What Makes Hornady Shell Plate, Number 2, Steel, 392602 – 1 out of 23 models Stand Out?
Reloading ammunition is a precise art, and the heart of any progressive reloading press lies in its shell plate. The Hornady Shell Plate, Number 2, Steel, 392602 – 1 out of 23 models is Hornady’s solution for reloaders working with specific popular calibers, promising consistent performance and durability. Having spent over a decade hand-crafting my own ammunition for everything from competitive shooting to hunting, I know the frustration a poorly designed or weak shell plate can cause. This review will dive deep into whether this particular Hornady offering lives up to the brand’s reputation for quality, especially at a price point of $58.79.
I was experiencing inconsistent seating depths while reloading .38 Special for my S&W Model 686, a persistent issue that plagued my accuracy at the range. I needed a shell plate that could hold the case firmly and consistently, eliminating the variables that were impacting my reloads.
Upon receiving the Hornady Shell Plate, Number 2, Steel, 392602 – 1 out of 23 models, my initial impression was positive. The steel construction felt robust, and the machining appeared clean and precise, indicating a good level of quality control.
Compared to the RCBS shell plate I was previously using, the Hornady felt significantly more substantial, a welcome change. I had also considered the Lee Precision shell plate due to its lower cost, but I prioritized durability and precision over saving a few dollars.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism; the weight and finish suggested quality, but the real test would be how it performed on my Hornady Lock-N-Load AP progressive press.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Shell Plate, Number 2, Steel, 392602 – 1 out of 23 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Hornady Shell Plate, Number 2, Steel, 392602 – 1 out of 23 models was at my home reloading bench, processing .38 Special rounds for an upcoming steel challenge match. The ambient temperature was around 70°F, and humidity was low, ideal conditions for reloading.
The plate indexed smoothly with the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP, and the case fit was snug and secure. This eliminated the “wobble” I’d experienced with my previous shell plate, immediately improving the consistency of my seating depth.
The installation was straightforward; simply swapping out the old shell plate for the new one on my Hornady press took less than five minutes. I experienced no issues during the initial loading of approximately 500 rounds, a promising start.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, processing thousands of rounds of .38 Special, .357 Magnum, and 9mm (with the appropriate shell plate change of course!), the Hornady Shell Plate, Number 2, Steel, 392602 – 1 out of 23 models has proven to be exceptionally reliable. There are no signs of wear and tear, such as chipping or deformation, on the plate itself.
Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe down with a dry cloth after each reloading session is all it takes to keep it clean. Occasionally, I’ll use a small brush to remove any powder residue that might accumulate around the case mouth recesses.
Compared to my experiences with cheaper shell plates, the Hornady has been a revelation. It significantly outperforms my previous RCBS plate in terms of consistency and durability, and it has completely eliminated the seating depth issues that plagued me.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Shell Plate, Number 2, Steel, 392602 – 1 out of 23 models
Specifications
The Hornady Shell Plate, Number 2, Steel, 392602 – 1 out of 23 models is specifically designed to accommodate a range of cartridges, most notably the .38 Special and .357 Magnum. It’s constructed from hardened steel for maximum durability and longevity.
The plate’s precise machining ensures consistent case alignment and smooth indexing on Hornady progressive presses. Its weight, while not explicitly specified by Hornady, feels substantial and contributes to its overall robustness.
This shell plate’s specifications matter because they directly impact the quality and consistency of your reloads. A properly sized and durable shell plate ensures that each case is held securely during the reloading process, minimizing variations in seating depth and crimp.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Shell Plate, Number 2, Steel, 392602 – 1 out of 23 models performs its job admirably, holding cases securely and indexing smoothly through each stage of the reloading process. The plate ensures consistent seating depth and crimp, leading to more accurate and reliable ammunition.
Its strengths lie in its robust steel construction, precise machining, and smooth indexing. A minor weakness might be the need to purchase separate shell plates for different calibers, but this is a common requirement for progressive reloading.
The Hornady Shell Plate, Number 2, Steel, 392602 – 1 out of 23 models exceeds my expectations in terms of performance and durability. It is a significant upgrade over cheaper shell plates, and it has noticeably improved the quality of my reloads.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hornady Shell Plate, Number 2, Steel, 392602 – 1 out of 23 models features a simple but effective design. The steel construction gives it a robust feel, and the precise machining ensures that cases fit snugly.
The shell plate is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or skills to install or use. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its steel construction and simple design, the Hornady Shell Plate, Number 2, Steel, 392602 – 1 out of 23 models is built to last. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward; simply wiping it clean after each use is sufficient. I anticipate minimal need for repairs given its robust design.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady Shell Plate, Number 2, Steel, 392602 – 1 out of 23 models doesn’t come with any specific accessories, as it’s a core component of the reloading press itself. It is essential to ensure that you select the correct shell plate number for your specific cartridge.
While there are no direct customization options for the shell plate, you can fine-tune your reloading process by using different dies and other accessories on your Hornady Lock-N-Load AP press. It is compatible with all standard Hornady dies and accessories.
Pros and Cons of Hornady Shell Plate, Number 2, Steel, 392602 – 1 out of 23 models
Pros
- Extremely durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Precise machining provides consistent case alignment and smooth indexing, directly enhancing reloading precision.
- Improved reloading consistency translates to more accurate and reliable ammunition, critical for competitive shooting and hunting.
- Easy to install and use means minimal downtime and a straightforward reloading experience.
- Noticeable upgrade over cheaper alternatives, making it a worthwhile investment for serious reloaders.
Cons
- Requires separate purchase for each caliber, which can add to the overall cost of reloading.
- Price is higher than some budget options, although the increased durability and precision justify the investment.
Who Should Buy Hornady Shell Plate, Number 2, Steel, 392602 – 1 out of 23 models?
The Hornady Shell Plate, Number 2, Steel, 392602 – 1 out of 23 models is perfect for reloaders who demand precision and reliability from their equipment. It is ideal for competitive shooters, handgun hunters, and anyone who wants to produce consistent, high-quality ammunition in .38 Special or .357 Magnum.
Those on a very tight budget who are only reloading small batches of ammo might find a less expensive shell plate adequate. However, for high-volume reloaders, the investment in the Hornady is well worth it.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality set of reloading dies, such as the Hornady Custom Grade dies, to complement the precision of the shell plate. Also, ensure your Hornady Lock-N-Load AP press is properly calibrated and maintained for optimal performance.
Conclusion on Hornady Shell Plate, Number 2, Steel, 392602 – 1 out of 23 models
The Hornady Shell Plate, Number 2, Steel, 392602 – 1 out of 23 models is a worthwhile investment for any serious reloader using the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP or Pro-Jector press. Its durable steel construction, precise machining, and smooth indexing make it a significant upgrade over cheaper alternatives.
While the price is higher than some budget options, the increased durability and precision justify the cost. The value proposition is clear: this shell plate will help you produce more accurate and reliable ammunition, ultimately saving you time and money in the long run.
I would absolutely recommend the Hornady Shell Plate, Number 2, Steel, 392602 – 1 out of 23 models to anyone looking to improve the consistency and quality of their reloads. Upgrade your press today and experience the difference a quality shell plate can make!