Just like Steak, any reloader will want something specific in their reloading press. All kits have some unique factors for which they are chosen. Here we have the Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic Kit review to answer all those questions you have about the reloading press and the kits with no answer on the internet.
Compare your chosen reloading press with other reloading presses and find out which is the best here.
Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic
Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic is a unique Reloading Press because of its unique design. Some of the major features and a short description are presented here.
Lock-N-Load Bushings
What makes this Single Stage Reloading Press unique is the Lock-N-Load Bushing System. This solves the issue of a long time-consuming die-changing process. And with the help of the Sure-Loc Lock-ring, you can set the bushing in position for future use. With one simple twist change the Lock-N-Load Bushing and put another bushing for the next process. With both of the kits, you get 3 Lock-N-Load Bushing.
Angled Aluminum Cast Frame
One notable feature is the angled frame, positioned at approximately a 30°–35° angle from the vertical axis, boasting a generous 3.75″ opening. Weighing a mere 8.73 pounds due to its aluminum frame, this design not only provides durability but also significantly improves case visibility. Right-handed reloaders will find it particularly beneficial as it eases case operations. However, left-handed reloaders might face challenges with limited handroom and a non-movable ram handle, making this press less ideal for them. If you’re a left-handed reloader, you may want to consider alternative options
Priming System
An additional commendable feature of this frame is its integrated priming system, a key component included both in the kit and with the press itself. The primer, housed in the ram, effortlessly aligns itself during lever operation, particularly when pushed back to the starting position. If you prefer not to use the primer, it can be easily removed. Furthermore, the black box functions as a spent primer catcher, especially handy when using the reloading press for depriming. This design allows you to accomplish three tasks with a single, efficient lever stroke.
- Resize the case,
- Deprime the case,
- And prime the case.
While the integrated priming system is a notable feature of this reloading press, I personally opt not to use it. For precision reloading, my preference is to deprime the cases before tumble cleaning, and for this purpose, I rely on the Frankford hand depriming tool. When it comes to priming, I find the Lee Auto Bench Primer to be my tool of choice. Each reloader may have their own preferences, and for my specific needs, this combination offers greater flexibility and control over the priming process.
Power-Pack Linkage and Lever Grip
To enhance user comfort during the reloading process, Hornady has ingeniously engineered the Power-Pack Linkage for the Lock-N-Load Classic Reloading Press. This innovative design is strategically incorporated to minimize fatigue, ensuring a smoother and more effortless experience for the reloader. The Power-Pack Linkage, working seamlessly with the extended lever grip, significantly reduces the force required for case reloading. With this thoughtful combination, Hornady has prioritized user-friendly operation, making the reloading task not only efficient but also remarkably gentle on the hands.
Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic & Deluxe Kit
The Hornady Lock-N-Load Reloading Press comes in two kits, if you are completely new to reloading cases and want to begin reloading I would suggest getting a kit. It will save you some cost and also get you started with most of the required items. But if you have some experience or want to pick every item yourself, then you could choose only the Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic reloading press.
Here is a list of items that you get in the Classic Kit
- Lock-N-Load Classic Reloading Press
- Hornady Reloading manual (usually the latest available edition)
- Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure (Rifle Rotor & Metering Assembly)
- Digital Scale for measuring bullet weight (you might want to upgrade this item)
- The Lock-N-Load Die Bushings (3 pieces)
- Positive Priming System
- Spent Primer Catcher
- Handheld Priming Tool
- Universal Priming Block
- Chamfer & Deburring tool
- Powder Trickler
- Powder Funnel
- One-Shot Case Lube
The 13 items listed are the content of the classic Kit, but there are a few more items that you must have if you want to begin reloading such as Calipers, Sure-Loc lock rings, kinetic bullet puller & Shell Holders.
If you find the Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic Kit to be insufficient for your reloading needs, consider exploring the Deluxe kit variant, which features the same reliable classic reloading press. The Deluxe kit goes beyond the essentials, including the 13 items listed earlier, and also incorporates additional tools for an enhanced reloading experience. Among the supplementary tools included are:
- Hornady Lock-N-Load Straight OAL Gauge
- Pistol Rotor & Metering Assembly (along with the Rifle Rotor & Metering Assembly)
- Powder Measure Stand
- Popular Shell holders (1, 2, 5,16 & 35)
- Kinetic Bullet Puller
- Steel Dial Caliper (analog — might want to upgrade this to digital for measuring efficiency)
- 3 additional Lock-N-Load Die Bushing (total of 6 die bushing)
- 6 Sure-Loc Lock Rings
So in the Deluxe kit, you will get a total of 21 items. Which is almost all you will need to recycle the cases. But don’t forget about the consumables, such as gunpowder, primers, projectiles
If you want to get an easy setup and money is not a big issue I suggest getting the Delux kit, but if you are on a budget classic kit could be a good option for you. Here I have included the instructions for ease.
Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic Kit Review Summery.,
While the Hornady Lock-N-Load Deluxe kit offers a comprehensive selection of essential equipment, it’s important to acknowledge some shortcomings in the Classic press. The left-angled frame, less effective spent primer catcher, and the absence of an ambidextrous handle are notable considerations. Although we’ve suggested potential upgrades, the Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic Kit, whether in its standard or Deluxe form, remains a suitable choice for beginners venturing into brass case reloading. Despite its minor drawbacks, this kit provides a solid foundation for those starting their journey in reloading.
