Hornady Lock-n-Load Bench Rest Powder Measure Review

The Real-Use Review: Precision Reloading with the Hornady Lock-n-Load Bench Rest Powder Measure

For over a decade, my hands have been equally at home amidst the controlled chaos of a workshop, the sterile precision of a laboratory, and the unforgiving realities of field environments. Through countless projects and rigorous testing, I’ve developed a keen eye for equipment that doesn’t just perform, but excels. This led me to the Hornady Lock-n-Load Bench Rest Powder Measure, a tool designed to elevate the accuracy and consistency of handloaded ammunition. My journey to this particular powder measure was prompted by a persistent desire for greater precision in my rifle reloads, specifically with certain types of powders that had proven finicky with my previous equipment. The idea of a dedicated benchrest model, promising enhanced accuracy, was too compelling to ignore. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid construction; the weight felt substantial, and the metal components exuded a confidence of durability. While I briefly considered other manufacturers known for their reloading gear, the integrated Lock-n-Load system and the promise of micrometer adjustments tilted the scales decisively toward Hornady. This tool felt like it was engineered to solve my specific reloading challenges, sparking a sense of anticipation for what it could achieve on my bench.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Lock-n-Load Bench Rest Powder Measure to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing regimen began on my dedicated reloading bench, a space familiar with the rhythmic click of presses and the fine dust of gunpowder. I started with Hodgdon CFE223, a spherical powder, as indicated by user feedback suggesting better performance with this type. The process of setting up the measure and calibrating it for my target charge weight was straightforward, largely due to the intuitive micrometer adjustment. As expected, it handled the CFE223 with remarkable consistency, delivering charges that were consistently within a tenth of a grain of my target. This initial experience was a significant improvement over what I’d previously achieved, offering immediate confidence in the unit’s capabilities for ball powders.

Extended Use & Reliability

After loading approximately 300 rounds of .223 Remington ammunition using the CFE223, the Hornady Lock-n-Load Bench Rest Powder Measure continued to perform admirably. The ease with which I could switch between powder lots or re-verify settings without losing powder was a game-changer. I also experimented with other spherical powders, like Alliant RL-15, and found the consistency remained exceptionally high. However, when I attempted to use extruded (stick) powders, such as IMR 4064, I encountered the limitations noted in some user feedback. While the measure could still dispense these powders, the resulting charges showed a greater degree of variation, often exceeding acceptable tolerances for benchrest shooting. This suggests that while the smaller metering chamber and specially designed insert excel with spherical powders, their effectiveness diminishes with irregularly shaped stick powders.

Despite this specific limitation, the overall durability and ease of maintenance have been excellent. The plated moving parts show no signs of wear, and the absence of required lubrication on the rotor means no sticky residue or the need for frequent cleaning. I’ve found that a simple puff of compressed air is usually sufficient to clear any residual powder dust after a long reloading session. Compared to previous, more basic powder measures I’ve used, this Hornady unit feels like a significant leap forward in both precision and user-friendliness, especially for its intended purpose.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Lock-n-Load Bench Rest Powder Measure

Specifications

The Hornady Lock-n-Load Bench Rest Powder Measure boasts a weight capacity adjustable from 20 to 65 grains. This range is well-suited for a vast majority of rifle and pistol cartridges, offering substantial flexibility for reloaders. The unit features a specially designed metering insert and a smaller metering chamber, which are crucial for promoting more consistent and uniform powder filling, particularly with finer, spherical powders. Its micrometer adjustment is a standout feature, providing positive and repeatable reference points for setting charge weights. The ability to install pre-set metering units with a simple button push allows for rapid changes between different loads or powder types without draining the hopper or complex disassembly. Hornady specifies that all moving parts have been plated for protection and long life, a detail that speaks to the expected longevity of the tool. Crucially, the rotor requires NO lubrication, simplifying maintenance and preventing powder contamination.

Performance & Functionality

When it comes to its core function – dispensing powder – the Hornady Lock-n-Load Bench Rest Powder Measure excels with spherical powders. For Hodgdon CFE223 and similar ballistics, the consistency is exceptional. I found charges to be consistently within +/- 0.1 grains of my set weight, which is critical for precision shooting and competitive reloading. This level of accuracy significantly reduces the guesswork and ensures that each round loaded has a nearly identical powder charge.

