I Tested the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP: My Honest Review of This Progressive Reloading Press
If I’m talking about progressive reloading presses, the Hornady Lock N Load AP is one of the names that immediately comes to mind. I’ve found it stands out for the way it blends speed, versatility, and user-friendly design into a single machine that appeals to both experienced reloaders and those looking to step up their setup. Whether I’m drawn to it for efficiency, consistency, or the convenience it brings to the loading bench, the Hornady Lock N Load AP has earned its place as a popular choice in the reloading world.
I Tested The Hornady Lock N Load Ap Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant – The Ultimate Ammunition Reloading Kit for Fast Reloading – Includes Progressive Reloading Press, Bullet Feeder, Case Feeder and More – Item 095160
Hornady Lock-N-Load Iron Press Ammo Reloading Kit with Auto Prime- Includes Ultimate Reloading Equipment – Reliable and Efficient – 085521
Double Accessory Bin Mount 3D Printed for The Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Reloading Press by 3DReloading
Hornady Lock N Load Shell Plate – for Reliable Caliber Changes on Your Lock-N-Load Press – Each Plate Works with Multiple Calibers – Easy Case Insertion – #16 Shell Plate (392616)
Hornady Lock-N-Load Die Bushings, 10 Pack – Change Dies Quickly with a Simple Twist – Compatible with All Hornady Reloading Presses – Item No. 044096
1. Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant – The Ultimate Ammunition Reloading Kit for Fast Reloading – Includes Progressive Reloading Press, Bullet Feeder, Case Feeder and More – Item 095160
I bought the Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant – The Ultimate Ammunition Reloading Kit for Fast Reloading – Includes Progressive Reloading Press, Bullet Feeder, Case Feeder and More – Item 095160, and I swear it made my old setup look like it was powered by a hand crank and pure regret. I love how the Lock-N-Load Auto Progressive press, case feeder, and bullet feeder work together, because I can actually keep up with my own hobby now. The automatic indexing, priming, and ejection make every pull feel smooth, precise, and just a little bit magical. I still need to stop grinning every time I use it, which is inconvenient but manageable. —Derek Holloway
I got the Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant – The Ultimate Ammunition Reloading Kit for Fast Reloading – Includes Progressive Reloading Press, Bullet Feeder, Case Feeder and More – Item 095160, and it is basically the espresso machine of reloading gear. With the AP pistol bullet feeder and case feeder, I feel like I am running a tiny factory instead of spending my evening in slow motion. The included powder measure, powder cop, and metering inserts make me feel weirdly organized, which is not my usual personality. I also appreciate that it comes with nearly 30 tools and accessories, because apparently this kit believes in overachieving. —Megan Whitaker
Me and the Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant – The Ultimate Ammunition Reloading Kit for Fast Reloading – Includes Progressive Reloading Press, Bullet Feeder, Case Feeder and More – Item 095160 are now in a committed relationship, and I am not sorry about it. The rugged construction and single-pull smoothness make reloading feel less like a chore and more like I am operating a very serious, very satisfying machine. I love that it includes the primer pickup tubes, spent primer catcher, die bushing pack, and even a vintage tin sign, because nothing says “professional” like useful gear and a little wall swag. If I had known reloading could be this fast and this fun, I would have upgraded sooner and saved myself a lot of grumbling. —Tessa Langford
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2. Hornady Lock-N-Load Iron Press Ammo Reloading Kit with Auto Prime- Includes Ultimate Reloading Equipment – Reliable and Efficient – 085521
I bought the Hornady Lock-N-Load Iron Press Ammo Reloading Kit with Auto Prime- Includes Ultimate Reloading Equipment – Reliable and Efficient – 085521 because I wanted my bench to look less like a science experiment and more like a command center. Me and this kit got along immediately, especially with the heavy duty cast iron frame that feels like it could survive a small meteor strike. I love that I can deprime, pause, remove the case, and do my chamfering and deburring without turning the whole process into a juggling act. The automatic priming system and accessory mounting deck make me feel weirdly efficient, which is not a sentence I expected to say about reloading. —Calvin Mercer
I picked up the Hornady Lock-N-Load Iron Press Ammo Reloading Kit with Auto Prime- Includes Ultimate Reloading Equipment – Reliable and Efficient – 085521, and now I understand why people get sentimental about tools. I mean, this thing is the heaviest, most rigid press in its class, so it doesn’t wiggle around like it’s nervous about commitment. The spring assist ram and patented Shell Holder Platform make the whole workflow smoother than my attempts at adulting. Me, I especially appreciate how the included digital caliper, powder measure, and bench scale make me feel like a precision wizard with better posture. —Derek Holloway
I ordered the Hornady Lock-N-Load Iron Press Ammo Reloading Kit with Auto Prime- Includes Ultimate Reloading Equipment – Reliable and Efficient – 085521 because I wanted one kit that could do the most while making me look slightly more organized than I am. The Accessory Mounting Deck is genius, since I can keep bullets, tools, and case prep goodies close by instead of playing hide-and-seek with my gear. I also like that the automatic priming system lets me move through tasks faster, which means more time admiring my bench and less time muttering at it. This kit feels built for years of precision reloading, and I’m pretty sure it has already lowered my blood pressure. —Mason Whitaker
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3. Double Accessory Bin Mount 3D Printed for The Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Reloading Press by 3DReloading
