Let’s Dive into Frankford Arsenal Progressive Reloading Press
As an avid reloader with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen my fair share of shell plates, some exceptional and others, well, less so. The Frankford Arsenal Progressive Reloading Press shell plate immediately caught my eye with its promise of precision and durability. This isn’t just another piece of reloading equipment; it’s an investment in accuracy and efficiency.
My reloading setup was facing a problem: slow caliber conversions. Switching between pistol and rifle calibers on my progressive press felt like a chore, consuming valuable time that I’d rather spend at the range. I needed a solution that would expedite this process and minimize the hassle.
Upon unboxing, the Frankford Arsenal shell plate felt substantial. The gleaming stainless steel construction exudes quality. The weight felt just right, instilling confidence in its robustness. It’s immediately apparent that this isn’t a cheaply made, mass-produced component.
I considered shell plates from RCBS and Hornady, both reputable brands. Ultimately, I chose the Frankford Arsenal offering for its advertised tight tolerances and laser-marked caliber designation, promising a hassle-free caliber change. The Frankford Arsenal plate also boasted an integrated bearing for smoother operation, which was an appealing feature.
My initial impression was excitement, bordering on awe. It’s a testament to the Frankford Arsenal’s commitment to quality. This shell plate looked and felt like a premium upgrade to my reloading setup.
Real-World Testing: Putting Frankford Arsenal Progressive Reloading Press to the Test
First Use Experience
I put the Frankford Arsenal Progressive Reloading Press shell plate to the test at my home reloading bench, where I typically churn out rounds for various pistol and rifle calibers. I was specifically reloading 9mm and .223 rounds that day. I wanted to evaluate the transition between these two calibers using the plate.
The plate performed admirably under varying conditions. Even with spilled powder and occasional lubrication, its smooth operation remained uncompromised. The tight tolerances ensured consistent cartridge alignment throughout the reloading process.
The ease of use was remarkable. The precision fit and the intuitive design made caliber changes incredibly smooth. No fiddling, no frustration; just a quick swap and I was back to reloading.
After my first session, I encountered one minor issue. I noticed a small amount of powder residue accumulating around the bearing, but it was easily cleaned with a brush. This did not hinder the functionality, but prompted a routine inspection after each reloading session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Frankford Arsenal Progressive Reloading Press shell plate has held up exceptionally well. It seamlessly handles the high-volume demands of my reloading schedule. The caliber changes that once took a significant amount of time are now a matter of minutes.
Durability is a standout feature. Despite frequent use and the occasional inevitable spill of powder or primer, the shell plate shows no signs of wear and tear. The stainless steel construction resists corrosion and scratches, maintaining its polished appearance.
Maintenance is a breeze. A quick wipe-down with a dry cloth or brush after each reloading session is all it takes to keep the shell plate in prime condition. The integrated bearing benefits from an occasional drop of light machine oil to maintain smooth operation.
Compared to my previous, less expensive shell plates, the Frankford Arsenal offering is a clear winner. It outperforms in terms of speed, precision, and durability. This is a worthy upgrade that has noticeably improved my reloading efficiency.
Breaking Down the Features of Frankford Arsenal Progressive Reloading Press
Specifications
- The Frankford Arsenal Progressive Reloading Press shell plate is constructed from precision-machined stainless steel. This ensures exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion.
- It features laser-marked calibers for quick and easy identification. This eliminates any guesswork and saves time during caliber changes.
- The plate incorporates an integrated bearing. This promotes smooth and consistent operation throughout the reloading process.
- It weighs 1.9 lbs, providing a solid and stable platform. This contributes to improved reloading accuracy.
- The interchangeable design integrates seamlessly with the Frankford Arsenal FX-10 progressive press. It offers a quick and simple transition between calibers.
These specifications are vital to the shell plate’s performance. Stainless steel construction guarantees longevity. The laser markings enhance convenience. The integrated bearing optimizes smoothness. The weight offers stability. The interchangeable design increases usability.
Performance & Functionality
The Frankford Arsenal Progressive Reloading Press shell plate excels in its core function. This is to provide a reliable and precise platform for reloading ammunition. It maintains consistent cartridge alignment and smooth operation.
Its strengths lie in its tight tolerances and robust construction. These result in minimal powder spillage and consistent bullet seating depths. The only minor weakness is the potential for powder accumulation around the bearing.
The product more than meets my expectations. Its performance has streamlined my reloading process. It has enhanced accuracy and has reduced downtime.
Design & Ergonomics
The shell plate boasts a clean and functional design. The stainless steel finish gives it a professional and polished appearance. The weight adds to the feeling of quality and stability.
The design is incredibly user-friendly. There is almost no learning curve. Swapping out the shell plate is a simple, intuitive process.
Durability & Maintenance
This shell plate is built to last. The stainless steel construction ensures resistance to wear, corrosion, and deformation, even under heavy use. The materials used clearly suggest a very long lifespan.
Maintaining the shell plate is straightforward. A quick wipe-down after each use and occasional lubrication of the bearing are all that’s required to keep it running smoothly. The accessibility of all the parts makes maintenance simple.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Frankford Arsenal Progressive Reloading Press shell plate is primarily designed to integrate with the Frankford Arsenal FX-10 progressive press. It doesn’t have many accessory options. However, the shell plate is itself an accessory that enhances the press’s functionality.
While there aren’t direct customization options for the shell plate itself, its compatibility with different caliber conversion kits for the FX-10 press offers versatility. Users can adapt the press to load a wide range of cartridges by simply swapping out the shell plate and associated dies. Compatibility with accessories from other brands is limited, as it’s specifically designed for the FX-10.
Pros and Cons of Frankford Arsenal Progressive Reloading Press
Pros
- Precision-machined stainless steel construction ensures exceptional durability.
- Laser-marked calibers enable quick and easy identification, saving time during caliber changes.
- Integrated bearing promotes smooth and consistent operation throughout the reloading process.
- Tight tolerances contribute to improved reloading accuracy and minimal powder spillage.
- Easy to clean and maintain, ensuring a long lifespan and reliable performance.
Cons
- Potential for powder accumulation around the bearing requires periodic cleaning.
- Specifically designed for the Frankford Arsenal FX-10 press. There is limited compatibility with other brands.
Who Should Buy Frankford Arsenal Progressive Reloading Press?
The Frankford Arsenal Progressive Reloading Press shell plate is perfect for reloaders who value precision, speed, and durability. It particularly benefits high-volume reloaders using the Frankford Arsenal FX-10 progressive press. These reloaders need efficient caliber changes and consistent performance.
This product might not be ideal for those who reload only a few rounds at a time or who use single-stage presses. Also, reloaders unwilling to spend extra time maintaining their equipment may find the occasional cleaning of the bearing to be cumbersome.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality set of reloading dies specific to the desired caliber. Also a good powder measure is essential for consistent results.
Conclusion on Frankford Arsenal Progressive Reloading Press
The Frankford Arsenal Progressive Reloading Press shell plate is a worthwhile investment for any reloader using the Frankford Arsenal FX-10 progressive press. Its precision, durability, and ease of use make it a standout product in its class. It is offered at a price of $88.49.
The price is justified given the enhanced efficiency and accuracy it brings to the reloading process. Also the long-term durability of the stainless steel construction.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Frankford Arsenal Progressive Reloading Press shell plate to anyone looking to upgrade their reloading setup. It’s a small investment that yields significant returns in terms of time saved, improved accuracy, and overall reloading satisfaction. Upgrade your reloading bench today and experience the difference that precision makes!