The Hornady Lock-N-Load AP (Automated Progressive) press has solidified its place as a favorite among serious reloaders. Its blend of speed, accuracy, and user-friendliness makes it a compelling choice for both beginners stepping up from single-stage presses and seasoned reloaders seeking increased efficiency. This in-depth review will explore the LNL AP's strengths, weaknesses, and overall suitability for your reloading needs.
What Makes the Hornady LNL AP Stand Out?
The Hornady LNL AP's popularity stems from several key features:
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Progressive Reloading: Unlike single-stage presses, the LNL AP performs multiple steps in a single press stroke, significantly accelerating the reloading process. This includes case feeding, sizing, priming, powder dispensing, and bullet seating.
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Robust Construction: Built with a sturdy cast-iron frame, the LNL AP is designed for years of reliable service, even under heavy use. This durable construction ensures consistent performance and minimizes wear and tear.
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Versatile Cartridge Handling: The press boasts remarkable versatility, accommodating a wide range of pistol and rifle cartridges with minimal adjustments. This adaptability is a significant advantage for reloaders working with multiple calibers.
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User-Friendly Design: Despite its advanced features, the LNL AP maintains a relatively intuitive design. The clear layout and straightforward operation make it accessible to reloaders of all skill levels. While setup requires patience and attention to detail, the learning curve is generally considered manageable.
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Precise Powder Measure: The included powder measure is known for its accurate and consistent powder drops, crucial for maintaining safe and reliable ammunition. Proper calibration is essential, but once set, it delivers consistent results.
Understanding the LNL AP's Limitations
While the Hornady LNL AP is highly regarded, it’s important to acknowledge some limitations:
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Initial Setup Complexity: Setting up the LNL AP can be time-consuming and requires careful attention to detail. Proper alignment and adjustment of the various components are crucial for optimal performance and safety.
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Cost: The LNL AP is a significant investment compared to single-stage presses. However, the increased speed and efficiency can justify the cost for high-volume reloaders.
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Space Requirements: Due to its size and the need for supporting equipment (like a case feeder), the LNL AP requires sufficient workspace.
Accessories to Enhance Your LNL AP Experience
Several accessories can significantly improve your reloading experience with the Hornady LNL AP:
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Case Feeder: A case feeder automates the case feeding process, further enhancing speed and efficiency.
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Bullet Feeder: Similar to a case feeder, a bullet feeder automates the bullet feeding process, streamlining the workflow.
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Dies: Choosing the correct dies for your specific cartridge is crucial for optimal performance. Hornady offers a wide range of dies specifically designed for their press.
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Additional Trays and Components: Investing in extra trays and components can help maintain a smooth and organized reloading process.
Is the Hornady LNL AP Right for You?
The Hornady LNL AP is an excellent choice for reloaders who:
- Reload large quantities of ammunition: The progressive nature of the press drastically reduces reloading time.
- Value speed and efficiency: The automation features significantly improve workflow.
- Require precision and accuracy: The LNL AP delivers consistent results when properly set up.
- Are comfortable with a slightly steeper learning curve: Mastering the press's setup and operation requires time and effort.
The Hornady LNL AP isn't the best option for reloaders who:
- Reload small quantities of ammunition infrequently: A single-stage press might be more suitable for occasional reloading.
- Prefer a simpler, more hands-on reloading experience: The automation of the LNL AP might feel less engaging for some reloaders.
- Are on a tight budget: The initial investment can be substantial.
Conclusion: A Powerful Tool for the Dedicated Reloader
The Hornady LNL AP progressive press is a powerful and versatile tool that significantly enhances the reloading experience for many shooters. Its robust construction, precise operation, and adaptability make it a popular choice among serious reloaders. However, potential users should carefully weigh the initial investment, setup complexity, and space requirements against their individual needs and experience level before making a purchase. With proper setup and maintenance, the Hornady LNL AP will reward you with years of reliable and efficient ammunition production.
