The Hornady PTX Universal Powder Drop Expander for 45 Colt (.452/.454-inch, part no. 290036) threads directly into a Case Activated Powder Drop on a Lock-N-Load AP progressive press. Instead of running a separate expander die to flare the case mouth, the powder drop itself expands the case at .452/.454 inch as it meters powder, which frees up a press station for a taper crimp die or a powder cop instead. It works with both lead and jacketed bullets at this diameter, making it a flexible choice for reloaders loading 45 Colt on a Hornady progressive setup.

Key Specifications

• Sized to a .452/.454-inch bore diameter, matching 45 Colt bullets specifically.
• Threads into the Case Activated Powder Drop on a Lock-N-Load AP press in place of a separate expander die.
• Frees up an extra press station for a taper crimp die or a powder cop when you drop the standalone expander die.
• Works with both lead and jacketed bullets in this diameter.
• A drop-in replacement or spare for reloaders already running the Case Activated Powder Drop system.
• Weighs approximately 1.6 oz shipped, light enough to keep several on the bench or in a range bag.

Frequently Asked Questions

What diameter is this expander? This PTX expander is sized to .452/.454 inch, matching 45 Colt bullets.

What press does it work with? It threads into Hornady’s Case Activated Powder Drop, used on Lock-N-Load AP presses.

Does it replace my expander die? Yes, using this PTX expander in the Case Activated Powder Drop frees up the die station a standalone expander die would otherwise occupy.

Buy the Hornady PTX Universal Powder Drop Expander 45 Colt (.452/.454)

Free up a press station and expand 45 Colt cases in the same step as powder drop. Order from our reloading dies lineup and our Lubbock, Texas team can help confirm the diameter matches your bullets.