Let’s Dive into Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Reloading Stand
The Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Reloading Stand promises a space-saving and robust solution for reloaders who might be tight on room or need a portable setup. Frankford Arsenal, a well-known name in reloading equipment, designed this stand to offer a stable platform for presses and other essential tools, boasting a height-adjustable frame and convenient side shelves. Is this reloading stand truly a game-changer for those of us with limited space?
As an experienced reloader with over a decade under my belt, I’ve faced the challenge of setting up a functional reloading space in less-than-ideal environments. Limited space in my garage prompted me to seek a portable and sturdy solution, something that could be easily stowed away when not in use. The promise of rigidity and adjustable height caught my eye, addressing my specific needs perfectly.
Upon unboxing the Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Reloading Stand, my initial impression was positive. The steel frame felt solid and the wood tabletop seemed durable, though perhaps a bit lighter than I expected. The design looked well-thought-out, with ample space for mounting a press and the side shelves offering welcome storage.
Compared to some bulkier, permanent reloading benches I’ve used, the Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Reloading Stand offered a clear advantage in portability. I also considered the RCBS Portable Reloading Stand, but I chose the Frankford Arsenal model for its larger tabletop surface and side shelves. My first impression was a blend of excitement and cautious optimism – excited about the potential space-saving benefits, but cautiously optimistic about its long-term durability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Reloading Stand to the Test
First Use Experience
I put the Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Reloading Stand through its paces in my garage, setting it up for both pistol and rifle reloading. The stand was used primarily for sizing and seating bullets during the reloading process. The concrete floor provided a stable surface, and I tested the stand at various heights to find the most comfortable position for both sitting and standing.
During my first reloading session, I encountered no significant issues. The stand remained surprisingly stable, even when sizing rifle cartridges, but the feet did need to be repositioned once. The height adjustment feature proved useful, allowing me to fine-tune the setup for optimal ergonomics.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Reloading Stand has held up reasonably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the steel frame, and the tabletop remains flat and sturdy, aside from minor scratches. I’ve used it for hundreds of rounds now without feeling like it was going to tip or break.
Maintenance has been minimal, primarily involving wiping down the surfaces with a damp cloth to remove spilled powder and debris. However, the rubber feet continue to work their way off and need repositioning from time to time, an issue that I can see becoming annoying in the long run. Compared to my previous, more permanent reloading bench, the Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Reloading Stand offers greater flexibility and portability, although it does sacrifice some of the rock-solid stability of a heavier, bolted-down setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Reloading Stand
Specifications
The Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Reloading Stand boasts a frame constructed from 1.5″ tube steel, ensuring robustness. It opens to a size of 34″ x 21″, providing ample workspace, and its height is adjustable from 28.5″ to 45″. This adjustability is key for accommodating different reloading styles and body types.
The stand features a durable wood center section for mounting equipment and steel side shelves for additional tool storage. It collapses for storage and the color is white. These specifications are important because they dictate the stand’s stability, working area, and adjustability.
Performance & Functionality
The Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Reloading Stand performs its primary function of providing a stable reloading platform adequately. It is stable when properly set up, but is definitely more suited for pistol cartridges and less strenuous tasks than for full length rifle sizing. The side shelves are a definite plus for organizing components.
While generally sturdy, the stand can exhibit some wobble when used with heavy-duty presses or during particularly forceful operations, and the rubber feet can easily slip off. The adjustable height mechanism works well, and the overall design is functional, but the stability issues are a notable weakness. It meets expectations for portability and space-saving, but falls slightly short in terms of absolute stability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Reloading Stand features a practical design, balancing portability with functionality. The steel frame feels robust, and the wood tabletop provides a suitable mounting surface. The side shelves are a welcome addition.
The stand is generally user-friendly, requiring minimal setup and offering intuitive height adjustment. However, the lightweight construction can feel less solid compared to a traditional bench, and the rubber feet issue detracts from the overall experience. There’s a slight learning curve in finding the optimal height and weight distribution to minimize wobble.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel frame of the Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Reloading Stand appears to be durable and should last for many years with proper care. The wood tabletop is susceptible to scratches and spills, but it can be easily cleaned and treated to prolong its life. The rubber feet are the weakest point in terms of durability.
Maintenance is straightforward, primarily involving cleaning and occasional tightening of bolts. Repairing the stand should be relatively easy, as replacement parts are readily available.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Reloading Stand doesn’t come with many accessories. It can accommodate various presses, powder measures, and other reloading tools. Users can easily add aftermarket accessories such as tool holders, lighting, and organizers to further customize the stand.
The tabletop is compatible with most standard press mounting systems, and the side shelves offer ample space for storing reloading components. However, ensure that any added weight is evenly distributed to maintain stability.
Pros and Cons of Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Reloading Stand
Pros
- Provides a portable and space-saving reloading solution.
- Features adjustable height for ergonomic reloading from a sitting or standing position.
- Offers convenient side shelves for organizing reloading components and tools.
- The steel frame construction provides a good amount of sturdiness.
- Relatively easy to assemble and disassemble for storage and transport.
Cons
- Rubber feet tend to slip off and require frequent repositioning.
- Can exhibit some wobble when used with heavy-duty presses or during forceful operations.
- Wood tabletop is prone to scratches and spills.
Who Should Buy Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Reloading Stand?
The Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Reloading Stand is perfect for reloaders with limited space, apartment dwellers, or those who need a portable reloading setup for range days or competitions. It’s ideal for reloaders who primarily work with pistol cartridges or perform lighter reloading tasks. This stand is a good option for those who need to stow away their reloading setup when it’s not in use.
Those who should skip this product are reloaders who primarily work with large rifle calibers or require a rock-solid, heavy-duty bench for demanding reloading tasks. Those who require absolute stability might find this stand insufficient.
Must-have accessories or modifications include a non-slip mat for the tabletop, replacement rubber feet or alternative leveling feet, and potentially a steel plate reinforcement for the tabletop if using a particularly heavy press.
Conclusion on Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Reloading Stand
The Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Reloading Stand offers a compelling solution for reloaders seeking portability and space-saving convenience. While not without its drawbacks, such as the wobbly nature and slipping feet, it provides a functional and adjustable platform for reloading tasks. The price of $172.99 feels reasonable for what you get.
I would recommend it to reloaders who prioritize portability and space-saving over absolute stability. If you’re willing to address the minor stability issues and rubber feet problem, the Frankford Arsenal Reloading Tools Platinum Series Reloading Stand can be a valuable addition to your reloading setup. Consider this stand if you need to relocate your reloading operation frequently.