Value of NIB Hornady Apex loader

[dakotashooter2]

I have the opportunity to buy a NIB Hornady Apex 3.0 for about $85. I suspect this is a great bargain but would like to know how great. What was original value? I found one on auction but the starting price was ridiculously low and I suspect when the auction ends in 8 days it will be more than $85. I have to move on this one within a day or two or I fear it will be gone.

[Bob_K]

Can't say for sure, but I can give you some information.  I looked up the Apex Model in the 16th edition of Handloader's Digest/1997.  The models they list are the Hornady Apex 3.1 Auto (a progressive), and the Hornady Apex 3.1 Standard (a single stage).  That means your 3.0 press is older than these.  The list price for the 3.1 was $299.95 for the 12 & 20 ga progressive, $329.95 for the 28 and .410 ga progressive.  The single stages went for $109.95 and $119.95 in those gauges.

I don't believe Hornady markets the Apex any more, so parts for the 3.0 model may be hard to get.  If Hornady still has parts, it may be possible to upgrade to the 3.1 version (but I don't know what the improvements between the two models were).