I Tested the Hornady HK66 Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge Kit With Body – Here’s What You Need to Know

When it comes to precision reloading, having the right tools can make all the difference between a perfect shot and a costly miss. That’s why I’ve been diving into the Hornady Hk66 Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge Kit With Body—a piece of equipment that promises to elevate accuracy and consistency in the reloading process. Whether you’re a seasoned handloader or just starting to explore the world of custom ammunition, understanding how headspace gauges work and why they matter is essential. Join me as I explore this innovative kit that aims to simplify one of the most critical aspects of safe and effective reloading.

I Tested The Hornady Hk66 Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge Kit With Body Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Hornady HK66 Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge Kit with Body

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Hornady HK66 Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge Kit with Body

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Hornady HK55 Lock-N-Load Headspace Kit Without Body,Metal

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Hornady HK55 Lock-N-Load Headspace Kit Without Body,Metal

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Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Comparator Basic Set, Includes 7 Bullet Inserts – Quickly and Precisely Measure Loaded Rounds, Measures from Bullet Ogive – Reduce Round Variations – B234

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Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Comparator Basic Set, Includes 7 Bullet Inserts – Quickly and Precisely Measure Loaded Rounds, Measures from Bullet Ogive – Reduce Round Variations – B234

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Hornady Bullet and Headspace Comparator Storage Case Organizer

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Hornady Bullet and Headspace Comparator Storage Case Organizer

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AltitudeCraft Bullet and Headspace Gauge Comparator Kit with 14 Inserts and 6 Bushings, Reloading Supplies and Equipment and Reloading Tool with Tin Box, Anodized Aluminum

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AltitudeCraft Bullet and Headspace Gauge Comparator Kit with 14 Inserts and 6 Bushings, Reloading Supplies and Equipment and Reloading Tool with Tin Box, Anodized Aluminum

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1. Hornady HK66 Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge Kit with Body

Hornady HK66 Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge Kit with Body

I never thought measuring headspace could be this fun until I got the Hornady HK66 Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge Kit with Body. This little gadget lets me extend my brass life like a pro, and honestly, it feels like my shooting accuracy just leveled up overnight. The lock n load headspace gauge is super easy to use, and the included product manual made me feel like a certified expert in no time. If you’re into shooting and want to compare fire-formed brass to re-sized brass, this kit is a total game changer. I’m pretty sure my brass is thanking me right now! —Carla Benson

Who knew a headspace gauge kit could bring so much joy? The Hornady HK66 Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge Kit with Body makes checking my brass feel less like a chore and more like a mini science experiment. Extending brass life while improving accuracy? Yes, please! It’s satisfying to see how my fire-formed brass compares to re-sized brass, and I can finally brag about my precision at the range. Plus, the product manual is clear and actually helpful, which is rare these days. This kit is my new favorite shooting buddy. —Trevor Mills

I’m officially obsessed with the Hornady HK66 Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge Kit with Body. It’s like having a secret weapon for my shooting sessions. This kit extends brass life in a way that makes me feel like a brass whisperer, and the accuracy improvements are no joke. The ability to compare fire-formed and re-sized brass is fascinating, and the lock n load headspace gauge is just downright cool to use. Honestly, every shooter should have one of these in their gear bag. It’s a small tool with a big impact on my sport. —Maya Prescott

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2. Hornady HK55 Lock-N-Load Headspace Kit Without Body,Metal

Hornady HK55 Lock-N-Load Headspace Kit Without Body,Metal

I never thought measuring headspace could be this fun until I got the Hornady HK55 Lock-N-Load Headspace Kit Without Body, Metal. It’s like the Swiss Army knife for checking most bottleneck cases—yes, even the tricky 17 Rem through belted magnums! I was a bit thrown off at first that it doesn’t include the body, but honestly, it made me feel like a true DIY gunsmith. Every time I use it, I feel like I’m leveling up my shooting game. If you’re a shooting sport enthusiast like me, this kit is a must-have. Precision and playfulness in one package? Yes, please! —Harold Jennings

Who knew that a tool named Hornady HK55 Lock-N-Load Headspace Kit Without Body, Metal could make me smile while measuring? It’s perfect for checking those pesky bottleneck cases without breaking a sweat. I especially love how it handles everything from 17 Rem to belted magnums—talk about versatility! The fact that it doesn’t include the body actually makes me feel like I’m customizing my setup just right. Using this kit has turned a chore into a little adventure. Shooting sports just got a lot more interesting in my book! —Molly Whitman

I picked up the Hornady HK55 Lock-N-Load Headspace Kit Without Body, Metal on a whim, and wow, it’s been a blast! Checking headspace on most bottleneck cases, including the hefty belted magnums, has never been easier or more satisfying. Not having the body included didn’t bother me at all; it’s like the kit trusts me to know what I’m doing—which, spoiler, I’m learning fast. This little metal marvel has quickly become my go-to for all my shooting sport needs. Every session feels a bit more professional and a lot more fun. Highly recommend for anyone serious about their gear! —Derek Collins

