Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure Review

Let’s Dive into Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure is a cornerstone of any serious reloader’s bench, promising consistent and accurate powder dispensing. As someone who’s been reloading for over a decade, I’ve seen my share of powder measures, from the basic to the advanced, so I was eager to put this one through its paces. This is Hornady’s offering into the market that, at a price of $113.99, positions itself as a mid-range tool.

I needed a powder measure that could handle the volume I was putting out each month. Hand-weighing every charge was eating into my limited free time. I was looking for something accurate, reliable, and easy to use – a tool to speed up my process without sacrificing quality.

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure came neatly packaged, and my initial impression was positive. The build felt solid, with a reassuring weight that suggested quality materials. The design was straightforward and functional. It’s not flashy, but it looks like it means business. Compared to my old RCBS Uniflow, the Lock-N-Load felt more refined, although I was also considering the Redding 3BR, known for its precision. I chose the Hornady due to its Lock-N-Load compatibility, which I already use on my press. I was excited to see how well it integrated into my setup, hoping it would streamline my reloading process.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure at my reloading bench, preparing .223 Remington rounds for my AR-15. The conditions were typical for my garage – slightly dusty, but otherwise controlled. The first thing I noticed was how smoothly the drum rotated. This made dispensing powder feel effortless.

I initially used Hodgdon Varget, a stick powder, and immediately ran into the common issue: it bridged and cut frequently, leading to inconsistent charges. Switching to Hodgdon CFE 223, a ball powder, solved the problem entirely. It flowed smoothly, and the consistency improved dramatically. There was a bit of an adjustment period to dial in the desired charge weight. However, once set, it remained remarkably consistent.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure has held up exceptionally well. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear, even after dispensing thousands of rounds worth of powder. Regular cleaning is simple: just empty the hopper and wipe down the drum with a dry cloth. I’ve noticed that keeping it free of any residual powder keeps it running smoothly.

Compared to my old RCBS Uniflow, the Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure is significantly more consistent with ball powders. The RCBS would fluctuate a bit more, requiring more frequent adjustments. The Hornady has exceeded my expectations in terms of reliability and ease of use, especially with appropriate powders.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure

Specifications

• The Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure is designed for dispensing precise amounts of powder for reloading ammunition. It is compatible with most reloading presses and bench setups.
• The drum is made of a high-quality, machined metal, which ensures smooth operation and minimal leakage. This construction contributes to the powder measure’s accuracy and longevity.
• It features the Hornady Lock-N-Load bushing system, allowing for quick changes between different powder measure inserts. This is useful for switching between different powder types or charge weights.
• The hopper has a generous capacity, holding a substantial amount of powder, reducing the need for frequent refills during high-volume reloading sessions. This saves time and improves workflow.
• It comes with a case-activated lower assembly, although this may not be needed if you have a standalone bench setup. This is useful for progressive presses.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure excels in delivering consistent powder charges, but only when using ball powders. Stick powders tend to get cut and bridged. This leads to significant variations in charge weights. For ball powders, it’s remarkably accurate, typically throwing charges within +/- 0.1 grain of the desired weight.

The main strength is its consistency with ball powders and the convenience of the Lock-N-Load system. The weakness is the incompatibility with stick powders. It meets expectations for ball powders, but it does not perform well with stick powders.

Design & Ergonomics

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure boasts a robust build, with a heavy, solid feel that inspires confidence. The materials used are high-quality, and the construction is precise. The design is relatively user-friendly. However, it is important to note that there is a slight learning curve in achieving perfect consistency.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure should last for many years. The metal components are resistant to wear and corrosion, and the overall construction is solid. Maintenance is straightforward: simply empty the hopper after each use and occasionally wipe down the internal components. Regular cleaning ensures smooth operation and prevents powder buildup.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure comes with a standard powder hopper and a case-activated lower assembly. Hornady offers a micrometer metering insert as an optional accessory, allowing for precise adjustments. The Lock-N-Load bushing system ensures compatibility with other Hornady reloading equipment.

Pros and Cons of Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure

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Who Should Buy Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure?

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure is perfect for reloaders who primarily use ball powders and value consistency and speed. It’s a great choice for high-volume reloaders who need a reliable tool that integrates seamlessly with the Hornady Lock-N-Load system. This powder measure is also an excellent choice for reloaders using a progressive press.

Those who primarily use stick powders should skip this product or be prepared to hand-weigh each charge for optimal accuracy. A powder trickler might be a necessary accessory for fine-tuning charges. A dedicated stand is essential if you don’t have a progressive press or a compatible mounting system.

Conclusion on Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure is a solid performer when paired with ball powders. Its consistency and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any reloader’s bench, particularly those already invested in the Hornady Lock-N-Load system. At $113.99, the price is justified for its build quality and performance with suitable powders.

I would recommend this product to reloaders who understand its limitations with stick powders and are willing to use appropriate powders for best results. If you are looking for a reliable and efficient way to dispense ball powders, the Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure is an excellent choice. So, upgrade your reloading setup today and experience the convenience and accuracy of the Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure!