Hornady Cam-Lock #2 .228 Caliber Trimmer Pilot Review

My Verdict on the Hornady Cam-Lock #2 .228 Caliber Trimmer Pilot

For anyone involved in precision reloading, especially for cartridges like the .22 Savage Hi-Power which often requires specific attention, the Hornady Cam-Lock #2 .228 Caliber Trimmer Pilot is a seemingly small but crucial component. This is a component designed to interface with Hornady’s Cam-Lock Case Trimmer, ensuring that your cases are consistently trimmed to the correct dimensions for your chosen caliber. I found myself needing a reliable pilot for a specific project that involved retooling some older .22 Savage brass, and this particular pilot promised to fit the bill perfectly.

Initial impressions upon unboxing were positive. The pilot felt solid and well-machined, as one would expect from a reputable manufacturer like Hornady. There weren’t many complex alternatives to consider; it was essentially a matter of finding the correct size pilot for the Cam-Lock system, and this was the designated one for the .228 caliber. My first reaction was one of quiet confidence; it looked like a tool that would do its job without fuss.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Cam-Lock #2 .228 Caliber Trimmer Pilot to the Test

My testing grounds for this pilot were squarely on my reloading bench, a space that sees its fair share of precision work and occasional dust accumulation. I was particularly focused on ensuring consistent neck dimensions for an upcoming rifle build. The setup involved mounting the pilot into the Hornady Cam-Lock trimmer and then chucking up each prepped .228 caliber case.

The pilot slid smoothly into the trimmer’s collet, and engaging the cam lock mechanism felt secure. My initial passes were deliberate, checking for any wobble or looseness that would compromise the trim. I ran about 50 cases through the trimmer during this first session, focusing on consistent case neck alignment.

Over the course of several reloading sessions, spanning a few weeks, this trimmer pilot became a staple for my .228 caliber projects. It has seen regular use, averaging perhaps 20-30 cases trimmed per session, and has held up remarkably well. There have been no noticeable signs of wear, no degradation in its snug fit, and the machining remains pristine. Cleaning is straightforward – a quick wipe down with a cloth is usually all it needs. Compared to some generic pilots I’ve encountered in the past, which could sometimes feel a bit rough or imprecise, this Hornady unit offers a marked improvement in consistency.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Cam-Lock #2 .228 Caliber Trimmer Pilot

Specifications

The Hornady Cam-Lock #2 .228 Caliber Trimmer Pilot is specifically designed for trimming .228 caliber cases, which, according to the manufacturer’s specifications, corresponds to the .22 Savage Hi-Power caliber. This is a single-piece component, made from durable metal, ensuring it can withstand the forces involved in case trimming without deforming. Its primary function is to act as a guide within the case mouth, aligning the case perfectly with the trimmer’s cutter.

The precise machining of this pilot is critical for achieving accurate case lengths. A pilot that is even slightly off can lead to inconsistent trimming, which in turn affects headspace and overall cartridge accuracy. This particular pilot’s diameter is engineered to fit snugly, but not too tightly, into the case neck of the .228 caliber.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its core function, the Hornady Cam-Lock #2 .228 Caliber Trimmer Pilot performs its job exceptionally well. It consistently guides the trimming process, ensuring that each case is cut to the same precise length. I experienced virtually no runout or misalignment when using this pilot with my Cam-Lock trimmer.

The primary strength of this component is its accuracy and reliability. It effectively eliminates the variability that can come from a poorly fitting or worn pilot. Its weakness, if one could call it that, is its specialization; it’s designed for one specific caliber and won’t work for others.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this trimmer pilot is straightforward and utilitarian, as expected for a reloading tool. It’s a solid metal rod with a precisely machined end that fits into the case neck. The other end is designed to interface with the Hornady Cam-Lock Trimmer’s collet system.

Build quality is excellent; the material feels robust and the finish is smooth, indicating good manufacturing tolerances. There are no ergonomic considerations in the traditional sense, as the user doesn’t directly grip it for extended periods. However, its precise fit and lack of wobble contribute to a user-friendly experience on the reloading bench.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its solid metal construction and lack of moving parts, the Hornady Cam-Lock #2 .228 Caliber Trimmer Pilot is built for longevity. Under normal reloading use, I anticipate this pilot will last for many years, potentially decades. Its simple design means there are no inherent failure points like springs or delicate mechanisms.

Maintenance is minimal. Keeping it clean from brass shavings and lubricant residue is the primary care required. A simple wipe-down after each reloading session or before storing it away is sufficient to maintain its performance and prevent corrosion.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady Cam-Lock #2 .228 Caliber Trimmer Pilot is typically sold individually, meaning it doesn’t come with a vast array of accessories. Its customization options are also limited, as it’s a fixed-size component for a specific caliber.

However, it’s designed to work seamlessly with the Hornady Cam-Lock Case Trimmer system. While this pilot itself isn’t customizable, the overall Cam-Lock system allows for interchangeable pilots, cutters, and shell holders, offering flexibility for different calibers. The critical aspect is ensuring you have the correct pilot for your case diameter, and this #2 pilot is the one for the .228 caliber.

Pros and Cons of Hornady Cam-Lock #2 .228 Caliber Trimmer Pilot

Who Should Buy Hornady Cam-Lock #2 .228 Caliber Trimmer Pilot?

This trimmer pilot is an absolute must-have for any reloader who is working with .228 caliber cartridges and owns or intends to purchase the Hornady Cam-Lock Case Trimmer. If you are serious about achieving consistent and accurate ammunition, particularly for older or less common calibers like the .22 Savage Hi-Power, then this pilot is essential. It’s designed for the meticulous handloader who understands the importance of precise case dimensions for optimal firearm performance.

Individuals who are looking for a generic, one-size-fits-all solution should look elsewhere. Those who don’t own a Hornady Cam-Lock Trimmer will also find this pilot incompatible with their existing equipment. For those who do have the Cam-Lock system, investing in the correct pilot for your desired caliber is a small price to pay for the accuracy it delivers.

Conclusion on Hornady Cam-Lock #2 .228 Caliber Trimmer Pilot

The Hornady Cam-Lock #2 .228 Caliber Trimmer Pilot is a testament to the fact that even small components can have a significant impact on the quality of your finished product. For anyone dedicated to precision reloading of .228 caliber ammunition with the Hornady Cam-Lock system, this pilot is not just an accessory; it’s a necessity. It performs its intended function flawlessly, contributing directly to the accuracy and reliability of your reloaded cartridges.

At a price point of $5.99, the value proposition is exceptionally high, especially considering the precision machining and the impact it has on the final outcome of your ammunition. I unequivocally recommend this trimmer pilot to any serious reloader working with the specified caliber and the Hornady Cam-Lock trimmer. If you’re aiming for consistency and accuracy in your .228 caliber loads, you simply can’t go wrong with this component.