Hornady Cartridge Gauge .355" .380 Auto
The Hornady Cartridge Gauge .355" .380 Auto is a dedicated case and ammo checker designed for reloaders who work with .380 Auto (also known as .380 ACP). Whether you're validating fired brass, inspecting finished ammunition, or verifying that your handloads will chamber safely in SAAMI-spec firearms, this gauge gives you a quick, reliable way to catch sizing or assembly problems before they reach the range or defensive carry rotation. It's the kind of simple quality-control tool that separates careful reloaders from rushed ones.
The .380 Auto remains popular among shooters who appreciate its compact-pistol platform and manageable recoil, and if you're serious about reloading for it, you need to know your ammunition will actually fit your firearm. This Hornady gauge handles that verification—it's not fancy, but it's accurate and straightforward. Part of Hornady's Lock-N-Load system, it integrates with the broader ecosystem of their reloading tools if you're already invested in that lineup.
Reloaders who move between multiple firearms or calibers will appreciate having a dedicated gauge for .380 Auto that matches your chamber specs exactly. It's a small investment that eliminates guesswork and potential chambering issues, giving you confidence in every round you load.
Key Features
- Caliber-specific design for .355" / .380 Auto
- Verifies correct fit for SAAMI chamber specifications
- Works with both fired cases and loaded ammunition
- Compatible with Hornady's Lock-N-Load reloading system
- Quick, reliable quality control for handloaders
Specifications
| Caliber | .355" (.380 Auto / .380 ACP) |
| Application | Case and ammunition gauging |
| Function | SAAMI chamber specification verification |
| Brand | Hornady |
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly does this gauge check?
The Hornady Cartridge Gauge .355" .380 Auto lets you verify that your fired cases and finished handloads will fit safely into a SAAMI-spec .380 Auto chamber. It's a go/no-go check for proper sizing and assembly.
Can I use this gauge for factory .380 Auto ammunition?
Yes. While it's primarily designed for reloaders checking their own work, it will verify that any .380 Auto ammunition meets SAAMI dimensions.
Will this work with the rest of my Hornady reloading gear?
This gauge is part of Hornady's Lock-N-Load system, so it integrates with other compatible Hornady reloading tools and components if you're already using that product line.
Is this the right tool for checking .380 ACP?
Yes. .380 Auto and .380 ACP refer to the same cartridge. This .355" gauge is the correct choice for that caliber.

