Hornady Rotary Media Crank Sifter, 050207 Review

What Makes Hornady Rotary Media Crank Sifter, 050207 Stand Out?

The Hornady Rotary Media Crank Sifter, 050207 promises to streamline a tedious yet essential part of reloading: separating brass from tumbling media. Reloading enthusiasts know that clean brass is critical for reliable feeding and consistent performance. But separating hundreds of cases from corn cob or steel pin media can be a dusty, time-consuming chore.

I’ve been reloading for over a decade, and I’ve tried everything from makeshift sifters to hand-picking each case. Frankly, I was tired of the mess and the time suck; I needed a more efficient solution. The Hornady sifter caught my eye because of its rotary design and clear lid, which seemed like a significant upgrade over my current method.

When the package arrived, my first impression was positive. The sifter felt solid, and the clear polycarbonate lid gave me confidence that I could monitor the separation process. Compared to simpler mesh sifters I’ve used, the Hornady Rotary Media Crank Sifter seemed like a more refined, purpose-built tool. I was eager to put it to the test and reclaim some valuable reloading time.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Rotary Media Crank Sifter, 050207 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test involved separating approximately 500 .223 cases from crushed walnut media after a four-hour tumbling session. I set up the sifter on my reloading bench, which is usually a disaster zone of spent primers and spilled powder. The crank handle turned smoothly, and the drum rotated efficiently as I loaded the drum.

The clear lid proved invaluable, allowing me to observe the media filtering through the sifting screen. After about five minutes of cranking, the majority of the media had fallen to the bottom, leaving mostly clean brass in the drum. There were a few stubborn pieces of media stuck inside some cases, but it was a massive improvement over shaking a hand sifter for what seemed like an eternity.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Hornady Rotary Media Crank Sifter has become a staple in my reloading process. It significantly reduces the time spent separating media from brass. I’ve processed thousands of cases through it, from pistol calibers like 9mm and .45 ACP to rifle rounds like .308 and .223.

The sifter has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of wear and tear other than some minor cosmetic scratches on the polycarbonate lid. Cleaning is straightforward, simply requiring a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove any residual dust. Compared to my previous, more laborious methods, the Hornady sifter has exceeded my expectations in both efficiency and durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Rotary Media Crank Sifter, 050207

Specifications

• The Hornady Rotary Media Crank Sifter, 050207 is designed for separating brass cartridge cases from tumbling media. It is compatible with both corn cob and steel pin tumbling media.
• A key feature is the sifter drum which locks into place. This allows for easy loading and unloading of media and brass.
• The sifter includes a clear polycarbonate lid. This feature allows the user to easily monitor the separation progress without needing to stop and check.

These specifications translate to a user-friendly design that efficiently separates brass from media. The locking drum simplifies loading, while the clear lid eliminates guesswork, making the entire process more convenient.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady Rotary Media Crank Sifter performs its primary function exceptionally well, quickly separating brass from tumbling media. Its rotary action ensures thorough separation, and the crank handle provides a smooth and consistent rotation.

The sifter’s design is effective, but it’s not perfect. Some smaller pieces of media can occasionally get lodged in the case mouths, requiring a secondary inspection. Overall, the sifter meets and generally exceeds expectations, particularly when processing large quantities of brass.

Design & Ergonomics

The Hornady sifter boasts a robust design, utilizing durable materials that can withstand the rigors of reloading. The build quality inspires confidence, and the sifter feels substantial without being overly heavy or bulky.

It’s designed with user-friendliness in mind. The crank handle is comfortable to grip, and the locking drum simplifies the loading and unloading process.

Durability & Maintenance

The Hornady Rotary Media Crank Sifter appears built to last, thanks to its sturdy construction and quality materials. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe-down after use is usually sufficient to keep it clean and functioning smoothly.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady Rotary Media Crank Sifter, 050207 doesn’t come with many accessories, as its functionality is relatively self-contained. It’s not designed for extensive customization.

However, it is compatible with a wide variety of tumbling media and brass sizes. This inherent versatility makes it a valuable addition to any reloader’s toolkit.

Pros and Cons of Hornady Rotary Media Crank Sifter, 050207