Let’s Dive into Hornady Lock-N-Load 1911 Auto Primer Tube Filler
The Hornady Lock-N-Load 1911 Auto Primer Tube Filler promises to drastically cut down the tedious and time-consuming task of filling primer tubes. Hornady, a trusted name in reloading, designed this device to streamline the process, offering reloaders more time at the bench and less time handling tiny primers.
For years, I’ve been hand-loading my ammunition, finding it a crucial aspect of precision shooting and tailoring loads for specific applications. The bane of my existence? Filling those darn primer tubes. I was searching for a faster, safer, and less mind-numbing way to prepare my primers.
Out of the box, the Hornady Lock-N-Load 1911 Auto Primer Tube Filler feels surprisingly lightweight, primarily constructed of red polymer. Its design, mimicking the grip of a 1911 handgun, is… interesting, to say the least, and I found myself questioning the long-term durability of the plastic components.
I considered the RCBS Primer Mate and the Frankford Arsenal Vibra-Prime before settling on the Hornady offering. The RCBS felt too bulky, and the Frankford Arsenal had mixed reviews regarding primer orientation and reliability. My hope was that the Hornady’s Lock-N-Load system would integrate seamlessly with my existing Hornady progressive press setup.
My initial reaction was a mix of intrigue and skepticism. The “1911” aesthetic seemed a bit gimmicky, but the promise of significantly reducing primer loading time was too tempting to ignore.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Lock-N-Load 1911 Auto Primer Tube Filler to the Test
First Use Experience
My first attempt to use the Hornady Lock-N-Load 1911 Auto Primer Tube Filler was at my reloading bench, a dedicated space in my garage. I was preparing .45 ACP rounds for an upcoming IPSC match. The device worked well as long as the primers were in the bottom corner.
The Filler struggled a bit at first, as noted by other users. I found that tilting it slightly back and to the left, as suggested by another reloader, significantly improved the feeding process. Even with some fiddling, it was demonstrably faster than manually loading each primer.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Hornady Lock-N-Load 1911 Auto Primer Tube Filler has held up reasonably well. The plastic construction shows some minor scuffs, but nothing that affects its function.
The main issue has been occasional primer jams, which seem to occur when the primer tray is overfilled. I have learned to be more diligent in managing the primer flow. The Filler requires minimal maintenance – a quick wipe down with a dry cloth is usually sufficient.
While it hasn’t completely eliminated the tedium of primer loading, the Hornady Lock-N-Load 1911 Auto Primer Tube Filler has undoubtedly made the process faster and less painful compared to hand-feeding each primer. It’s a solid, if not perfect, improvement to my reloading workflow.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Lock-N-Load 1911 Auto Primer Tube Filler
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Hornady.
- Quantity: 1.
- Color: Red.
- Gun Model: 1911 (Ergonomic similarity).
- Fills a 100-count primer tube in 10-15 seconds: This dramatically reduces reloading time compared to manual filling.
- Powered by 2 AAA batteries: Makes it portable and easy to use anywhere.
- 13000 RPM vibration motor: Creates consistent primer agitation for smooth feeding.
- Ergonomic design similar to a 1911 handgun: Aims for comfortable handling and tray angle.
These specifications translate to a device designed for speed and convenience. The battery-powered operation and fast filling time make it a valuable tool for high-volume reloaders.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Lock-N-Load 1911 Auto Primer Tube Filler performs its core function – filling primer tubes – reasonably well, though not flawlessly. The speed is undeniable, but the occasional jam and the need for a “pinball machine” technique can be frustrating.
Its strengths lie in its speed and ease of use once the optimal technique is mastered. However, the flimsy plastic construction and occasional feeding issues are definite weaknesses. It meets expectations in terms of speed but falls short in overall build quality and reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is where the Hornady Lock-N-Load 1911 Auto Primer Tube Filler disappoints the most. The plastic feels cheap and not particularly robust, raising concerns about its long-term durability. The 1911-inspired grip is more of a gimmick than a functional improvement.
The device is relatively user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve to mastering the primer feeding technique. The ergonomics are acceptable, but the lightweight plastic construction doesn’t inspire confidence.
Durability & Maintenance
The long-term durability of the Hornady Lock-N-Load 1911 Auto Primer Tube Filler is questionable, given its predominantly plastic construction. Only time will tell how well it holds up to regular use.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning. The ease of repair is uncertain, as the plastic components may be difficult to replace if they break.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady Lock-N-Load 1911 Auto Primer Tube Filler comes with four primer tubes, which is a definite bonus, despite the initial product descriptions indicating only two. However, according to some users, the tubes included are designed for the Hornady progressive press and may not fit single-stage presses without modification.
There are limited customization options for the Hornady Lock-N-Load 1911 Auto Primer Tube Filler itself. Its primary function is to fill primer tubes, and there are no readily available aftermarket upgrades.
Pros and Cons of Hornady Lock-N-Load 1911 Auto Primer Tube Filler
Pros
- Significantly reduces primer tube filling time compared to manual methods.
- Portable and easy to use thanks to battery power.
- Includes four primer tubes, a valuable addition.
- Simple to operate once the correct technique is learned.
- Speeds up the reloading process and gets you back to the fun stuff faster!
Cons
- Flimsy plastic construction raises durability concerns.
- Occasional primer jams can be frustrating.
- May require a “pinball machine” technique to feed primers smoothly.
Who Should Buy Hornady Lock-N-Load 1911 Auto Primer Tube Filler?
The Hornady Lock-N-Load 1911 Auto Primer Tube Filler is perfect for high-volume reloaders who use a Hornady progressive press and are looking to significantly reduce the time spent filling primer tubes. It is also suitable for reloaders with limited dexterity or those who simply dislike the tediousness of manual primer feeding.
Those who should skip this product are reloaders on a tight budget who can’t justify the cost for a relatively simple task. Also, if you primarily use a single-stage press, you may need to modify the included primer tubes to make them compatible, or look at other options.
A must-have accessory is a good supply of AAA batteries. Also, having extra primer tubes on hand can further streamline the reloading process, although modifications may be needed for single-stage presses.
Conclusion on Hornady Lock-N-Load 1911 Auto Primer Tube Filler
The Hornady Lock-N-Load 1911 Auto Primer Tube Filler offers a significant improvement in speed and convenience for reloaders, but its plastic construction and occasional feeding issues are drawbacks to consider. The price is somewhat justified by the time savings it provides, but it is important to be aware of its limitations.
I would personally recommend it to reloaders who prioritize speed and convenience and are willing to accept the trade-offs in build quality and reliability. However, I would advise potential buyers to be aware of the potential need for modification for single-stage press use.
If you’re tired of the primer shuffle and want to reclaim some valuable reloading time, give the Hornady Lock-N-Load 1911 Auto Primer Tube Filler a try. It might just be the upgrade your reloading bench needs.