First Impressions of Frankford Arsenal X-10 Progressive Press w/Case Feeder
The Frankford Arsenal X-10 Progressive Press w/Case Feeder promises to be a reloading game-changer, a 10-station behemoth designed to churn out ammunition with unparalleled speed and precision. Frankford Arsenal designed this press from the ground up, and its robust construction and innovative features immediately set it apart from the competition. After 10+ years of reloading, I was eager to see if the X-10 could truly live up to the hype.
Tired of spending countless hours on my single-stage and older progressive presses, I was seeking a solution to significantly increase my ammo production without sacrificing quality. The promise of 10 stations, in-line swaging, and a case feeder were impossible to ignore.
Unboxing the Frankford Arsenal X-10 Progressive Press w/Case Feeder was an experience in itself; the sheer size and weight (100 lbs!) spoke volumes about its build quality. The steel construction felt incredibly solid, and the fit and finish were impressive.
Compared to my Dillon XL650 and RCBS Pro Chucker 5, the X-10 felt significantly more robust and refined. While those presses are solid performers, the X-10’s 10 stations and geared shell plate system seemed like a major step up in terms of capability and smooth operation.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism mixed with a healthy dose of intimidation. The Frankford Arsenal X-10 Progressive Press w/Case Feeder looked impressive, but I knew the real test would be in its performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Frankford Arsenal X-10 Progressive Press w/Case Feeder to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Frankford Arsenal X-10 Progressive Press w/Case Feeder took place in my reloading room, a controlled environment perfect for dialing in the press. I decided to start with 9mm, a cartridge I reload frequently, to gauge the press’s overall ease of setup and operation.
The press performed admirably, even with the initial setup, but dialing in the powder measure took longer than expected. It was crucial to get the powder charge consistent before cranking out hundreds of rounds.
I encountered a minor issue with primer seating depth initially; after some adjustments, the X-10 began seating primers perfectly, and the dual de-capping stations eliminated any primer drawback problems.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and thousands of rounds of various calibers (9mm, .223, .308), the Frankford Arsenal X-10 Progressive Press w/Case Feeder has proven to be a reliable workhorse. Minor tweaks have been needed, but that is normal for any reloading press.
The press shows no signs of significant wear and tear. Regular cleaning and lubrication are necessary, but the X-10 is relatively easy to maintain.
Compared to my experience with other progressive presses, the Frankford Arsenal X-10 Progressive Press w/Case Feeder offers a smoother, more consistent operation, particularly in primer seating and powder dispensing. Its geared shell plate and 10 stations allow for complex operations like in-line swaging and powder checking, something my other presses can’t handle without aftermarket modifications.
Breaking Down the Features of Frankford Arsenal X-10 Progressive Press w/Case Feeder
Specifications
- The Frankford Arsenal X-10 Progressive Press w/Case Feeder is universal in caliber, meaning it can load a wide range of cartridges from 9mm to .308 and beyond. This versatility saves money from buying multiple presses.
- The press is constructed from steel, ensuring rigidity and durability for years of heavy use. Its weight of 100 lbs underscores this robust build.
- It features 10 stations, allowing for multiple operations to be performed simultaneously, including dual de-capping, in-line swaging, powder check, and case trimming. More stations mean more control over the reloading process.
- The press includes a case feeder, which dramatically speeds up the reloading process by automatically feeding cases into the shell plate. The case feeder will really churn out the ammo!
These specifications translate to faster, more efficient, and more precise reloading. The steel construction ensures longevity, while the 10 stations and case feeder maximize production speed and the ability to perform complex reloading tasks.
Performance & Functionality
The Frankford Arsenal X-10 Progressive Press w/Case Feeder performs exceptionally well, consistently producing high-quality ammunition at impressive speeds. Accuracy is largely dependent on die selection and proper setup, but the press itself provides a stable and consistent platform for achieving excellent results.
The X-10’s strengths lie in its smooth operation, consistent primer seating, and the ability to perform multiple operations simultaneously. One weakness is the initial setup can be time-consuming, especially when dialing in the powder measure for different calibers.
The press largely exceeds expectations; after addressing the initial setup challenges, the Frankford Arsenal X-10 Progressive Press w/Case Feeder has proven to be a significant upgrade over my previous progressive presses. The in-line swaging and powder check capabilities are particularly valuable, ensuring both consistent primer seating and preventing squib loads.
Design & Ergonomics
The Frankford Arsenal X-10 Progressive Press w/Case Feeder boasts a heavy-duty steel construction, giving it a reassuring sense of solidity. The weight (100 lbs) makes it stable during operation.
The Frankford Arsenal X-10 features a roller handle, integrated LED light, and spring-loaded case locator buttons, enhancing ease of use. There is a learning curve associated with setting up and fine-tuning the press for different calibers, but the intuitive design makes it manageable.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust steel construction, the Frankford Arsenal X-10 Progressive Press w/Case Feeder is expected to last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to maintain smooth operation and prevent wear and tear.
The press is relatively easy to maintain; the geared shell plate and other key components are readily accessible for cleaning and lubrication. Replacement parts are available from Frankford Arsenal, ensuring long-term support and serviceability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Frankford Arsenal X-10 Progressive Press w/Case Feeder comes standard with a case feeder, which is a huge time saver. The press is compatible with standard 7/8″-14 reloading dies, allowing for a wide range of customization options from various brands.
Optional accessories such as bullet feeders and aftermarket powder measures can be added to further enhance the press’s functionality and speed. The modular design of the X-10 makes it easy to integrate these accessories, allowing users to tailor the press to their specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Frankford Arsenal X-10 Progressive Press w/Case Feeder
Pros
- High Production Speed: The 10 stations and case feeder dramatically increase ammo production.
- In-Line Swaging: Eliminates primer pocket crimps without requiring a separate operation.
- Geared Shell Plate: Ensures smooth and consistent operation with minimal powder spillage.
- Robust Construction: The steel frame and heavy-duty components provide long-lasting durability.
- Integrated Safety Features: The dual de-capping stations and optional powder check die prevent common reloading errors.
Cons
- Setup can be time consuming, especially for inexperienced reloaders.
- High price point compared to other progressive presses.
Who Should Buy Frankford Arsenal X-10 Progressive Press w/Case Feeder?
The Frankford Arsenal X-10 Progressive Press w/Case Feeder is perfect for high-volume reloaders, competitive shooters, and anyone who wants to produce large quantities of ammunition quickly and efficiently. It’s also ideal for reloaders who want to perform complex operations like in-line swaging and powder checking without requiring separate steps.
This product might not be suitable for beginner reloaders or those who only reload small quantities of ammunition. The high price point and initial setup complexity may be overwhelming for those new to the hobby.
Must-have accessories for the Frankford Arsenal X-10 Progressive Press w/Case Feeder include high-quality reloading dies, a reliable powder measure, and a bullet feeder (for even faster production). Regular maintenance tools like a cleaning brush and lubrication oil are also essential.
Conclusion on Frankford Arsenal X-10 Progressive Press w/Case Feeder
The Frankford Arsenal X-10 Progressive Press w/Case Feeder is a premium reloading press that delivers exceptional performance, speed, and versatility. While the initial setup can be challenging, the benefits of its 10 stations, in-line swaging, and robust construction are well worth the investment for serious reloaders.
The price is justified for those who prioritize high-volume production and advanced features. If you want to reload large quantities with precision, the Frankford Arsenal X-10 Progressive Press w/Case Feeder is an excellent choice.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Frankford Arsenal X-10 Progressive Press w/Case Feeder to anyone looking to take their reloading to the next level. Invest in quality, save time, and produce exceptional ammunition. Get yours today!