
Upon unboxing the Hornady Shell Plate, Number 14, Steel, 392614 – 1 out of 23 models, my initial impression was one of solid, no-nonsense construction. The steel felt substantial, and the machining looked clean and precise. There were no obvious imperfections or burrs, a welcome sight compared to some aftermarket alternatives I’d encountered in the past.
I considered shell plates from RCBS and Dillon Precision. Ultimately, I chose the Hornady plate for its direct compatibility with my existing Hornady Lock-N-Load AP press and the generally positive reviews regarding Hornady’s quality control. The other options are quality as well, but I have had good luck with Hornady in the past.
My first impression was definitely positive; the Hornady Shell Plate, Number 14, Steel, 392614 – 1 out of 23 models felt like a quality piece of gear that would address my shell feeding concerns. I was eager to get it installed and see if it lived up to its promise of improved reloading performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Shell Plate, Number 14, Steel, 392614 – 1 out of 23 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Hornady Shell Plate, Number 14, Steel, 392614 – 1 out of 23 models was my reloading bench, specifically dedicated to cranking out .223 Remington rounds for AR-15 practice. I loaded up my Hornady Lock-N-Load AP press and started cycling cases. The difference was immediately noticeable.
The feeding was noticeably smoother, and the “hiccups” I had previously experienced, where the case would snag or fail to seat properly, were completely gone. The shell plate functioned flawlessly, even when I deliberately tried to introduce variables like slightly dented cases or varying powder charges. The plate delivered consistent performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hornady Shell Plate, Number 14, Steel, 392614 – 1 out of 23 models has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my reloading setup. I’ve reloaded thousands of rounds with it, and there are no signs of wear or tear. A quick wipe down with a cloth is all it needs.
The steel shows no signs of deformation or corrosion, and the case feeding remains as smooth as it was on day one. It outperforms my previous shell plate. It’s a clear demonstration of the quality materials and precision engineering that Hornady puts into their reloading components.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Shell Plate, Number 14, Steel, 392614 – 1 out of 23 models
Specifications
- Material: Hardened Steel – This ensures longevity and resistance to wear, crucial for handling thousands of cases. The steel needs to be hard to not deform.
- Compatibility: Hornady Lock-N-Load AP and Pro-Jector Presses – Designed specifically for these presses, ensuring perfect fit and function. This fit keeps everything aligned properly.
- Cartridge Compatibility: Designed for specific cartridges (refer to the Hornady compatibility chart) – This is the most critical spec; ensure it matches your desired cartridge. Be sure to select the correct plate!
- Number: #14 – This unique identifier helps ensure you get the right plate for your caliber. Keep track of which number matches which caliber.
These specifications are essential because the shell plate’s precision directly impacts the consistency of your reloaded ammunition. A slight misalignment or improper fit can lead to variations in bullet seating depth, powder charge, and overall cartridge dimensions, affecting accuracy and potentially creating unsafe conditions. These all depend on the plate functioning correctly.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Shell Plate, Number 14, Steel, 392614 – 1 out of 23 models excels in its primary function: reliably and smoothly feeding cases through each stage of the progressive reloading process. Its precise tolerances minimize case wobble and ensure consistent alignment with the dies. This alignment is the key.
Its strength is its ability to maintain consistent case feeding, eliminating frustrating jams and ensuring smooth operation. A potential weakness is that, like all shell plates, it requires occasional cleaning to remove powder residue and debris, but this is a minor inconvenience. The shell plate greatly exceeded my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hornady Shell Plate, Number 14, Steel, 392614 – 1 out of 23 models is designed with a focus on durability and functionality. The steel construction ensures it can withstand the repetitive stresses of progressive reloading. It feels solid and well-made.
Its user-friendliness is inherent in its simple design. There’s virtually no learning curve involved in installing or using it. Installation is simple, only requiring removing the existing plate.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its hardened steel construction, the Hornady Shell Plate, Number 14, Steel, 392614 – 1 out of 23 models is built to last for many years of reloading. With minimal care and cleaning, it should provide consistent performance for tens of thousands of rounds. This will last for a very long time.
Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a dry cloth or brush after each reloading session is sufficient to remove powder residue. A more thorough cleaning with a solvent may be necessary periodically, but overall, maintenance is minimal.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady Shell Plate, Number 14, Steel, 392614 – 1 out of 23 models doesn’t come with any specific accessories, as it’s designed to integrate directly with the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP or Pro-Jector presses. Its function is very specific to its purpose.
There are no customization options for the shell plate itself, but its compatibility with the Hornady presses allows for a wide range of customization options for the overall reloading setup, such as different dies, powder measures, and bullet feeders. You can customize almost everything else.
Pros and Cons of Hornady Shell Plate, Number 14, Steel, 392614 – 1 out of 23 models
Pros
- Smooth and reliable case feeding, eliminating jams and improving reloading efficiency.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Precise tolerances for consistent cartridge dimensions and improved accuracy.
- Easy to install and use with Hornady Lock-N-Load AP and Pro-Jector presses.
- Essential for achieving consistent results in progressive reloading.
Cons
- Specific to Hornady Lock-N-Load AP and Pro-Jector presses, not universally compatible.
- Requires the correct shell plate number for your desired cartridge, adding complexity to caliber changes.
Who Should Buy Hornady Shell Plate, Number 14, Steel, 392614 – 1 out of 23 models?
The Hornady Shell Plate, Number 14, Steel, 392614 – 1 out of 23 models is perfect for reloaders using Hornady Lock-N-Load AP or Pro-Jector presses who are seeking improved consistency and reliability in their reloading process. It is also valuable for those who reload .223 or cartridges using the #14 plate. This will enhance the reloading process for them.
If you are using a different brand of progressive press or are not experiencing issues with your current shell plate, then you should skip this product.
A must-have is the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP or Pro-Jector press system. Also, a good set of calipers is beneficial.
Conclusion on Hornady Shell Plate, Number 14, Steel, 392614 – 1 out of 23 models
The Hornady Shell Plate, Number 14, Steel, 392614 – 1 out of 23 models is a worthwhile investment for serious reloaders seeking to optimize their Hornady progressive press. While $60 may seem steep for a small piece of steel, the improved consistency, reliability, and overall efficiency it brings to the reloading process justifies the cost.
I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone experiencing feeding issues or looking to upgrade their Hornady press. It is essential for serious reloaders.
Don’t settle for subpar performance – upgrade your shell plate and experience the difference a quality component can make!