The Hornady LNL AP (Automatic Progressive) press is a popular choice among reloaders, offering a balance of speed, accuracy, and ease of use. This in-depth review will explore its features, benefits, drawbacks, and ultimately, whether it's the right press for you. We'll cover everything from setup and operation to common issues and upgrades, providing you with the information needed to make an informed decision.
Setting Up Your Hornady LNL AP Press: A Step-by-Step Guide
Getting started with the Hornady LNL AP requires careful attention to detail. Improper setup can lead to inaccurate reloading and potential safety hazards. This section will walk you through the process, highlighting key steps and considerations.
Initial Assembly and Adjustments
The first step is assembling the press according to Hornady's instructions. Pay close attention to the torque specifications for all screws and bolts. This ensures proper function and prevents damage. After assembly, you'll need to adjust the shell plate and case feed system. Proper alignment is crucial for smooth operation and prevents case jams. Hornady provides detailed instructions and videos to guide you through this process.
Die Setup and Calibration
Setting up your dies correctly is paramount for consistent and safe reloading. Each die requires precise adjustment to ensure proper sizing, powder charging, and bullet seating. Start with the sizing die, followed by the powder measure, and finally the seating die. Use a case gauge to verify that cases are properly sized after the sizing die. A powder scale is essential to ensure accurate powder charges. The seating die requires careful adjustment to ensure proper bullet seating depth and overall cartridge length. Utilize Hornady's loading data and follow their recommendations for your specific cartridge.
Primer Feeding System
The LNL AP's automatic primer feeding system is one of its key features. However, proper setup and maintenance are vital. Ensure the primer tubes are correctly installed and filled. The primer feed mechanism should be adjusted to deliver a single primer to the ram each time. This can require some fine-tuning depending on the type of primers you're using. Inspect the primer seating area regularly to ensure no debris is interfering with the process.
Operating the Hornady LNL AP Press: Tips and Techniques
Once set up, operating the Hornady LNL AP is relatively straightforward. However, some techniques can improve efficiency and accuracy.
Efficient Workflow
Developing an efficient workflow is key to maximizing your reloading speed and minimizing errors. Start by organizing your components: cases, powder, bullets, and primers. Maintain a consistent rhythm when operating the press. The more you practice, the more comfortable and efficient you will become.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with proper setup, you may encounter some issues. Common problems include case jams, inconsistent powder charges, and primer misfeeds. Refer to Hornady's troubleshooting guide for solutions. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the press will help prevent many of these problems.
Safety First!
Reloading involves handling potentially hazardous materials. Always wear appropriate safety glasses and hearing protection. Never leave a loaded firearm unattended. Double-check every step of the reloading process to ensure accuracy and safety.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Hornady LNL AP Press
The Hornady LNL AP, like any reloading press, has both advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages:
- Speed and Efficiency: The automatic features significantly speed up the reloading process compared to single-stage presses.
- Accuracy: With proper setup, the LNL AP delivers consistent reloading results.
- Versatility: It handles a wide range of cartridges.
- Relatively Easy to Learn: While it's a more complex press than a single-stage, it's relatively user-friendly, particularly with the well-written instructions.
Disadvantages:
- Cost: The LNL AP is a more expensive investment than single-stage presses.
- Complexity: It's more complex than single-stage presses and has a steeper learning curve.
- Space Requirements: It takes up more bench space than a single-stage press.
Case Study: Reloading 9mm with the Hornady LNL AP
Let's consider a practical example: reloading 9mm ammunition using the LNL AP. This popular cartridge is widely used in both self-defense and competitive shooting. The LNL AP excels in this task, offering speed and consistency. A typical reloading session could yield several hundred rounds of 9mm ammunition in a relatively short time. The key is accurate setup and consistent operation, which ensures uniformity in bullet seating depth and powder charges. This minimizes variations and leads to reliably functioning ammunition.
Conclusion: Is the Hornady LNL AP Right for You?
The Hornady LNL AP is a powerful and efficient progressive reloading press. It's a great choice for reloaders who want to increase their output and consistently produce high-quality ammunition. However, it's crucial to acknowledge its complexity and higher cost compared to single-stage presses. If you're serious about reloading and are willing to invest the time in learning the system, the Hornady LNL AP is an excellent choice. But if you're just starting out, or only reload occasionally, a single-stage press might be a more appropriate option. Remember to always prioritize safety and accuracy when reloading ammunition.