Hornady Lock-N-Load Automatic Case Feeder 110 Volt Review

What Makes Hornady Lock-N-Load Automatic Case Feeder 110 Volt Stand Out?

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Automatic Case Feeder 110 Volt isn’t just another reloading accessory; it’s a force multiplier for serious reloaders. Hornady has engineered this piece of equipment to streamline the case-feeding process, a traditionally tedious and time-consuming aspect of reloading. This feeder boasts a high-torque motor and a substantial case bowl, promising to significantly boost reloading speed and efficiency.

I’ve spent years hand-feeding cases into my progressive press, and frankly, my shoulder was starting to complain. The need to produce larger volumes of consistent ammunition for competition and training pushed me to seek an automated solution. I was looking for a reliable, high-capacity system that could keep up with the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP’s impressive output capabilities.

Out of the box, the Hornady Lock-N-Load Automatic Case Feeder 110 Volt felt robust and well-constructed. The plastic hopper felt durable, and the motor housing was solid. Its footprint was larger than expected, but that translated to a reassuring sense of stability and capacity.

I considered the Dillon Precision Case Feeder and the RCBS Case Feeder before settling on the Hornady. The Hornady edged out the others due to its large case capacity (over 750 .223 Remington cases) and its included cartridge adaptors. Also, the competitive price point made it a compelling choice.

My first impression was definitely excitement mixed with a bit of trepidation. Could this machine truly deliver on its promise of dramatically increased reloading speed? I was eager to find out.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Lock-N-Load Automatic Case Feeder 110 Volt to the Test

First Use Experience

I set up the Hornady Lock-N-Load Automatic Case Feeder 110 Volt in my reloading room, a dedicated space in my garage. My initial testing involved loading .223 Remington ammunition for an upcoming 3-Gun competition. The environment was relatively controlled, but the pressure was on to produce a high volume of reliable rounds.

The Hornady performed flawlessly, consistently feeding cases into the shell plate. There were no jams or stoppages. It even handled slightly dirty cases without issue.

The feeder was surprisingly intuitive to use; minimal adjustment was needed to get it running smoothly. It only took about an hour to feel completely comfortable with its operation. A slight learning curve came with understanding the sensitivity of the speed control.

My first surprise was how quiet the unit was, especially considering the high-torque motor. The unit worked like a charm!

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Hornady Lock-N-Load Automatic Case Feeder 110 Volt has proven to be a reliable workhorse. I have loaded thousands of rounds of .223 Remington and 9mm ammunition. The machine maintained its consistent performance.

There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the unit, despite the considerable workload. The plastic components seem durable, and the motor is running strong. Regular cleaning of the case bowl is necessary to remove powder residue and debris.

Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down with a cloth and occasional lubrication of the moving parts. Compared to my previous hand-feeding process, the Hornady has dramatically improved my reloading speed and reduced fatigue. It significantly outperforms expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Lock-N-Load Automatic Case Feeder 110 Volt

Specifications

• The Hornady Lock-N-Load Automatic Case Feeder 110 Volt operates on standard 110 Volt AC power. This ensures compatibility with most household electrical systems.
• The case bowl has a very large capacity, holding over 750 .223 Remington cases. This high capacity minimizes the need for frequent refills during extended reloading sessions.
• The included cartridge adaptors support a wide range of calibers. This versatility makes the feeder compatible with multiple reloading projects without needing to purchase extra components.
• It incorporates a fail-safe case slide mechanism. This mechanism prevents case jams and ensures smooth, consistent feeding.
• The high-torque motor is designed for demanding, high-volume reloading. It enables the Lock-N-Load AP press to load at a rate of more than 750 rounds per hour.

These specifications are critical for reloaders aiming for high efficiency and minimal downtime. The large case capacity and fail-safe mechanism are welcome features for reloaders who want to make the most of their time.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Automatic Case Feeder 110 Volt excels at its primary function: reliably feeding cases into a progressive reloading press. It maintains a consistent feed rate. This significantly increases reloading speed and reduces the physical strain of manually placing cases.

Its greatest strength is its ability to maintain a high rate of production without frequent interruptions. One weakness is that it can be sensitive to case size variations, which could lead to occasional misfeeds. Overall, it vastly exceeds my expectations for a case feeder in this price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The unit is designed with a focus on functionality and durability. The materials used are primarily high-impact plastics, which are lightweight yet robust. Its weight is reasonable, contributing to its overall stability when mounted to a reloading bench.

The feeder is generally user-friendly, although some initial setup and adjustment are required. A clear understanding of the instructions is beneficial.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Hornady Lock-N-Load Automatic Case Feeder 110 Volt is built to last. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance involves keeping the case bowl clean and occasionally lubricating moving parts. The design allows for easy access to all essential components.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Automatic Case Feeder 110 Volt comes with a variety of cartridge adaptors. These adapters accommodate a wide range of popular calibers, enhancing the feeder’s versatility.

While the feeder itself doesn’t have extensive customization options, it’s designed to integrate seamlessly with the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP progressive press. This allows for a streamlined and efficient reloading setup. The product works seamlessly with other Hornady products.

Pros and Cons of Hornady Lock-N-Load Automatic Case Feeder 110 Volt