Out of stock
Hornady Curved Length Gauge
$42.34
$48.99
(You save
$6.65
)
The Hornady Curved Length Gauge is a purpose-built overall length (OAL) measurement tool designed for autoloaders and lever-action rifles. Unlike straight-body OAL gauges, the curved design accommodates the geometry of semi-automatic and lever-action chambers, making it the right choice if you're working up loads for those rifle types. Whether you're fine-tuning ammunition for an AR platform, a lever gun, or any autoloader, this gauge lets you establish precise cartridge-to-bullet dimensions that match your specific rifle's throat—critical information for safe, accurate reloading.
The gauge works by threading a specially modified cartridge case onto the tool, then seating your test bullet in that case. Insert the assembly into your rifle's chamber, and use the push rod to push the bullet forward until it just contacts the rifling. Lock the rod in place, remove the tool from the rifle, and measure the distance from the cartridge base to the bullet tip with dial calipers (ideally paired with a bullet comparator for consistency). This direct, chamber-specific measurement beats generic load data every time, especially as your barrel throat erodes over thousands of rounds.
The real power of the Hornady system is modularity: over 60 different modified cases are available, so you can measure OAL for nearly any cartridge your reloading bench encounters. It's equally useful for checking a used rifle's throat condition before you buy it, or monitoring barrel wear in your own rifles as a maintenance practice. Reloaders who demand precision—whether they're hunting, competing, or simply chasing tighter groups—rely on direct chamber measurements, and this gauge delivers exactly that.
Key Features
- Curved design fits autoloaders and lever-action rifles precisely
- Works with AR-15 type rifles
- Thread-on modified cartridge cases ensure solid, repeatable setup
- Push rod with lock mechanism captures bullet seating position
- Compatible with over 60 different modified cases
- Enables throat erosion monitoring and used-rifle evaluation
- Pairs easily with dial calipers and bullet comparators
Specifications
| Model Type | Curved (for autoloaders and lever actions) |
| Rifle Compatibility | Autoloaders, lever-action rifles, AR-15 type rifles |
| Modified Case Options | Over 60 cartridge types available |
| Measurement Method | Direct chamber contact; use with dial calipers |
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between the Curved and Straight Hornady OAL Gauge models?
The Curved model is designed for autoloaders and lever-action rifles, while the Straight version is optimized for bolt-action and single-shot rifles. Both use the same modified cartridge cases, and either will work on AR-15 rifles. Choose Curved if your primary rifles are semi-automatics or levers.
Do I need to buy modified cases separately, or does the gauge come with one?
The product record does not specify which or how many modified cases are included with the gauge. Contact Bosque Outdoors for details on what cases ship with your gauge, and which additional cases are available for other cartridges.
Can I use this gauge to check my rifle's throat erosion over time?
Yes. By measuring OAL periodically with the same modified case and bullet, you can track changes in how far the bullet seats forward—an indicator of throat wear. This is also a practical way to evaluate the condition of a used rifle before purchase.
What tools do I need to use this gauge?
You'll need dial calipers to measure the distance from the cartridge base to the bullet tip. Hornady recommends using a bullet comparator alongside the calipers for greater consistency in your measurements.
