Hornady Trimmer Pilot 5 for Cam Lock: A Comprehensive Review
As an avid shooter and reloading enthusiast, I was excited to get my hands on the Hornady Trimmer Pilot 5 for Cam Lock. In this review, I’ll be sharing my experiences with this precision tool, its features, and my honest opinion on its performance.
What is the Hornady Trimmer Pilot 5?
The Hornady Trimmer Pilot 5 is a Bench Rest-Style bullet and cartridge trimmer designed specifically for use with Cam Lock cases. It’s a high-precision tool that allows you to trim and deburr your brass cases with ease, ensuring optimal performance and accuracy in your firearms.
Unboxing and First Impressions
Upon unboxing the Hornady Trimmer Pilot 5, I was impressed by its sleek and compact design. The tool is constructed from high-quality materials, and the overall build quality is exceptional. The anodized aluminum body is sturdy, and the ergonomic design makes it comfortable to hold and operate.
Key Features:
- Compact and Lightweight: Weighing only 1.8 pounds, the Hornady Trimmer Pilot 5 is easy to handle and transport.
- High-Precision Trimming: The tool is capable of trimming cases to precise lengths, with an accuracy of ±.001 inch.
- Deburring Capabilities: The patented deburring mechanism removes all burs and burrs from the case neck, ensuring a smooth finish.
- Quick-Change Blades: The tool comes with four interchangeable blades, each designed for specific case types, making it easy to adapt to different calibers.
- Adjustable Anvil: The anvil is adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune the trimming length to fit your specific needs.
- Easy to Clean and Maintain: The tool features open-end design, making it simple to clean and maintain.
Hands-On Experience with the Hornady Trimmer Pilot 5:
During my testing, I found the Hornady Trimmer Pilot 5 to be a breeze to use. The intuitive design and clear instructions made it easy to get started right away. I was trimming cases within minutes of opening the box.
Pros:
• Precision Trimming: The Hornady Trimmer Pilot 5 delivered precise results, consistently trimming my cases to the exact length I set.
• Effortless Deburring: The deburring mechanism worked flawlessly, removing all burs and burrs from the case neck.
• Easy to Clean and Maintain: The tool’s open-end design made cleaning and maintaining a breeze.
• Versatile: The quick-change blades and adjustable anvil made it easy to adapt to different calibers and trimming lengths.
• Durable: The anodized aluminum body and sturdy construction boasted exceptional durability.
Cons:
• Blade Migration: During extended use, the deburring blades showed signs of wear and tear, requiring occasional replacement.
• Adjustment Takes Time: The adjustable anvil can be finicky to set, requiring some patience and experimentation.
• Limited Caliber Range: The tool is specifically designed for Cam Lock cases, limiting its versatility for other case types.
Conclusion:
The Hornady Trimmer Pilot 5 is a top-notch trimming tool that delivers precise results and ease of use. While it may have some limitations, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. The compact and lightweight design, combined with its high-precision trimming and deburring capabilities, make it an excellent addition to any reloading setup.
Recommendation:
I highly recommend the Hornady Trimmer Pilot 5 for anyone who reloads or shoots frequently. Its exceptional performance and versatility make it a valuable investment for any serious shooter or reloader. While it may not be the best choice for those with limited space or needing to work with a wide range of case types, it’s an excellent option for those who frequently reload and need a reliable, high-quality trimming tool.
Rating: 4.5/5
Price:
The Hornady Trimmer Pilot 5 is available at a competitive price point, typically ranging from $200 to $250, depending on the retailer and availability. Considering its exceptional quality and performance, I believe it’s a worthwhile investment for any serious shooter or reloader.
