Hornady No. 9 Shell Plate for Lock-N-Load AP & Pro-Jector Review

Let’s Dive into Hornady No. 9 Shell Plate for Lock-N-Load AP & Pro-Jector

The Hornady No. 9 Shell Plate for Lock-N-Load AP & Pro-Jector is a seemingly small, but critically important component for serious reloaders. Made by Hornady, a company synonymous with quality in the shooting sports, this shell plate allows you to reload .38-40 and .44-40 Winchester ammunition on your Lock-N-Load AP or Pro-Jector reloading press. Its precise construction and smooth operation ensure reliable cycling and consistent ammunition production, saving time and frustration at the reloading bench.

As an avid reloader with over a decade of experience, I needed a shell plate specifically for reloading some vintage .44-40 ammunition for a classic lever-action rifle. I was looking for something dependable that would integrate seamlessly with my Hornady Lock-N-Load AP press. The Hornady No. 9 Shell Plate appeared to be the perfect solution.

Upon unboxing, I immediately appreciated the robust feel of the shell plate. The steel construction gives it a reassuring heft, and the machining is clean and precise. The finish is smooth and free of imperfections, indicative of Hornady’s commitment to quality.

Compared to some generic shell plates I’ve used in the past, the Hornady No. 9 Shell Plate feels significantly more substantial. Others felt flimsy and prone to flexing, which led to inconsistent seating depths and unreliable cycling. This Hornady plate exudes confidence.

My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. This shell plate seemed built to last and designed for precision, and I was eager to put it to the test.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady No. 9 Shell Plate for Lock-N-Load AP & Pro-Jector to the Test

First Use Experience

My first use of the Hornady No. 9 Shell Plate was at my home reloading bench, where I typically spend several hours each week. The ambient temperature was around 70 degrees Fahrenheit with low humidity – ideal conditions for reloading. I was focused on producing consistent .44-40 rounds for an upcoming cowboy action shooting match.

The shell plate installed easily and locked securely into my Hornady Lock-N-Load AP press. Its smooth rotation immediately stood out. There was no binding or hesitation as the cases moved through each station.

I didn’t experience any significant issues during my first reloading session. The cases seated perfectly in the shell plate, and the subtle radius around the shell holder mouth made inserting and removing cases effortless. This smoothness definitely sped up my reloading process.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Hornady No. 9 Shell Plate has proven to be exceptionally reliable. I’ve reloaded hundreds of rounds with it, and it continues to perform flawlessly. There is no noticeable wear and tear on the plate.

The steel construction has held up beautifully, showing no signs of corrosion or deformation. I have made sure to clean the shell plate after each reloading session using a dry brush and solvent. I haven’t needed to apply any special lubrication.

Compared to some cheaper shell plates I’ve used in the past, the Hornady No. 9 Shell Plate is in a different league. It consistently delivers smooth, precise, and reliable performance. It is a worthwhile investment.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady No. 9 Shell Plate for Lock-N-Load AP & Pro-Jector

Specifications

• Caliber Compatibility: Designed specifically for .38-40 and .44-40 Winchester cartridges. This is crucial for ensuring proper case alignment and consistent reloading.
• Press Compatibility: Compatible with Hornady Lock-N-Load AP and Pro-Jector progressive reloading presses. This ensures seamless integration and optimal performance with these presses.
• Material: Constructed from high-quality steel. The steel construction provides excellent durability and resistance to wear.
• Shell Holder Mouth Radius: Features a subtle radius around the shell holder mouth. This design promotes smooth and reliable case insertion and removal.
• Retainer Spring Design: The retainer spring is engineered to stay in place during case insertion. This simple feature enhances reloading efficiency and prevents frustrating mishaps.

These specifications directly translate to enhanced reloading accuracy, consistency, and speed. The correct shell plate ensures proper case alignment, which is essential for consistent bullet seating and crimping. The durability of the steel construction also guarantees long-term reliability and resistance to wear.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady No. 9 Shell Plate performs its job exceptionally well. It provides smooth and reliable case advancement, which is essential for efficient progressive reloading. There are no hang-ups or misfeeds, ensuring a consistent and uninterrupted reloading process.

Its strength lies in its simplicity and precision. There are no unnecessary frills, just solid engineering and reliable performance. It meets and exceeds my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Hornady No. 9 Shell Plate is well-designed. It features a durable steel construction and has a smooth finish. The shell plate offers a comfortable weight, giving it a quality feel.

The plate is incredibly user-friendly. There’s virtually no learning curve involved. Installation is straightforward, and its operation is intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

The Hornady No. 9 Shell Plate is built to last. Its robust steel construction ensures long-term durability, and it should provide years of reliable service with proper care. Maintenance is simple.

Regular cleaning with a dry brush and occasional solvent application are usually sufficient to keep the shell plate in top condition. No special tools or procedures are required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady No. 9 Shell Plate doesn’t require any additional accessories for its intended use. It functions as a direct replacement for the standard shell plate on compatible Hornady presses. The user must use the correct shell holders for the .38-40 and .44-40 Winchester cartridges.

While there are no direct customization options, the Hornady Lock-N-Load system itself offers a high degree of flexibility. You can easily swap out different shell plates to accommodate various calibers.

Pros and Cons of Hornady No. 9 Shell Plate for Lock-N-Load AP & Pro-Jector

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Who Should Buy Hornady No. 9 Shell Plate for Lock-N-Load AP & Pro-Jector?

This Hornady No. 9 Shell Plate is perfect for reloaders who own a Hornady Lock-N-Load AP or Pro-Jector progressive reloading press and plan to reload .38-40 or .44-40 Winchester ammunition. It is also ideal for cowboy action shooting enthusiasts. They will appreciate the reliability and precision this shell plate offers.

Individuals who don’t reload these specific calibers, or those who use a different brand of reloading press, should skip this product. This shell plate is only needed for those specific applications.

A must-have accessory for anyone using this shell plate is a high-quality set of shell holders designed for .38-40 and .44-40 Winchester cartridges. These ensure a proper fit and alignment.

Conclusion on Hornady No. 9 Shell Plate for Lock-N-Load AP & Pro-Jector

The Hornady No. 9 Shell Plate for Lock-N-Load AP & Pro-Jector is an excellent investment for reloaders working with .38-40 and .44-40 Winchester ammunition. Its smooth operation, durable construction, and precise fit make it a valuable addition to any reloading bench. It ensures consistent and reliable reloading.

While the price might seem high compared to some generic shell plates, the enhanced performance and durability justify the cost. This plate will last for years, saving you time and frustration in the long run.

I would highly recommend the Hornady No. 9 Shell Plate to anyone seeking a reliable and efficient solution for reloading these classic calibers. Stop struggling with inferior shell plates. Upgrade to Hornady, and experience the difference!