Frankford Arsenal Universal Reloading Tray 393939 Review

Let’s Review the Frankford Arsenal Universal Reloading Tray 393939

For anyone deeply involved in the meticulous and rewarding process of reloading ammunition, organization is paramount. My own journey, spanning over a decade of working with gear across diverse environments – from dusty workshops and sterile labs to demanding field applications – has taught me that the right equipment isn’t just about functionality; it’s about efficiency and precision. This is precisely why the Frankford Arsenal Universal Reloading Tray 393939 caught my eye. As someone who juggles reloading for everything from .223 Remington to .308 Winchester and various pistol calibers, a universal solution promised to streamline my bench and reduce clutter. Initial impressions were positive; the tray felt sturdier than expected for its price point, with a substantial plastic construction that hinted at durability. I had briefly considered some smaller, caliber-specific plastic trays and even a few wooden ones, but the appeal of a single tray handling a wide range of my most common cartridges made this particular Frankford Arsenal offering a compelling proposition. My immediate feeling upon receiving it was one of cautious optimism, a hope that it could indeed live up to its universal claims and simplify my reloading workflow.

Real-World Testing: Putting Frankford Arsenal Universal Reloading Tray 393939 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Frankford Arsenal Universal Reloading Tray took place at my dedicated reloading bench, a space that often becomes a chaotic landscape of brass, components, and tools. I specifically used it to sort and hold cartridges during a reloading session for .308 Winchester and 9mm Luger. The tray’s ample capacity was immediately apparent, easily accommodating a full 50 rounds for each caliber without feeling cramped.

Performance was robust; the tray remained stable even when I slightly bumped it while reaching for other equipment. Its open design allowed for good visibility of the brass, making it easy to identify any that might have been damaged or were otherwise unsuitable. It was intuitive to use right out of the box, requiring no assembly or complicated setup.

The only minor surprise was the depth of the individual pockets. While perfectly adequate for most standard rounds, I found that some of my longer .308 cases stood a little taller than I’m accustomed to in other trays, but this didn’t impact functionality. It was a straightforward, no-fuss introduction to using this reloading accessory.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, involving at least a dozen reloading sessions for various calibers, the Frankford Arsenal Universal Reloading Tray 393939 has proven its worth. It’s become a staple on my bench, holding unsized brass, sized brass, or finished cartridges depending on the stage of my process. I’ve even used it to temporarily hold primers while de-priming brass, a testament to its versatility.

Durability has been excellent. Despite being made of plastic, it hasn’t shown any signs of cracking, warping, or developing stiffness. There are a few minor scuffs from accidental contact with heavier reloading dies, but these are purely cosmetic and do not affect the tray’s integrity or function.

Maintenance is as simple as it gets: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dust or stray powder. I store it flat on a shelf when not in use, which is easy given its relatively slim profile. Compared to some of the flimsier plastic trays I’ve encountered in the past, this Frankford Arsenal model feels significantly more robust and built to last.

Breaking Down the Features of Frankford Arsenal Universal Reloading Tray 393939

Specifications

The Frankford Arsenal Universal Reloading Tray 393939 is a testament to practical design for reloaders. It boasts a 50-round capacity, a crucial feature for efficient workflow during reloading sessions. The tray’s defining characteristic is its universal caliber compatibility, designed to accommodate an impressive range of cartridges.

Specifically, it handles rifle cartridges from .17 caliber up to .458 caliber. For handgun rounds, it effectively works with calibers spanning from 9mm up to .500 S&W. The primary material is a durable, high-impact plastic, chosen for its resilience and ease of cleaning.

This broad universal application means one tray can serve multiple firearm types, reducing the need for several specialized holders. The consistent spacing between each of the 50 pockets provides ample room, preventing cartridges from touching and allowing for easy grasping during various reloading stages. This thoughtful specification is particularly beneficial when handling delicate components or precisely measured powder charges.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary job – holding ammunition – the Frankford Arsenal Universal Reloading Tray 393939 performs exceptionally well. Its ability to securely cradle a wide array of case diameters and lengths is its strongest suit. Whether I’m dealing with the slender neck of a .22-250 or the substantial case of a .458 SOCOM, the tray’s pockets adapt without issue.

The pockets are deep enough to prevent even taller cartridges from easily tipping over, a common annoyance with less well-designed trays. This stability is invaluable when working with loose primers or delicate bullet seating. The consistent spacing between rounds ensures that there’s enough room to easily pick up and place cartridges, even with larger hands.

