Unlocking Precision Reloading: The Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure – Your Guide to Consistent Ammunition

Are you a dedicated handloader seeking to elevate your ammunition's performance, ensure unparalleled consistency, and streamline your reloading process? Whether you're a competitive shooter chasing sub-MOA groups, a hunter demanding reliable performance in the field, or a high-volume reloader looking to maximize efficiency, the challenge often lies in achieving perfectly consistent powder charges. Fluctuating powder weights can lead to significant variations in muzzle velocity, impact accuracy, and even compromise safety. This is where a state-of-the-art powder measure becomes indispensable, and the Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure stands out as an innovative solution designed to meet these exacting demands.

This comprehensive guide delves into how the Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure (UPC: 090255500691) revolutionizes powder dispensing, offering precision, speed, and unparalleled versatility for reloaders of all experience levels. Available from trusted retailers like DEGuns.com, this tool is an investment in your reloading success.

Why is Consistent Powder Charge Critical for Reloaders?

For anyone who handloads ammunition, the powder charge is the heart of the cartridge. It dictates the projectile's velocity, the pressure generated within the chamber, and ultimately, the accuracy of your shot. Inconsistent powder charges can lead to:

• Variations in Muzzle Velocity: Even small deviations can cause your bullet to hit higher or lower than intended, especially at longer distances.
• Reduced Accuracy: A consistent powder charge is fundamental for tight groupings. Without it, your carefully chosen components and precise bullet seating will be undermined.
• Safety Concerns: Both over-charges and under-charges can be dangerous. An over-charge can lead to excessive pressure, potentially damaging your firearm or causing injury. An under-charge can lead to a "squib" load, where the bullet becomes lodged in the barrel, which can also be hazardous if another round is fired behind it.
• Frustration and Wasted Components: Inconsistent results mean wasted time, effort, and expensive components without achieving desired performance.

Therefore, investing in a reliable, precise, and user-friendly powder measure isn't just a luxury; it's a necessity for serious reloaders.

The Hornady Lock-N-Load System: A Paradigm Shift in Powder Dispensing

What makes the Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure a game-changer compared to traditional systems? It's the unique combination of speed and precision, primarily facilitated by its revolutionary push-button release and interchangeable metering inserts.

1. Unmatched Speed and Efficiency: The Push-Button Quick-Change System

Imagine you're loading .223 Remington for a varmint hunt, and then you need to switch to .308 Winchester for a long-range practice session, or perhaps even a different powder for your .223 loads. With conventional powder measures, changing calibers or powder types typically involves:

• Emptying the powder hopper.
• Adjusting the metering screw, often involving trial and error with a powder scale.
• Recalibrating for the new charge, which can be time-consuming and prone to slight inconsistencies.

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure eliminates this tedious process. Its core innovation lies in the ability to:

• Pre-Set Charges: Reloaders can use multiple Lock-N-Load metering inserts, each precisely adjusted for a specific powder and charge weight for a particular caliber.
• Instant Swaps: When you need to change, simply push a button, remove the current metering insert, drop in a pre-set one, and you're ready to continue reloading with minimal downtime. This is particularly valuable for reloaders who work with multiple firearms or experiment with various load recipes.

This system doesn't just save minutes; it saves hours over the lifetime of the measure, drastically improving the throughput of your reloading bench. For high-volume reloaders or those who frequently switch between different ammunition types, this feature alone justifies the investment.

2. Precision Engineering for Consistent Charges

Beyond speed, the Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure is engineered for supreme accuracy. This precision is evident in several key design elements:

• Fine-Tune Adjustments: The metering insert's tension is adjustable via an "O" ring. This subtle tension allows for minute, incremental adjustments to your charge weight, enabling you to dial in your loads with extreme accuracy. You can make adjustments down to tenths of a grain with careful manipulation and a good powder scale.
• Tight Tolerances: The measure boasts an impressive 0.002-inch precision tolerance between the drum and rotor. This extremely tight fit is crucial for preventing powder binding, a common issue in less precise measures that can lead to inconsistent drops or even damage to the powder grains. It ensures a smooth, uninterrupted flow of powder into your cases.
• Versatile Dispensing Range: The system is designed to dispense a wide range of powder charges, from as little as 0.5 grains up to 75 grains, accommodating everything from small pistol cartridges to large magnum rifle loads. This wide range, combined with the quick-change inserts, makes it a truly universal tool for your reloading needs.
• Included Drop Tubes: The measure comes standard with both small and large drop tubes. The small tube is ideal for pistol and smaller rifle calibers, ensuring proper powder flow into the case mouth. The large tube is perfect for magnum rifle cartridges, accommodating larger powder charges and ensuring smooth funneling.

