Hornady Lock-N-Load Cast Iron Reloading Press - Model 085520

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Cast Iron Reloading Press is a heavy-duty single-stage press built for handloaders who demand precision and durability. This cast iron press is engineered with a rigid frame that's one of the heaviest in its class at 26 pounds assembled weight—that mass translates to rock-solid stability during the full-length sizing, bullet seating, and primer operations that define consistent ammunition production. Whether you're working up loads for competition rifles, hunting rounds, or general target shooting, the Iron Press delivers the consistency that separates quality handloads from average ones.

Built around Hornady's patented Lock-N-Load bushing system, the press lets you swap dies and primers in seconds without wrestling with complicated setups. The manual priming system, combined with the spring-assist 1 1/8-inch solid steel ram, makes each stroke smooth and controlled. The standout feature here is the patented Shell Holder Platform—it lets you pause mid-cycle, remove the case for chamfering, deburring, or neck cleaning, then drop it back in and finish the prime. That flexibility is a game-changer for precision reloaders who take case prep seriously.

The Accessory Mounting Deck transforms your workspace by giving you organized, within-reach access to your tools. Mount a primer tray, case tray, chamfer/deburr tool, case neck brush, or primer pocket cleaner directly to the deck—keeping your most-used items close and your bench efficient. The press follows the same mounting pattern as Hornady's AP and Classic presses and the RCBS Rock Chucker, so if you're upgrading or running a multi-press setup, compatibility isn't an issue. Ambidextrous operation means lefties and righties both get a comfortable, natural stroke.

This is a press for reloaders who understand that tight tolerances and rigid construction pay dividends in round-to-round accuracy and long-term reliability. It's the foundation of a serious reloading bench.

Key Features

• Heavy cast iron frame—26 pounds assembled weight for industry-leading rigidity
• Patented Lock-N-Load bushing system for quick die and primer changeovers
• Patented Shell Holder Platform allowing mid-cycle case removal for prep work
• Spring-assist 1 1/8-inch solid steel ram for smooth, powerful operation
• Accessory Mounting Deck for organized placement of case prep and priming tools
• Manual priming system with ambidextrous operation
• Compatible mounting pattern with Hornady AP/Classic presses and RCBS Rock Chucker

Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the Hornady Iron Press with other reloading equipment I already own?

Yes. The Iron Press uses the same mounting pattern as the Hornady AP press, Hornady Classic press, and RCBS Rock Chucker, so it integrates with existing setups if you're upgrading or running multiple presses. The patented Lock-N-Load bushing system is standard on this press, making die swaps fast and repeatable.

What makes the Shell Holder Platform unique?

The patented Shell Holder Platform allows you to pause the reloading cycle, remove the case, and perform prep work such as chamfering, deburring, or neck cleaning—then replace the case and continue the prime. That feature sets it apart from typical single-stage presses and is especially valuable for precision reloaders who take case prep seriously.

Is an Automatic Priming System included, or do I need to buy one separately?

The Iron Press comes with a manual priming system. The gravity-fed Automatic Priming System is sold separately or as part of a complete Lock-N-Load Iron Press Reloading Kit.

What can I mount on the Accessory Mounting Deck?

The Accessory Mounting Deck is designed to hold a range of reloading tools and organizers, including primer trays, case trays, chamfer and deburr tools, case neck brushes, and primer pocket cleaners. It keeps your most-used items within easy reach and organized on your bench.