Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant – AP/Pistol Bullet/Case Feeders, 220 Volt Review

Let’s Dive into Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant – AP/Pistol Bullet/Case Feeders, 220 Volt

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant – AP/Pistol Bullet/Case Feeders, 220 Volt represents a significant investment for any serious reloader looking to streamline their pistol ammunition production. Hornady promises increased efficiency and consistency with this automated system, designed to work seamlessly with their Lock-N-Load AP press. This package includes the AP press, pistol bullet feeder, and case feeder, all operating on a 220-volt electrical system.

I was driven to explore this product because of the sheer volume of pistol ammunition I reload each month. Running a competitive shooting team requires a constant supply of reliable rounds, and hand-feeding each bullet and case was becoming incredibly time-consuming. I needed a system that could significantly increase my output without sacrificing quality or consistency.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the sheer size and weight of the system. The components felt robust and well-made, suggesting a durable piece of equipment. The fit and finish were excellent, and the overall design seemed well-thought-out, promising a smooth and efficient reloading process.

Compared to other progressive presses and case feeders I’ve used, the Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant appeared to offer a more integrated and automated solution. I chose this over a Dillon Precision setup, primarily because of the Lock-N-Load bushing system’s quick change capability and the Hornady bullet feeder’s reputation for handling a wider variety of bullet shapes. The Hornady system seemed more adaptable to my specific reloading needs.

My initial impression was a mix of excitement and slight apprehension. The potential for increased production was undeniable, but the complexity of the system also raised concerns about potential setup difficulties and maintenance requirements. I was eager to see if the Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant could truly deliver on its promises of speed and consistency.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant – AP/Pistol Bullet/Case Feeders, 220 Volt to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant at my home reloading bench, focusing on 9mm and .45 ACP ammunition. The initial setup took a few hours, requiring careful adjustment of the case and bullet feeders to ensure smooth operation. I experimented with different bullet weights and case types to evaluate the system’s adaptability.

The Ammo Plant performed well, even in the initial setup. The bullet feeder consistently delivered projectiles, and the case feeder kept the press supplied with empty cases. I did experience a few hiccups with the bullet feeder initially, especially with shorter, round-nosed bullets.

The most significant issue I encountered was the occasional case flipping in the case feeder, which required manual intervention. After some adjustments and fine-tuning, however, the frequency of these issues decreased significantly. The process was remarkably streamlined compared to manually placing each case and bullet.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant has proven to be a reliable workhorse. I’ve reloaded thousands of rounds of pistol ammunition with minimal issues. The initial setup challenges were quickly overcome, and the system now operates smoothly and efficiently.

The Ammo Plant’s durability has also impressed me. Despite the high volume of rounds reloaded, there are no significant signs of wear and tear. I perform routine cleaning and lubrication to maintain optimal performance, and the system has held up remarkably well.

Compared to my previous reloading setup, which involved a standard progressive press and manual case/bullet feeding, the Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant has dramatically increased my production speed. I can now reload roughly three times as many rounds per hour while maintaining consistent quality. The increase in production output has made the investment well worthwhile.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant – AP/Pistol Bullet/Case Feeders, 220 Volt

Specifications

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant – AP/Pistol Bullet/Case Feeders, 220 Volt includes the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP progressive press, a pistol bullet feeder, and a case feeder. The system operates on a 220-volt electrical supply, crucial for powering the feeders’ motors. This is a notable consideration for reloaders accustomed to 110-volt systems.

The Lock-N-Load AP press features a five-station die setup, allowing for simultaneous case sizing, priming, powder charging, bullet seating, and crimping. The pistol bullet feeder is designed to handle a variety of bullet shapes and weights, typically ranging from 9mm to .45 caliber. The case feeder is caliber-specific and compatible with most common pistol case sizes.

These specifications are essential for efficient and consistent reloading. The progressive press allows for simultaneous operations, significantly increasing production speed. The bullet and case feeders eliminate the need for manual placement, further streamlining the process. The 220-volt operation provides the necessary power for reliable and consistent feeding.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant performs exceptionally well in producing high-quality pistol ammunition. The progressive press is smooth and reliable, while the bullet and case feeders significantly increase reloading speed. The system consistently produces accurate and reliable rounds, meeting the demands of competitive shooting.

