Opinions on the Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic Reloading Kit

winchester1852 said:
Just trying to get my feet wet any opinions on this press are welcomed or better options. I would be reloading 30-06 primarily.
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I have one and I probably wouldn't buy it if I didnt get it for a steal nearly new. ($100)

The powder measure is great, the priming tool is OK, the scale is crap, the press is sloppy.
I don't like that the press is operated with the right hand and fed from the left side.
I also have a Lee 50th Anniversary kit which I bought new 5 years ago for $79USD.
I use that press much more because it is operated with the left hand and loaded with the right hand.

I wouldn't buy a kit, i would piece one together.
First choice of press would be the Forster Co-Ax, second would be the Lee Classic Cast.
I would use the Hornady or RCBS powder measure which are nearly identical.
I would use RCBS chamfer, deburring, primer pocket uniforming tools
I would buy a Jennings Mack 20 scale or if it is in the budget an RCBS Chargemester (Both are much cheaper in the USA)
Any scale that is repeatable, can measure 0.1grains, has a power adapter and does not shut off by itself will do.

As for dies I have all brands up to and including Redding Custom Competition dies worth nearly $400 a set.
I really like Lee dies even if the finish isn't as nice as others.
It is nearly impossible to break their decapping rods and I have had very good results with them out to 600M.

The reason I wouldn't buy the Lee 50th Anniversary kit if I were you is that the frame of the press is a little small once you get to the length of a 30-06.
I do load 30-06 on it but if i was loading hundreds of rounds I would look at the other 2 options above.
 
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