Frankford Arsenal Wet/Dry Media Separator Review

First Impressions of the Frankford Arsenal Wet/Dry Media Separator

For anyone deep into reloading brass, the tedious task of separating media from casings can be a significant time sink. My own journey with this bottleneck led me to seek a more efficient solution, and after much research, I landed on the Frankford Arsenal Wet/Dry Media Separator. This unit promised to handle both wet and dry tumbling media, a versatility that immediately appealed to my mixed approach to brass cleaning. Unlike some of the more basic, single-purpose strainers I’d considered, this separator appeared to offer a more robust design, with a focus on minimizing mess and maximizing throughput. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of cautious optimism; it felt solid enough, though some of the plastic components, particularly the handles, gave me pause. Still, it presented a significant upgrade from my previous method of hand-sorting, and I was eager to put it through its paces.

The sheer volume of brass I process, often in batches that would make a small production shop envious, necessitates tools that can keep up. For years, I’d relied on a combination of makeshift sieves and sheer patience, a process that felt like stepping back into the dark ages of reloading. The promise of a dedicated tool, one designed specifically to conquer this particular frustration, was incredibly alluring. I’d looked at other options, including more industrial-looking tumblers with integrated separation, but the price point was prohibitive for what I needed. The Frankford Arsenal Wet/Dry Media Separator hit a sweet spot – it seemed to offer a significant leap in efficiency without demanding a second mortgage. My first physical contact with the unit revealed a sturdy-looking tub, reassuringly weighty, and a sifting basket that felt appropriately sized for my typical brass loads.

From the moment I lifted the lid, I could tell this was a step up from the typical kitchenware I’d been repurposing. The materials, while predominantly plastic, had a heft to them that suggested resilience. The Frankford Arsenal Wet/Dry Media Separator features a spill-proof tub designed to contain everything from water to fine stainless steel pins, a crucial feature for anyone who’s experienced a “media explosion” across their workbench. The integrated strainers for wet separation were a particular point of interest, as I often find myself dealing with residual cleaning solution. While I noted the user feedback about the handles, my initial impression was that the overall construction was sound and well-thought-out for its intended purpose. It looked like it was built to handle the rigors of a busy reloading bench.

Real-World Testing: Putting Frankford Arsenal Wet/Dry Media Separator to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing began in my dedicated reloading room, a space that’s seen its fair share of reloading equipment and the occasional spill. I first put the Frankford Arsenal Wet/Dry Media Separator through its paces with dry media and a batch of .223 Remington casings, a common caliber for me. I loaded the sifter basket, secured the lid, and began the gentle rotation. The two installed strainers were immediately noticeable in their function, allowing the bulk of the media to fall through while retaining the brass. The initial surprise was how effectively it contained the dust and media particles, a significant improvement over my previous open-air methods. It was surprisingly intuitive; the process of separating the brass from the media was far less of a chore and remarkably quicker.

I then moved on to a wet tumbling scenario, a process that always presents the greatest challenge in terms of mess and retaining those tiny stainless steel pins. Using the same Frankford Arsenal Wet/Dry Media Separator, I loaded a batch of .308 casings and let the tumbler do its work. The included mesh strainers on the top and bottom of the tub proved invaluable here. Rinsing the brass directly within the sifter basket while the water and media drained out through the bottom strainer was a revelation. It kept the stainless steel pins securely within the sifter, a feat that often required a separate, delicate sieving process. Even with a full load of wet brass and media, the rugged rubber latch held the sifter firmly closed, preventing any accidental spills or escapes.

Over several weeks of consistent use, processing multiple calibers and varying amounts of brass, the separator has proven its worth. It handles everything from small pistol casings to larger rifle rounds with equal competence. The ambidextrous sifting handles have become second nature, making the process smooth and efficient, even during long reloading sessions. I’ve deliberately subjected it to repeated use without thorough cleaning between batches, just to see how it would fare. Apart from a light dusting of media residue that wipes away easily, there are no signs of significant wear or tear. The plastic components have held up well, and the primary sifting mechanism remains smooth and effective.

