The Hornady Custom Grade Blank Forming & Crimping 2-Die Set (Model 544591) is a specialised mechanical reloading tool designed to convert standard brass cartridge cases into blank ammunition. Operating via standard 7/8"-14 TPI press threads, this two-step die system reshapes case mouths into a closed star or rosette crimp, securely containing powder charges without using a physical projectile. Built from machined steel, the set accommodates straight-wall and bottleneck brass across a wide calibre range from .22 to .45 calibre.

Key Features

• Two-Step Blank Formation: Employs an initial forming die to establish the shoulder and fold geometry, followed by a dedicated crimping die to seal the case mouth into a tight star crimp.
• Broad Calibre Capability: Formats brass cases spanning .22 calibre up to .45 calibre, including popular cartridges such as .223 Rem, .38 Special, .357 Mag, .44-40, and .45-70 Gov't.
• Standard Press Integration: Utilises standard 7/8"-14 TPI threads, allowing full compatibility with standard single-stage and progressive reloading presses.
• Sure-Loc Rings: Includes Hornady Sure-Loc locking rings to maintain precise die depth and repeatable crimp settings during production runs.
• Dedicated Storage: Supplied with a protective plastic storage box to organise and protect both dies when not in use.

Specifications

• Manufacturer Model Number: 544591
• Die Configuration: 2-Die Set (1 × Blank Forming Die, 1 × Blank Crimping Die)
• Calibre Range: .22 to .45 Calibre
• Thread Interface: Standard 7/8"-14 TPI
• Construction: Machined steel
• Weight: Approximately 1.67 lbs (0.76 kg)
• Included Items: 2 dies, Hornady Sure-Loc lock rings, plastic storage box (shellholders sold separately)
• Power Requirements: Manual mechanical operation (non-powered)

Who is the Hornady Blank Forming Two Die Set for?

• Cowboy action shooters — loads authentic, projectile-free period cartridges across popular historical chamberings spanning the .22 to .45 calibre operating window using this blank forming reloading die set.
• Historical military reenactors — produces reliable ceremonial blank rounds for drill demonstrations and rifle volleys using standard 7/8"-14 TPI reloading presses.
• Canine field trainers — forms consistent, sealed blank ammunition from .22 to .45 calibre brass cases to provide audible cues during gun-dog conditioning and field work without projectile hazards.

Less suitable for: Applications exceeding the .45 calibre threshold (such as .50 BMG or shotgun hulls), which require dedicated large-calibre or shotshell blank crimping tools, or standard live-ammunition reloading, which requires conventional full-length sizing and projectile-seating die sets.