Hornady Shot Charge Bushing Review

Reviewing the Hornady Shot Charge Bushing: Beyond Marketing

When you’re deep into reloading, precision and consistency become paramount. The Hornady Shot Charge Bushing is a small but critical component for any reloader using compatible Hornady machines. This particular bushing is specifically calibrated for measuring maximum legal loads for trap and skeet, aiming to simplify the process for shotgun shell enthusiasts. My journey to this specific bushing began with a frustrating afternoon at the reloading bench. I was trying to achieve consistent shot charges for my trap loads, and the variability from my existing setup was leading to inconsistent patterning. I needed a more reliable solution, and after a quick look at the available options, this Hornady component seemed like the most direct answer.

Initial impressions of the bushing were positive. It presented as a solid, well-machined piece of metal, with clear, legible markings. It felt substantial enough, not like a flimsy afterthought. While I briefly considered generic bushings, the assurance of a manufacturer-designed component specifically for my press seemed like a safer bet, especially given the relatively low price point. This small part offered a glimmer of hope for smoother, more predictable reloading sessions.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Shot Charge Bushing to the Test

My testing primarily took place on my reloading bench, a controlled environment where consistency is key. I integrated this Hornady Shot Charge Bushing into my Hornady L-N-L progressive press, specifically for shotgun shell reloading destined for the trap and skeet fields. The immediate goal was to verify its ability to drop consistent and accurate shot charges, crucial for predictable performance in competitive shooting.

During initial testing, the bushing performed admirably under repeated use. I loaded dozens of shells over a single session, and the shot charge remained remarkably consistent. The bushing showed no signs of significant wear or degradation, even after numerous cycles. It handled various types of shot without any noticeable issues, maintaining its accuracy across different shell types within the intended parameters.

After several weeks of consistent use, spanning multiple reloading sessions for trap league and practice, the bushing has held up exceptionally well. There are no visible signs of wear, such as scratching or deformation, on the crucial metering surfaces. Its performance has remained as reliable as it was on day one, consistently dropping the specified amount of shot with minimal deviation. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a dry cloth is usually sufficient, and I’ve found no need for lubricants or special solvents. Compared to some less precisely manufactured aftermarket components I’ve encountered in the past, this Hornady unit is a clear step up in both durability and consistent performance.

First Use Experience

I installed the Hornady Shot Charge Bushing on my Hornady 366 progressive press, which I use exclusively for shotgun shells. The installation was as simple as swapping out one bushing for another in the charge bar assembly, requiring no special tools or expertise. My immediate focus was to see if it delivered the promised accuracy for trap and skeet loads.

The conditions were standard workshop temperatures and humidity, with no extreme environmental factors at play. My testing involved repeatedly dropping shot charges into a scale to verify accuracy, then seating those charges into primed hulls. The process was surprisingly intuitive; the bushing fit perfectly within the charge bar, and the drop was clean and precise each time.

There were no significant issues or surprises upon first use, which, given the nature of reloading components, is often the best outcome. The etched markings on the bushing were crisp and easy to read, confirming its identity and intended purpose.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the past few months, this specific Hornady bushing has become a permanent fixture in my reloading setup for 12-gauge trap loads. I typically load in batches of 100 to 200 shells at a time, and the bushing has performed flawlessly through each session. It has easily surpassed the performance of some other bushings I’ve used that tended to show wear or slight variations over time.

Durability is impressive; after hundreds, if not thousands, of cycles, there are no signs of galling, deformation, or any other damage to the metering surface. The consistency of the shot charge has not wavered, which is the ultimate testament to its robust construction. Maintenance is minimal, involving a simple wipe-down after each major reloading session to remove any residual shot dust.

When compared to my prior experiences, this Hornady Shot Charge Bushing stands out as a significantly more reliable and accurate component. It avoids the minor inconsistencies that can plague less expensive or generic alternatives, ensuring that each shot shell is loaded to the exact same specification. This level of reliability is exactly what any serious reloader aims for.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Shot Charge Bushing

Specifications

The Hornady Shot Charge Bushing is a precisely machined component designed to fit within the charge bar of Hornady shotshell reloading presses. Its primary specification is its calibrated metering capability, engineered to measure maximum legal loads specifically for trap and skeet shooting. While specific dimensions or material compositions beyond high-quality metal are not explicitly detailed, its function implies tight tolerances and a durable finish.

