Hornady Extra Primer Tubes Small for Lock-N-Load Press

Elevate Your Reloading Efficiency: Essential Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Small Primer Tubes (3-Pack)

For the dedicated reloader, especially those who rely on the speed and precision of the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP progressive press, optimizing every stage of the ammunition production line is paramount. The journey from spent brass to perfectly primed cases is a critical step, and one that, if not managed efficiently, can introduce frustrating delays and bottlenecks into your workflow. This is precisely where the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Small Primer Tubes (3-Pack) become an indispensable asset, transforming your reloading experience from a stop-and-go chore into a seamless, continuous operation, allowing you to produce hundreds, even thousands, of meticulously primed cases with remarkable speed and consistency.

The Challenge of Priming: Why Automation is Key

One of the most common questions new and experienced reloaders alike ask is, "How can I speed up my reloading process without sacrificing quality?" While modern progressive presses like the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP are marvels of engineering, their full potential can only be realized when all ancillary components keep pace with the machine's inherent efficiency. Manually handling primers, loading them one by one into the press's priming system, or pausing to refill a single primer tube, breaks the rhythm of high-volume reloading. These interruptions accumulate, significantly reducing your output and increasing the time spent at the reloading bench. The solution lies in anticipating these needs and equipping your setup with accessories designed to maintain momentum.

Designed for Peak Performance: Hornady Quality You Can Trust

The Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Small Primer Tubes are specifically engineered to integrate flawlessly with your Hornady Lock-N-Load AP or Iron Press. Crafted from durable, high-quality polymer, these tubes are built to withstand the rigors of frequent use, ensuring reliable performance cycle after cycle. Each tube is designed to hold 100 small primers – encompassing both small pistol and small rifle primers – allowing for extended runs without the need for constant refilling. This generous capacity means fewer interruptions and more finished rounds.

Key Features and Benefits:

• Dedicated Small Primer Design: Specifically calibrated for small pistol and small rifle primers, ensuring smooth feeding and preventing jams.
• High Capacity (100 Primers per Tube): Minimize downtime by loading a full 100 primers, allowing for longer, uninterrupted reloading sessions.
• Durable Construction: Made from resilient materials, these tubes are built for longevity and consistent performance under demanding reloading conditions.
• Flawless Integration: Engineered to perfectly fit the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP and Iron Presses, ensuring secure attachment and reliable primer transfer.
• Value-Packed 3-Pack: This set provides you with three essential tubes, unlocking superior efficiency for your progressive reloading needs.

Mastering the Priming Process: How Extra Tubes Boost Your Output

"What's the best way to handle primers on a progressive press for maximum output?" This is a fundamental question for any reloader aiming for high volume. The answer is simple: pre-load and keep your machine running. With the Hornady Lock-N-Load AP system, primers are fed automatically from the tube into the priming station. Having multiple tubes pre-filled allows you to swap them out in mere seconds, rather than pausing your entire operation to load individual primers or refill a single tube.

Here’s how the process typically works and how these extra tubes enhance it:

1. Preparation: Place your small primers (e.g., CCI Small Pistol, Winchester Small Rifle, Federal Small Pistol Magnum) onto a primer flipper tray.
2. Loading Tubes: Gently shake the flipper tray until all primers are anvil-side up. Insert the Hornady primer tube over the primers, collecting them one by one until the tube is full (100 primers).
3. Press Integration: Insert the loaded primer tube into the designated slot on your Hornady Lock-N-Load AP or Iron Press. The press’s automated system will then feed a primer to the priming station with each stroke of the lever.
4. Seamless Swapping: As one tube empties, simply remove it and quickly insert a pre-filled tube. This quick exchange minimizes the interruption to your reloading rhythm, keeping the brass flowing and the primer punches working.

This simple yet effective strategy can dramatically increase your hourly output. Imagine loading 300 primers in advance, ready to go, rather than stopping every 100 rounds. This translates directly into more completed ammunition in less time, freeing you up for more shooting or other reloading tasks.

