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Hornady Lock n Load Classic Kit Review: Here’s All That We Know

Getting a reloading press that can cater to your needs is the most important factor to consider when looking for a reloading press; otherwise, what’s the point to buying a reloading press at all? For many reloaders, the Hornady Lock n Load Classic Kit provides them with everything they need in a reloading kit. Will it provide you with everything you need as well? Read this review to find out.  

Hornady Lock n Load Classic Kit Review

Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic Kit – Ammunition Reloading Press Kit, Includes Classic Press, Powder Measure, Digital Scale and More – Everything Needed for Fast and Reliable Reloading – Item 085003

Hornady has been well-known for its quality presses to the point that it has now become one of the most trusted names in the industry. The Hornady 85003 Lock N Load Classic Reloading Press Kit definitely meets the standards that Hornady has set for themselves. This kit includes almost everything that you will need to get started with reloading.

Lock-N-Load Technology

Most reloaders have more than one caliber that they need to reload, and because of this most have to have multiple die sets for each of those calibers.  When you’re using one reloading press such as the Hornady 85003 Lock N Load Classic Reloading, you will need to change your dies every now and then.

The Lock-N-Load Technology is Hornady’s answer to this problem, as it allows the user to replace the dies on the press in mere seconds. All you have to do is fit the die into its place and turn as it locks. With this feature, you will have consistent reloading every time regardless of caliber.

Priming and Depriming Process

Priming and depriming are usually the first part in the reloading process, including with a single stage press.  With your depriming and sizing die, placing your brass on the shell holder will do the job as you pull the ram up. The primer arm that is included in the kit has to be placed in the middle of the ram where you can prime your cases as you push the handle forward. Aside from this, you must also make sure that your spent primers stay in one place with the primer tray being attached to the body of the press.

It’s a Reloading Press Kit

The Hornady 85003 Lock N Load Classic Reloading Press Kit has so many items included in the box so you will find it easy to start reloading right away. Since this reloading press comes in a kit, not only will you get the press itself, but you will also receive many other items such as the Lock-N-Load Powder measure that helps you make sure that the charge in your cases are accurate.

Hornady has also included their 9th edition handbook of cartridge reloading in the kit, which gives the reader a loadful of information that involves reloading, such as the required amount of powder to be used in each caliber. Other accessories included in the kit are the chamfering and deburring tool, electronic scale, case lube and 3 pieces of Lock-N-Load Die Bushings.

Features At A Glance

  • Lock-N-Load Technology for quick changing dies
  • Lock-N-Load Powder Measure for accurate bullet powder charge
  • Sturdy and easy setup press
  • One year warranty

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Customer Reviews

Looking at these high ratings, it would be easy to say that most people were happy with their purchase.  However, in fairness there are still a handful of customers who have had a few negative things to say about the Hornady, with feedback such as, “I was disappointed in some of the items in this kit.”

Still, the overwhelming majority of users have reported great things to say about the product, with feedback such as, “I say it is great for a novice”; and “Great quality as one would expect from Hornady”.

Pros:

  • Includes a complete reloading handbook
  • Versatile since it works on most calibers
  • 3 Lock-N-Load Die bushing included

Cons:

  • Dies are sold separately

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is this reloading press made of cast aluminum or cast iron?

This particular reloading press is constructed from cast iron.

What are the sizes of the dies included?

Unfortunately, there are no dies included on this press; you would need to buy dies for every caliber that you wish to reload on this press.

Will other brands of die sets and shell holders work on this press such as RCBS?

Yes they will, you can use different standard dies from different brands on this press.

Conclusion

The Hornady 85003 Lock N Load Classic Reloading Press Kit is a great reloading press for most novice users who want to get into reloading and want a quality reloading kit that comes with almost everything needed. Together with its other accessories, you’re almost good to go, and the only other accessories you will need are your specific die sets depending on the calibers you’re using. The current price may be a bit higher when compared to other single states reloading presses, but then most other press reloaders do not come with nearly the same number of accessories that the Hornady kit does.

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