Achieve precise bullet seating depth, a crucial aspect of accurate reloading for hunting and sporting firearms. Regulating seating depth and the resulting "jump" to the rifling is fundamental to achieving improved accuracy and consistent performance. Even a few thousandths of an inch change between the bullet and the rifling can make the difference between average accuracy and exceptional, tack-driver performance. The Hornady Lock-N-Load O.A.L. Gauge is universally acclaimed as the most accurate, easy-to-use, and reliable reloading tool for obtaining that critical relationship, helping you achieve optimal bullet seating depth.

To use this essential Hornady O.A.L. tool, you will need a calibre-specific Modified Case (sold separately) to fit your firearm's chamber and thread it onto the gauge. Hornady offers interchangeable modified cases in most common sizes, from .17 Remington up to and including 500 Nitro. These specially prepared modified cases are threaded at the case-head and feature a .002" oversized neck to precisely accept the same bullets you intend to load. This meticulous design is critical, as the Lock-N-Load O.A.L. Gauge dimensions obtained will be accurate to .001", providing unparalleled precision for your bullet seating depth measurements. Such accurate results cannot be attained with competitive products, which often use a simulated bullet with an arbitrary shape.

This Hornady Straight Overall Length Gauge model is specifically designed for all bolt-action and single-shot firearms, or any firearm with straight-line access to the chamber. It is the preferred model for its superior precision and user-friendly operation, making it an indispensable bullet seating depth gauge for serious reloaders.