Hornady Neck Turn Mandrel .17 Cal .1720 391908 Review

A Close Look at the Hornady Neck Turn Mandrel 17 Cal .1720 391908 – 1 out of 11 models

The Hornady Neck Turn Mandrel 17 Cal .1720 391908 – 1 out of 11 models is a specialized reloading tool designed for precision handloaders. It’s specifically engineered to expand the necks of .17 caliber cases after they’ve been neck-turned. This ensures consistent bullet seating and improved accuracy. The Hornady brand is well-respected in the reloading community, known for producing quality tools and components, so I was keen to put this mandrel to the test.

My journey to the Hornady Neck Turn Mandrel started with a quest for ultimate accuracy in my .17 Hornet rifle. Factory ammunition just wasn’t cutting it, and I was diving deep into the world of handloading to squeeze every last bit of potential from the cartridge. Neck turning became a critical step in my process, but it left the case necks slightly undersized for optimal bullet seating.

When the mandrel arrived, I was immediately impressed by its simple, yet robust design. It felt solid in my hand, crafted from what appeared to be high-quality steel. The smooth, polished surface promised a consistent and gentle expansion of the case necks. It was definitely a step up from some of the makeshift methods I had considered.

Before purchasing the Hornady mandrel, I considered using a universal expanding mandrel with adjustable sizing. I also looked at a set of custom-made mandrels from a smaller manufacturer. However, the Hornady offering stood out because of its precise .1720″ dimension, readily available nature, and the brand’s reputation for reliability. I appreciated that Hornady specifically addressed the need for .17 caliber reloaders with a dedicated tool.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. Reloading precision tools aren’t about flashy features, but reliable performance. I was eager to see if the Hornady Neck Turn Mandrel would deliver on its promise of consistent case neck expansion and improved accuracy at the range.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Neck Turn Mandrel 17 Cal .1720 391908 – 1 out of 11 models to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test with the Hornady Neck Turn Mandrel took place in my reloading room, specifically set up for precision cartridge loading. The ambient temperature was a comfortable 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and humidity was low, ideal for handloading. I used a Forster Co-Ax reloading press, known for its smooth operation and consistent leverage, to insert the mandrel into the prepped cases.

The performance was noticeably smooth and consistent. The mandrel glided into the case necks with minimal resistance, expanding them evenly without any noticeable scoring or deformation. I used a light application of Imperial Sizing Wax on the case necks for even smoother operation. The cases felt uniform after expansion, and bullet seating was noticeably easier.

The Hornady Neck Turn Mandrel was incredibly easy to use, requiring no adjustments or special techniques. After a few test cases, I quickly developed a rhythm and was able to process a large batch of brass in short order. There were no issues with stuck cases or uneven expansion.

There were no surprises during the initial use, which is exactly what I wanted. The Hornady Neck Turn Mandrel performed exactly as advertised, providing consistent and reliable case neck expansion. The consistent internal neck diameter created by the mandrel promoted a more consistent bullet seating depth and neck tension.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, processing hundreds of .17 Hornet cases, the Hornady Neck Turn Mandrel has proven to be a durable and reliable tool. There are no signs of wear or tear on the mandrel itself. The polished surface remains smooth, and the dimensions have remained consistent.

The mandrel requires minimal maintenance. A quick wipe down with a clean cloth after each reloading session is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. I occasionally apply a light coat of gun oil to prevent rust, especially during periods of high humidity.

Compared to my previous method of using a generic expanding mandrel, the Hornady Neck Turn Mandrel is a significant improvement. The dedicated .1720″ dimension provides a more consistent and precise expansion, resulting in improved bullet seating and better accuracy at the range. It has definitely exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Neck Turn Mandrel 17 Cal .1720 391908 – 1 out of 11 models

Specifications

The Hornady Neck Turn Mandrel 17 Cal .1720 391908 – 1 out of 11 models boasts a few key specifications. It’s designed for use with .17 caliber cases. Its diameter is precisely .1720 inches, intended for expanding case necks after turning.

These specifications are essential for precise reloading. The .1720″ diameter ensures the correct internal neck diameter. This provides optimal bullet seating tension. This tension is essential for consistent ignition and accuracy. Proper case neck expansion also helps prevent bullet deformation during seating, further contributing to improved accuracy.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady Neck Turn Mandrel performs its job admirably. It expands the case necks consistently and reliably. This allows bullets to seat with the correct amount of tension. This contributes to improved accuracy and reduced velocity variations.

Its strength lies in its simplicity and precision. Its weakness is that it’s a dedicated tool. It only works for .17 caliber, requiring other mandrels for different calibers. Despite this, it exceeds expectations for its intended purpose.

Design & Ergonomics

The Hornady Neck Turn Mandrel features a simple, functional design. It is constructed from hardened steel with a smooth, polished finish. This ensures durability and consistent performance. It’s comfortable to use with a standard reloading press.

Its user-friendly design means there’s no learning curve. Simply lubricate the case neck and insert the mandrel using your reloading press. The smooth operation and consistent results make it a valuable addition to any precision reloader’s toolkit.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its hardened steel construction, the Hornady Neck Turn Mandrel is built to last. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. It’s easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady Neck Turn Mandrel is a standalone tool and doesn’t come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options available, as it’s designed for a specific purpose. It is compatible with any reloading press that accepts standard 7/8″-14 threads. It could be used with a hand-held mandrel tool with the same threads.

Pros and Cons of Hornady Neck Turn Mandrel 17 Cal .1720 391908 – 1 out of 11 models

Pros

• Precise .1720″ diameter: Ensures consistent case neck expansion and optimal bullet seating tension for .17 caliber cartridges.
• Durable hardened steel construction: Built to last, providing years of reliable service with proper care.
• Smooth, polished finish: Glides easily into case necks, minimizing friction and preventing scoring.
• Easy to use: Requires no special tools or techniques, making it accessible to both novice and experienced reloaders.
• Affordable price: Offers excellent value for money compared to other precision reloading tools.

Cons

• Caliber-specific: Only works with .17 caliber cases, requiring separate mandrels for other calibers.
• Requires neck turning: Designed for use after neck turning, adding an extra step to the reloading process.

Who Should Buy Hornady Neck Turn Mandrel 17 Cal .1720 391908 – 1 out of 11 models?