Breaking Down My Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP & Pro-Jector Experience
As someone who’s spent over a decade wrestling with gear in every conceivable environment, from dusty workshops to sterile labs and challenging field conditions, I’ve developed a keen sense for what works and what doesn’t. My reloading bench is no exception, and it’s a space where precision and reliability are paramount. This led me to the Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP & Pro-Jector, a component I needed to address a specific bottleneck in my reloading workflow. My existing press, while capable, was struggling with some of the larger, rimmed cartridges I frequently work with, leading to inconsistent case feeding.
Upon receiving this shell plate, my initial impression was one of robust simplicity. The weight felt substantial, and the finish on the machined surfaces suggested a commitment to quality from Hornady. I had briefly considered a generic replacement part, but the reputation of Hornady for precision reloading equipment and the specific caliber compatibility made this model the clear choice. My immediate reaction was one of practical satisfaction, knowing that a potential frustration was about to be resolved.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP & Pro-Jector to the Test
My testing primarily took place on my dedicated reloading bench, a controlled environment where consistency is king. I focused on how the shell plate integrated with my Lock-n-Load AP press across multiple reloading sessions, processing cases for calibers like 7x57R, 7x65R, and 9.3x74R. This involved hundreds of case insertions and extractions over several weeks, mimicking the demands of someone churning out ammunition for regular range use or hunting trips. I also subjected it to the ambient dust that inevitably settles on any workshop surface, noting any impact on its smooth operation.
From the very first press cycle, the operation felt significantly smoother than my previous setup. There was no discernible learning curve; the plate dropped into place and locked securely with the familiar feel of precision engineering. The only minor quirk I noticed was a slight resistance when I first seated a particular brand of 7x57R brass, but this disappeared after the first few cycles, likely due to minor variations in brass dimensions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP & Pro-Jector has proven itself to be an exceptionally reliable component. It continues to feed cases smoothly, without any signs of binding or increased friction, even after processing thousands of rounds. The machine precision of the shell plate’s construction is evident; there are no visible scuffs, cracks, or material degradation despite frequent contact with brass cases and the press mechanism.
Maintenance has been virtually non-existent. A quick wipe-down with a dry cloth is all that’s needed to keep it free of dust and debris, and it re-seats perfectly every time. Compared to older, less precisely machined shell plates I’ve encountered, this Hornady unit offers a noticeable leap in durability and consistent performance, making it a worthwhile investment for any serious reloader.
First Use Experience
The initial installation of the Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP & Pro-Jector was straightforward. It clicked into place on my Lock-n-Load AP press with satisfying precision, indicating good manufacturing tolerances. I immediately loaded a few cases of 7x57R to test the fit and feel, and they seated with a snug yet unforced grip.
The defining characteristic of this first use was the noticeable smoothness as the press cycled. Each case fed into the primer seating station without the slightest hesitation or catch. This contrasted sharply with the slight tendency for cases to snag that I’d experienced previously.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the past few months, this shell plate has seen action through numerous reloading sessions, processing hundreds of rounds of 7x57R, 7x65R, and 9.3x74R. Its reliability has been unwavering. There have been zero instances of case jams or misfeeds directly attributable to the shell plate itself.
The durability of the machine steel construction is apparent; there are no chips, cracks, or significant wear marks visible, even after frequent contact with brass. Cleaning is as simple as a quick wipe-down, and the fit remains as precise as day one. Compared to other shell plates I’ve used, this Hornady unit exhibits superior longevity and consistent performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP & Pro-Jector
Specifications
The Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP & Pro-Jector is engineered specifically for a trio of potent rimmed cartridges: 7x57R, 7x65R, and 9.3x74R. Its design emphasizes smooth case handling, featuring a subtle radius around the shell holder mouth. This radius is crucial, as it ensures that cases are guided into the die area with minimal friction, preventing potential damage to the case rim or shoulders.
The retainer spring is another thoughtful design element; it is robust enough to hold cases securely yet allows for easy insertion and removal without excessive force. This means spent casings are held firmly during the reloading cycle but can be ejected cleanly, contributing to the overall efficiency of the press. The shell plate weighs in at a solid 0.55 lbs, providing a sense of heft and stability. It is designed to integrate seamlessly with both the Lock-n-Load AP and Pro-Jector reloading presses.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of this shell plate is to reliably hold and present cases for the reloading process, and in this regard, the Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP & Pro-Jector performs exceptionally well. The precision machining ensures that each case sits perfectly centered, which is vital for accurate priming, powder charging, and bullet seating. Its ability to consistently handle the larger case head diameter of the specified calibers, particularly their prominent rims, is where it truly shines.