Why Extra Tubes Are Essential for Serious Reloaders

Many experienced reloaders ask, "Are extra primer tubes really worth the investment?" The answer is an unequivocal yes, especially for those involved in high-volume production, competitive shooting, or extensive practice. Beyond just minimizing downtime, having a 3-pack of these tubes offers several strategic advantages:

• Uninterrupted Production: The primary benefit is the ability to maintain a continuous reloading rhythm. No more stopping to load primers. You become a primer-loading machine, filling tubes in batches and then seamlessly feeding them into the press.
• Batch Versatility: If you reload multiple calibers that use small primers (e.g., .223 Rem, 9mm, .38 Special, .357 Mag, .300 BLK, .22 Hornet), you might use different brands or types of small primers (e.g., standard vs. magnum, pistol vs. rifle). Having dedicated tubes for each type helps maintain organization and prevents mixing primer types.
• Reduced Handling Errors: The less you handle individual primers, the lower the chance of dropping, orienting them incorrectly, or contaminating them. Pre-loading tubes in a controlled environment is far more efficient and safer than scrambling to load them during an active reloading session.
• Enhanced Organization: Keep your reloading bench tidy and efficient. Pre-filled tubes can be stored ready for action, rather than having primer boxes scattered around.
• Future-Proofing Your Setup: As your reloading volume grows, or if you diversify into more calibers, having these extra tubes means your priming station is already equipped to handle the increased demand without additional purchases down the line.

The Hornady Advantage: Precision, Reliability, and Support

When choosing reloading equipment, the brand matters. Hornady has built a stellar reputation over decades for producing high-quality, innovative, and reliable reloading tools and components. The Lock-N-Load AP system is a testament to their commitment to reloaders, offering unparalleled speed and precision. These primer tubes are not just generic accessories; they are precisely engineered components designed to be part of an integrated, high-performance system.

• Consistency: Hornady’s manufacturing standards ensure that each primer tube performs identically, feeding primers smoothly and consistently, shot after shot. This consistency is vital for building accurate and reliable ammunition.
• Durability: Unlike flimsy alternatives, Hornady products are built to last. These primer tubes are designed to withstand the repetitive actions of high-volume reloading, providing years of service.
• System Integration: The tubes are an integral part of the Lock-N-Load AP ecosystem. They fit perfectly, function flawlessly, and contribute to the overall efficiency and user-friendliness of the press. Choosing genuine Hornady accessories ensures that all parts of your system work together as intended.

Optimizing Your Workflow for Unmatched Output

"How do I maximize the output of my Hornady progressive press?" This question often comes down to eliminating micro-pauses. The Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Small Primer Tubes (3-Pack) are a direct answer to this. Consider a typical reloading session: while the press is in action, you might be decapping, sizing, expanding, or seating bullets. These tubes allow you to separate the primer loading process. You can spend 10-15 minutes at the beginning of your session loading all three tubes, giving you 300 primers ready to go. This might be enough for an entire evening's reloading or a significant portion of a larger batch.

This strategic approach significantly reduces the perceived effort of reloading. Instead of constantly monitoring primer levels, you can focus on the other critical operations, maintaining a steady, enjoyable pace. For competition shooters who need thousands of consistent rounds, or for casual shooters who simply want to spend more time shooting and less time reloading, this efficiency gain is invaluable.

Beyond the Basics: Care and Maintenance

To ensure your Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Small Primer Tubes provide years of reliable service, a few simple care tips are recommended:

• Keep Them Clean: Periodically wipe down the tubes with a clean cloth to remove any dust, primer residue, or debris that might accumulate. A clean tube ensures smooth primer travel.
• Store Properly: When not in use, store your tubes in a clean, dry place to prevent dust accumulation. Many reloaders use a small container or bag to keep them together.
• Inspect for Damage: While durable, it's always wise to quickly inspect your tubes for any cracks, deformities, or blockages before loading primers. This proactive check prevents potential feeding issues.
• Handle with Care: Though robust, avoid dropping the tubes, especially when loaded with primers, as this could damage them or cause primers to spill.

By incorporating these essential Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Small Primer Tubes into your reloading setup, you are making a direct investment in increased productivity, reduced frustration, and a more enjoyable reloading experience. They are not merely accessories; they are critical components for any reloader serious about maximizing the potential of their Hornady progressive press.

Discover the difference that streamlined priming makes for your reloading efficiency. These high-quality, purpose-built primer tubes are designed to help you produce more consistent, reliable ammunition with greater ease.

These Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Small Primer Tubes (3-Pack), SKU 050005, are available exclusively at DEGuns. Elevate your reloading game today.

Product Specifications

Feature	Detail	Benefits for You
Product Name	Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Small Primer Tubes (3-Pack)	Designed for seamless integration.
SKU	050005	Easy identification for ordering.
UPC	090255500059	Universal product code for tracking.
Primer Type	Small Pistol, Small Rifle	Versatile for common calibers.
Capacity	100 primers per tube	Minimizes reloading interruptions.
Quantity	3 Tubes per Pack	Allows for pre-loading and efficiency.
Compatibility	Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Press, Hornady Iron Press	Guaranteed fit and performance.
Material	Durable Polymer	Built to last through extensive use.
Problem Solved	Slow, interrupted priming workflow	Boosts reloading speed and consistency.