Durability, especially given the plastic construction, was an initial concern, but the Frankford Arsenal Wet/Dry Media Separator has surpassed my expectations. I’ve accidentally knocked it a couple of times, and it’s bounced without complaint. The material, while not metal, feels robust and resistant to the abrasions typical of tumbling media. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick rinse under the tap with a soft brush is usually all that’s needed to dislodge any stubborn media or residue. The key is to avoid overfilling the sifter basket; this prevents undue strain on the handles and ensures a smoother separation. When overloaded, I’ve noticed a slight resistance in the rotation, and a few smaller pins have occasionally escaped, but this is easily managed by adhering to sensible load limits.

Compared to the agonizingly slow process of using a spaghetti strainer or a makeshift sieve, this separator is a game-changer. The time saved alone is significant, translating directly into more processed brass and less time spent on the tedious post-tumbling cleanup. While it might not possess the industrial, all-metal build of some ultra-premium options, its performance and convenience for the average reloader are undeniable. It strikes an excellent balance between functionality and affordability, making it a valuable addition to any reloading bench.

Breaking Down the Features of Frankford Arsenal Wet/Dry Media Separator

Specifications

The Frankford Arsenal Wet/Dry Media Separator is designed with versatility and user convenience in mind. Its primary function is to efficiently separate brass casings from both wet and dry media, including the notoriously difficult-to-manage stainless steel pins. The unit features a spill-proof tub, which is crucial for containing all types of media, water, and cleaning solutions without creating a mess on your workbench. Inside this tub, a perforated sifter basket allows media to fall through while retaining the cleaned brass.

For wet media separation, the tub is equipped with two installed strainers, facilitating the draining of water without losing those vital stainless steel pins. The sifter basket itself includes two sifting handles that are designed for ambidextrous use, allowing for comfortable operation regardless of dominant hand. A rugged rubber latch secures the sifter closed, even when subjected to the weight of a heavy load of brass and media, ensuring it remains shut during operation. The top of the tub also incorporates a mesh strainer, specifically for rinsing brass to remove any residual cleaning solution. This entire setup aims to streamline the brass cleaning process significantly.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its core function, the Frankford Arsenal Wet/Dry Media Separator performs admirably. The separation of dry media from brass is exceptionally fast and efficient. The perforations in the sifter basket are sized appropriately to allow most media to pass through while holding the brass securely. When used with wet media and stainless steel pins, the performance is equally impressive, though it does require a slightly more deliberate approach. The dual strainer system is highly effective at draining water while keeping the pins contained, a feature that many reloaders will find particularly beneficial.

The spill-proof nature of the tub is a genuine asset. I’ve tilted it inadvertently during the draining process, and the tub’s design has successfully contained any potential overflows. The mesh strainer integrated into the lid is also a thoughtful addition, allowing for easy rinsing of the brass without needing a secondary tool. This significantly reduces the number of steps and the amount of equipment required for the post-tumbling cleanup. The ambidextrous handles provide a smooth and consistent rotation, making the separating process easy on the hands, even with larger volumes.

However, there’s a slight learning curve when it comes to the wet media. User feedback and my own experience suggest that starting the rotation too quickly can cause the stainless steel pins to be flung outwards with surprising force. A slower, more controlled initial spin is recommended to prevent any loss of pins. While the separator is designed to capture them, an overly aggressive start can lead to them bouncing out of the sifter’s perimeter before the lid fully secures them. Despite this minor learning point, the overall functionality is a vast improvement over manual separation methods. It meets and often exceeds expectations for a product in this price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Frankford Arsenal Wet/Dry Media Separator is practical and user-centric, though it leans heavily on durable plastic construction. The spill-proof tub is generously sized, accommodating a substantial amount of brass and media without feeling unwieldy. Its shape is conducive to stable placement on a workbench. The perforated sifter basket fits snugly within the tub, and the rugged rubber latch provides a reassuring click when secured, indicating a positive lock.

