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Forum Index > Precision long range hunting and shooting > Hornady Match Grade 2-die set

Hornady Match Grade 2-die set

10 Jun 2014
@ 10:17 am (GMT)

Konrad

Hello,

I was wondering if anyone here has used the Hornady Match Grade die set at all?

I've used Redding Type 'S' Match neck die sets in both .223rem and .308win and found them to be excellent, but in the UK they're stupidly expensive versus the Hornady dies.

Also, the Hornady dies seem include interchangeable neck bushings (good!) but the die also does a full length size too. Does anyone know if it's possible to just neck size ONLY and whether they think the full length sizing option will overwork the brass too much?!

Thanks in advance!
Kon

Replies

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10 Jun 2014
@ 07:21 pm (GMT)

Jim Moseley

Re: Hornady Match Grade 2-die set
Most of the polls I've seen run about 50/50 on neck sizing vs full length resizing. I think most of it just depends on what your rifle likes. I full length resize for my 7 mag and neck size for my 243 and 223. For neck sizing, I use the economical Lee collet die. Runout for both calibers is only .0015. Most of your expensive dies can't beat that. Most shooters who full length resize will anneal their brass for longer life. Hope this helps.

Jim
17 Jun 2014
@ 10:14 am (GMT)

Konrad

Re: Hornady Match Grade 2-die set
Thanks Jim for your response.
For what it's worth, I got an excellent deal on a Wilson die set (neck die with recapping pin and bushings, plus micrometer seater), and Arbor press.

Looking forward to using the Wilson's as they seem very straight forward and have very little run out (although I doubt i'll be able to tell the difference in the field!).

Konrad
17 Jun 2014
@ 08:01 pm (GMT)

Nathan Foster

Re: Hornady Match Grade 2-die set
Hi Konrad, I am really sorry I missed your initial post somehow. You will get a lot less runnout with these dies. Hornady can be a bit hit and miss depending on the case design in conjunction with the die design. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't.

You will be very happy with your Wilson set up. Thats great Konrad.

Again, very sorry for missing this.

19 Jun 2014
@ 04:15 am (GMT)

mark whiteley

Re: Hornady Match Grade 2-die set
I use the wilson die's as well and have even found they can straighten crooked necks, I recon they work better if you turn the necks, even just cleaning them up 75% to make them more even.
I cant say anything about the hornady die's as I have never used them

regards mark
26 Jun 2014
@ 11:33 am (GMT)

Konrad

Re: Hornady Match Grade 2-die set
@Nathan, no worries at all. I know you get ALOT of questions, so no sweat!

@Mark, that's really good to know. So no matter how rubbish my reloading technique is, the dies will put them straight! :)

I've yet to start loading any rounds as i'm waiting for the gun to come back from the smith. Having a Tikka M595 action, re-barrelled to 6.5x47, install an AICS compatible box mag kit from CDI Precision, all sat in a Manners GAT stock. Can't wait.

Powders are one concern here in the UK. With VARGET and a lot of Hodgdon powders unavailable, i'm trying to figure out the best way to go. Probably gonna end up trying some Rel-15, and Accurate 4350, along with some Ramshot Hunter or Big Game. There's a lot of discussion around using D-B propellants and at such high loads, the excess heat really eats away at the barrel life. In contrast, the S-B powders burn at a more cool level and should provide better barrel life.

I know it's slightly off topic but anyone else have experience of using either A-3450 or Ramshot Hunter or Big Game in their 6.5x47??

Cheers,
Konrad
26 Jun 2014
@ 04:19 pm (GMT)

Nathan Foster

Re: Hornady Match Grade 2-die set
Hi Konrad, do you have access to Vihtavouhri powder? N140 or N150 may be options for for you.
22 Oct 2014
@ 10:47 am (GMT)

Konrad

Re: Hornady Match Grade 2-die set
Quote:
Hi Konrad, do you have access to Vihtavouhri powder? N140 or N150 may be options for for you.


So sorry Nathan for the very late reply. I had tried before but had difficulties in logging in, then totally lost track of time!

I do actually have some Viht N140, which i'll try with the lighter 120/123g bullets.
I've also got a tub of Lovex SO70 (made by Explosia, who used to make the original Accurate A4350) for use with 130/140g heads. H4350 has a very good results with the heavier projectile weights, but all Hodgdon powders are near impossible to get hold of or they'e stupidly expensive to buy in the UK, so i'm hoping Lovex SO70 will be a near substitute (although i believe it's a little faster than H4350).
If the Lovex SO70 doesn't work out, i'll definitely try Viht N150.

Many thanks Nathan and to all who posted previously.

Konrad

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