If you've ever re-set a die after threading it in and out of a press, you know why bushings exist. Every swap risks losing your setting. With a bushing system, you set the die once, lock it into its bushing, and from then on you just twist the bushing in and out. It's one of the most practical upgrades for anyone using a single-stage press.
This is purely an equipment comparison. No load data, seating numbers or component advice appear here. Use a current published manual for all of that.
How each system works
Lee Breech Lock bushings thread onto the die and then lock into the press with a partial turn, a bit like a bayonet mount. Lee builds Breech Lock into several of its presses, including Breech Lock versions of the Classic Cast and Challenger presses.
Hornady Lock-N-Load bushings also thread onto the die and lock into the press with a short twist. They're standard on Hornady's Lock-N-Load Classic single-stage press and the Lock-N-Load AP progressive press.
In practice both feel similar: put the die in its bushing, set it, then twist to install or remove.
Side-by-side
| Feature | Lee Breech Lock | Hornady Lock-N-Load |
|---|---|---|
| Native presses | Lee Breech Lock presses | Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic and AP |
| Add to other presses | Lee sells update kits for some older Lee presses | Hornady Lock-N-Load Conversion Kit for many 7/8-14 presses |
| Works on a progressive | Lee's own designs only | Yes, on the Lock-N-Load AP |
| Cost per bushing | Lower | Higher |
| Interchangeable with the other? | No | No |
Compatibility and kit contents can change, so confirm the current details for your exact press model before buying.
Adding bushings to a press that doesn't have them
This is where Hornady has an edge for many people. The Hornady Lock-N-Load Conversion Kit screws into the standard 7/8-14 die hole of many single-stage presses, including popular RCBS and Lee models, and turns it into a Lock-N-Load press. That means an existing Rock Chucker or similar press can use the same bushings as a Hornady AP later.
Lee's Breech Lock update kits are aimed at certain Lee presses with larger thread openings. Check Lee's current listings to see whether one fits your press.
If you own a press without either system and want bushings, the Hornady conversion kit is often the more flexible route. If you're buying a new Lee press, buying the Breech Lock version from the start is simpler.
Cost when you own many dies
Bushings are small purchases, but they add up. Most rifle sets need two bushings, and many pistol sets need three or four. If you load ten cartridges, you could need thirty bushings or more.
Lee's bushings are usually less expensive per piece. Hornady's are typically sold in multi-packs. Make a quick count of dies you'd want in bushings and price it out both ways. Our tool-head and quick-change strategy guide has a simple way to plan this.
A simple way to price it out
Write down each cartridge you load and the number of dies in its set. A typical two-die rifle set needs two bushings; a three- or four-die pistol set needs three or four. Add any universal decapping die, crimp die or specialty die you'd like to keep set up. Multiply by the per-bushing cost on each system, then add a conversion kit if your press needs one.
Most people find the total is smaller than they feared but larger than they guessed. You don't have to buy everything at once. Start with bushings for the cartridge you load most and the dies you swap most often, then add more over time. Leaving a rarely used die set in its box without bushings is fine; you'll only readjust it on the few days you use it.
Lock rings and holding your setting
A bushing is only as good as the die's lock ring. If the ring slips, the die moves in the bushing and your setting changes.
- Lee Breech Lock bushings use Lee's own locking design; follow Lee's setup instructions closely.
- Hornady bushings use the die's own lock ring. Many owners pair them with Hornady Sure-Loc rings, which clamp with a set screw.
Either way, check your setting the first time you reinstall a die. A quick measurement on a test case confirms nothing moved.
Storage and labeling
Bushings make storage easier, because each die and its bushing stay together. Label every bushing or die box with the cartridge and die type. Some owners use colored paint pens or labels on the bushing itself.
Store dies in their boxes or a dedicated rack so the settings aren't bumped. Our guide to die storage has more ideas.
The picks
Which system should you pick?
- You own or are buying a Lee Breech Lock press: Breech Lock.
- You own a Hornady press, or plan to buy a Lock-N-Load AP: Lock-N-Load.
- You own another brand of single-stage and want bushings: the Hornady conversion kit is usually the most flexible route.
The worst choice is owning both. Bushings don't cross over, so you'll end up with dies that only fit half your presses. For more on picking a press, see our die bushings guide.
Whichever system you choose, buy a few extra bushings than you think you need. New cartridges have a way of showing up on the bench, and it's nice to set up a new die the same day it arrives.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Hornady bushings in a Lee press?
Not directly. The systems are different. You can install the Hornady Lock-N-Load Conversion Kit in many presses with a standard 7/8-14 die opening; check compatibility for your Lee model.
Do bushings affect die alignment?
They're designed to hold dies in line. Any slip usually comes from a loose lock ring, so check that first if your settings change.
Do I need bushings on a turret or progressive press?
Not usually. Turret heads and toolheads already keep dies set up. Bushings mainly help single-stage presses and Hornady's AP.
How many bushings do I need?
One per die you want to keep set up. Count your dies across every cartridge you load.
Where do I get load data?
From a current published reloading manual, used exactly as written. This site doesn't publish load data.
Can I move bushing-mounted dies between two presses?
Yes, if both presses use the same bushing system. That's one of the main benefits. Check the setting with a test case the first time you move a die to a different press.
Editorial note: This comparison draws on manufacturer information, retailer listings and published references. We haven't tested these systems hands-on for this article. Compatibility, kit contents and prices change, so confirm details for your press before buying. We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases through links on this page.
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