Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Comparator Inserts

Hornady Bullet Comparator Insert Features

The Hornady Bullet Comparator Insert is a calibre-specific insert for the Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Comparator. It lets reloaders measure a bullet from its base to a consistent point on the ogive instead of measuring to the bullet tip. As a result, it provides a repeatable reference for comparing bullets and loaded rounds.

Hornady explains that bullet tips can vary by a few thousandths because of material variation and tip finish. Therefore, measuring to the ogive can reduce the variation that occurs when measurements rely on the bullet tip. In addition, the interchangeable insert system lets one comparator body work with different bullet diameters.

The correct insert depends on the actual bullet diameter. For example, the .224 insert suits .224-inch bullets, while the 6.5mm insert suits bullets with a 6.5mm diameter. Consequently, reloaders can select the insert that matches the bullet rather than the cartridge name alone.

Hornady offers 14 individual inserts covering bullet diameters from .17 to .458 calibre. In addition, the range includes several common rifle bullet sizes used for hunting, target shooting and precision reloading.

Hornady Bullet Comparator Insert Calibre Options

The individual inserts available from Hornady are:

• Item 117 – .17 calibre
• Item 1420 – .204 calibre
• Item 222 – .224 calibre / 5.56mm
• Item 324 – .243 calibre / 6mm
• Item 425 – .257 calibre
• Item 526 – 6.5mm
• Item 627 – .277 calibre
• Item 728 – .284 calibre / 7mm
• Item 830 – .308 calibre / 7.62mm / 8mm
• Item 933 – .338 calibre
• Item 1035 – .358 calibre
• Item 1137 – .375 calibre
• Item 13/41 – .416 calibre
• Item 12/45 – .458 calibre

Therefore, the range covers many of the bullet diameters commonly used for rifle reloading, as well as larger hunting calibres.

Compatibility and Measuring Setup

Each insert works with the Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Comparator body. However, the individual insert does not include the comparator body or a caliper. Therefore, these components must be available separately for a complete measuring setup.

If you need the compatible body, see our Hornady Comparator Body. In addition, the Hornady L&L Anvil Base Kit provides another compatible measuring accessory for the Lock-N-Load system.

When measuring a bullet, the insert contacts the ogive rather than the tip. As a result, the measurement provides a consistent reference for checking bullet and seating measurements. Furthermore, Hornady states that the comparator can check bullet uniformity from the base to the ogive.

The comparator can also work with the Hornady O.A.L. Gauge. In this setup, the comparator helps align the gauge for measurement with a caliper. Consequently, reloaders can compare seating depth and bullet free-travel for a selected bullet.

Selecting the Correct Insert

Select the insert according to the actual bullet diameter. For instance, a .308 bullet requires the .308 insert, while a .284-inch bullet uses the .284/7mm insert. Similarly, a 6mm bullet uses the .243/6mm insert.

The insert number does not necessarily correspond directly with the cartridge designation. For example, Hornady item 222 is the .224 calibre / 5.56mm insert rather than an insert specifically designated for .222 Remington. Therefore, checking the bullet diameter is more reliable than selecting an insert from the cartridge name alone.

Product Specifications

Brand: Hornady
Product: Lock-N-Load Bullet Comparator Insert
Product Type: Individual Bullet Comparator Insert
Compatibility: Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Comparator
Calibre Selection: According to bullet diameter
Available Diameters: .17 to .458 calibre
Number of Individual Options: 14
Comparator Body: Sold separately
Caliper: Sold separately
O.A.L. Gauge: Sold separately

What’s Included

The product includes:

• 1 × Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Comparator Insert
• Selected calibre insert according to the option chosen

The following components are not included:

• Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Comparator body
• Caliper
• Hornady O.A.L. Gauge
• Anvil base

For more measuring and reloading equipment, see our Reloading Equipment.

For manufacturer information, visit Hornady.