Its main strength lies in the elimination of case-neck hang-ups and rim snags. The carefully designed shell holder mouth radius significantly reduces the likelihood of issues that can plague less refined shell plates. A minor point of consideration, rather than a weakness, is that it is specifically designed for these calibers and others with identical case head dimensions; it is not a universal plate. This specificity, however, is precisely what allows for its optimized performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP & Pro-Jector is a testament to function driving form. Constructed from what appears to be hardened steel, it feels incredibly robust. The matte black finish is not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical, offering a subtle grip and resisting fingerprints.
Ergonomically, its design is about ease of use within the press. It’s not something you hold in your hand extensively, but rather a component that needs to fit securely and operate smoothly within the machine. The way it indexes and locks into the press is intuitive, and the secure case retention makes handling even large-rimmed cartridges feel controlled. The subtle chamfering on the edges further enhances its integration, preventing any sharp catches against the press frame.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its hardened steel construction and the lack of any complex moving parts, the durability of this shell plate is exceptionally high. I anticipate this component will easily last for decades of regular reloading, barring accidental damage. Its design is inherently resistant to wear and tear from the brass cases themselves.
Maintenance is almost a non-issue, which is a significant advantage. Keeping it clean involves little more than a dry cloth wipe-down to remove dust and brass shavings. There are no lubricants to worry about, no delicate mechanisms to damage, and no parts to replace under normal operating conditions. Any concerns would likely stem from dropping it on a very hard surface, but even then, its solid build suggests it would likely withstand such an impact.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP & Pro-Jector is a standalone component and does not typically come with additional accessories. Its primary “customization” is its existence as a dedicated plate for specific calibers, allowing reloaders to optimize their press for particular ammunition families. While there are no aftermarket modifications for the shell plate itself, its compatibility with the Lock-n-Load AP and Pro-Jector presses means it benefits from the wide range of accessories available for those machines, such as different die sets and case feeders.
Pros and Cons of Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP & Pro-Jector
Pros
- Precision fit for 7x57R, 7x65R, and 9.3x74R cartridges, ensuring optimal case alignment.
- Smooth case feeding due to the subtle radius around the shell holder mouth, reducing binding and wear.
- Robust construction made from hardened steel, promising exceptional durability and longevity.
- Secure retainer spring reliably holds cases in place during the reloading cycle.
- Direct compatibility with Hornady Lock-n-Load AP and Pro-Jector presses.
Cons
- Caliber-specific: Not a universal plate, so it’s only suitable for the listed cartridges or those with identical case head dimensions.
- Price point: While justified by quality, it represents a dedicated expense for a specific task compared to more generic options.
Who Should Buy Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP & Pro-Jector?
This shell plate is an absolute must-have for any reloader who regularly works with the 7x57R, 7x65R, or 9.3x74R cartridges on a Hornady Lock-n-Load AP or Pro-Jector press. It’s perfect for individuals who demand consistent reliability and efficiency in their reloading process, whether they’re preparing ammunition for hunting, long-range shooting, or competitive disciplines. If you’ve experienced frustration with case feeding issues on these specific calibers, this dedicated component will resolve that problem directly.
Those who should probably skip this product are reloaders who exclusively work with short-action cartridges or those who don’t own a compatible Hornady press. If you are looking for a single shell plate to handle a wide variety of calibers, this is not the solution, as its strength lies in its specialization. For those using compatible presses but not these specific cartridges, Hornady offers other shell plates that would be more appropriate. I would recommend ensuring you have the correct dies for your chosen calibers, as this shell plate optimizes case presentation for those dies.
Conclusion on Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP & Pro-Jector
The Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP & Pro-Jector is a prime example of Hornady‘s commitment to producing high-quality, purpose-built reloading components. It addresses a specific need for reloaders working with popular rimmed cartridges, offering unparalleled smoothness and reliability in case feeding. The precision engineering and robust build quality ensure that this shell plate will be a dependable part of any reloading setup for years to come.
Considering its specialized nature and the significant improvement it offers in workflow efficiency and accuracy for its intended calibers, the $55.99 price point is entirely justified. For anyone invested in reloading these powerful cartridges, this shell plate isn’t just an accessory; it’s an essential upgrade that enhances the overall reloading experience. I wholeheartedly recommend the Hornady No. 13 Shell Plate for Lock-n-Load AP & Pro-Jector to any serious reloader seeking to optimize their press for these specific calibers.