OAL Gauge Straight C1000

Seating depth is a critical measurement in precision reloading and this tool makes it possible to accurately measure as each bullet type touches the rifling lands providing a true overall cartridge length measurement. It also enables precise measurements to determine and monitor barrel throat wear as the barrel ages with use. I have found that it takes some practice to seat the bullet against the lands accurately so consistent measurements to a thousands of an inch are achieved. I take the average of three groups of 10 measurements to determine the OAL measurement. I use this tool in conjunction with a bore scope so as I push the bullet into the throat, I can monitor exactly when the bullet touches the lands but I have discovered that after the bullet touches the lands, it’s not possible to push it forward any further with normal hand pressure, so the bore scope is not actually beneficial. I wanted to take my shooting to the next level of accuracy so I bought the Hornady comparator tools (base, anvil & inserts) to measure from the case datum line & bullet ogive. These tools are well made, easy to use and very accurate. Precision shooting is all about eliminating variables and these tools do just that by providing a way to measure more accurately. In the past, tools of this nature were very expensive but Hornady has found a way to provide these tools at a great price so more shooters can enjoy the benefits. If you want to play at the next level, these tools are essential.

Works great

Great product! Great price!

This OAL gauge connects to a modified case and allows you to measure the chamber specs of your rifle. You then use those measurements to accurately figure out your riflers preference for your reloaded rounds. The bullets jump to the rifle lands is a very important calculation for accuracy. Too short and the bullet can cock or angle which causes inaccuracy. Too long and the bullet can contact the the lands when fired which can increase pressure in the case which is not only dangerous, but leads to inaccuracy and also an increase in pressure is also not good if you plan on using your cases multiple times. The whole set up for these measurements cost less than $100. The OAL length gauge, an anvil base, comparator set and inserts, headspace gauge kit, and some modified cases in the caliber you need will get you going. You will also need to connect these to your dial calipers, which if you are reloading your own ammo you should already have dial calipers. This OAL gauge is the straight model which works well on bolt action rifles. For an automatic type rifle the curved OAL gauge works much better. There is a bit of technique the first time you use these tools, but after that the measurements take less than a minute for each caliber and each different bullet weight and or profile of the bullet. Is all this really needed? No. You can use a reload manual and get a decent round. If you are really looking for accuracy you can then make different loads in different lengths, and eventually arrive at the same place. But how many rounds did you have to go through for each load before you found nirvana with your load? 10? 50? 75? And this needs to be done for every bullet weight and profile, for each of your rifles. At around $1 a load, this equipment easily pays for itself in bullet development.

Very useful for technical enthusiasts and hand loaders

Hornady reloading products are always good. There are many imitations and they only barely beat the price, might as well go with hornady

Just what I needed to check my OAL for my 6.5

I purchased this handy item a month or so ago and at first was frustrated because I kept getting different readings some by as much as 70 thousands .070. I searched for reviews and came up with many conflicting ideas. I solved my problem buy first taking the plastic measuring rod out and making sure it was vertical I lightly sanded the tip that meets the bullet to be sure it was even and square relative to the rod and bullet. then I eliminated the tendency of the rod to hang up NOT by sanding but by taking a non scratch pad for washing dishes and running it up and down the length of the rod a few times this smoothed out the rough spots on the rod that tended to snag when measuring. I washed the rod with hot water and Dawn soap then dried it thoroughly before reinserting it in the gauge. After doing this I was able to get consistent multiple reading that were within one to two thousands of an inch time after time. At first I tried fine powdered graphite and light oil but do not recommend it as the rod picks it up and deposits it on the gun landings causing inaccurate readings. With a little practice this can be a useful tool for finding the correct seating depth for your bullets. I currently have five different bullets from 87 grain up to 105 grain that I use in my rifle and using this gauge am able to develop an accurate load for each bullet.