However, the unit exhibits a noticeable drop in precision when dealing with extruded (stick) powders. While it can dispense them, the variability in charge weights can be as high as +/- 0.5 grains, which is generally unacceptable for benchrest applications. This is a common challenge for many powder measures, but it’s important to acknowledge this limitation for those who primarily reload cartridges requiring stick powder. Despite this, the Lock-n-Load integration is a significant functional advantage, allowing for swift swapping of pre-calibrated powder measures.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Hornady powder measure is a blend of robust functionality and user-centric features. The predominantly red powder-coated exterior is not just for aesthetics; it feels substantial and well-finished. The main body is constructed from durable metal, giving it a premium feel and promising longevity. The micrometer adjustment dial is tactile and precise, offering satisfying clicks as you dial in your desired charge weight. It’s marked clearly, making it easy to record and recall settings.

The Lock-n-Load mechanism for swapping out metering inserts is brilliantly simple, requiring just a press of a button on the side of the chamber. This feature, combined with the optional drain tube insert (sold separately), makes powder management remarkably efficient. I haven’t encountered any ergonomic issues; the unit sits stably on the bench, and the lever action for dispensing is smooth and predictable. The smaller metering chamber, while contributing to accuracy with fine powders, does mean you’ll be throwing more charges for very large powder quantities, but this is a trade-off for the increased precision.

Durability & Maintenance

Hornady’s commitment to durability is evident in the build quality of this powder measure. The plated moving parts are a key indicator of its long-term viability. After several hundred reloads, I’ve observed no chips, scratches, or degradation in performance. The absence of a requirement for rotor lubrication is a significant advantage. It means less mess and no risk of lubricant contaminating your powder, which can affect burn rates.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick blast of compressed air usually suffices to clear residual powder after a session. For deeper cleaning, a soft brush and a damp cloth can be used on external surfaces. The internal metering chamber, designed for minimal powder retention, is also easy to access and clean if necessary. The optional drain tube insert further simplifies emptying the hopper, a task that can be tedious with other designs. This unit feels built to last for decades of regular use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The primary “accessory” that is often considered essential for this unit is the optional Drain Tube Insert. While not included as standard, this accessory allows for the rapid and easy return of powder from the hopper back into its original container without creating a mess. This is particularly useful when you need to switch powders or store the measure. The Lock-n-Load system itself is the main customization point; Hornady offers additional pre-set metering units, allowing users to dedicate a specific measure to a specific powder or charge weight. This significantly speeds up reloading when you’re switching between different calibers or load recipes. Beyond these, the unit is designed for bench mounting, so any standard reloading bench vise or mounting plate would be considered a complementary accessory for optimal stability.

Pros and Cons of Hornady Lock-n-Load Bench Rest Powder Measure

Who Should Buy Hornady Lock-n-Load Bench Rest Powder Measure?

This powder measure is an excellent investment for serious rifle reloaders who prioritize extreme precision and consistency, particularly those who load cartridges for competitive shooting, benchrest accuracy, or demanding hunting scenarios. If your go-to powders are primarily spherical (ball types), you will find this unit to be an invaluable addition to your reloading bench. It’s also ideal for reloaders who frequently switch between different cartridges or powder charges, as the Lock-n-Load system significantly streamlines this process.

Conversely, if you primarily load cartridges that require extruded (stick) powders and cannot tolerate variations greater than +/- 0.2 grains, you might find the performance with these types of powders less than satisfactory. In such cases, a different powder measure specifically designed for stick powders, or a combination of measures, might be a better solution. For those just starting out with reloading or who only load a few common pistol calibers, a more basic and less expensive powder measure might suffice. Recommended complementary items would be the optional Drain Tube Insert for efficient powder management and additional pre-set metering units if you plan to use multiple powder types frequently.

Conclusion on Hornady Lock-n-Load Bench Rest Powder Measure

The Hornady Lock-n-Load Bench Rest Powder Measure is a purpose-built tool that delivers on its promise of enhanced precision, specifically for reloaders using spherical powders. Its robust build, coupled with the intuitive micrometer adjustments and the swift Lock-n-Load system, makes it a joy to use and a significant upgrade for any reloading bench focused on accuracy. While its performance with stick powders is a notable limitation, for those who prioritize consistency with ballistics, this unit offers an exceptional level of accuracy that can elevate the quality of handloaded ammunition. The $179.49 price point is justified by the superior precision and user-friendly design it brings to the reloading process, especially when considering the long-term benefits of reduced ammunition variance. For the dedicated rifle reloader seeking to wring every bit of accuracy from their loads with spherical powders, I wholeheartedly recommend the Hornady Lock-n-Load Bench Rest Powder Measure. It’s a solid investment in the pursuit of reloading excellence.