Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler 220V Review

The Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler 220V: First Use to Final Thoughts

For any reloader, the quest for perfectly clean brass is a never-ending journey. My workshop, much like many others, had seen its fair share of ultrasonic cleaners and vibratory tumblers, each with its own set of compromises. I was on the hunt for something that could deliver a truly deep clean, especially on stubborn fouling, and the Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler 220V caught my eye. My previous tumbler, while functional, struggled with primer pockets and left a slight haze on some of my older brass. I considered some of the larger industrial tumblers, but their cost and footprint were prohibitive for my home setup. The promise of stainless steel media in a liquid bath offered a compelling alternative, and upon unboxing, the initial impression was one of solid construction and thoughtful design. There was an immediate sense of anticipation, a feeling that this might just be the solution I’d been looking for.

Real-World Testing: Putting Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler 220V to the Test

My testing began in my dedicated reloading space, a climate-controlled garage that’s my sanctuary for all things metallic. I focused on batches of .223 brass, some of it quite tarnished and others showing signs of heavy use with carbon fouling in the primer pockets. I ran multiple cycles, varying the duration from one hour up to the full three hours the timer allows, observing the results closely. The unit performed admirably in repeated use, consistently producing bright, clean brass without any noticeable drop in performance across sessions.

First Use Experience

The initial setup was straightforward; I primarily tested with stainless steel media and a small amount of the provided Frankford Arsenal Brass Cleaning Concentrated Solution. The tumbler is designed for a liquid bath, and I was initially concerned about potential leaks, a common issue with many wet tumblers. However, after my first few cycles, the dual-layer drum with its molded-in rubber lining proved to be quite effective at containing the solution. The clear end caps were a godsend, allowing me to visually track the progress without stopping the cycle, a feature I hadn’t realized I was missing until I had it.

The only minor hiccup during the first use involved ensuring the clear end caps were tightened sufficiently to prevent any water seepage. It requires a firm hand, as noted by other users, but once properly secured, they held firm. The noise level was present, a steady hum and tumble, but it was not excessively loud and far less dusty than my old vibratory tumbler, which was a significant improvement in my workshop environment.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, processing several thousand rounds of brass, the Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler 220V has held up remarkably well. There are no visible signs of wear on the drum’s lining, and the maintenance-free geared drive train has operated flawlessly, without any belt slippage or degradation. Cleaning the unit itself is also a relatively simple process; the drum detaches easily, and rinsing out the residual cleaning solution and media is quick.

Comparing it to my previous ultrasonic cleaner, this rotary tumbler delivers a superior clean, especially in reaching those hard-to-access areas like primer pockets. While my old vibratory tumbler was faster for light cleaning, it couldn’t match the deep, mirror-like shine this unit achieves with stainless steel media. The ease of emptying the contents, thanks to the sifting end caps, significantly streamlines the post-tumbling process, making brass prep less of a chore.

Breaking Down the Features of Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler 220V

The Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler 220V is built with the serious reloader in mind, offering robust features that contribute to its effectiveness. It boasts a substantial 7-liter capacity, which, as the user feedback suggests, can comfortably handle up to 1000 cases of .223 brass, making it suitable for those processing large volumes of ammunition. The unit operates on 230 volts, drawing a modest 60 watts, ensuring it’s efficient for its cleaning power.

The machine’s construction is clearly geared towards durability and ease of use. The dual-layer drum is a key component, featuring a molded-in rubber lining that serves a dual purpose: protecting the brass from scratches and significantly dampening the operational noise. This thoughtful design element contributes to a more pleasant user experience, especially during longer tumbling cycles.

Specifications

• Capacity: A generous 7-liter capacity allows for substantial batches of brass to be cleaned in a single cycle. This significantly cuts down on the time required for large volume reloading projects.
• Voltage: Operates on 230 volts, making it suitable for workshops or reloading areas equipped with this power standard. This is a crucial specification for users in regions where 230V is common.
• Power Consumption: A low 60W power draw ensures efficient operation without a significant impact on electricity bills. This is a testament to the engineering behind the unit’s motor and gearing.
• Drum Construction: The dual-layer drum is a notable feature, providing both structural integrity and insulation. It is lined with a molded-in rubber lining which is critical for preventing damage to the brass and for noise reduction.
• End Caps: The tumbler includes two types of end caps. Clear end caps allow for visual inspection of the cleaning process, a very practical design choice. The sifting end caps are designed to aid in separating the stainless steel media from the cleaned brass, simplifying the unloading process.
• Timer: A built-in timer on the base can be set for up to 3 hours, with automatic shut-off functionality. This frees up the user to attend to other tasks without needing to monitor the tumbler constantly.
• Drive Train: A maintenance-free geared drive train means no belts to worry about replacing, adding to the reliability and reducing ongoing upkeep requirements. This is a significant advantage over belt-driven systems.
• Included Media: Comes with 5 lbs of stainless steel media pins, a substantial amount that offers excellent cleaning power right out of the box. This inclusion provides immediate value, allowing users to begin processing brass immediately.
• Included Cleaner: A sample packet of Frankford Arsenal Brass Cleaning Concentrated Solution is provided, giving users a taste of the recommended cleaning agent. This helps ensure users start with the right products for optimal results.

