Hornady Reloading Bench Stool Review

How I Used the Hornady Reloading Bench Stool and What I Found

For anyone who spends significant time at a workbench, whether for precision tasks like reloading ammunition, intricate repair work, or even just tinkering in the garage, a comfortable and supportive seat isn’t a luxury – it’s a necessity. My own reloading bench, a robust StackOn unit that stands a good bit taller than standard work surfaces, has always presented a slight ergonomic challenge. While perfectly functional for standing tasks, extended periods of seated work were often punctuated by shifting to find a comfortable position, a distraction I could do without. This is precisely what led me to seek out a dedicated bench stool, one that offered not just a place to sit, but a stable and ergonomically sound perch for prolonged, focused effort. The Hornady Reloading Bench Stool caught my eye due to the reputation of its namesake manufacturer for quality equipment.

Upon arrival, my first impression was one of solid construction. It certainly looked the part, with a prominent Hornady logo adding a touch of brand identity to what is essentially a utilitarian piece of equipment. The materials felt durable – the marine-grade vinyl over what appears to be substantial padding suggested it was built for longevity and comfort. While I had briefly considered a more generic, industrial-style stool, the specific design cues and the appeal of a product from a company deeply associated with the reloading world made this Hornady model the clear choice. My initial reaction was a sense of quiet satisfaction, a feeling that this stool might finally resolve the minor but persistent discomfort I’d experienced at my bench.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Reloading Bench Stool to the Test

I primarily put this bench stool to the test in my dedicated reloading room, which is essentially an extension of my garage. This environment means it’s exposed to typical workshop conditions: occasional dust, the hum of machinery, and, of course, prolonged periods of seated activity. The stool’s primary function was to provide a comfortable vantage point for intricate reloading tasks, such as case resizing, priming, bullet seating, and inspection. I specifically focused on how it performed during extended reloading sessions, some lasting well over two hours, to gauge its comfort and support over time.

The stool performed admirably under these conditions. Its sturdy, rock-solid construction was immediately apparent, providing a stable base even when I shifted my weight or leaned forward to examine a component. The height proved to be just right for my taller reloading bench, eliminating the need to hunch over, a common complaint with standard chairs. Comfort was a key factor, and the thick foam padding within the seat delivered, preventing the discomfort that can arise from thin cushioning during long sessions. I experienced no issues with its stability or structural integrity, even after repeated use and minor bumps against the workbench legs.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, typically several times a week, the Hornady Reloading Bench Stool has proven to be a reliable and enduring addition to my reloading setup. I haven’t noticed any significant signs of wear and tear. The marine-grade vinyl seat shows no signs of cracking or excessive creasing, and the padding has retained its shape and supportive qualities remarkably well. This is a testament to the quality of materials and construction, as it has handled consistent use without any performance degradation.

Maintenance has been minimal, which is precisely what one wants in a workbench accessory. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to keep it clean, even after dusty workshop sessions. The chrome double-rung reinforced legs remain sturdy and show no signs of rust or corrosion, which is impressive given the occasional humidity fluctuations in my garage. Compared to previous, less robust stools I’ve used in various workshop settings over the years, this Hornady model feels like a significant upgrade in terms of durability and long-term comfort. It’s certainly more comfortable and supportive for hours at the loading bench than any basic folding chair I’ve ever used.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Reloading Bench Stool

The Hornady Reloading Bench Stool is designed with the serious enthusiast in mind, offering a blend of comfort, durability, and a touch of brand pride for the reloading room, garage, or even a home bar. Its specifications point towards a product built to withstand consistent use while providing a pleasant seating experience.

Specifications

The key specifications of this reloading stool are:

• Manufacturer: Hornady
• Color: Red
• Condition: New
• Fabric/Material: Marine grade vinyl
• Seat Dimensions: 14 x 14 x 5 inches. This generous seat size, coupled with a substantial 5-inch thickness of foam padding, provides ample surface area and cushioning for extended periods of sitting without discomfort.
• Overall Dimensions: 20 x 20 x 31 inches. These dimensions indicate a stable and appropriately proportioned stool for a workshop environment. The 31-inch height is particularly beneficial for taller workbenches.
• Leg Construction: Chrome double rung reinforced legs. This feature is crucial for stability and load-bearing capacity, ensuring the stool remains steady even with active movement or significant weight.

