First Thoughts on the Frankford Arsenal Ultrasonic Cleaner Brass Cleaner 32 oz Squeeze Bottle
Reloading ammunition is a passion bordering on obsession for some of us. The quest for consistent performance and accuracy leads down many paths, and clean brass is arguably the first step. The Frankford Arsenal Ultrasonic Cleaner Brass Cleaner 32 oz Squeeze Bottle promises to deliver that cleanliness efficiently. I’ve spent years scrubbing brass by hand, a tedious and time-consuming process, so the allure of ultrasonic cleaning has always been strong.
My entry into ultrasonic cleaning has been driven by a desire to streamline my reloading process. The sheer volume of brass I accumulate after range trips necessitates a faster, more effective method than traditional tumbling. The hand-scrubbing method simply couldn’t keep up with my volume.
Upon receiving the Frankford Arsenal Ultrasonic Cleaner Brass Cleaner 32 oz Squeeze Bottle, my initial impression was positive. The bottle is sturdy and the squeeze mechanism seems robust. The liquid itself has a subtle, not overpowering, scent. Compared to some other brass cleaning solutions I’ve seen advertised, this one felt less harsh. I ultimately chose this particular solution, because of the Manufacturer’s, Frankford Arsenal’s, reputation for reloading equipment and their specific claim that this solution is optimized for their ultrasonic cleaners.
I was cautiously optimistic. I hoped it would live up to the hype and significantly cut down on my brass cleaning time. Time will tell if it truly revolutionizes my reloading bench.
Real-World Testing: Putting Frankford Arsenal Ultrasonic Cleaner Brass Cleaner 32 oz Squeeze Bottle to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was conducted after a long day at an outdoor range. I gathered approximately 200 pieces of mixed pistol brass – 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP – all showing significant carbon fouling and some tarnish. I used the solution in conjunction with a Frankford Arsenal ultrasonic cleaner, following the instructions on both the cleaner and the Frankford Arsenal Ultrasonic Cleaner Brass Cleaner 32 oz Squeeze Bottle.
The cleaning cycle ran for about 10 minutes. Upon removing the brass, I was immediately impressed. The brass was noticeably cleaner than anything I’d achieved with hand-scrubbing alone. Some heavily tarnished pieces required a second cycle, but overall, the results were excellent.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Frankford Arsenal Ultrasonic Cleaner Brass Cleaner 32 oz Squeeze Bottle has proven its worth. The solution remains effective through multiple cleaning cycles, although its potency does diminish over time as expected. A batch of particularly dirty .308 rifle brass took a couple of cycles, showcasing the solution’s limits with heavily soiled cases.
There’s been no sign of corrosion or damage to the ultrasonic cleaner itself. A definite advantage. Maintenance is simple: I just rinse the ultrasonic cleaner’s tank after each use. Compared to dry media tumbling, which leaves dust and residue everywhere, this is a welcome change. This solution has consistently outperformed my previous methods. It allows me to dedicate less time to cleaning and more time to reloading and shooting.
Breaking Down the Features of Frankford Arsenal Ultrasonic Cleaner Brass Cleaner 32 oz Squeeze Bottle
Specifications
The Frankford Arsenal Ultrasonic Cleaner Brass Cleaner 32 oz Squeeze Bottle offers a straightforward approach to cleaning brass. The key specifications are:
- Caliber: 32 oz – This refers to the volume of the solution within the bottle.
- Size: 32oz – This reiterates the volume, indicating a substantial quantity for multiple cleaning cycles.
These specifications highlight the solution’s capacity, suggesting it is designed for frequent use and larger batches of brass. The quantity is sufficient for multiple reloading sessions. This is a cost-effective choice in the long run.
Performance & Functionality
The Frankford Arsenal Ultrasonic Cleaner Brass Cleaner 32 oz Squeeze Bottle excels at removing carbon buildup, tarnish, and oxidation from brass. The solution works best when used in conjunction with an ultrasonic cleaner. It quickly lifts contaminants from the brass’s surface.
The solution’s strength allows for multiple cleaning cycles before needing replacement. This is a significant advantage over single-use cleaning methods. It is important to note that extremely dirty brass might require multiple cycles for optimal results.
