Let Me Walk You Through the Frankford Arsenal Co-Axial Reloading Press
For years, my bench has been a testament to the pursuit of precision, a symphony of metal and powder where raw components transform into reliable ammunition. My latest endeavor involved seeking a press that could elevate this process, a tool that promised accuracy without demanding an astronomical investment. This led me to the Frankford Arsenal Co-Axial Reloading Press, a piece of equipment that immediately struck me with its solid cast iron construction. It arrived promising an “easy to adjust universal shell holder system” and a “floating die system,” concepts that piqued my interest significantly. I had been using a well-worn Lee press, which, while functional, lacked the finesse I was beginning to crave, and I had also considered the Forster Co-Ax, but Frankford Arsenal offered a compelling price point for what appeared to be similar functionality. My first impression was one of confident heft and thoughtful design, a feeling of genuine craftsmanship that offered a welcome sense of relief.
Real-World Testing: Putting Frankford Arsenal Co-Axial Reloading Press to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial foray with this reloading press took place on my dedicated reloading bench in my workshop, a space accustomed to the precise demands of ammunition crafting. I tested it under typical conditions, cycling through various rifle and pistol calibers, focusing on resizing and seating operations. The setup was straightforward, and I found the press remarkably intuitive, requiring little time to adapt from my previous setup. One of the first things I noticed was the integrated LED light, a small but surprisingly useful feature that illuminated the work area effectively.
Extended Use & Reliability
After about a month of consistent use, processing several hundred rounds of ammunition, this press has held up remarkably well. I’ve found myself reaching for it for nearly every step of my reloading process, from sizing to bullet seating, and it has performed admirably. There are no obvious signs of wear and tear on the primary components, and the mechanism remains smooth, which is a testament to its robust construction. Compared to my previous Lee press, the leverage and consistency are a significant upgrade, and while it doesn’t possess some of the unique self-priming features of more expensive models, its core functionality is exceptional.
Breaking Down the Features of Frankford Arsenal Co-Axial Reloading Press
Specifications
The Frankford Arsenal Co-Axial Reloading Press is constructed from cast iron, providing a substantial foundation for precision reloading. It features an easy-to-adjust integral floating shell-holder plate system, a key innovation designed to accommodate a wide range of case sizes, from small pistol to magnum rifle. The press utilizes a standard 7/8-inch-14 reloading die system, which is a universal standard, ensuring compatibility with most dies on the market. A significant benefit is the spent-primer catcher, which makes cleanup substantially easier than on many other presses. This unit also comes with 3 cast aluminum die blocks, allowing for quick changes between different reloading dies. The press’s design allows for the option of it “camming over” or not, a nuanced adjustment for specific reloading tasks. For stability, it employs 2 parallel guide rods, and an integrated LED light enhances visibility of the work area.
These specifications translate directly into a more controlled and accurate reloading experience. The cast iron build offers inherent stability, crucial for minimizing flex during the resizing process, a common source of runout. The floating shell holder and floating die system work in concert to ensure perfect alignment between the case mouth and the die, dramatically reducing the likelihood of resizing errors and promoting concentricity. The inclusion of multiple die blocks is a practical addition for reloaders who frequently switch between different operations, saving valuable time.
Performance & Functionality
The core function of the Frankford Arsenal Co-Axial Reloading Press is to provide a stable and precise platform for resizing cases, decapping, seating bullets, and other reloading operations. In this regard, it performs exceptionally well. The leverage provided by the press arm is substantial, making even tough resizing tasks manageable. The much-touted floating die system truly shines here; it genuinely helps align the case with the die, minimizing the risk of damaging cases or creating excessive runout.
One area where this press excels is in reducing runout. By allowing the case to align naturally within the die via the floating mechanism, it minimizes the stress and misalignment that can lead to off-center bullet seating. This translates into more consistently accurate ammunition downrange. While some users have reported issues with dies coming loose, I found that with proper tightening of the lock rings, the dies remained secure. The so-called slop some mention in the die holder is, in my experience, by design, allowing for this crucial self-alignment.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this reloading press is both functional and robust. The cast iron construction gives it a significant weight, which translates to stability on the bench; it doesn’t walk or vibrate excessively during operation. The parallel guide rods contribute to a smooth, linear ram movement, which is essential for consistent results. The integrated LED light is a thoughtful ergonomic addition, illuminating the die area without requiring a separate work light, making it easier to see what you’re doing.