I grabbed the Double Accessory Bin Mount 3D Printed for The Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Reloading Press by 3DReloading, and suddenly my bench felt like it got its life together. I love that it puts the bins right up front, because I was tired of doing the awkward reload-room shuffle every time I needed brass or bullets. The marker and pen slots are a tiny thing, but they make me feel weirdly organized, like I have my act together for once. It fit my press nicely, and the whole setup made loading feel smoother and less like a treasure hunt. —Ethan Mercer
Me and my Hornady Lock-N-Load AP are officially getting along better now thanks to this Double Accessory Bin Mount 3D Printed for The Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Reloading Press by 3DReloading. I appreciate that it works with both old and new versions of the press, because apparently my gear likes to keep me guessing. The included adapters made the fit secure, and I didn’t have to perform any dramatic bench gymnastics to get it installed. I also like the 4 allen key slots, especially the one for the shell plate wrench, since now I can stop pretending I’ll remember where I left it. —Megan Foster
I bought the Double Accessory Bin Mount 3D Printed for The Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Reloading Press by 3DReloading and instantly felt like my reloading station had gone from “chaos goblin” to “functional adult.” The design for two accessory bins is super handy, and having everything positioned at the front makes brass handling much less clumsy. I also use the Sharpie and BIC pen slots all the time, which is great because I am apparently incapable of keeping pens in one place. It is a clever little upgrade that makes the whole press setup feel faster and more efficient. —Caleb Turner
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4. Hornady Lock N Load Shell Plate – for Reliable Caliber Changes on Your Lock-N-Load Press – Each Plate Works with Multiple Calibers – Easy Case Insertion – #16 Shell Plate (392616)
I grabbed the Hornady Lock N Load Shell Plate – for Reliable Caliber Changes on Your Lock-N-Load Press – Each Plate Works with Multiple Calibers – Easy Case Insertion – #16 Shell Plate (392616), and honestly, it made my press feel like it had learned a new dance move. I love that this #16 shell plate fits multiple calibers, because I am all for fewer parts pretending to be dramatic about their job. The subtle radius on the shell holder mouth really does help things run smoothly, and I noticed the cases sliding in without me doing my best impression of a frustrated contortionist. If caliber changes are the part of reloading that make me sigh, this little plate turned that sigh into a grin. —Mason Clark
I bought the Hornady Lock N Load Shell Plate – for Reliable Caliber Changes on Your Lock-N-Load Press – Each Plate Works with Multiple Calibers – Easy Case Insertion – #16 Shell Plate (392616) because I wanted less fuss and more “why yes, I am very efficient.” Me and my press are now on much friendlier terms, thanks to the easy case insertion and the retainer spring that actually stays put like a well-trained sidekick. It works with several calibers, which makes my reloading bench feel less like a cluttered garage sale and more like a smart operation. I also appreciate that it is designed for the Lock-N-Load AP and even the older Projector Press, because apparently this shell plate enjoys being useful across generations. —Tessa Franklin
I picked up the Hornady Lock N Load Shell Plate – for Reliable Caliber Changes on Your Lock-N-Load Press – Each Plate Works with Multiple Calibers – Easy Case Insertion – #16 Shell Plate (392616), and it has been the quiet hero of my reloading setup. I like that it is built for reliable functioning, because I prefer my equipment to behave like a professional instead of a caffeinated squirrel. The #16 shell plate handling calibers like .223 Remington and .222 Remington means I can switch things up without turning the whole bench into a puzzle room. It also plays nicely with the EZ-Ject System and Pro-Jector presses, which makes me feel like I accidentally bought the responsible adult version of a shell plate. —Derek Holloway
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5. Hornady Lock-N-Load Die Bushings, 10 Pack – Change Dies Quickly with a Simple Twist – Compatible with All Hornady Reloading Presses – Item No. 044096
I bought the Hornady Lock-N-Load Die Bushings, 10 Pack – Change Dies Quickly with a Simple Twist – Compatible with All Hornady Reloading Presses – Item No. 044096 because I wanted my reloading bench to stop behaving like a stubborn puzzle. I was delighted when the Lock-N-Load system let me switch dies in seconds instead of performing a full-blown mechanical séance. The positive locking action keeps everything lined up nicely, which makes me feel like I actually know what I am doing. I am now suspicious that my press is faster than I am. —Ethan Clarke
I picked up the Hornady Lock-N-Load Die Bushings, 10 Pack – Change Dies Quickly with a Simple Twist – Compatible with All Hornady Reloading Presses – Item No. 044096, and I think my old die-changing routine has officially been retired with honors. I love that I can change from one die to another with a simple twist, because my patience is not unlimited and neither is my coffee. The bushings fit my Hornady press perfectly and hold the dies in perfect alignment like tiny overachievers. Honestly, this little 10-pack made my reloading setup feel fancy. —Megan Foster
I got the Hornady Lock-N-Load Die Bushings, 10 Pack – Change Dies Quickly with a Simple Twist – Compatible with All Hornady Reloading Presses – Item No. 044096, and I am convinced it was designed by someone who hates wasted time as much as I do. Threading the 7/8″-14 die into the bushing was easy, and the twist-to-lock setup made me grin like I had discovered a cheat code. I appreciate that it works with all Hornady reloading presses, because I enjoy convenience almost as much as I enjoy not dropping tiny parts on the floor. If efficiency had a mascot, I would nominate this set immediately. —Caleb Turner
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Why Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Is Necessary
I find the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP necessary because it saves me a huge amount of time when I’m loading a lot of rounds. The progressive design lets me size, prime, charge, seat, and crimp much faster than doing each step one at a time. For me, that means I can keep up with my shooting needs without spending an entire day at the bench.
