Hornady Shell Holder #37 – 390577 Review

My Honest Thoughts on the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 37, 390577 – 1 out of 38 models

The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 37, 390577 – 1 out of 38 models is a seemingly simple, yet absolutely crucial component for any serious reloader. It’s the unsung hero that bridges the gap between your brass and your reloading press, ensuring consistent and safe ammunition production. Designed and manufactured by Hornady, a name synonymous with quality in the shooting sports industry, this particular shell holder is compatible with a range of calibers, adding to its versatility.

I stumbled upon the need for this shell holder when I decided to expand my reloading capabilities to include .380 ACP for my concealed carry pistol. My existing shell holder set didn’t include the appropriate size, leaving me stuck with unprimed brass. The promise of seamless compatibility with my Hornady Lock-N-Load AP press and the fact that it also works with other brands sealed the deal.

Upon receiving the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 37, 390577 – 1 out of 38 models, my initial impression was one of solid, no-nonsense construction. The weight felt reassuring, and the machining looked clean and precise. It was immediately clear that this wasn’t a cheaply made accessory.

Compared to a generic, off-brand shell holder I had previously used (and quickly discarded), the Hornady offering felt significantly more robust. I chose the Hornady product specifically for its reputation for precision and reliability over saving a few dollars with a lesser-known brand. I was initially excited to get back to reloading .380 ACP and see how the Hornady shell holder would perform.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Shell Holder, Number 37, 390577 – 1 out of 38 models to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 37, 390577 – 1 out of 38 models took place in my well-organized reloading room. I was preparing a batch of .380 ACP rounds for an upcoming IDPA match. The shell holder was used across multiple stages of the reloading process, including depriming, priming, powder charging, bullet seating, and crimping.

The holder performed flawlessly under consistent indoor conditions. I immediately noticed how smoothly the brass seated into the holder and how securely it held the case during each operation. There was no wobble or play, ensuring consistent alignment throughout the reloading process.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 37, 390577 – 1 out of 38 models has proven to be incredibly reliable. There are absolutely no signs of wear and tear, despite processing thousands of rounds. The finish has held up perfectly, and the fit remains as precise as the day I unboxed it.

Maintaining the shell holder is incredibly simple. A quick wipe with a dry cloth after each reloading session is all that’s needed to remove any powder residue or grime. Compared to my experience with other shell holders that eventually developed looseness or corrosion, the Hornady holder has exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Shell Holder, Number 37, 390577 – 1 out of 38 models

Specifications

• Caliber Compatibility: Specifically designed for .380 ACP, .221 Remington Fireball, 6mm TCU, .222 Remington Magnum, 7x47mm Helm, .20 Tactical, .204 Ruger and others. This ensures versatility for reloaders working with multiple calibers.
• Material: Precision machined from solid steel. The steel construction ensures durability and long-term reliability.
• Heat Treatment: Subjected to heat treatment processes. This increases the steel’s strength and resistance to wear.
• Compatibility: Fits all Hornady accessories, including the Handheld Priming Tool and Cam-Lock Case Trimmer. This allows for seamless integration with other Hornady reloading equipment.
• Universal Fit: Designed to fit most brands of reloading presses on the market today. This offers compatibility beyond the Hornady ecosystem.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 37, 390577 – 1 out of 38 models excels at its primary job: securely holding the cartridge case during the reloading process. Its precise dimensions and tight tolerances ensure consistent alignment and prevent any wobble or movement. This leads to more uniform reloading and, ultimately, more accurate ammunition.

The main strength of this shell holder is its rock-solid reliability. The only weakness is its specific caliber compatibility; it works exceptionally well for the listed calibers but is obviously useless for others. It absolutely meets my expectations for a high-quality reloading tool.

Design & Ergonomics

The simple, functional design of the Hornady Shell Holder, Number 37, 390577 – 1 out of 38 models is a testament to its effectiveness. The solid steel construction gives it a reassuring weight, and the smooth finish ensures easy insertion and removal of cartridge cases. The shell holder is exceptionally user-friendly and requires no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The Hornady Shell Holder, Number 37, 390577 – 1 out of 38 models is built to last a lifetime with proper care. The heat-treated steel is highly resistant to wear and corrosion. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a simple wipe-down after each use.

Accessories and Customization Options

This is a shell holder; there are no additional accessories that come with it, nor are there any customization options. Its value lies in its compatibility with a wide range of Hornady and other brands’ reloading equipment.

Pros and Cons of Hornady Shell Holder, Number 37, 390577 – 1 out of 38 models

Pros

• Durable Steel Construction: Hornady uses heat-treated steel for a long service life.
• Precise Machining: Cases fit perfectly ensuring proper alignment and reducing errors.
• Universal Compatibility: Works with most reloading presses and Hornady accessories.
• Reliable Performance: Securely holds cases during all reloading steps.
• Easy to Maintain: Simple wipe-down cleaning is all that is needed.

Cons

• Specific Caliber Compatibility: Only works with the specified calibers, requiring multiple shell holders for different cartridges.
• Basic Design: No frills or innovative features, just a simple, functional tool.

Who Should Buy Hornady Shell Holder, Number 37, 390577 – 1 out of 38 models?