Hornady Lock & Load AP - what else would I need?

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TheJuggernaut

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I can't figure out what exactly comes with the press. Right now, I'm thinking I'd like the press and the case feeder, or maybe even the loading station - the Brownells price on the station is quite appealing.

For those with this press, what else do I need to get?

I know it comes with no dies, so I'd need a set for each caliber. Do I need to get the Lock & Load bushings for each set, or does it come with at least one set of bushings?

Does it come with at least one shell plate? If it does, what calibers does it support?

I'm only interested in handgun calibers (namely 40S&W, 9mm and later 45ACP and 50AE). Would I need different primer pickups, tubes or anything else?

I would also need a scale and a cleaner. What's an acceptably accurate yet cheap scale (Hornady GS-1500?)? How about a tumbler? Are the ultrasonic worth the extra $?

Thanks!
 
The hornady is a great set up as this is the same as what I use. You will want to buy a set of bushings as the dies don't come with any. The calibers that you list require large and small primer tubes which are included. As for a scale I would look into a Gempro 250, google the scale, its awesome for precision work as well as general weighing. I would get a tumbler to polish the brass, and wash the caseings in vinegar and soapy water prior to tumbling to keep your media staying clean, this way you save the money on a ultrasonic and invest in Bullets:). The shellplates are also not included. A great site that I buy online from for reloading supplies is out of the states called Grafs.com

Good Luck!
Evan
 
Thanks for the info! Crazy prices at Grafs, will definitely go with them!

Do you have the case and/or bullet feeders too? Would you recommend either? To be honest, part of the appeal for me is the nerdyness of this process, so I can actually see an upside to placing cases and/or bullets by hand. Then again... maybe it will get old fast.

Do I really need a scale that expensive? I don't mean to sound cheap, I'm just not sure how accurate a $30 Hornady scale is, in that, even if it's half a grain off, does that really matter when loading 180gr 40S&W?
 
Grafs is a great site. You may have to call them to place your order and ask for USPS shipping. You don't have to go with such an expensive scale but you might want one if you get into rifle loading. I had a cheaper scale and don't use it (buy once, cry once). I don't have the ammo plant kit with the brass and bullet feeder and I can manage to reliable load about 120 rounds an hour which is fairly fast, especially if you are not used to reloading with a progressive (errors happen really fast). Another great thing to think of getting would be a bullet prep center, I find it really speeds up doing quality reloads in regards to primer seating etc.

here is a picture of my setup
July232012


Evan
 
Thanks Evan. So does the press by itself come ready to go, besides the shell plate and die set? (like I don't need primer pick up tubes or anything else)

I think your photo is set to private, won't load for me..,
 
No, there is alot of setup for the press. It will take you about 3 hours with some swearing trying to work out some kinks. Once setup it is trouble free. You won't need any primer tubes etc. If you look at the "reloading in an apartment thread" in this section you will see my picture. I'm on a work computer which is why it might not load
 
Sorry, what I mean by that is, is everything that I need to start loading, besides the raw materials and shell plate/dies, in the box? Or are there other doodads that I will need to buy?

Thanks, checking out the thread now.
 
Yes, what comes in the box aside from dies etc will get you on your way to start loading. Check out a website called "ultimate reloader", they have some great instructional videos
 
TheJuggernaut said:
Sorry, what I mean by that is, is everything that I need to start loading, besides the raw materials and shell plate/dies, in the box? Or are there other doodads that I will need to buy?
Click to expand...

Some other MUST haves are;
-scale
-measuring device for OAL
-way to clean brass
-good lighting to see the amount of powder in a case and/or powder cop type die. When something buggers up and you don't do a full cycle of the handle I have seen several people double charge. Easy to fix if noticed.

A progressive will have a larger learning curve but you can do it.
 
I just bought a LNL from Frontier Firearms for $489 abd they give you a free shell holder. The press comes with 5 bushings but I bought a pack of 10 to go with it. So far I love the press but trying to find a shop who keeps all the parts in stock is a bit of a PITA.

For every spare caliber I load on it I got an extra Hornady powder die, metering rod for powder measure, shell plates and use 4 bushings per caliber.
 
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