These specifications translate directly into user benefits. The marine grade vinyl offers resistance to wear and tear, making it suitable for a workshop setting. The thick foam padding ensures comfort during long reloading sessions, preventing fatigue and the need to constantly shift. The chrome double rung reinforced legs speak to the rock-solid construction that users have praised, promising stability and longevity. The overall dimensions are well-suited for standard reloading bench heights, providing an ergonomic advantage.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of this stool is to provide a comfortable and stable place to sit while working at a bench, and it excels at this. Its performance in this regard is directly tied to its comfort and stability. The plenty of seat cushion for long reloading periods is not an exaggeration; I’ve found it to be genuinely comfortable even after multiple hours of focused work. The sturdy construction prevents wobbling or creaking, allowing for precise movements at the reloading press without any distraction from the seating itself.

Its main strength lies in its comfort and stability, fulfilling the core needs of a reloading bench stool perfectly. A potential minor weakness, if one were to nitpick, is that it is a fixed-height stool. While this height is ideal for my specific bench, users with varying bench heights might find it either too tall or too short, unlike some adjustable-height industrial stools. However, for its intended purpose and audience, the fixed height is a deliberate design choice that contributes to its robust build. It undeniably meets and exceeds expectations for a comfortable, durable reloading seat.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Hornady Reloading Bench Stool is practical and focused on functionality, with a nod to aesthetics. The red marine-grade vinyl with the embossed Hornady logo gives it a clean and professional look, fitting well within a workshop or garage environment without being overly flashy. The thick foam padding is ergonomically sound, providing excellent support for the sit bones and distributing weight evenly. This prevents pressure points that can develop with thinner padding over time.

The chrome double rung reinforced legs are not just functional for stability; they also contribute to a classic, industrial aesthetic that complements many workshop décors. The overall feel in use is one of solid dependability. There’s no learning curve; it’s an intuitive seating solution. Small details like the durable vinyl and the sturdy leg bracing make it easy and comfortable to use from the moment you sit down.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on its construction and materials, the Hornady Reloading Bench Stool is built for considerable durability. The marine grade vinyl is known for its resistance to UV rays, mildew, and abrasion, making it a practical choice for a workshop that might see less-than-ideal conditions. The thick vinyl and robust padding suggest it’s designed to withstand daily use and pressure for years without significant degradation.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A damp cloth or a mild all-purpose cleaner is sufficient for keeping the seat clean. The chrome legs wipe down easily. There are no obvious points of failure, such as cheap plastic components or easily frayed seams. Given its construction, I anticipate this stool will last for a very long time under normal to heavy use. There’s no complex maintenance required, making it an easy item to live with.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady Reloading Bench Stool comes as a complete, self-contained unit; there are no specific accessories included or typically offered for customization. Its design is fixed and functional. It does not accept add-on parts like adjustable height mechanisms or different types of casters, which is in line with its straightforward, sturdy build. While it doesn’t offer customization in the way some other equipment might, its inherent design is a strength, focusing on reliability rather than modularity. It’s a dedicated piece of seating, not a platform for modification.

Pros and Cons of Hornady Reloading Bench Stool

Here is a breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages of the Hornady Reloading Bench Stool:

Who Should Buy Hornady Reloading Bench Stool?

The Hornady Reloading Bench Stool is an excellent choice for anyone who spends considerable time working at a bench, particularly those involved in reloading ammunition. Its specific height and comfort features make it ideal for users with taller reloading benches or those who find standard seating too low. It’s also a great fit for home mechanics, hobbyists, or anyone who needs a durable, comfortable, and stable seat in their garage or workshop.

However, individuals who require adjustable height seating, the ability to easily roll around their workspace, or a more compact, portable stool might want to consider alternatives. For those seeking maximum comfort and stability at a dedicated workbench, this Hornady model is hard to beat. The most beneficial complement to this stool would simply be a well-organized and well-lit workbench to maximize the benefits of comfortable, focused work.

Conclusion on Hornady Reloading Bench Stool

The Hornady Reloading Bench Stool stands out as a superior seating solution for dedicated workspace enthusiasts. Its combination of thick, comfortable padding and rock-solid stability due to its reinforced legs makes it a joy to use during long hours of reloading or other workbench tasks. The marine-grade vinyl ensures durability, and the perfect height for taller benches addresses a common ergonomic issue. While its fixed height might not suit everyone, for its intended user base, it offers exceptional value and performance.

Considering the price point of $179.99, the Hornady Reloading Bench Stool delivers on its promise of quality and comfort. It feels like a premium product designed to last, and the user feedback highlighting its sturdiness and comfort for hours at the bench strongly supports this. I would wholeheartedly recommend this stool to anyone looking for a dedicated, comfortable, and durable seating option for their reloading bench or workshop. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone who values comfort and efficiency while working.