Maintaining your reloading equipment is crucial for consistent and safe reloading practices. One often-overlooked component is the decapping pin, a vital part of your Hornady press that removes spent primers from fired cases. Over time, these pins can wear down, leading to incomplete decapping, damaged cases, or even dangerous malfunctions. This guide will walk you through identifying the need for a replacement, selecting the right replacement pin, and performing the replacement safely and efficiently.
Identifying the Need for a Hornady Decapping Pin Replacement
Several signs indicate your Hornady decapping pin needs replacing:
- Incomplete Decapping: If you're finding spent primers still lodged in cases after decapping, it's a clear sign of a worn or damaged pin. This can lead to further complications down the reloading process.
- Bent or Damaged Pin: Inspect your decapping pin regularly. Bending, chipping, or significant wear are all indicators that replacement is necessary. A damaged pin can cause inconsistent decapping and potential case damage.
- Loose Pin: A loose decapping pin will not effectively remove primers, resulting in incomplete decapping and potential safety hazards. Check for any play or movement in the pin.
- Difficult Decapping: If you're experiencing significantly more resistance during the decapping process than usual, this could suggest a worn-out decapping pin that is no longer effectively engaging the primer.
Choosing the Right Replacement Decapping Pin
Hornady offers a range of decapping pins, and choosing the correct one is essential. The type of pin needed depends on your specific Hornady press model and the caliber(s) you're reloading. Incorrect pin selection will compromise the decapping process. Always refer to your Hornady press's manual to confirm the correct pin size and type.
Key Considerations:
- Press Model: Different Hornady press models (e.g., L-N-L AP, Lock-N-Load) may require different decapping pin sizes and designs.
- Caliber: While some pins are universal, others are designed for specific calibers or case types. Using an incorrect pin can result in incomplete decapping or even damage to your cases.
- Material: Decapping pins are typically made of hardened steel. Look for high-quality pins that are resistant to wear and tear.
Replacing Your Hornady Decapping Pin: A Step-by-Step Guide
This process can vary slightly depending on your Hornady press model. Always consult your press's manual for specific instructions. The following steps provide a general overview:
- Safety First: Before beginning any maintenance, ensure your press is completely unloaded and that all ammunition is safely stored away.
- Disassembly: Carefully disassemble the decapping assembly according to your press's instructions. This typically involves removing the shell plate and decapping assembly components.
- Remove the Old Pin: Gently remove the old decapping pin. Pay close attention to how it's positioned within the assembly to ensure correct reinstallation.
- Install the New Pin: Insert the new decapping pin, ensuring it's properly seated and aligned. Refer to your press's manual for proper orientation and alignment.
- Reassembly: Carefully reassemble the decapping assembly, following the instructions in your press's manual. Double-check that all components are correctly positioned.
- Test: Before beginning your reloading, conduct a test run with a few fired cases to ensure the new pin is functioning correctly.
Maintaining Your Decapping Pin for Long-Term Performance
Regular maintenance will extend the life of your decapping pin and help prevent problems.
- Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect your decapping pin for signs of wear, damage, or looseness.
- Lubrication: Keep the decapping pin and surrounding components well-lubricated to reduce friction and wear.
- Proper Case Handling: Avoid dropping or mishandling cases to prevent unnecessary stress on the decapping pin.
By following these steps and performing regular maintenance, you can ensure your Hornady decapping pin remains in top condition, ensuring safe and efficient reloading for years to come. Remember, consulting your Hornady press manual is crucial for specific instructions and safety guidelines.
