NEW from Hornady: The Lock-N-Load Classic Pro Press

Hornady has long been known for their great selection of presses. The original Classic Press has led that line, but now… Hornady has released the Classic Pro Single-Stage Press! This release brings some upgraded features that we’ll unpack in this video. Check it out!

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About the Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic Pro Press

Many have relied on Hornady’s single-stage Classic Press over the years and it is a long-lasting, versatile tool. Hornady decided to upgrade their classic model with the Classic Pro, adding new bushings and die storage!

The die storage plate accommodates two Lock-N-Load bushings, so you can store two dies or even a powder measure.

It can be flipped to the left or right side—user preference—and connects to the main press with two Allen screws. The press handle simply threads in.

From Hornady:

Built on the rock‑solid foundation of the trusted Classic Press, the Classic Pro features precision‑machined surfaces, linkage pins, brass bushings, and primer cups for tighter tolerances that provide a smoother feel and consistent results. Its integrated grease zerk and internal grease groove make maintenance quick and easy, keeping your press operating at peak performance for years to come. The innovative Lock‑N‑Load® Die Caddy keeps your dies and tools right where you need them and can double as a powder measure stand. Whether you’re a competitive match shooter or a weekend reloading hobbyist, choose the accuracy, durability, and convenience you demand, with the Hornady® Lock‑N‑Load® Classic Pro.

LOCK‑N‑LOAD®

At the heart of this new press is the legendary Hornady Lock‑N‑Load® die bushing system for fast, easy die swaps and repeatable, consistent accuracy.

Machined Precision

Cast aluminum frame and toggle with precision machined surfaces for exceptionally tight tolerances and repeatable accuracy.

Smooth Operation

Brass bushings and polished steel components provide a silky smooth, consistent press stroke.

Easy Maintenance

Built‑in grease zerk and internal grease groove ensure consistent lubrication and long‑lasting performance.

Tool Organization

Integrated Lock‑N‑Load® Die Caddy keeps dies, Allen wrenches conveniently at hand and can double as a powder measure stand.

Built for Reloaders

Perfect for precision reloaders who value reliability, smooth operation, and easy upkeep.

Hornady built the Classic Pro to be as maintenance-free as possible with four new, self-lubricating brass bushings.

A built-in grease zerk and internal grease channel keeps the ram properly lubricated at all times.

What’s in the Box

Along with the press main assembly and handle, Hornady includes three Lock-N-Load die bushings, a catalog, primer catch tray, and Lock-N-Load plate.

Also included are both large and small primer-loading assemblies.

These primer-loading assemblies simply drop into the press—no springs required!

Set-Up and Loading

I decided to load 6.5 Creedmoor ammunition, so I installed the large primer-loading assembly and the appropriate shellholder. I like to keep brass preparation as simple as possible.

My preferred method of lubing cases is to pour them into a zip-topped bag, spray some One-Shot inside, then close and shake the bag. I do this before setting up my resizing die so I can open the bag and let it off-gas some.

I secured my sizing die in one of the included Lock-N-Load bushings, and properly set the height. I resized and decapped each of my Lapua cases, checking several cases to verify the shoulder bump was consistent. It was exactly 0.002” each time, indicating the press and die were doing their jobs!

I immediately noticed just how smooth this upgraded press is. I was also pleased that the primer catch tray caught most of the debris. Not all primer catch systems are effective.

To prime brass, place a primer in the cup, and push the ram forward. I did note that this press allowed me to seat the primer deeper by pushing harder and farther on the ram. It did not bottom out at flush.

Hornady also offers an auto-priming accessory that automatically primes the primer cup for you. For priming larger quantities of cases, many people like to use a bench-priming system like the Hornady Versa-Prime.

Once I primed all of my cases, I charged them with H4350, keeping them upright in a Creedmoor Sports loading block.

I had decided to load a known recipe, but always remember to consult manufacturer references like Hornady’s reloading manual whenever you are working up a load. This is very important!

I relocated my sizing die to the die storage rack and set up my Hornady micrometer seating die.

I seated Hornady ELD-Ms and verified the base-to-ogive using a comparator.

All the readings were very consistent. I also measured concentricity on a Hornady LNL gauge.

All of the rounds I measured were within 0.003”. These results are a testament to the press and die combination.

Conclusion

I was very pleased with Hornady’s upgrades to their Classic press, particularly the smooth stroke and self-lubricating features.

I would have zero concerns shooting any of the ammunition I loaded during this session and was content with the ammunition consistency.

The press and die must work in concert to produce good ammunition and this combination certainly accomplished that. It’s always handy to have a single-stage!