Ultimate Hornady Bullet Comparator Size Chart for Precision Reloading (Updated December 2023)

Understanding Bullet Comparators in Precision Reloading

For precision shooters and reloaders, consistency equals accuracy. While many reloaders focus on powder charges and primer selection, bullet seating depth remains one of the most critical yet overlooked variables affecting accuracy. That's where bullet comparators come in – these precision tools eliminate guesswork and provide repeatable, reliable measurements.

Traditional reloading manuals recommend measuring cartridge overall length (COAL) from the base of the case to the tip of the bullet. However, this approach has significant flaws – especially with soft point, polymer-tipped, or hollow point bullets where tip dimensions can vary significantly.

The bullet comparator solves this problem by measuring from the base of the case to a consistent point on the bullet's ogive – the curved portion that transitions from the bullet's bearing surface to its tip. This measurement, known as the Cartridge Base to Ogive (CBTO), provides much more consistent and valuable data for precision reloading.

While Hornady has long been the industry standard for bullet comparators, newer options like the AltitudeCraft 14-insert kit offer expanded caliber coverage in a single, comprehensive package. Understanding how these tools compare is essential for reloaders seeking the best value and performance.

Complete Hornady vs. AltitudeCraft Bullet Comparator Size Chart

When choosing a bullet comparator system, it's important to understand exactly what calibers are covered and how the inserts compare between major manufacturers. Here's a comprehensive comparison between the popular Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Comparator system and the AltitudeCraft 14-insert kit:

The AltitudeCraft kit includes 14 inserts covering the full spectrum of common calibers, whereas the Hornady system requires purchasing additional inserts separately for complete coverage. This represents a significant value advantage for the AltitudeCraft system, especially for reloaders working with multiple calibers.

Note that actual insert sizes are typically 0.007" to 0.009" under nominal bullet diameter, which is by design. This ensures the bullet's ogive makes proper contact with the comparator without damaging the bullet or affecting measurements.

Why Measuring to the Ogive Matters for Precision

The difference between measuring to the bullet tip versus measuring to the ogive isn't just academic – it can dramatically impact your shooting precision. When a bullet engages the rifling of a barrel, it's the ogive that makes contact first, not the tip. This engagement point determines the actual "bullet jump" before rifling contact.

Here's why measuring to the ogive delivers superior precision:

• Tip Variations: Even within the same box of bullets, tip lengths can vary by several thousandths of an inch, especially with soft point or polymer-tipped bullets.
• Consistent Chamber Pressure: Identical CBTO measurements ensure consistent bullet jump, which translates to more uniform chamber pressures and velocities.
• Repeatable Results: When comparing factory ammo to your reloads or when developing new loads, CBTO measurements provide a more reliable baseline reference.
• Improved Accuracy: By eliminating one major variable (seating depth inconsistency), you'll see tighter groups downrange.

The AltitudeCraft comparator kit makes measuring to the ogive simple and precise across virtually any caliber you might reload. The dual-screw attachment design ensures the tool remains firmly fixed to your calipers during measurements, preventing slippage that could introduce errors.

Practical Guide: Using a Bullet Comparator Effectively

Getting the most from your bullet comparator requires proper technique and understanding the measurement process. Here's a step-by-step guide to using the AltitudeCraft Bullet Comparator Kit effectively:

For advanced reloaders, the comparator can also be used to find the optimal bullet seating depth for a specific firearm. By slowly increasing CBTO measurements in 0.001" to 0.002" increments and testing groups at the range, you can identify the ideal bullet jump for your rifle and load combination.

Many precision shooters find that seating bullets to achieve a bullet jump of 0.010" to 0.050" from the ogive to the rifling lands produces the best accuracy. The exact measurement varies by firearm, bullet design, and cartridge, which is why having a reliable measurement tool like the AltitudeCraft Bullet Comparator is essential.

Real-World Accuracy Improvements from Proper Bullet Seating

The proof of any reloading tool's value is ultimately measured in improved accuracy on target. Precision reloaders across disciplines have documented significant accuracy improvements when switching from conventional OAL measurements to CBTO measurements using bullet comparators.

These improvements aren't just statistical – they translate to real-world benefits:

• Hunting: More consistent bullet placement means ethical, clean harvests at extended ranges.
• Competition: The difference between winning and placing can come down to fractions of an inch at long range.
• Military/Law Enforcement: Precision engagements require absolutely consistent ammunition performance.
• Long-Range Shooting: At 1000+ yards, small inconsistencies in bullet seating are magnified dramatically.

By standardizing your bullet seating with precise CBTO measurements, you're eliminating one of the most significant variables in ammunition consistency. The AltitudeCraft Bullet Comparator Kit makes this process accessible and affordable for reloaders at all experience levels.

FAQ: Bullet Comparator Measurements and Applications

Conclusion: Elevating Your Reloading Precision

The science of precision reloading requires eliminating variables wherever possible. Bullet seating depth, measured consistently from case base to ogive, has proven to be one of the most critical factors affecting accuracy. The comprehensive AltitudeCraft Bullet Comparator Kit offers an exceptional value proposition by including 14 precision-machined inserts that cover the full spectrum of common calibers from .17 to .45.

While Hornady has long been the industry standard, their system requires purchasing multiple sets to achieve the same caliber coverage that comes standard with the AltitudeCraft kit. For reloaders working with multiple calibers or those wanting to future-proof their equipment investment, the AltitudeCraft system represents both practical convenience and economic value.

Whether you're a competitive shooter seeking sub-MOA groups, a hunter requiring ethical precision for clean harvests, or simply a reloading enthusiast who appreciates the science of ballistics, measuring bullet seating depth to the ogive using a quality comparator is a fundamental step toward ammunition excellence.

By investing in proper measurement tools and techniques, you'll see the results where they matter most—downrange on target. The difference between good ammunition and great ammunition often comes down to the details, and proper bullet seating measured with a quality comparator like the AltitudeCraft 14-insert kit is one detail that pays significant dividends in performance.