Hornady Lock-N-Load Single Stage Primer Pocket Swage Tool (223/5.56 ONLY)

The Hornady Lock-N-Load Single Stage Primer Pocket Swage Tool for 223/5.56 is a precision reloading instrument designed to remove crimps from cartridge case primer pockets without creating trimming debris. Unlike traditional cutting methods that generate brass shavings and mess, this swage tool uses mechanical pressure to collapse crimps cleanly and efficiently, preserving case integrity and maintaining a tidy reloading workspace. The adjustable swage depth accommodates variations across major case manufacturers, ensuring consistent results whether you're processing once-fired military brass or commercial ammunition casings.

For serious reloaders who process high volumes of 223/5.56 brass—particularly those working with Lake City or Boxer-primed military cases—the swaging approach eliminates secondary deburring steps and reduces cleanup time. The adjustable depth feature is critical because primer pocket dimensions vary between manufacturers; setting the tool correctly ensures you remove crimps without over-swaging, which can deform the pocket and compromise primer seating. Mounted in a single-stage press, the tool operates as a straightforward mechanical device with no consumable components, making it a one-time investment for reloaders committed to the format.

This tool is essential for precision-focused reloaders working with 223 Remington and 5.56 NATO ammunition who demand clean, repeatable results. Competition shooters, designated marksmen, and high-volume shooters benefit most from the time savings and the elimination of brass debris. Reloaders processing mixed brass lots or military surplus 5.56 brass will find the adjustable depth feature particularly valuable, as military-grade primer pockets are notoriously variable and sometimes heavily crimped. The compact design—1.45 x 1.4 x 5.75 inches—fits standard bench setups without consuming significant space.