Let’s Dive into Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP & Pro-Jector
As a seasoned reloading enthusiast, I’ve spent countless hours at my workbench, churning out custom ammunition for everything from precision target shooting to ethically sourced hunting rounds. The Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP & Pro-Jector is a seemingly simple, yet utterly crucial, component in that process. It is a small investment that offers big returns for reloaders working with specific European rifle cartridges.
My journey to acquiring this particular shell plate began with my increasing interest in reloading for some of my older European rifles, chambered in calibers like 7x57R and 9.3x74R. These calibers, while not as common in the US as .30-06 or .308, offer unique ballistic characteristics and historical significance. I needed a reliable way to reload for them on my Hornady Lock-n-Load AP press, and the No. 13 Shell Plate seemed like the perfect solution.
Upon unboxing the Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate, I was immediately struck by its solid construction and robust feel. The steel is nicely machined, and the finish seems durable enough to withstand years of repeated use. The weight, while not significant, speaks to the quality of the materials used, giving me confidence in its ability to handle the pressures of reloading.
Compared to some generic shell plates I’ve used in the past, the Hornady offering is a clear step up in terms of precision and build quality. Cheaper plates sometimes exhibit sloppy tolerances, leading to inconsistent case feeding and potential malfunctions. I ultimately chose the Hornady plate for its reputation for reliability and its specific compatibility with my Hornady press and desired calibers.
My first impression was definitely positive; I was excited to get it mounted on my press and start reloading some custom ammunition. This shell plate promised to open up a whole new world of reloading possibilities for me and allow me to finally produce accurate and reliable ammunition for my classic European rifles.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP & Pro-Jector to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test of the Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate occurred during a dedicated reloading session in my well-equipped workshop. I was focused on producing a batch of 7x57R cartridges for an upcoming wild boar hunt. I carefully mounted the shell plate onto my Hornady Lock-n-Load AP press, ensuring it was securely seated.
The shell plate performed flawlessly right from the start. Cases fed smoothly and consistently, and the subtle radius around the shell holder mouth made inserting cases a breeze. There were no jams, hiccups, or any other issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate has proven to be an incredibly reliable and durable component of my reloading setup. It still operates as smoothly as it did on day one. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear on the steel, despite having processed hundreds of rounds.
Maintenance has been minimal, a quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after each reloading session is all it takes to keep it in top condition. Compared to my experiences with some cheaper shell plates that quickly develop rust or exhibit signs of wear, the Hornady plate stands out for its longevity and consistent performance. It has far exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP & Pro-Jector
Specifications
The Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP & Pro-Jector is specifically designed to accommodate the following rifle cartridges: 7x57R, 7x65R, and 9.3x74R. It is compatible with both the Hornady Lock-n-Load AP and Pro-Jector progressive reloading presses. Weighing in at just 0.55 lbs, this shell plate is lightweight yet robustly constructed for long-lasting durability.
These specifications are crucial for reloaders working with these particular European rifle calibers. The correct shell plate ensures proper case alignment and smooth feeding through the reloading process, which is essential for producing accurate and reliable ammunition. Correct dimensions ensure proper seating, crimping, and overall round consistency.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate performs its job exceptionally well. It provides consistent and reliable case feeding, ensuring a smooth and efficient reloading process. Its strength lies in its precision engineering and durable construction.
While I haven’t encountered any significant weaknesses, it’s important to note that this shell plate is designed for specific cartridges. It cannot be used with other calibers unless they share the exact same case head dimensions. It definitely meets and exceeds my expectations for consistent, high-volume reloading.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate features a simple, yet effective, design. It is built from high-quality steel and feels substantial in hand. The subtle radius around the shell holder mouth is a thoughtful design element that greatly improves case insertion.
There is virtually no learning curve involved in using this shell plate. It installs easily onto the Hornady press and is intuitive to use. The design maximizes efficiency and minimizes the risk of case damage during reloading.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience so far, the Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate is built to last for many years. The steel construction is highly resistant to wear and tear, even with frequent use. Maintenance is minimal, consisting primarily of keeping the shell plate clean and free of debris.
With proper care, this shell plate should provide a lifetime of reliable service. Its robust design and high-quality materials make it a worthwhile investment for any serious reloader.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate itself does not come with any additional accessories. Its primary function is to hold the case securely during the reloading process. However, its compatibility with the Hornady Lock-n-Load AP and Pro-Jector presses allows for a wide range of customization options.
Reloaders can further enhance their reloading setup with various Hornady accessories, such as powder measures, case feeders, and bullet feeders. The Lock-n-Load system also facilitates quick and easy caliber changes.
Pros and Cons of Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP & Pro-JectorPros
- Extremely Reliable: Provides consistent case feeding, ensuring smooth reloading.
- Durable Construction: Built from high-quality steel for long-lasting performance.
- Easy to Use: Installs quickly and operates intuitively with no learning curve.
- Specific Caliber Fit: Perfectly designed for 7x57R, 7x65R, and 9.3x74R cartridges.
- Enhances Reloading Efficiency: Speeds up the reloading process and minimizes errors.
Cons
- Limited Caliber Compatibility: Only works with the specified cartridges and those with similar case head dimensions.
- Higher Price Point: More expensive than some generic shell plates, but justified by the quality and reliability.
Who Should Buy Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP & Pro-Jector?
Pros
- Extremely Reliable: Provides consistent case feeding, ensuring smooth reloading.
- Durable Construction: Built from high-quality steel for long-lasting performance.
- Easy to Use: Installs quickly and operates intuitively with no learning curve.
- Specific Caliber Fit: Perfectly designed for 7x57R, 7x65R, and 9.3x74R cartridges.
- Enhances Reloading Efficiency: Speeds up the reloading process and minimizes errors.
Cons
- Limited Caliber Compatibility: Only works with the specified cartridges and those with similar case head dimensions.
- Higher Price Point: More expensive than some generic shell plates, but justified by the quality and reliability.
The Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate is perfect for reloaders who own a Hornady Lock-n-Load AP or Pro-Jector progressive press and need to reload ammunition in 7x57R, 7x65R, or 9.3x74R calibers. This is a must-have for anyone who values precision, reliability, and efficiency in their reloading process. If you own older European rifles in these calibers, this shell plate is a crucial investment.
Those who reload primarily for common American calibers like 9mm, .223, or .308 can skip this product, as it is not compatible with those cartridges. If you are using a single-stage press, a shell holder might be more appropriate than a shell plate.
A must-have accessory to pair with this shell plate is a high-quality set of reloading dies for the desired caliber. Ensure the dies are from a reputable manufacturer to maximize accuracy and consistency.
Conclusion on Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP & Pro-Jector
In summary, the Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP & Pro-Jector is a top-tier reloading accessory that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. While it may be a bit more expensive than some alternatives, the investment is well worth it for reloaders who demand the best. Its robust construction, precise engineering, and ease of use make it an indispensable tool for producing high-quality ammunition in 7x57R, 7x65R, and 9.3x74R calibers.
The price is definitely justified by the quality and performance you receive. A cheaper plate might save you a few dollars upfront, but the potential for inconsistent case feeding and malfunctions can end up costing you more in the long run.
I would absolutely recommend the Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate to any serious reloader working with the specified calibers. It’s a game-changer in terms of efficiency and consistency. Invest in the Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate and experience the satisfaction of producing your own high-quality ammunition with confidence!