Hornady OAL guage

[Rogue111]

Hornady's OAL gauge seems like a clever little gadget. They sell the individual adapted cases for each caliber but wouldn't you have to use fireformed brass in the particular chamber you're using when trying to get exact measurements? Unless I'm missing something I would think your actual OAL will be quite a bit off if using SAAMI spec. brass?

Thanks

 

[savageshooter86]

To be as exact as possible the answer would be yes. You can buy the tap and make a true modified case for the tool for your rifle. Or can send it to Hornady and they will make one for you.
Another option is to compare the reading using the tool on the modified case for shoulder datum(separate insert for measuring shoulder bump) and compare to your fire formed case. Add the difference to your reading and that will be very close. Ex: if the Hornady case shoulder datum reads x.xx4 and your fired formed case reads x.xx6. Use the tool and what ever measurement you get for your touch to the rifling add the 0.002" to the reading. That would be closer to what it actually is

 

[Rogue111]

Not a bad idea at all, I appreciate it!