Hornady LNL Case Feeder Trouble: Looking for Tips and Insights

Ammunition & Reloading
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Seeking Help with Hornady LNL Case Feeder

I’m currently trying to optimize my reloading setup, and I’ve hit a bit of a snag with my Hornady Lock-N-Load Automatic Case Feeder. I’ve done some research but I’m still feeling a bit overwhelmed, so I thought I’d reach out to the community for suggestions and advice.

My Setup

I have the Hornady LNL setup along with a few different dies. The feeder generally works, but I’ve been having inconsistent feeding issues that I can’t seem to resolve. Here’s a breakdown of what I’m experiencing:

  • Feeding Issues: Sometimes the cases get stuck or don’t feed properly into the die, which slows down the whole process.
  • Calibration Problems: I’ve tried adjusting the height of the feeder, but it feels like it’s either too high or too low. I’m not sure what the correct settings should be for my die.
  • Material Types: I’ve been using a mix of brass cases, but I’m wondering if certain materials or sizes are causing these issues.

What I’ve Tried

  • Adjustments: I’ve made several tweaks to the feeder, including adjusting the throat and chute.
  • Cleaning and Maintenance: Regular cleaning and oiling have been part of my routine, so I don’t think that’s the main issue.
  • Consulting the Manual: I’ve read through the manual multiple times, but I still find myself confused about specific setups and adjustments.

Questions

  • Has anyone else experienced these feeding issues? What fixes did you implement to resolve them?
  • Any recommended settings or adjustments? I’m especially interested in what settings work best for various case types.
  • Where can I find additional resources or guides? Either videos that show setup or tips from experienced reloaders would be greatly appreciated!

If anyone has insights or personal experiences with the Hornady LNL case feeder, I would love to hear them. I’m really looking to improve my reloading process and make it as efficient as possible. Thanks in advance for any guidance!

2 Likes
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I had a tough time during the initial setup of my Hornady LNL Case Feeder. Make sure that the alignment of the feed tube is perfect; otherwise, cases can get stuck easily.

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Absolutely! I found that tweaking the height adjustment on the feeder made a huge difference. Have you checked that yet?

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I’ve read that the calibration process can be tricky. What’s the best way to make sure it’s done right before you start loading?

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The key is to test with a few cases in place. Start with the screw adjustments lightly tightened; when you see consistent feeding, tighten them down carefully.

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I’ve also run into issues with the hopper not releasing cases properly. Anyone have tips on how to fix that?

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That happened to me too! Check if there’s any obstruction or if the spring isn’t functioning as it should.

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Don’t forget to lubricate the moving parts. It really helps everything run smoothly. A little goes a long way!

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9

I think it’s also about finding the right case size that works well with the feeder. Have you experimented with different brands?

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Yes! I switched to a slightly larger brand and saw improvements. It’s surprising how much variance there can be.

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I love how lively this discussion is! :blush: Anyone up for sharing some troubleshooting tales? I’ve had quite a few!

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Oh, you have no idea! My last session ended with cases bouncing everywhere. Almost got a hernia laughing at myself!

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I’ve had my share of issues with the Hornady LNL Case Feeder! Misfeeds are the worst. Sometimes the cases don’t seem to want to drop correctly. A little adjustment on the feed plate usually helps.

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I feel you! I had similar problems until I noticed the case feeder was slightly out of alignment. A simple tweak fixed it right up!

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Has anyone tried cleaning the feed chute? I’ve noticed that debris accumulates and can cause jams. A good clean-out could save lots of headaches.

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Great point! I found that using compressed air helps to get rid of stubborn debris. It really improved the performance for me.

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Sometimes I think my case feeder has a mind of its own! Just when I think I’ve got it dialed in, it throws a fit. :crazy_face: Anyone else feel this way?

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Haha, right? I find that changing the types of brass you’re using can affect the feeding, too. Different styles can mean different problems!

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What about the settings for the feed rate? I’ve read that if it’s too fast, it can lead to jams. Slowing it down a bit might help.

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Absolutely! I had to fiddle with mine for a while. I settled on a medium pace and it seems to work best for me.

3 Likes