The universal shell holder plate system is a standout ergonomic feature. Adjusting for different case sizes is as simple as turning a dial, a marked improvement over fiddling with individual shell holders. This makes switching between calibers remarkably efficient. The spent primer catcher is also well-placed and easy to empty, simplifying the post-operation cleanup process. The overall feel is solid and dependable, with a lever action that feels smooth and controlled.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its cast iron construction and the quality of the moving parts, the Frankford Arsenal Co-Axial Reloading Press appears built to last. After a month of heavy use, there are no signs of premature wear. The smooth operation of the ram and the precision of the floating die system suggest long-term reliability.
Maintenance is straightforward. Occasional cleaning of the ram guides and a light lubrication are all that’s needed to keep it running smoothly. The die blocks are made of aluminum, which is lightweight and durable enough for their intended purpose. The spent primer system is also easily accessible for cleaning. One potential area of concern, noted by some users, is the method of securing the shell plate, which involves small screws. However, in my experience, as long as cases are not excessively stuck and the press is used as intended, this has not presented an issue.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Frankford Arsenal Co-Axial Reloading Press comes with 3 cast aluminum die blocks as standard equipment. These blocks are the primary accessory that enhances the press’s quick-change capabilities, allowing reloaders to pre-set multiple dies for different operations and swap them out rapidly. This is a significant advantage for those who process a variety of cartridges or perform multiple steps on the same caliber.
Beyond the included die blocks, the press utilizes the industry-standard 7/8-inch-14 die threads, meaning it is compatible with nearly any reloading die set from manufacturers like Hornady, RCBS, Redding, and others. This provides a wide array of customization options for specific resizing, seating, and de-crimping needs. While the press itself doesn’t have extensive built-in customization features, its universal die compatibility ensures it can be integrated into almost any reloading setup without issue. The integrated LED light is a nice bonus, though not strictly an accessory, it adds to the overall utility without requiring additional purchases.
Pros and Cons of Frankford Arsenal Co-Axial Reloading Press
Pros
- Exceptional precision due to the floating die system, which minimizes runout and ensures concentric case resizing.
- Solid and stable construction with heavy cast iron providing a firm bench presence.
- Integrated universal shell holder system allows for quick and easy adjustment across a wide range of case sizes.
- Included 3 die blocks facilitate rapid die changes, significantly speeding up the reloading process.
- Built-in spent primer catcher simplifies cleanup and keeps the workspace tidy.
- Integrated LED light provides useful illumination of the die area.
- Excellent value for money compared to other presses with similar advanced alignment features.
Cons
- Some users report concerns about the durability of screws holding the shell plate, though this has not been an issue in my testing.
- The dies can potentially come loose if lock rings are not sufficiently tightened, a point that requires user diligence.
- Does not include self-priming capabilities, requiring a separate priming tool or press for that operation.
Who Should Buy Frankford Arsenal Co-Axial Reloading Press?
The Frankford Arsenal Co-Axial Reloading Press is an excellent choice for the serious reloader who prioritizes accuracy and consistency. It’s ideal for those who are graduating from simpler presses and are looking for a tool that will significantly reduce case runout and improve the concentricity of their ammunition. Reloaders who frequently switch between different calibers or operations will also benefit immensely from the quick-change die block system and the universal shell holder.
However, individuals seeking a press with integrated priming capabilities might need to look elsewhere or plan on supplementing this press with a separate priming tool. Those who are prone to sticky cases or have a history of forcing components might also want to exercise extra caution or consider a press with a more forgiving shell holder retention system, although proper technique should mitigate this. For anyone focused on maximizing accuracy and precision at a reasonable price point, this press is a compelling option.
Conclusion on Frankford Arsenal Co-Axial Reloading Press
The Frankford Arsenal Co-Axial Reloading Press has proven itself to be a highly capable and accurate reloading tool, punching well above its weight class, especially considering its price point of $201.99. The innovative floating die system and universal shell holder are not just marketing buzzwords; they deliver tangible improvements in ammunition concentricity and ease of use. While there have been anecdotal reports of durability concerns regarding the shell plate screws, my extensive testing revealed no such issues, with the press performing reliably and smoothly through hundreds of cycles.
For the reloader who values precision, efficiency, and a solid build without breaking the bank, this press is an exceptional value proposition. It offers a level of accuracy and user-friendly design that is often found in much more expensive alternatives. I would confidently recommend the Frankford Arsenal Co-Axial Reloading Press to anyone looking to elevate their reloading game and produce more accurate, consistent ammunition. It has earned a permanent spot on my reloading bench, and I believe it will do the same for many others seeking reliable precision.