The ambidextrous sifting handles are ergonomically shaped to allow for a comfortable grip, even during prolonged use. They attach securely to the sifter basket and provide ample leverage for smooth rotation. The mesh strainer integrated into the lid is a simple yet effective design element that adds significant utility to the wet separation process. While the plastic construction might not feel as premium as metal alternatives, it contributes to a lighter overall weight, making it easier to move and clean. The gray color is practical, showing less dirt and grime than lighter colors would.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of the Frankford Arsenal Wet/Dry Media Separator is decent, particularly for its intended use. The plastic used for the tub and sifter basket feels reasonably thick and resilient. The rugged rubber latch appears to be a strong point, offering a secure closure that should withstand repeated use. However, as noted in user feedback, the handles are a potential point of concern for some. While they have held up perfectly fine in my testing, I can see how aggressive use or accidental impacts could potentially stress them over the long term. They are not as beefy as one might find on an industrial piece of equipment, but for typical home reloading volumes, they seem adequate.

Maintenance is exceptionally easy. After each use, a quick rinse with water and a soft brush is usually sufficient to remove all traces of media and brass dust. The sifter basket can be removed entirely for thorough cleaning. The mesh strainers are integrated and do not require special attention beyond a rinse. Storing the unit is straightforward; it’s a single piece that can be placed on a shelf. I haven’t encountered any issues with leaks or material degradation after consistent use, suggesting it’s designed for longevity within its intended application.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Frankford Arsenal Wet/Dry Media Separator comes with its essential components integrated directly into its design, rather than offering a plethora of separate accessories. The key features that function as built-in accessories include the two installed strainers for wet separation, the mesh strainer on the lid for rinsing, and the ambidextrous sifting handles. These are not optional add-ons but integral parts of the unit’s functionality.

There are no significant customization options available for this particular model. It is designed as a single, unified tool for media separation. It does not accept aftermarket modifications like different sieve sizes or interchangeable parts. However, it is worth noting that users who frequently switch between dry media and stainless steel pins may find it beneficial to have separate sifter baskets for each, though this is more about personal workflow management than a lack of customization in the unit itself. The transfer magnet mentioned by one user is an external accessory that can be helpful for picking up stray pins, but it is not included with the separator.

Pros and Cons of **Frankford Arsenal Wet/Dry Media Separator**

Who Should Buy **Frankford Arsenal Wet/Dry Media Separator**?

This separator is an excellent choice for home reloaders who process moderate to significant volumes of brass. If you’re tired of the time-consuming and messy process of manually separating media from your tumbled casings, especially if you use both dry media and stainless steel pins, then this unit is a worthwhile investment. It’s ideal for those who value efficiency and a cleaner workspace.

Anyone needing a highly robust, industrial-grade solution for extremely high-volume commercial operations might consider looking at more expensive, metal-constructed separators. However, for the vast majority of hobbyist reloaders, the Frankford Arsenal Wet/Dry Media Separator offers a perfect blend of performance, convenience, and affordability. A complementary accessory like a transfer magnet could be beneficial for quickly picking up any stray stainless steel pins, though it’s not strictly necessary for the primary operation of the separator itself.

Conclusion on **Frankford Arsenal Wet/Dry Media Separator**

The Frankford Arsenal Wet/Dry Media Separator delivers on its promise to simplify and expedite the post-tumbling brass cleaning process. Its wet/dry versatility, coupled with the spill-proof design and integrated rinsing capabilities, makes it a highly practical tool for any reloader. While the plastic construction and handle design might raise minor durability questions for some users, its performance in real-world scenarios has been consistently impressive, significantly reducing the manual labor and mess associated with media separation.

Considering the time saved and the reduction in post-tumbling cleanup, the price of $54.89 is more than justified. It represents a solid value proposition, offering a substantial upgrade over makeshift methods. I would readily recommend this separator to fellow reloaders looking for an efficient, user-friendly, and affordable solution. It’s a workhorse that, with sensible use, will undoubtedly prove its worth on any reloading bench.