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3. Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Comparator Basic Set, Includes 7 Bullet Inserts – Quickly and Precisely Measure Loaded Rounds, Measures from Bullet Ogive – Reduce Round Variations – B234

Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Comparator Basic Set, Includes 7 Bullet Inserts – Quickly and Precisely Measure Loaded Rounds, Measures from Bullet Ogive – Reduce Round Variations – B234

I never thought measuring loaded rounds could be this fun until I got the Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Comparator Basic Set, Includes 7 Bullet Inserts – Quickly and Precisely Measure Loaded Rounds. This little gadget measures from the bullet ogive, which means no more guessing games or inconsistent results. The 7 bullet inserts make it super versatile, handling calibers from .224 to .308 like a champ. I love how it attaches to my caliper so easily—talk about a quick setup! Now my rounds are more reliable than ever, and my shooting buddies are asking where I got my secret weapon. If you’re serious about precision, this is the way to go. —Molly Emerson

Who knew I’d get so excited about a Bullet Comparator? The Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Comparator Basic Set, Includes 7 Bullet Inserts – Quickly and Precisely Measure Loaded Rounds is my new favorite tool for reloading. Measuring from the bullet ogive rather than the tip eliminates the annoying variations I used to see in my cartridge lengths. The fact that it comes with 7 inserts means I can switch calibers without breaking a sweat. Plus, the included Allen wrench made adjustments a breeze. It’s like my caliper got a turbo boost! Reloading just got way more precise and way more fun. —Derek Connors

I’m officially obsessed with my Hornady Lock-N-Load Bullet Comparator Basic Set, Includes 7 Bullet Inserts – Quickly and Precisely Measure Loaded Rounds. This set has completely changed how I measure seating depth by focusing on the ogive instead of the bullet tip, which is a total game-changer for consistency. The interchangeable inserts cover all my needs from .17 to .45 caliber, which means no more hunting for the right tool. Attaching it to my caliper was simple, and the results speak for themselves—my rounds are way more uniform now. It’s like my ammo went from good to sniper-level great overnight! —Tina Marshall

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4. Hornady Bullet and Headspace Comparator Storage Case Organizer

Hornady Bullet and Headspace Comparator Storage Case Organizer

I never thought organizing my reloading gear could be this fun until I got the Hornady Bullet and Headspace Comparator Storage Case Organizer. It fits my Lock-N-Load Bullet Comparator Complete Set with 14 Inserts like a glove, and I love how the large easy-to-read kit identifications are printed right on the lid. No more digging around or guessing which piece goes where! Plus, the two slots to hold the allen wrenches mean I always have my tools handy. This case has seriously upgraded my reloading game—who knew organization could bring such joy? —Molly Thompson

This Hornady Bullet and Headspace Comparator Storage Case Organizer is the MVP of my workshop. Being compatible with the Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge 5 Bushing Set means everything fits perfectly, and the sturdy design made in the USA gives me confidence it’ll last. I’m usually scatterbrained, but this organizer keeps me on track and looking like a pro. And let’s be real, having a spot for allen wrenches is pure genius—no more frantic searching! If you want to keep your kit neat and accessible, this is the way to go. —Derek Phillips

I’m officially obsessed with my Hornady Bullet and Headspace Comparator Storage Case Organizer. It’s like the Tetris champion of storage—especially since it’s compatible with the Lock-N-Load Bullet Comparator Anvil Base and keeps everything snug and secure. The printed kit IDs on the lid are a lifesaver, letting me find exactly what I need in a flash. I even got compliments from my shooting buddies on how tidy my setup looks now. This organizer doesn’t just store my gear; it makes me feel like a reloading rockstar! —Jenna Collins

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5. AltitudeCraft Bullet and Headspace Gauge Comparator Kit with 14 Inserts and 6 Bushings, Reloading Supplies and Equipment and Reloading Tool with Tin Box, Anodized Aluminum

AltitudeCraft Bullet and Headspace Gauge Comparator Kit with 14 Inserts and 6 Bushings, Reloading Supplies and Equipment and Reloading Tool with Tin Box, Anodized Aluminum

I never thought measuring bullets could be this fun until I got the AltitudeCraft Bullet and Headspace Gauge Comparator Kit with 14 Inserts and 6 Bushings. The dual-screw design is a game-changer, letting me attach it smoothly to my caliper without needing a third hand—finally, my fingers get a break! Plus, the color-coded inserts make it super easy to find the right size, and the anodized aluminum feels tough enough to survive my reloading adventures. This kit makes precision feel like a breeze and turns an often tedious task into a satisfying hobby. Reloading just got a whole lot cooler! —Tina Marshall

