Hornady Lock-N-Load Neck Turn Tool, 041224 Review

What Makes Hornady Lock-N-Load Neck Turn Tool, 041224 Stand Out?

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Neck Turn Tool, 041224 promises to be a significant upgrade for precision handloaders. This tool aims to streamline the neck turning process, offering both speed and consistency. The ability to use a drill, coupled with adjustable detents for fine-tuning, sets it apart from simpler, purely manual neck turning tools.

My quest for consistent ammunition started years ago with a frustrating experience at a long-range competition. Inconsistent neck tension led to velocity variations, causing my shots to string vertically on the target. I needed a reliable method for achieving uniform neck thickness, and the Hornady Lock-N-Load Neck Turn Tool, 041224 seemed like a promising solution.

Upon unboxing, the Hornady Lock-N-Load Neck Turn Tool, 041224 felt substantial and well-made. The adjustment knob and included mandrels gave an immediate impression of versatility. The tool’s construction inspires confidence, although I initially wondered if the plastic housing would hold up to long-term use.

Compared to the simpler Lee Precision Case Conditioning Kit I had been using, the Hornady tool offered a level of precision and adjustability that the Lee kit lacked. The Hornady also seemed more robust than the RCBS Case Neck Turner, which felt a bit flimsy. The feature set of the Hornady Lock-N-Load Neck Turn Tool, 041224 offered superior control.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to see if the claims of enhanced speed and consistency would hold true. The potential to streamline my reloading process was exciting, but I remained skeptical until I could put it through its paces.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Lock-N-Load Neck Turn Tool, 041224 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place in my reloading room, where I prepared cases for my .308 precision rifle. I used a cordless drill set at a low speed to power the Hornady Lock-N-Load Neck Turn Tool, 041224. I experimented with different mandrel sizes and adjustment settings to dial in the perfect neck thickness for my specific brass.

The tool performed well, even in relatively humid conditions. It provided a smooth, consistent cut, and the drill attachment noticeably sped up the process compared to manual turning. However, there was a learning curve. It took some time to find the optimal drill speed and pressure for consistent results.

The biggest surprise was how easy it was to over-cut the necks if I wasn’t paying close attention. The fine adjustment increments were appreciated, but it took some practice to avoid removing too much material. Also, brass shavings tended to accumulate around the cutter head, requiring periodic cleaning.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Hornady Lock-N-Load Neck Turn Tool, 041224 has proven to be a valuable addition to my reloading setup. It consistently produces cases with uniform neck thickness, which has noticeably improved the consistency of my handloads. The Hornady Lock-N-Load Neck Turn Tool, 041224 has become integral to my reloading process.

There have been no major signs of wear and tear, despite processing hundreds of cases. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to maintain smooth operation. I use a dry graphite lubricant on the mandrel and cutter head to minimize friction and prevent brass buildup.

Compared to my previous, purely manual setup, the Hornady Lock-N-Load Neck Turn Tool, 041224 has significantly reduced the time and effort required for neck turning. The increased precision and consistency have also resulted in tighter groupings at the range. It outperforms my previous setup and is worth the investment.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Lock-N-Load Neck Turn Tool, 041224

Specifications

• The Hornady Lock-N-Load Neck Turn Tool, 041224 is designed for use on a wide variety of case lengths, enhancing its versatility. This makes it suitable for reloaders working with different cartridges.
• It features adjustable detents, allowing for precise adjustments in .0005″ increments or infinite adjustment without detents. This provides unparalleled control over neck thickness.
• The tool includes mandrels for .22 caliber, 6mm, 6.5mm, and .30 caliber cases. This offers broad compatibility with popular rifle cartridges.
• It is designed to be used with a drill (not included), greatly increasing the speed and efficiency of the neck turning process. The drill-powered operation reduces hand fatigue.
• The tool is constructed with a combination of durable plastic and steel components. This offers a balance of lightweight design and long-term reliability.

These specifications are crucial for achieving consistent neck tension and improving accuracy. Precise adjustments allow handloaders to fine-tune their brass for optimal bullet seating. The drill powered feature streamlines the process, which saves time and effort while maintaining accuracy.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Neck Turn Tool, 041224 excels at creating consistent neck thickness, leading to improved bullet seating and consistent velocities. This translates to better accuracy and tighter groupings on the target.

Its main strength lies in its ability to quickly and accurately turn case necks. The fine adjustment increments allow for precise control, although the accumulation of brass shavings can be a minor annoyance.

The tool mostly meets my expectations, but could improve in debris management. With some practice, the tool delivers consistent results, and the speed advantage over manual turning is undeniable.

Design & Ergonomics

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Neck Turn Tool, 041224 is designed with a user-friendly adjustment knob and clear markings. The overall construction feels solid, although the plastic housing raises some questions about long-term durability.

The tool is relatively easy to use, but there is a learning curve associated with finding the optimal settings and drill speed. A more detailed instruction manual would be helpful for novice reloaders.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care and maintenance, the Hornady Lock-N-Load Neck Turn Tool, 041224 should last for many years. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to prevent brass buildup and ensure smooth operation.

The tool is easy to disassemble for cleaning and maintenance. Replacement cutter heads and mandrels are available from Hornady, ensuring long-term usability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Neck Turn Tool, 041224 comes with mandrels for .22 cal, 6mm, 6.5mm, and .30 cal. This provides a good starting point for most reloaders.

Additional mandrels are available for other calibers, expanding the tool’s versatility. The Hornady tool is compatible with standard reloading presses, making it easy to integrate into existing setups.

Pros and Cons of Hornady Lock-N-Load Neck Turn Tool, 041224