The primary strength of the Ammo Plant is its ability to automate the reloading process, significantly reducing the time and effort required to produce large quantities of ammunition. The main weakness is the initial setup and fine-tuning required to ensure smooth operation. Occasional adjustments are necessary to maintain optimal performance.

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant exceeds expectations in terms of speed and consistency. It has transformed my reloading process, allowing me to produce a much greater volume of high-quality ammunition in a fraction of the time. The system’s performance has justified the investment, proving to be a valuable asset for my reloading needs.

Design & Ergonomics

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant is designed with both functionality and ergonomics in mind. The press is robust and well-built, with a comfortable handle and easy-to-reach controls. The bullet and case feeders are designed to minimize the need for manual intervention.

The materials used in the Ammo Plant are high-quality and durable. The press is made of heavy-duty steel, while the feeders are constructed from durable polymers. The overall weight of the system is substantial, but this contributes to its stability and robustness.

The system is relatively user-friendly, but there is a learning curve involved. Proper setup and adjustment are essential for optimal performance. The included instructions are clear and helpful, but some experimentation may be necessary to fine-tune the system to specific reloading needs.

Durability & Maintenance

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant is built to last, with durable components and a robust design. With proper care and maintenance, the system should provide years of reliable service. The heavy-duty construction of the press and feeders ensures they can withstand the rigors of high-volume reloading.

Maintaining the Ammo Plant is relatively simple. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to prevent wear and tear. The system is designed for easy access to critical components, making maintenance tasks straightforward. Replacement parts are readily available from Hornady and other retailers.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant comes with all the essential components for automated pistol ammunition reloading, including the AP press, pistol bullet feeder, and case feeder. Additional accessories, such as different caliber conversion kits and primer feed attachments, can be purchased separately. These accessories allow for greater flexibility and customization.

The Ammo Plant is also compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, such as bullet and case hoppers from various manufacturers. These accessories can further increase the system’s capacity and efficiency. The Lock-N-Load bushing system allows for quick and easy die changes, making it compatible with dies from most major manufacturers.

Pros and Cons of Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant – AP/Pistol Bullet/Case Feeders, 220 Volt

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Who Should Buy Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant – AP/Pistol Bullet/Case Feeders, 220 Volt?

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant is perfect for serious reloaders who produce large quantities of pistol ammunition. This includes competitive shooters, shooting clubs, and ammunition manufacturers. Anyone who needs to reload hundreds or thousands of rounds per month will benefit from the increased speed and efficiency.

This product is not ideal for casual reloaders who only produce small quantities of ammunition. The high initial cost and complexity of the system may not be justified for those with limited reloading needs. Reloaders who are not comfortable with electrical systems or troubleshooting mechanical issues may also want to avoid this product.

A must-have accessory is a high-capacity case hopper to further increase the system’s capacity. A quality bullet sorting system can also improve consistency by ensuring that only properly formed bullets are fed into the press. Investing in spare parts, such as primer feed tubes and shell plates, can minimize downtime in case of malfunctions.

Conclusion on Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant – AP/Pistol Bullet/Case Feeders, 220 Volt

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant – AP/Pistol Bullet/Case Feeders, 220 Volt is a worthwhile investment for those seeking a high-volume, automated pistol ammunition reloading solution. While the initial cost is substantial and setup requires patience, the increased speed and consistency it provides are invaluable for serious reloaders. The Hornady system delivers on its promise of streamlined production and consistent quality.

The value proposition of the Ammo Plant lies in its ability to transform the reloading process, saving time and effort while maintaining high standards. For those who reload frequently and in large quantities, the investment is easily justified by the increased efficiency and reduced workload. The system proves to be a reliable and productive asset with proper setup and maintenance.

I would personally recommend the Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant to anyone looking to significantly increase their pistol ammunition production. If you are tired of manually feeding bullets and cases, and are willing to invest the time and money, the Ammo Plant will revolutionize your reloading process. Take the plunge and experience the future of ammunition production – you won’t be disappointed!