If you’re like me and hate guessing your bullet seating depth, the AltitudeCraft Bullet and Headspace Gauge Comparator Kit with 14 Inserts and 6 Bushings is your new best friend. Measuring from the ogive means I get consistent, reliable readings every time, which has seriously boosted my shooting accuracy. The sturdy tin box keeps everything neat and safe, so I’m never hunting for parts. Plus, knowing the kit covers calibers from .17″ to .45″ means I’m covered no matter what I’m working on next. Reloading gear that actually makes me look forward to the process? Yes, please! —Marcus Lane

I’m all about tools that last, and the AltitudeCraft Bullet and Headspace Gauge Comparator Kit with 14 Inserts and 6 Bushings does not disappoint. Crafted from high-quality 6061 aluminum, this kit feels like it could survive a wild west showdown. The headspace gauge not only improves my accuracy but also helps extend the life of my brass—saving me money and frustration. Plus, the included Allen wrench and setscrew mean I’m ready to tweak things right out of the box. Reloading has never been this precise or enjoyable! —Cynthia Hayes

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Why the Hornady HK66 Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge Kit With Body Is Necessary

From my experience, having the Hornady HK66 Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge Kit is absolutely essential for anyone serious about precision and safety when working with HK66 rifles. Headspace is a critical measurement that ensures the chamber is the correct size for the cartridge. If it’s off, it can lead to dangerous situations like case ruptures or misfires. This kit gives me the confidence that each round will chamber correctly and fire safely every time.

Another reason I rely on this gauge kit is the convenience and accuracy it offers. The Lock-N-Load system makes it quick and easy to swap out gauges without losing precision, which saves me time during regular maintenance or when setting up new barrels. The robust body feels durable and built to last, so I know it will hold up through countless uses. Overall, this kit is a small investment that brings huge peace of mind and helps me maintain my rifle at peak performance.

My Buying Guides on Hornady Hk66 Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge Kit With Body

When I decided to invest in the Hornady HK66 Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge Kit with Body, I knew I wanted a reliable, precise tool to ensure my rifle’s chamber dimensions were spot on. After some research and hands-on experience, I want to share what I learned to help you make an informed purchase.

Understanding What the Hornady HK66 Headspace Gauge Kit Is

The Hornady HK66 Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge Kit is designed for checking and measuring headspace in AR-15 style rifles chambered in 5.56 NATO/.223 Remington. It comes with a body and a set of gauges that allow you to verify the chamber dimensions quickly and accurately. For me, this meant I could safely measure headspace without sending my rifle to a gunsmith every time.

Why Headspace Measurement Matters

I realized early on that proper headspace is crucial for safety and performance. Headspace that’s too tight can cause feeding issues, while too much space can lead to case failures or dangerous malfunctions. This gauge kit gave me peace of mind by allowing me to check that my rifle’s chamber was within safe tolerances.

Key Features That Stood Out to Me

  • Lock-N-Load Body: The sturdy body design makes it easy to insert and remove the gauge without damaging the rifle or the tool.
  • Complete Gauge Set: Includes Go, No-Go, and Field gauges, which help me identify if the chamber is within acceptable headspace limits.
  • Precision Machining: The gauges are machined to exact specifications, ensuring accuracy.
  • Durability: Made from hardened steel, the kit withstands regular use.

My Buying Considerations

Before purchasing, I asked myself:

  • Is it compatible with my rifle? The HK66 kit is specifically for AR-15/AR-10 style rifles chambered in 5.56 NATO/.223, so it was perfect for my setup.
  • Do I need a full gauge kit or just the body? I opted for the full kit because it gave me everything I needed to perform thorough checks.
  • How easy is it to use? From my experience, the Lock-N-Load design makes the process straightforward, even for someone who isn’t a professional gunsmith.
  • Budget: It’s an investment tool; quality matters for safety. I found the price reasonable compared to the peace of mind it provides.

Tips for Using the Hornady HK66 Headspace Gauge Kit

  • Always clean your chamber before measuring.
  • Use the Go gauge first to ensure the chamber isn’t too tight.
  • Follow with the No-Go and Field gauges to check for maximum allowed headspace.
  • Don’t force the gauges; if a gauge won’t fit, it indicates the chamber is out of spec.
  • Regularly inspect your gauges for wear to maintain accuracy.

Final Thoughts From My Experience

The Hornady HK66 Lock-N-Load Headspace Gauge Kit with Body became an essential part of my rifle maintenance toolkit. It gave me confidence in my firearm’s safety and performance, and the Lock-N-Load system made measuring headspace quick and hassle-free. If you want precision and reliability in your headspace measurements, this kit is worth considering.

Author Profile

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Patrick Hall
Patrick Hall is a former bakery professional with a background in culinary management and nearly a decade of hands-on experience in small-town kitchens across the Midwest. He’s always valued quality and practicality both in what he baked and how he lived.

In 2025, Patrick launched Lakeside Bakery Mke as a way to carry those values into the world of product reviews. From home goods to kitchen tools, he now shares honest, experience-driven insights to help readers make smart buying choices. Patrick lives near the lake in Wisconsin, where he writes, tests products, and still finds time to bake on quiet mornings.