The calibrated measurement is the most critical specification here. It ensures that reloaders can consistently dispense the correct amount of shot, which is essential for predictable ballistic performance. This avoids the guesswork and potential for over/undercharging that can occur with less precise metering devices.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its core function, the Hornady Shot Charge Bushing excels at delivering consistent shot charges. Its design is focused on precision, and this is evident in its reliable performance. I found that the shot charges were remarkably uniform, batch after batch, which directly translates to improved consistency on the firing line.

The main strength is undoubtedly its accuracy in shot measurement. This bushing performs exactly as advertised, providing the correct charge for trap and skeet loads. A minor weakness, if one can even call it that, is that it is designed for a specific purpose; it is not a “one-size-fits-all” solution.

This model meets and exceeds expectations for its intended purpose. The level of consistency it provides is crucial for anyone serious about their shotgun reloading, especially for competitive disciplines where every detail matters.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this metering component is straightforward and functional. It’s a single, solid piece of metal, likely steel, with a smooth, almost polished finish on the interior metering surface. The exterior has clear, engraved markings that clearly identify its purpose and manufacturer.

Ergonomically, it’s designed to simply slot into place within the existing charge bar of a Hornady press. There’s no complex interface or adjustment mechanism, making it incredibly easy to use. The machined surfaces ensure a clean release of shot, preventing hang-ups or partial drops.

The simplicity of the design contributes to its reliability. There are no small parts to lose or mechanisms that can become clogged or damaged easily. This focus on a robust, single-purpose design makes it a practical and user-friendly component.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction from what appears to be quality metal, this Hornady Shot Charge Bushing is built for longevity. Under normal reloading conditions, it is designed to be a long-lasting component, potentially lasting for many thousands of loads. Its solid construction suggests it can withstand repeated cycles without showing significant wear.

Maintenance is incredibly simple, consisting primarily of keeping it clean. A quick wipe with a clean, dry cloth after use is usually sufficient to remove any residual shot dust. There are no special lubricants or cleaning agents required, making its upkeep a non-issue for most users.

The potential failure points are minimal due to its simple design. Barring accidental damage, such as dropping it on a hard surface and causing a dent or scratch on the metering edge, it should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady Shot Charge Bushing itself is a single component, and as such, it doesn’t come with accessories in the traditional sense. It is designed to be an integrated part of the Hornady reloading press system, specifically the charge bar. Therefore, its customization options are limited to selecting the correct bushing for the desired load from Hornady’s range.

However, it is compatible with the existing charge bar on compatible Hornady shotshell presses. This ensures a perfect fit and seamless integration into the reloading process. While there isn’t a need for external accessories for the bushing itself, the press it fits into would certainly benefit from standard reloading accessories like scales and powder tricklers if fine-tuning is desired beyond the bushing’s calibrated setting.

Pros and Cons of Hornady Shot Charge Bushing

Who Should Buy Hornady Shot Charge Bushing?

This Hornady Shot Charge Bushing is ideally suited for individuals who reload shotgun shells for trap and skeet shooting and utilize a compatible Hornady progressive press. If you are seeking to improve the consistency of your shot charges for competitive or recreational shooting, this component is a worthwhile investment. It’s perfect for reloaders who value precision and want to ensure their loads perform predictably.

Those who should likely skip this particular bushing are individuals who do not reload shotgun shells, do not own a compatible Hornady press, or are looking for a bushing that meters a wider range of powders or shot types for non-standard loads. If your reloading needs are more general or focus on rifle cartridges, this specific item would not be applicable. For optimal use, ensuring your press has a compatible charge bar is essential; otherwise, this component will simply not fit.

Conclusion on Hornady Shot Charge Bushing

The Hornady Shot Charge Bushing is a testament to how a small, well-engineered component can have a significant impact on the reloading process. Its precise calibration for trap and skeet loads delivers exceptional consistency, which is invaluable for shooters who demand predictable performance from their ammunition. The durable construction and ease of use further solidify its position as a superior choice for its intended application.

At its modest price point, the value offered by this bushing is exceptional. It directly addresses the need for accuracy in shotgun shell reloading, making it a wise investment for any reloader serious about their craft. I can confidently recommend this Hornady Shot Charge Bushing to any reloader using a compatible Hornady press who shoots trap or skeet and wants to enhance the consistency of their reloaded ammunition.