Design & Ergonomics
The Frankford Arsenal Ultrasonic Cleaner Brass Cleaner 32 oz Squeeze Bottle features a practical design. The squeeze bottle allows for controlled dispensing of the solution. This minimizes waste and ensures accurate mixing ratios.
The bottle itself is made of durable plastic. It feels robust and resists accidental punctures or leaks. The ergonomics are simple, yet effective, with the squeeze mechanism requiring minimal effort.
Durability & Maintenance
When used as directed, the Frankford Arsenal Ultrasonic Cleaner Brass Cleaner 32 oz Squeeze Bottle solution is safe for use with brass. It will not corrode the brass casings, or damage the ultrasonic cleaner. Storing the bottle in a cool, dry place will maximize its shelf life.
No specific maintenance is required for the solution itself. Regular cleaning of the ultrasonic cleaner is necessary to maintain optimal performance. The solution is biodegradable and non-toxic. This adds to its ease of use and responsible disposal.
Accessories and Customization Options
This is a cleaning solution and as such, it doesn’t lend itself to traditional customization. However, its effectiveness can be enhanced with certain accessories.
- Ultrasonic Cleaner: The Frankford Arsenal Ultrasonic Cleaner, or similar models, are crucial for optimal use.
- Mesh Basket: A mesh basket within the cleaner helps to organize brass and prevent it from settling at the bottom. This helps to ensure even cleaning.
The solution is designed to be compatible with most ultrasonic cleaners. It works especially well with the Frankford Arsenal line of cleaners. This helps ensure optimal performance and longevity of both the solution and the cleaning unit.
Pros and Cons of Frankford Arsenal Ultrasonic Cleaner Brass Cleaner 32 oz Squeeze Bottle
Pros
- Effectively removes carbon buildup, tarnish, and oxidation from brass. This leads to cleaner brass. This aids in achieving consistent reloading results.
- Can be used for multiple cleaning cycles. This provides a cost-effective and efficient solution for high-volume reloaders.
- Easy to use and dispense with the squeeze bottle design. Accurate mixing ratios and minimal waste help contribute to the ease of use.
- Biodegradable and non-toxic formula. This enhances user safety and promotes responsible environmental practices.
- Specifically formulated for ultrasonic cleaners. Designed for the best and most efficient results when paired with ultrasonic cleaners.
Cons
- Heavily tarnished brass may require multiple cleaning cycles. This can increase cleaning time.
- Solution potency diminishes with each use. Regularly replacing the solution helps maintain optimal cleaning.
Who Should Buy Frankford Arsenal Ultrasonic Cleaner Brass Cleaner 32 oz Squeeze Bottle?
The Frankford Arsenal Ultrasonic Cleaner Brass Cleaner 32 oz Squeeze Bottle is perfect for:
- High-volume reloaders who need an efficient and effective way to clean their brass.
- Shooters looking for a consistent and accurate reloading process.
- Individuals who want to reduce the manual labor involved in brass cleaning.
Who should skip this product?
- Reloaders who only process small amounts of brass infrequently may find this product overkill.
- Those who prefer traditional tumbling methods for brass cleaning might not see a significant benefit.
A must-have accessory for this is a good quality ultrasonic cleaner. The mesh basket for keeping the brass organized is also helpful.
Conclusion on Frankford Arsenal Ultrasonic Cleaner Brass Cleaner 32 oz Squeeze Bottle
The Frankford Arsenal Ultrasonic Cleaner Brass Cleaner 32 oz Squeeze Bottle is a valuable addition to any serious reloader’s bench. It delivers on its promise of effectively cleaning brass and offers a significant time savings compared to traditional methods. The solution’s ability to be used for multiple cleaning cycles further enhances its value.
At $19.49, the price is justified considering the time saved and the consistency achieved in brass cleaning. The cleaning solution is far more convenient and faster when compared to hand scrubbing.
I would personally recommend the Frankford Arsenal Ultrasonic Cleaner Brass Cleaner 32 oz Squeeze Bottle to any reloader looking to streamline their process and achieve consistently clean brass. Make the investment and say goodbye to tedious hand-scrubbing.