3. Robust Construction and Compatibility

Hornady is renowned for its commitment to quality, and the Lock-N-Load Powder Measure is no exception. Built from durable materials, it's designed to withstand years of rigorous use on your reloading bench.

• Standard Threading: The measure features standard 7/8"-14 threaded dies, making it highly compatible with virtually all reloading presses on the market, including single-stage, turret, and progressive presses. This universal compatibility ensures easy integration into your existing reloading setup.
• Mounting Plate Included: For added convenience and versatility, a sturdy mounting plate is included, allowing you to easily attach the powder measure to your reloading bench or a separate stand, providing a stable and secure platform for consistent operation.
• High Capacity Hopper: With a capacity of 265 grains, the powder hopper allows for extended reloading sessions without constant refilling, further enhancing efficiency.

Who Benefits Most from the Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure?

This innovative powder measure is an ideal choice for a diverse range of reloaders:

• The Precision Shooter: For those demanding the utmost accuracy for competition (e.g., F-Class, Benchrest) or hunting at extended ranges, the ability to fine-tune and consistently reproduce exact powder charges is paramount. The Lock-N-Load system ensures every cartridge performs optimally.
• The Multi-Caliber Enthusiast: If your reloading bench services multiple firearms across various calibers – from .38 Special to .30-06 Springfield – the quick-change inserts will dramatically reduce your setup time and frustration. No more emptying hoppers and tedious recalibrations for every caliber swap.
• The High-Volume Reloader: Production efficiency is key for reloaders processing thousands of rounds. The speed and consistency offered by this measure allow for higher output with less effort.
• The Experimenter: If you enjoy developing new loads, trying different powders, or tweaking charge weights to find the "sweet spot" for your firearm, the easy adjustability and quick interchangeability of the metering inserts make the process far more enjoyable and efficient.
• The Beginner Reloader Seeking Future-Proof Equipment: While easy enough for a novice to learn, the Lock-N-Load Powder Measure offers advanced capabilities that will grow with your reloading journey, eliminating the need to upgrade later as your skills and demands increase.

Integrating into Your Reloading Workflow

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure integrates seamlessly into the broader Lock-N-Load reloading ecosystem, though it functions perfectly well as a standalone unit with any standard press. For optimal use, consider pairing it with:

• A Reliable Powder Scale: Even with the precision of the Hornady measure, it's essential to verify your initial charge settings with a high-quality digital or beam powder scale. This ensures accuracy and safety.
• A Trickler (Optional): For extreme precision, especially when developing match-grade loads, a powder trickler can be used in conjunction with the measure to add tiny increments of powder until the exact desired weight is achieved on your scale.
• Hornady Lock-N-Load Dies and Press: While not strictly necessary, using other Hornady Lock-N-Load components, such as their quick-change die bushings, further enhances the speed and modularity of your entire reloading operation.

Investing in Quality, Investing in Results

Choosing the Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure (UPC: 090255500691) is an investment in the quality, consistency, and efficiency of your handloaded ammunition. It solves the common problems of time-consuming adjustments and inconsistent charges, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: producing superior ammunition that performs flawlessly. Its thoughtful design, precision manufacturing, and user-friendly features make it an indispensable tool for any serious reloader.

Experience the difference that Hornady innovation brings to your reloading bench. This product, like many other essential reloading components, is readily available from trusted sources such as DEGuns.com, ensuring you have access to the best tools for your passion.

Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	Hornady
Model	Lock-N-Load Powder Measure
MPN	050069
UPC	090255500691
Caliber Range	Multi-Caliber
Powder Capacity	265 Grains
Charge Range	0.5 - 75 Grains
Thread Size	7/8"-14
Precision	0.002" between drum and rotor
Color	Red
Weight	3.55 lbs
Included	Small & Large Drop Tubes, Mounting Plate