What Makes Hornady LNL Ap Rifle Bullet Feeder W/22 Cal, Black Stand Out?
The Hornady LNL Ap Rifle Bullet Feeder W/22 Cal, Black promises to dramatically increase reloading speed and efficiency for rifle shooters. It is designed specifically for the Lock-N-Load AP reloading press, but also boasts compatibility with other presses using standard 7/8?-14 die threads. For reloaders processing high volumes of .22 caliber rounds, like those of us preparing for prairie dog hunts or competitive AR-15 shooting, the potential for a 50% speed increase is incredibly appealing.
I had grown increasingly frustrated with the bottleneck in my reloading process: bullet placement. After upgrading my press to a progressive model, the time it took to manually seat each bullet slowed everything down. The promise of automated bullet feeding, significantly cutting down on time and fatigue, is exactly what drew me to the Hornady LNL Ap Rifle Bullet Feeder W/22 Cal, Black.
Unboxing the feeder, I was immediately impressed with the robust construction. The black finish looked durable, and the components felt solid and well-made. The feeder has a reassuring weight to it, indicating quality materials and a focus on longevity.
Before settling on the Hornady LNL Ap Rifle Bullet Feeder W/22 Cal, Black, I considered the RCBS Bullet Feeder and the Dillon Precision Mr. Bulletfeeder. Ultimately, I chose the Hornady offering due to its integration with my existing Lock-N-Load AP press and the promise of easy caliber conversion (with the purchase of a separate conversion kit). The Hornady reputation for customer service also played a role in my decision.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While the build quality was reassuring, I was slightly concerned about the complexity of the system and the potential for jams or malfunctions. However, the potential time savings and improved consistency were too enticing to ignore.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady LNL Ap Rifle Bullet Feeder W/22 Cal, Black to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Hornady LNL Ap Rifle Bullet Feeder W/22 Cal, Black at my home reloading bench, prepping for an upcoming varmint hunt. The ambient temperature was around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, with low humidity. My goal was to load several hundred rounds of .223 Remington.
The feeder performed surprisingly well right out of the box. After a brief setup and adjustment period (about 30 minutes), it consistently fed bullets with minimal jams. However, I did notice that bullet alignment was crucial; slight variations in bullet diameter or shape could occasionally cause a hiccup.
The biggest initial issue was getting the timing right. It took some fine-tuning of the case-activated feed die to ensure that bullets were dispensed reliably and consistently. Once dialed in, though, the process became smooth and efficient.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Hornady LNL Ap Rifle Bullet Feeder W/22 Cal, Black has proven to be a valuable addition to my reloading setup. I’ve loaded thousands of rounds with it, and it has significantly reduced my reloading time. While not perfectly flawless, its reliability has been impressive.
There are a few signs of wear and tear, mainly around the bullet feed die where the bullets make contact. However, these are purely cosmetic and haven’t affected performance. I’ve also made sure to keep the feeder clean and lubricated, following the Hornady recommendations.
The Hornady LNL Ap Rifle Bullet Feeder W/22 Cal, Black has far exceeded my expectations. It’s not quite as seamless as depicted in some promotional materials, but with proper setup and maintenance, it delivers a significant boost in reloading speed and consistency. Compared to manually seating bullets, the feeder has saved me countless hours and reduced fatigue.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady LNL Ap Rifle Bullet Feeder W/22 Cal, Black
Specifications
- Caliber: .22 Caliber – Designed specifically for .22 caliber bullets, offering precision and reliable feeding.
- Compatibility: Lock-N-Load AP Press – Seamless integration with the Lock-N-Load AP reloading press, ensuring optimal performance and ease of use. The feeder also works with other presses with industry standard 7/8″-14 die threads.
- Cartridge Size Accommodation: .221 Fireball through .220 Swift – Versatile compatibility with a wide range of .22 caliber cartridges, making it suitable for various reloading needs.
- Construction: Durable Materials – Built with high-quality materials to withstand the rigors of high-volume reloading.
- Color: Black – Sleek and professional black finish adds to the overall aesthetic of your reloading setup.
