Embarking on the Progressive Path
Reloading ammunition is a journey that can evolve with your needs and experience. Initially, many reloaders start with single-stage presses, a methodical approach where each step – resizing, priming, powder charging, bullet seating, and crimping – is performed individually. While excellent for beginners, single-stage presses can become time-consuming, especially for those who shoot frequently or require large quantities of ammunition.
This is where progressive presses enter the picture. These machines automate the reloading process, allowing multiple steps to be performed simultaneously with each pull of the handle. This significantly increases the rate of production, enabling reloaders to quickly produce accurate and consistent rounds. The Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Progressive Press is designed with the demands of serious reloaders in mind, individuals who value both speed and precision.
Unveiling the Key Features
The Hornady Lock N Load AP Progressive Press is packed with features that contribute to its impressive performance and user-friendly design. Let’s explore some of its key components:
Lock-N-Load Bushing System
The Lock-N-Load Bushing System is a cornerstone of the press’s convenience. This innovative system utilizes quick-change bushings for each die. The bushings are pre-set with the dies, allowing for rapid switching between different calibers or die sets. This dramatically reduces downtime and makes caliber changes a matter of seconds, a feature greatly appreciated by reloaders who work with multiple calibers. The system also helps maintain consistent headspace, which is critical for accuracy and safety.
Auto-Indexing System
Automation is a hallmark of a progressive press, and the Hornady Lock N Load AP Progressive Press embraces this concept with its integrated auto-indexing system. This mechanism smoothly rotates the shell plate after each cycle, automatically advancing the case through the different reloading stations. The indexing is reliable and provides smooth operation, contributing to the speed and efficiency of the process. This eliminates the need for manual indexing, freeing up your hands and allowing for a more streamlined workflow.
Case Activated Powder Drop
Powder charging is a crucial step in reloading, and the Hornady Lock N Load AP Progressive Press incorporates a case-activated powder drop system. This design ensures that powder is dispensed only when a case is present at the powder charging station, a safety feature that helps prevent overcharges and potential damage. The powder measure itself is adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune the charge for different powder types and desired loads. The precise and consistent powder drop is vital for producing accurate rounds.
Automatic Priming System
Another critical feature is the automatic priming system. This press includes a built-in priming system that automatically feeds primers to the shell plate, eliminating the manual task of priming each case. This feature not only speeds up the reloading process but also helps to maintain a consistent primer seating depth.
User-Friendly Design
The design of the Hornady Lock N Load AP Progressive Press is also focused on user comfort and ease of operation. The ambidextrous handle allows it to be used comfortably by both right- and left-handed reloaders. The press is also designed to be easy to disassemble and maintain, making cleaning and minor adjustments a straightforward process.
Optional Accessories
Optional accessories are available to further enhance the capabilities of this press. A case feeder, for instance, can be added to automate the case loading process, allowing you to reload even faster. Bullet feeders are also available. These accessories can turn a very fast reloading machine into an absolute production powerhouse.
Putting it to the Test: Performance and User Experience
In the real world, the Hornady Lock N Load AP Progressive Press shines. Reloading speed can vary depending on the operator’s experience and the complexity of the cartridge, but it’s common to see production rates of several hundred rounds per hour. This speed, however, shouldn’t come at the expense of quality. The press, when properly set up and maintained, produces ammunition of exceptional quality, matching or exceeding the accuracy of factory-loaded rounds.
Setting up the Hornady Lock N Load AP Progressive Press is generally straightforward. While there may be a slight learning curve for those new to progressive reloading, the included instructions are clear and concise. The ease of calibrating the powder measure and adjusting the dies contribute to the overall user-friendliness of the press.
The press operates relatively quietly, and the smooth operation is a testament to the quality of the engineering and construction. The durability of the press’s components is another advantage. It is designed to withstand the rigors of frequent use.
During reloading, it is essential to perform safety checks and monitor the process. While the Hornady Lock N Load AP Progressive Press is designed to be reliable, occasional jams or hiccups can occur. Maintaining a clean workspace and using high-quality components helps minimize these issues.
The Balance of Advantages and Disadvantages
Like any reloading press, the Hornady Lock N Load AP Progressive Press has its pros and cons. Let’s examine them:
Pros
The advantages are considerable. Speed and efficiency are central. This press lets you reload ammunition at a remarkable rate, freeing up time for shooting. The reliability of the features is another major plus. From the Lock-N-Load bushing system to the auto-indexing and powder drop, the press consistently delivers, providing a smooth and dependable reloading experience. The ease of use and setup are significant. The well-designed features and clear instructions help to make this press accessible to a wide range of reloaders. The quality of the reloaded rounds is another positive attribute. When using this press, you can produce high-quality, accurate ammunition that meets your specific needs. Also, for the features that the press offers, the overall value for money is pretty good.
Cons
There are also some potential drawbacks. The initial investment cost can be significant. However, considering the benefits of efficiency and time-saving, the cost can be justified for many users.
It’s worth noting that the press requires space. Users will need a sturdy bench and a dedicated reloading area. Furthermore, for those who are completely new to progressive presses, there might be a small learning curve as you become familiar with the different steps involved in loading.
Comparing the Field
The reloading market is competitive, with several other progressive presses available. The Dillon RL550C is a well-regarded option known for its durability and reliability. The RCBS Pro Chucker is another contender, boasting robust construction and ease of use. Comparing the Hornady Lock N Load AP Progressive Press to these and other machines, it is crucial to understand that the Lock-N-Load AP provides a compelling balance of features, performance, and value. It often finds favor due to its ease of die changes and the overall speed and efficiency that it provides.
Voices from the Community
Reading reviews from other users is essential for making an informed decision. Many reloaders praise the Hornady Lock N Load AP Progressive Press for its speed, its ability to produce high-quality ammunition, and the overall value it provides. There are many positive testimonials about the press’s reliability and ease of use.
Final Judgement
The Hornady Lock N Load AP Progressive Press is an outstanding choice for reloaders seeking a high-performance, reliable, and user-friendly progressive press. Its features, including the Lock-N-Load bushing system, auto-indexing, and case-activated powder drop, contribute to its impressive production rates and the quality of the ammunition it produces.
The machine is best suited for intermediate and experienced reloaders who value efficiency, speed, and the ability to reload large quantities of ammunition. Those who want to produce accurate ammunition will find that the press is also capable of delivering top-notch results.
In short, the Hornady Lock N Load AP Progressive Press offers a compelling blend of features, performance, and value, making it a worthy investment for serious reloaders. It is a reliable, efficient, and capable tool that can empower you to create your own precision ammunition.