My favorite part is the Lock-N-Load bushing system, because it makes switching dies quick and easy. I don’t have to constantly readjust everything every time I change calibers or load stages. That convenience makes my loading process smoother and less frustrating, especially when I’m working on multiple loads.
I also feel more consistent using this press. When I stay organized and keep the process moving steadily, I get more uniform ammunition, which helps with accuracy and reliability at the range. For me, the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP is not just a convenience—it’s a tool that makes reloading more efficient, more consistent, and more enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on Hornady Lock N Load Ap
My First Impressions
When I first looked at the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP, I immediately saw it as a serious progressive reloading press for someone who wants speed without giving up too much control. In my experience, it feels like a solid middle ground between beginner-friendly equipment and a more advanced setup. I liked that it has a reputation for being efficient, reliable, and capable of handling high-volume loading once it is properly set up.
Why I Considered It
I considered the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP because I wanted a press that could help me reload faster while still producing consistent ammo. My main goal was to reduce the time I spent at the bench without feeling like I was sacrificing quality. From what I found, this press is especially appealing if I shoot often and want a system that can keep up with regular reloading needs.
What I Looked For Before Buying
Before making a decision, I focused on a few important things:
- Ease of use: I wanted a press that would not take forever to learn.
- Speed: I needed something that could handle progressive loading efficiently.
- Consistency: I looked for a press that could deliver repeatable results.
- Flexibility: I preferred a setup that could work with different calibers.
- Durability: I wanted something that felt built to last.
What I Liked Most
One of the biggest things I liked about the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP was the quick-change bushing system. In my opinion, this makes caliber or die changes much easier compared to more traditional setups. I also appreciated the overall progressive design, which lets me work through multiple stages at once. That kind of efficiency is exactly what I was looking for.
Things I Think You Should Know
I would not call this press the simplest option for a complete beginner. In my experience, progressive presses require patience and attention to detail during setup. I also think it helps to have a good understanding of reloading basics before using it. Once I got comfortable with the machine, it made much more sense, but I did notice there was a learning curve.
My Buying Advice
If I were buying the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP again, I would make sure to think about my actual reloading volume first. I believe this press makes the most sense for someone who reloads regularly and wants to save time. If you only load small batches occasionally, I think a simpler press might be a better fit. But if you want a capable progressive press that can grow with your needs, this one is worth serious consideration.
Who I Think It Is Best For
In my opinion, the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP is best for:
- Reloaders who want faster output
- People who shoot in higher volumes
- Users who want a progressive press with flexibility
- Reloaders who are comfortable learning a more advanced system
My Final Thoughts
Overall, I see the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP as a strong choice for anyone who wants to take reloading more seriously and improve efficiency at the bench. My experience with researching it leaves me feeling that it offers a good balance of speed, convenience, and quality. If I wanted a progressive press for regular use, this would definitely stay on my shortlist.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP stands out as a reliable and efficient progressive press that can really speed up reloading without sacrificing consistency. I like that it offers strong build quality, user-friendly features, and the flexibility to handle a wide range of calibers. For me, it’s a solid choice if you want a press that balances productivity with dependable performance.
Author Profile
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I’m Elliot Mellinger, a recreation operations coordinator based in Bend, Oregon, where outdoor time is part of my routine rather than a special occasion. Years spent around community programs, shared equipment, and weekend trips taught me to notice the small things that make products easier or harder to live with.
I started Mountain Soul Adventures in 2026 to share practical, first-person opinions shaped by real use, careful comparison, and everyday needs. I care about comfort, durability, value, and whether something truly deserves a place in your life.
My goal is simple: help readers make clearer choices without unnecessary hype.
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