The Hornady LNL AP Case Feeder is a popular choice for reloaders looking to increase their efficiency and reduce fatigue. This in-depth review will explore its features, benefits, potential drawbacks, and ultimately, whether it's the right investment for you. We'll cover everything from setup and operation to troubleshooting and comparing it to alternatives. Understanding the Hornady LNL AP Case Feeder thoroughly is key to making an informed purchasing decision.
Setting Up Your Hornady LNL AP Case Feeder: A Step-by-Step Guide
Getting your Hornady LNL AP Case Feeder up and running smoothly is crucial for a positive reloading experience. Proper setup minimizes frustration and maximizes efficiency. This section will walk you through the process, focusing on key steps and common pitfalls.
1. Preparing the Case Feeder
Before you even begin, ensure you have all the necessary components. This includes the case feeder itself, the appropriate case plate (specific to your cartridge), and any additional adapters or parts required for your specific setup. Carefully review the Hornady instruction manual – it's your bible for proper setup.
2. Attaching the Case Feeder to the Press
Securing the case feeder to your Hornady LNL AP press is vital. This connection directly impacts the feeding mechanism’s performance. Follow the manufacturer's instructions meticulously. Ensure a tight, secure fit to prevent slippage and malfunctions during the reloading process. A loose connection can lead to misfeeds and potentially damage your equipment.
3. Adjusting the Case Plate
The case plate is the heart of the case feeding system. Proper adjustment is paramount. The plate needs to be properly aligned to ensure smooth and reliable case delivery. Too loose, and cases won't feed consistently; too tight, and you'll risk damaging the cases or the feeder mechanism. Experimentation and fine-tuning are key to finding the optimal adjustment. Consider using a variety of calibers and adjusting the plate settings to ensure proper fit.
4. Initial Test Run
After setting everything up, run a small test batch. This allows you to identify any potential issues before committing to a large reloading session. Observe the feeding mechanism closely, checking for any signs of jamming, misalignment, or inconsistent feeding. Address any issues immediately, referring to the Hornady manual or online resources as needed.
Benefits of Using the Hornady LNL AP Case Feeder
The Hornady LNL AP Case Feeder offers several key advantages over manual case feeding:
- Increased Speed and Efficiency: This is the most significant benefit. The automatic feeding mechanism significantly speeds up the reloading process, allowing you to complete more rounds in less time.
- Reduced Fatigue: Manually feeding cases, especially for large batches, can be incredibly tiring. The case feeder eliminates this fatigue, allowing for longer, more comfortable reloading sessions.
- Improved Consistency: Consistent case feeding minimizes the risk of human error, leading to more uniform and reliable reloads.
- Enhanced Accuracy: Consistent case feeding is linked to greater precision in the overall reloading process.
Potential Drawbacks and Troubleshooting
While the Hornady LNL AP Case Feeder provides numerous benefits, it's not without its potential drawbacks:
- Cost: The case feeder is a significant investment compared to manual reloading.
- Complexity: Setting up and adjusting the case feeder can be more complex than manual feeding. There's a learning curve involved.
- Potential for Jams: Although rare with proper setup and maintenance, jams can occur. This requires troubleshooting skills and time spent resolving the issue. Knowing how to troubleshoot common issues, such as case misalignment and adjustments will significantly improve your reloading experience.
Troubleshooting Common Problems:
- Jams: Check for obstructions, ensure the case plate is properly adjusted, and verify the case feeder is correctly attached to the press.
- Inconsistent Feeding: Adjust the case plate, check for worn parts, and ensure cases are properly oriented in the hopper.
- Case Damage: This can be caused by incorrect case plate adjustment.
Comparing the Hornady LNL AP Case Feeder to Alternatives
Several other case feeders are available on the market. The best choice depends on your budget, reloading volume, and specific needs. Comparing features, price points, and user reviews will help you make the right decision. For example, some models offer different case capacities or compatibility with various press types. Researching different options before investing ensures that you choose the most suitable case feeder for your requirements.
Conclusion: Is the Hornady LNL AP Case Feeder Right for You?
The Hornady LNL AP Case Feeder is a valuable tool for serious reloaders who prioritize speed, efficiency, and consistency. However, it is a significant investment, and users should carefully weigh the cost, complexity, and potential drawbacks against the benefits before purchasing. Ultimately, the decision depends on individual needs and reloading habits. If you regularly reload large quantities of ammunition and value reduced fatigue and increased accuracy, this investment is well worth the cost. However, if you reload infrequently and prefer a simpler approach, a manual method might suffice.