The 7-liter capacity is a standout specification, easily accommodating larger volumes of spent casings than many competing models. The maintenance-free geared drive train is a practical detail that reduces long-term ownership concerns. These specifications collectively point to a well-engineered piece of equipment designed for regular, heavy use.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler 220V is to clean brass, and it excels at this task. When using the stainless steel media and Frankford Arsenal’s brass cleaning solution, the results are truly impressive. Brass emerges not just clean, but with a brilliant shine that often makes it look better than brand new. The liquid bath and stainless media combination effectively tackles grime and tarnish that other methods struggle with, reaching deep into primer pockets and flash holes.

The effectiveness of the cleaning is, in my opinion, superior to both ultrasonic and vibratory methods for achieving a truly deep clean. While ultrasonic cleaners are good for superficial cleaning and vibratory tumblers are quick for light polishing, this rotary tumbler offers a level of thoroughness that is hard to beat. The dual-layer drum with its rubber lining contributes to a consistent tumbling action, ensuring all surfaces of the brass are properly abraded and cleaned. The built-in timer is a functional boon, allowing for precise control over the cleaning cycle duration, which is important for achieving the desired level of polish.

Design & Ergonomics

From a design standpoint, the Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler 220V is both functional and robust. The unit has a solid feel to it, indicative of quality materials and construction. The molded-in rubber lining inside the drum is a smart ergonomic choice, protecting the brass and contributing to a quieter operation. This lining also makes cleaning the drum itself a bit easier as debris doesn’t stick as readily to it.

The clear end caps are a brilliant design feature, offering an easily accessible window into the tumbling process. This allows for quick visual checks without the need to interrupt the cycle, saving time and maintaining the integrity of the cleaning bath. The sifting end caps are another thoughtful touch, integrating the media separation directly into the process, which greatly simplifies the unloading of cleaned brass. The overall footprint is manageable for most reloading benches, and the unit feels stable during operation, even when running at full capacity.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience and the unit’s construction, the Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler 220V appears built for longevity. The maintenance-free geared drive train is a significant factor in its perceived durability; eliminating belts removes a common point of failure in many motorized appliances. The heavy-duty plastic construction of the base unit feels sturdy, and the drum itself, with its dual-layer design, seems well-protected.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. After each batch, I typically rinse out the drum and wipe down the interior. The sifting end caps make emptying the media and brass straightforward, minimizing the mess often associated with tumbling operations. There haven’t been any issues with leaks, as long as the clear end caps are securely tightened. The design avoids overly complex mechanisms, which generally translates to fewer potential points of failure over time.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler 220V comes with a comprehensive starter kit. The inclusion of 5 lbs of stainless steel media pins is a significant value add, as stainless media can be an additional purchase for many users. These pins are essential for the deep cleaning that this type of tumbler excels at.

Additionally, a sample packet of Frankford Arsenal Brass Cleaning Concentrated Solution is provided, which is highly recommended for optimal results. While the tumbler can technically be used without media, the stainless pins are what elevate its cleaning power to superior levels. There aren’t many customization options for the tumbler itself, as it’s a purpose-built machine. However, the availability of replacement media and cleaning solutions from Frankford Arsenal ensures ongoing usability.

Pros and Cons of Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler 220V

Who Should Buy Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler 220V?

This rotary tumbler is an excellent choice for dedicated reloaders who prioritize exceptionally clean brass, especially those who process large quantities of ammunition or deal with particularly dirty casings. It’s perfect for individuals who have a reloading bench with 230V power readily available and are looking to upgrade from less effective cleaning methods. Anyone who wants their brass to look factory-fresh or better will find this unit to be a significant asset.

Those who should perhaps consider alternatives or be aware of limitations include individuals with strictly 110V/120V power in their workspace without the means to adapt. Users who require the absolute quietest operation possible might also want to explore other options, though this unit is reasonably quiet for its function. For very small-scale reloaders needing to clean only a few dozen cases at a time, a smaller, less expensive vibratory tumbler might suffice, but they won’t achieve the same level of deep cleaning. Recommended accessories would include additional Frankford Arsenal Brass Cleaning Concentrated Solution and perhaps extra stainless steel media pins for very large batches.

Conclusion on Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler 220V

The Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler 220V is, in my experienced opinion, a top-tier piece of reloading equipment. It effectively addresses the common need for superior brass cleaning through its robust design and the proven efficacy of stainless steel media in a liquid bath. The 7-liter capacity, coupled with the maintenance-free drive train and thoughtful features like the clear and sifting end caps, make it a joy to use, even during extended reloading sessions. While the need for firm tightening of the O-rings is a minor point, it’s a small price to pay for the stellar results delivered.

For its price point, the value offered is exceptional, especially considering the included 5 lbs of stainless steel media. This is not just a tumbler; it’s an investment in the quality and consistency of your reloaded ammunition. I can confidently recommend the Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler 220V to any reloader seeking the best possible clean for their brass, provided they have the appropriate 230-volt power source. It has certainly earned a permanent spot on my reloading bench.