Hornady No. 56 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP and Pro-Jector Review

The Real Deal Behind the Hornady No. 56 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP and Pro-Jector

Reloading ammunition is a craft that demands precision, consistency, and reliable equipment. For those of us who spend hours at the reloading bench, even the smallest component can make a significant difference in the final product and the overall experience. This is precisely why I found myself in the market for a replacement shell plate for my Hornady Lock-N-Load AP press. My old one, while functional, had developed a slight wobble that was beginning to affect seating consistency, a cardinal sin in precision reloading. I needed a solution that offered rock-solid stability and the renowned durability synonymous with the Hornady brand.

The Hornady No. 56 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP and Pro-Jector caught my eye immediately. It’s designed to be a direct replacement, promising to bring back that factory-fresh precision to my press. Upon arrival, the initial impression was one of solid craftsmanship. It felt substantial, with a satisfying heft that immediately suggested it was built to last. The machining looked clean and precise, a promising sign for its intended purpose.

I had considered a few other options, including generic aftermarket plates, but the reputation of Hornady’s manufacturing and the specific mention of its compatibility with both the AP and Pro-Jector presses made this model the clear frontrunner. My immediate reaction upon holding it was a sense of anticipation and a bit of relief, knowing I was likely holding the solution to my press’s subtle, yet persistent, accuracy issue. This wasn’t just about a new part; it was about restoring confidence in my reloading process.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady No. 56 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP and Pro-Jector to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test for the Hornady No. 56 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP and Pro-Jector was, as expected, on my reloading bench. I was working on a batch of .223 Remington cartridges, a caliber I’ve reloaded thousands of rounds for, making it an excellent baseline for testing. The installation was straightforward; it clicked into place with a satisfying solidity that my old plate lacked.

The first few case insertions were remarkably smooth. The subtle radius on each shell holder mouth, a feature specifically highlighted by the manufacturer, was immediately apparent. It guided the brass cases with a gentle touch, preventing the usual fumbling and re-adjustments I’d become accustomed to. Even after a hundred rounds, the action remained consistent, with no hint of the looseness that had plagued my previous plate.

There were no immediate issues or surprises, which, in the world of reloading components, is often the highest praise. It performed exactly as it should, seamlessly integrating into the established workflow of the press. This initial experience set a positive tone, promising a return to the kind of accuracy I expected from my setup.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the past several weeks, I’ve put well over 500 rounds through my Lock-N-Load AP press with the new Hornady No. 56 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP and Pro-Jector installed. This included processing batches of .308 Winchester and 9mm Luger, exposing the plate to different case sizes and, consequently, different stresses. Its performance has remained exceptionally consistent throughout.

There are absolutely no signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, stiffness, or any decrease in function. The steel construction feels incredibly robust, and the precision machining means there’s no play or wobble developing, even under the full force of the press stroke during resizing. Cleaning is as simple as wiping it down with a dry cloth or a bit of degreaser if necessary; its robust material resists any staining or corrosion.

Compared to my previous experience with a worn-out shell plate, the difference is night and day. It also feels more substantial and precise than some generic alternatives I’ve encountered in the past, which often exhibit minor imperfections or a less refined feel. This shell plate truly upholds Hornady’s reputation for producing reliable, long-lasting reloading components.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady No. 56 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP and Pro-Jector

Specifications

The Hornady No. 56 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP and Pro-Jector is constructed from heavy-duty steel, a crucial detail that speaks volumes about its intended longevity and durability. This material choice ensures it can withstand the significant forces involved in resizing and seating operations without deforming or wearing down prematurely. The precision-machined nature of the plate means each of the precisely cut slots for the shell holders is uniform, which is paramount for consistent case alignment.

While the product description mentions “Quality Material,” the heft and feel undeniably point to high-grade steel. Its design is specific to the Lock-N-Load AP and Pro-Jector presses, featuring a proprietary mounting system that ensures a secure and wobble-free fit. The retainer spring is also a noteworthy feature, engineered to keep the shell holders securely in place during case insertion, preventing accidental dislodgement and streamlining the reloading process.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Hornady No. 56 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP and Pro-Jector is to hold cartridge cases securely and accurately in place during the reloading cycle. In this regard, it performs exceptionally well. The subtle radius on each shell holder mouth significantly aids in smooth and reliable case feeding, a critical aspect for maintaining a high rate of fire on an auto-progressive press.

