Determining the headspace of your firearm cartridges is crucial for safety and accuracy. Improper headspace can lead to catastrophic malfunctions, so using a reliable headspace gauge is essential. Hornady offers a range of headspace gauges, and understanding how to interpret their charts is key to ensuring your firearm operates correctly. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Hornady headspace gauges and their accompanying charts.
Understanding Headspace
Headspace refers to the distance between the face of the breech (the part of the firearm that the cartridge rests against) and the head of the cartridge case. This distance is critical; too much headspace (long headspace) can cause the cartridge to fire prematurely or fail to fully chamber, while too little headspace (short headspace) can cause excessive pressure and potentially damage the firearm or cause dangerous malfunctions.
Hornady Headspace Gauges: Types and Uses
Hornady produces headspace gauges for various calibers. These gauges typically consist of a series of "GO," "NO-GO," and sometimes "FIELD" gauges. Each gauge has a precisely machined shoulder that fits into the firearm's chamber.
- GO Gauge: This gauge should fit smoothly into the chamber. If it doesn't, there's a problem. If it fits, it indicates that the headspace is within the acceptable range (at least).
- NO-GO Gauge: This gauge should not fit completely into the chamber. If it does, it indicates excessive headspace, requiring immediate attention and potentially a gunsmith's intervention.
- FIELD Gauge (sometimes included): This gauge provides an intermediate check between the GO and NO-GO gauges. It helps to provide a more precise assessment of headspace if the NO-GO gauge is borderline. Not all Hornady gauges include a FIELD gauge.
Interpreting the Hornady Headspace Gauge Chart
While Hornady doesn't provide a single, universal chart for all their gauges, the principle remains consistent across all calibers. The critical information is found on the gauge itself, not a separate chart. Each gauge is clearly marked with the caliber and the specific type ("GO," "NO-GO," or "FIELD"). The gauge should also be marked with the appropriate headspace measurement, ensuring that the gauge is used for the right cartridge case.
It's crucial to note: You will not find a chart that correlates a specific measurement on the gauge to some kind of "safe" or "unsafe" range. The interpretation is binary:
- GO Gauge fits: Headspace is within acceptable parameters (at least). Further checking might be needed depending on the firearm's age and use.
- NO-GO Gauge fits: Headspace is excessive and needs immediate attention from a qualified gunsmith.
Safety Precautions When Checking Headspace
- Always unload the firearm completely before checking headspace. Ensure the firearm is clear and safe.
- Follow the instructions precisely that come with your Hornady headspace gauge.
- Never force the gauge into the chamber. If it doesn't fit smoothly, stop.
- Seek professional help if you're unsure about how to use the gauge or if you find excessive headspace. A qualified gunsmith should be consulted to determine a safe course of action.
Conclusion: Accuracy and Safety First
Using a Hornady headspace gauge is a vital step in ensuring the safe and reliable operation of your firearms. Understanding how to correctly interpret the gauge markings and prioritizing safety are paramount. Always remember to consult a qualified gunsmith if you encounter any problems or have doubts about your headspace measurements. This proactive approach ensures the longevity of your firearm and, more importantly, your safety.