A key strength is its sheer versatility; being able to transition from reloading .38 Special to .30-06 Springfield without swapping trays significantly speeds up the process. While it doesn’t offer specific features like integrated case cleaning or primer pockets, its core functionality is executed flawlessly. It meets and slightly exceeds expectations for a tray at this price point, primarily due to its extensive caliber compatibility.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this reloading tray prioritizes utility and sturdiness. The plastic construction feels substantial, not brittle or cheap, and the overall finish is smooth, preventing any snagging on ammunition or hands. Its rectangular shape is a classic layout for reloading trays, making it a familiar and comfortable addition to any workbench.

Ergonomically, it’s a winner. The 50-round capacity means fewer trips to replenish, and the generous spacing between each of the universal caliber pockets allows for easy one-handed pick-up and placement. There’s no complex learning curve; it’s ready to go from the moment it’s unboxed.

Practical design details include the consistent depth of the pockets, which provides a secure hold. While it lacks a non-slip base, its weight and form factor are generally stable enough on a clean benchtop. The slightly raised edges help to contain stray bullets or primers that might accidentally roll.

Durability & Maintenance

Under typical reloading conditions, the Frankford Arsenal Universal Reloading Tray 393939 is built for longevity. Given its robust plastic material, I anticipate it will last for many years of regular use. The lack of moving parts or delicate components means there are few potential failure points.

Maintenance is exceptionally straightforward. A quick rinse under warm water or a wipe with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean. It can be stored flat or stacked with other trays if space is a concern, without any risk of deformation.

The primary concern with any plastic item in a workshop environment is susceptibility to solvents or extreme temperatures. While this tray has handled typical reloading solvents without issue, prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals or excessive heat might degrade the material over time. However, for standard use, its durability is a significant advantage.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Frankford Arsenal Universal Reloading Tray 393939 is primarily a standalone piece of equipment, and as such, it doesn’t come with any specific accessories. Its value lies in its direct functionality rather than an ecosystem of add-ons.

Customization options are also minimal, as its design is fixed. However, users often find they can integrate it into their existing reloading setup by placing it strategically on their bench or even using it to transport ammunition to and from the range. Some reloaders might choose to add adhesive rubber feet to the bottom for enhanced grip, but this is a personal preference rather than a necessity.

It’s also worth noting that this tray’s universal design means it’s designed to work with almost any type of rifle or handgun cartridge within its specified ranges, eliminating the need for specialized adapters or inserts.

Pros and Cons of Frankford Arsenal Universal Reloading Tray 393939

Who Should Buy Frankford Arsenal Universal Reloading Tray 393939?

This reloading tray is ideal for any firearm enthusiast who reloads a variety of cartridges. It’s particularly well-suited for individuals who own multiple types of rifles and handguns and want a single, efficient solution for organizing their ammunition during the reloading process. If you’re a hobbyist reloader who values practicality and cost-effectiveness, this tray will be a significant upgrade.

However, individuals who strictly reload only one or two specific calibers might find specialized trays to be a more tailored solution, though the universal nature of this tray still offers convenience. Those requiring highly specialized features, such as integrated primer management or extreme impact resistance for rough field conditions, might need to look at more premium, feature-rich options. For most home reloaders, however, it’s a fantastic choice.

To maximize its utility, I’d recommend pairing it with other organizational tools like labeled component bins and a quality reloading press. A simple setup is often the most effective, and this tray fits perfectly into that philosophy.

Conclusion on Frankford Arsenal Universal Reloading Tray 393939

The Frankford Arsenal Universal Reloading Tray 393939 is a remarkably capable and cost-effective tool for any reloader. Its universal caliber compatibility is its standout feature, allowing it to smoothly handle a vast spectrum of rifle and handgun cartridges without complaint. The 50-round capacity is ample for most reloading sessions, and the sturdy plastic construction promises good durability for its price point.

At $14.99, this tray offers exceptional value, streamlining the reloading bench and reducing clutter with a single, versatile solution. It doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it executes its core function with a reliability and breadth that’s hard to beat. I would absolutely recommend this reloading tray to any reloader looking for an efficient, straightforward, and budget-friendly way to organize their brass and finished ammunition. It’s a simple piece of gear that makes a tangible difference in the reloading process.