Is There a Hornady AP Turret Press? What It Actually Is
By Amis Thains Published 6 min read
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You searched for a 'Hornady AP turret press' but found conflicting info because that specific model name does not exist in Hornady's catalog. This page clarifies what 'AP' actually refers to in Hornady reloading systems and how to match the right turret base to your dies.
In short: The 'Hornady AP' is not a standalone press model; it is a designation for precision die kits and accessory lines. The actual turret presses are the Lock-N-Load Xtra or the Classic Turret. These systems are for manual high-precision loading, not auto-cycling.
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Lock-N-Load bushings ensure die alignment on any Hornady turret, preventing off-center resizing during caliber changes.
Why 'Hornady AP' Is Not a Press Model
The confusion often starts with the term AP, which stands for Advanced Precision. Hornady uses this label for high-tolerance die kits and components, not for the press frame itself. There is no ‘AP Turret Press’ listed in major catalogs or Hornady’s official store. There is more on hornady lnl ap press in a separate guide.
When you see ‘Hornady AP turret press’ in search results, it usually refers to one of two things: the Lock-N-Load Xtra turret system paired with AP-series dies, or a generic listing on resale sites that conflates the die kit with the press. The press is the platform; the AP kit is the tool you put into it.
- Lock-N-Load Xtra: The flagship turret press, built for heavy-duty, long-term use.
- Lock-N-Load Classic Turret: A more compact, entry-level turret option.
- AP Die Kits: Precision-turned dies that fit into either of the above.
Understanding this distinction helps you buy the correct parts. You need a turret base first, then you add the dies. Do not search for a pre-assembled ‘AP press’ because it does not exist as a single SKU.
The Xtra is the most common turret base people confuse with the AP label; it is the physical machine you need.
- This product is compatible with Hornady Lock-N-Load Bushings - Lock-N-Load Bushings
- Compatible with all Hornady Reloading Presses
How Hornady Turrets Handle Die Changes
Turret presses rotate the headstock to align different dies. This saves time compared to unloading the press head, but it introduces alignment challenges. If the dies are not perfectly centered, your cases will resize unevenly. This is where the Lock-N-Load bushing system comes in.
Unlike standard threaded dies, Hornady turrets often use a bushing system that locks the die in place. This ensures the die stays centered relative to the press center. The process is:
- Remove the old die and bushing.
- Insert the new die and its specific bushing.
- Tighten the lock ring to align the die with the headstock.
The key here is precision. A loose bushing will cause the die to shift slightly during the pressing stroke, leading to inconsistent body diameters. The Lock-N-Load Die Bushings are designed to create a positive locking action that holds the die in perfect alignment every time.
If you are switching calibers frequently, this system is a game-changer. It eliminates the fiddling of re-threading dies and checking for wobble. You just swap the die and the bushing, and the alignment is maintained by the system’s geometry.
Pro tip: Always torque the turret handle finger-tight first to check alignment, then fully secure it before loading a case. There is more on redding big boss in a separate guide.
These bushings are the critical accessory that makes the Hornady turret system reliable for multi-caliber loading.
- Hornady Lock-N-Load Die Bushings – The Lock-N-Load bushing system will forever change
- Maximize Reloading Time – Quickly and easily change from one die to another with a
When a Turret Press Is the Wrong Tool
Turret presses are excellent for 2 to 4 die operations. They are not ideal for complex setups. If you are running a 5-die routine on a long-range rifle, a turret becomes cumbersome. You are rotating the head four times per round, which adds mechanical wear and operator fatigue.
For high-volume loading, look at a progressive press like a Dillon or Stoss. These allow you to prime, charge, resize, and seat in one stroke. For extreme precision, a single-stage press is often preferred for the final neck sizing and seating steps, as it offers more control over the final die position.
- Best for Turrets: Straight-wall ammo, standard bottlenecked rounds (308, 6.5 Creedmoor) with 2-3 dies.
- Bad for Turrets: Custom chamberings, complex match loads, or high-volume production.
If your goal is speed over precision, a turret is slower than a progressive. If your goal is precision with moderate speed, a Hornady turret is a strong choice. It offers a balance that single-stages lack in speed and progressives lack in fine-tuning control.
Common Mistakes with Hornady Turret Setups
Myth: Turret presses are self-aligning. Fact: They are not. The headstock must be perfectly vertical and centered. If the base is wobbly or the head is not square, your dies will not engage the case correctly. This leads to skewed cases and stuck powders.
Myth: You can mix die brands freely. Fact: While possible, mixing threads is messy. Hornady uses M32 threads for its dies. RCBS and Lee typically use 5/8-24. If you buy RCBS dies for a Hornady turret, you need an adapter. Adapters add a failure point. Stick to one ecosystem for best results.
Most alignment issues come from not using the correct bushings or adapters. If you are using non-Hornady dies, verify that the adapter is specifically rated for turret use. Some generic adapters shift the die position slightly, which is unacceptable for match-grade reloading. We go through how the hornady lock works step by step in its own article.
Check the base stability. The turret base must be rigid. A wobbly base will cause the head to shift slightly on each rotation. This leads to inconsistent body sizing. Bolt the press to your bench properly and ensure the bench is level and stable.
Choosing Between Hornady, Lee, and RCBS Turrets
Each major brand has a turret platform, but they suit different workflows and budgets. Here is how they compare for precision loaders.
| Brand | Strength | Weakness |
|---|---|---|
| Hornady | Precision M32 dies, sturdy builds, excellent bushing system | Higher cost, specific die ecosystem |
| Lee | Budget-friendly, widespread die availability | 5/8-24 thread standard, less rigid feel on entry models |
| RCBS | Durability, easy parts, good turret options | Older designs on entry-level, less focus on micro-precision bushings |
If you already own Hornady dies, the Hornady turret is the natural fit. The M32 thread and bushing system are optimized for each other. If you are mixing brands, RCBS or Lee offers more flexibility in die sourcing, but you will likely need adapters.
For most hand-loaders buying their first turret, the Lee Classic Turret is the budget pick. The Hornady Lock-N-Load Xtra is the precision pick. The ‘AP’ confusion usually resolves when you realize you are buying a press to hold your preferred die brand. Choose the press that matches your die ecosystem to avoid adapter headaches.
The bottom line
The 'Hornady AP Turret Press' is not a single product; it is a mix-up between the Lock-N-Load turret platform and AP die kits. If you want precision and already use M32 dies, buy a Hornady turret. If you want value and flexibility, look at Lee or RCBS. Start by buying the press that matches your die ecosystem.
- Hornady Lock-N-Load Die Bushings – The Lock-N-Load bushing system will forever change
- Maximize Reloading Time – Quickly and easily change from one die to another with a
Frequently asked questions
Is there a Hornady AP Turret Press model number?
No. Hornady does not list a press with ‘AP’ in the model name. AP refers to their die kits and precision component lines. The presses are the Lock-N-Load Xtra or Classic Turret. You buy the press, then add the AP dies.
Can I use RCBS dies on a Hornady turret?
Yes, but you need an adapter. Hornady uses M32 threads; RCBS uses 5/8-24. An adapter ring allows RCBS dies to fit Hornady turrets, but alignment can be trickier than using native Hornady dies. It is better to stick with one brand for precision work.
How many stations can a Hornady turret hold?
Most Hornady turret bases support 2, 3, or 4 stations depending on the model. The Xtra is typically a 4-station turret. Check the specific base you are buying, as some older models or accessories are limited to 2 stations. Four stations is the standard for modern Hornady turrets.