First Impressions of Frankford Arsenal Swage Support Die 1198264
The world of reloading can be a labyrinth of specialized tools, each designed for a specific task. The Frankford Arsenal Swage Support Die 1198264 might seem like a niche item, but for those of us who reload in bulk or deal with stubborn primer pockets, it’s a potential game-changer. This support die promises to ease the swaging process, offering a stable platform to remove primer pocket crimps and ensure consistent primer seating. For those new to reloading, swaging ensures proper seating of primers by removing any material crimped around the primer pocket.
Years of reloading have taught me the importance of consistent primer seating, so I was eager to see if the Frankford Arsenal Swage Support Die 1198264 could improve my efficiency and accuracy. I was on the hunt for a way to streamline my reloading process, especially when dealing with a large batch of military brass with crimped primer pockets. My current method involved using a hand-held swaging tool, which was effective, but time-consuming and occasionally led to inconsistent results.
Upon unboxing, the Frankford Arsenal Swage Support Die 1198264 felt solid and well-made. The black finish was even, and the die threads were clean and precise. It was heavier than I expected, suggesting a durable build designed to withstand repeated use. Compared to a similar swage support die from RCBS, the Frankford Arsenal appeared to have a slightly simpler design.
My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. The Frankford Arsenal Swage Support Die 1198264 seemed like a worthwhile investment, but its true value would lie in its performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Frankford Arsenal Swage Support Die 1198264 to the Test
First Use Experience
I put the Frankford Arsenal Swage Support Die 1198264 through its paces during a reloading session dedicated to processing .223 Remington brass. This brass was once-fired military surplus, meaning nearly every case had a crimped primer pocket. My setup involved using the support die on my Frankford Arsenal FAX10 press, directly over the priming station. I intentionally chose a humid day to see if the dampness would affect the swaging process in any way.
The die performed admirably, providing a stable platform for the swaging operation. The process was noticeably smoother and more consistent than using a hand-held tool alone. I did find I needed to adjust my technique slightly, applying consistent pressure to avoid any case wobble.
After the first 50 rounds, I noticed a small amount of brass shavings accumulating around the die.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and hundreds of rounds, the Frankford Arsenal Swage Support Die 1198264 has proven to be a reliable addition to my reloading bench. I’ve processed thousands of rounds of .223, 9mm, and .308 brass with minimal issues. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the die itself.
The die is easy to clean; a quick wipe-down with a dry cloth is usually sufficient to remove any accumulated brass shavings. Compared to using a hand-held swaging tool, the Frankford Arsenal support die has significantly increased my reloading efficiency. The support die has exceeded my expectations by providing a stable and reliable platform for the swaging process, resulting in consistently prepped brass.
Breaking Down the Features of Frankford Arsenal Swage Support Die 1198264
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Frankford Arsenal. They are a well-known brand in the reloading world, known for producing affordable and reliable equipment.
- Quantity: 1. You receive a single swage support die.
- Color: Black. A standard black finish.
- Condition: New. The die is brand new upon purchase.
These specifications are important because they dictate the die’s compatibility and overall performance. The fact that it is made by Frankford Arsenal and is new gives me a sense of reliability, since I trust the brand’s quality control.
Performance & Functionality
The Frankford Arsenal Swage Support Die 1198264 performs its intended function admirably. It provides a stable and consistent platform for swaging primer pockets. The die eliminates the need for excessive force and reduces the risk of damaging the brass.
The die’s strength lies in its simplicity. The only weakness is that it requires the use of a swaging tool for complete functionality. The die definitely meets expectations, and the primer pockets are prepped in a much more efficient way.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Frankford Arsenal Swage Support Die 1198264 is solid. The materials used appear to be high-quality steel with a durable black finish. The die is surprisingly heavy, which inspires confidence in its ability to withstand repeated use.
The die is user-friendly, requiring no specialized knowledge or skills to operate. There is essentially no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Frankford Arsenal Swage Support Die 1198264 is built to last. The steel construction and durable finish suggest that it will withstand years of use without significant wear and tear. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning.
The die can be easily cleaned with a brush or cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Frankford Arsenal Swage Support Die 1198264 doesn’t come with any accessories. There are no customization options for the die itself. It is designed to work with standard swaging tools.
It is compatible with most reloading presses that accept standard 7/8″-14 threaded dies.
Pros and Cons of Frankford Arsenal Swage Support Die 1198264
Pros
- Provides a stable platform for swaging. This drastically improves consistency and reduces fatigue.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance. Built to withstand years of use.
- Easy to use, even for novice reloaders. Minimal learning curve, get to work quickly.
- Increases reloading efficiency. Helps reload in a more timely fashion.
- Affordable price point. Good quality at a low price.
Cons
- Requires the use of a separate swaging tool.
- May not be necessary for reloaders who only process small quantities of brass.
Who Should Buy Frankford Arsenal Swage Support Die 1198264?
This is perfect for reloaders who process a significant amount of brass with crimped primer pockets. This is also great for those looking to improve the consistency of their primer seating. It is also a must-have for those who use the Frankford Arsenal FAX10 press, as one user already gave positive feedback towards it.
Those who only reload small quantities of brass or who primarily use brass with non-crimped primer pockets might not find this product necessary. This is also not for those who have a priming system that already provides ample support. A must-have accessory would be a quality swaging tool.
Conclusion on Frankford Arsenal Swage Support Die 1198264
The Frankford Arsenal Swage Support Die 1198264 is a worthwhile investment for serious reloaders who process a significant amount of brass. It is also great for reloaders seeking consistent primer seating. The price is definitely justified.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking to streamline their reloading process and improve the quality of their ammunition. So take control of your reloading bench and get the Frankford Arsenal Swage Support Die 1198264!