Its greatest strength is the rock-solid stability it provides. This stability translates directly into improved accuracy and consistency in the reloading process, particularly in critical operations like case resizing and primer seating. I have experienced no failures, no binding, and no issues with case retention even when processing a wide variety of cartridge types and sizes. It simply does its job flawlessly, which is exactly what any reloader wants from a core component.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this shell plate is all about utilitarian efficiency and robust construction. Its heavy-duty steel build gives it a substantial feel, which inspires confidence in its durability. The finish is a no-nonsense, protective coating that is resistant to scratches and minor abrasions encountered on a busy reloading bench.

Ergonomically, it’s designed to be part of the press, so direct “handling” is minimal. However, the ease with which cases are presented and accepted into the shell plate slots speaks to excellent design execution. The retainer spring is a subtle but significant ergonomic improvement, making the process of loading new shell holders much less fiddly. It’s a component that gets out of your way and lets you focus on the task at hand.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its heavy-duty steel construction and precision machining, the durability of the Hornady No. 56 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP and Pro-Jector is expected to be exceptional. I anticipate this shell plate will outlast the press itself with regular use and basic care. The lack of complex moving parts, beyond the integrated retainer spring, minimizes potential failure points.

Maintenance is minimal, largely consisting of keeping it clean from powder residue or lubricant. A simple wipe-down is usually sufficient. There are no specific oils or lubricants required for the plate itself, and its inherent resistance to corrosion means it can handle the typical workshop environment without issue. It’s a component designed for a long service life with very little fuss.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady No. 56 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP and Pro-Jector does not typically come with additional accessories, as it is a specific replacement part for the press. Its primary “customization” is the ability to swap out the individual shell holders within its slots, a core function of the Lock-N-Load system. This allows users to quickly adapt the press for different calibers by simply changing the smaller shell holder inserts.

The strength of the Lock-N-Load system lies in this quick-change shell holder capability, and the No. 56 plate is integral to that. While there aren’t external accessories for the plate itself, its compatibility with Hornady’s own extensive line of shell holders ensures maximum versatility for any reloader.

Pros and Cons of Hornady No. 56 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP and Pro-Jector

Who Should Buy Hornady No. 56 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP and Pro-Jector?

This Hornady No. 56 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP and Pro-Jector is an absolute must-have for any serious reloader who owns a Hornady Lock-N-Load AP or Pro-Jector press and is experiencing issues with their current shell plate. If your press exhibits any play, wobble, or inconsistent case alignment, this replacement will restore that factory-new precision. It’s ideal for reloaders who prioritize accuracy, repeatability, and the longevity of their equipment.

Those who should probably skip this are individuals who do not own the specified Hornady presses, as it won’t be compatible. Also, if you’re looking for the absolute cheapest replacement part and are willing to sacrifice a degree of precision and durability, you might find less expensive options. For those who already have a perfectly functioning shell plate and are not experiencing any issues, an upgrade might not be immediately necessary, though the improvements in case handling are noticeable.

Conclusion on Hornady No. 56 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP and Pro-Jector

The Hornady No. 56 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP and Pro-Jector is a testament to Hornady’s commitment to producing high-quality, durable reloading equipment. It’s not a flashy gadget, but rather a fundamental component that, when executed perfectly, makes a significant difference in the reloading experience. The heavy-duty steel construction and precision machining provide the stability and accuracy that serious reloaders demand, while thoughtful design elements like the retainer spring and radius-edged slots enhance usability.

Considering its robust build, flawless performance, and the peace of mind it brings to the reloading bench, the price point feels justified. For anyone experiencing issues with their current shell plate on a compatible Hornady press, or simply looking to ensure their setup is performing at its peak, this model is a highly recommended replacement. It’s a component that silently contributes to better ammunition, proving that sometimes, the most critical upgrades are the ones you don’t immediately notice because they just work, perfectly.