These specifications are critical for optimal performance. The dedicated .22 caliber design ensures reliable feeding without damaging the bullets. Its compatibility with my Lock-N-Load AP press was a major selling point.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady LNL Ap Rifle Bullet Feeder W/22 Cal, Black excels at significantly increasing reloading speed. It streamlines the bullet seating process, allowing me to produce more rounds in less time. However, it’s not a completely hands-off solution; occasional monitoring and minor adjustments are necessary to prevent jams.
The biggest strength is the speed and efficiency it adds to the reloading process. A minor weakness is its sensitivity to bullet variations. The feeder generally meets my expectations, providing a substantial improvement over manual bullet seating, once properly adjusted.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hornady LNL Ap Rifle Bullet Feeder W/22 Cal, Black features a robust and functional design. The materials are high-quality, and the overall build quality is excellent. The feeder feels solid and well-made, inspiring confidence in its durability.
While the design is primarily functional, it’s also relatively user-friendly. There’s a slight learning curve to get the timing and adjustments dialed in, but once mastered, the feeder is straightforward to operate. The instructions provided by Hornady are clear and helpful.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Hornady LNL Ap Rifle Bullet Feeder W/22 Cal, Black should last for many years. The materials are robust, and the construction is solid. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for maintaining its performance and extending its lifespan.
The feeder is relatively easy to maintain. A quick wipe-down after each reloading session and occasional lubrication of moving parts are sufficient. Replacement parts are also readily available from Hornady, if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady LNL Ap Rifle Bullet Feeder W/22 Cal, Black comes as a complete unit for .22 caliber bullets. A conversion kit for .30 caliber bullets is available separately. This expands its versatility to load two of the most popular calibers.
Beyond the caliber conversion kit, there aren’t many other accessories or customization options specifically for this feeder. However, it integrates seamlessly with other Hornady Lock-N-Load accessories, like the case feeder, for a complete automated reloading system. The use of standard 7/8″-14 die threads also means it should be compatible with third party dies for seating and crimping after the bullet is fed.
Pros and Cons of Hornady LNL Ap Rifle Bullet Feeder W/22 Cal, Black
Pros
- Significant increase in reloading speed allows for higher volume production in less time.
- Improved consistency in bullet seating enhances accuracy and reduces variations in ammunition.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance and reliability.
- Relatively easy setup and operation makes it accessible to both experienced and novice reloaders.
- Compatibility with other Hornady LNL accessories creates a comprehensive reloading system.
Cons
- Can be sensitive to bullet variations, requiring occasional adjustments to prevent jams.
- Initial setup and fine-tuning can be time-consuming and require patience.
Who Should Buy Hornady LNL Ap Rifle Bullet Feeder W/22 Cal, Black?
The Hornady LNL Ap Rifle Bullet Feeder W/22 Cal, Black is perfect for high-volume reloaders of .22 caliber ammunition. Competitive shooters, varmint hunters, and anyone who regularly reloads large quantities of .223 Remington or similar cartridges will benefit greatly from the increased speed and efficiency. It’s also a good investment for reloaders who want to reduce fatigue and improve the consistency of their ammunition.
Those who only reload occasionally or primarily load other calibers might find the investment unnecessary. Individuals who are easily frustrated by mechanical adjustments or who prefer a completely hands-off reloading process might also want to consider other options.
A must-have accessory is the Hornady Lock-N-Load Case Feeder. Coupled with the bullet feeder, this creates a fully automated reloading system for even greater speed and efficiency. High quality dies and well-sorted bullets are essential for smooth operation.
Conclusion on Hornady LNL Ap Rifle Bullet Feeder W/22 Cal, Black
Overall, the Hornady LNL Ap Rifle Bullet Feeder W/22 Cal, Black is a valuable addition to any serious reloader’s arsenal. It significantly increases reloading speed and improves consistency, making it a worthwhile investment for those who reload high volumes of .22 caliber ammunition. While it’s not without its minor quirks, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.
At $486.49, the price is justified for the time and effort it saves, especially for those who reload frequently. It provides a substantial boost in productivity and reduces fatigue.
I would definitely recommend the Hornady LNL Ap Rifle Bullet Feeder W/22 Cal, Black to anyone looking to streamline their reloading process. With proper setup and maintenance, it will provide years of reliable service and help you produce high-quality ammunition more efficiently. Don’t hesitate to upgrade your reloading bench and experience the difference!