First Impressions of Frankford Arsenal X-10 Spare Locator Buttons
As a seasoned reloading enthusiast with over a decade of experience, I’ve faced my share of small parts rolling off the workbench and disappearing into the ether. The Frankford Arsenal X-10 Spare Locator Buttons promised to be a simple yet effective solution to this age-old problem, offering a dedicated space for those tiny but crucial components during the reloading process. Frankford Arsenal is a well-known name in the reloading world, so my expectations were reasonably high that this product would be a practical addition to my setup.
I was constantly losing small parts like detent balls, springs, and screws, leading to frustrating delays and sometimes even requiring me to order replacements. The idea of having a dedicated spot to keep these organized and prevent them from getting lost immediately appealed to me.
Upon receiving the package, I was initially surprised by the simplicity of the product. The buttons are small, black, and made of what appears to be a durable plastic. Compared to magnetic trays or improvised containers, these buttons seemed like a more organized and purpose-built solution. While other products exist that offer similar functionality, I chose the Frankford Arsenal X-10 Spare Locator Buttons due to the Frankford Arsenal’s reputation for quality and the perceived convenience of the button design.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic; the simplicity was appealing, but I wondered if they would truly be effective in preventing the dreaded “roll-away.”
Real-World Testing: Putting Frankford Arsenal X-10 Spare Locator Buttons to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Frankford Arsenal X-10 Spare Locator Buttons during a high-volume reloading session for .223 Remington, where I was swapping out primer seating stems and adjusting powder measures. My workbench can get cluttered quickly, so I strategically placed the buttons near the stations where I was most likely to handle small parts.
The buttons performed adequately in dry conditions, holding small screws and springs securely. However, I noticed that if my hands were slightly greasy or if any oil got on the buttons, the smaller parts were more prone to slipping off. It took a little getting used to at first, especially training myself to consistently place small parts on the buttons instead of reflexively setting them down on the nearest surface.
The main issue I encountered was the small size of each button; larger parts, or multiple parts, were a tight fit.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Frankford Arsenal X-10 Spare Locator Buttons have become a semi-permanent fixture on my reloading bench. They’ve definitely reduced the number of times I’ve had to hunt for escaped small parts.
The buttons have shown no signs of wear and tear, even after being exposed to various solvents and oils. Cleaning is simple; I just wipe them down with a clean cloth. Compared to my previous method of using small dishes or trays, these buttons offer a more streamlined and organized solution, though the limited surface area is a persistent constraint.
Ultimately, they are a useful, if somewhat limited, addition to my reloading setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Frankford Arsenal X-10 Spare Locator Buttons
Specifications
The Frankford Arsenal X-10 Spare Locator Buttons are designed to provide a dedicated, small area to hold small parts during the reloading process. The package includes 25 black, small buttons. These buttons, made by Frankford Arsenal, appear to be constructed from a durable, non-marring plastic material.
The key specifications that matter are the quantity (25), which provides ample coverage for various reloading stations, and the small size, which dictates the type and number of parts that can be stored on each button.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Frankford Arsenal X-10 Spare Locator Buttons is to prevent small parts from getting lost or misplaced during reloading. They perform this function reasonably well, particularly for small screws, detent balls, and springs. However, their small size is a limiting factor.
The strengths of these buttons lie in their simplicity and ease of use. The main weakness is the limited surface area, which makes them unsuitable for larger parts or holding multiple parts at once. Ultimately, they meet expectations as a simple organizational tool, but don’t exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The Frankford Arsenal X-10 Spare Locator Buttons feature a minimalist design. The black plastic construction is unobtrusive and blends in well with most reloading benches. The weight is negligible, and the buttons are easy to reposition as needed.
They are undeniably user-friendly, requiring no setup or learning curve. Just place them where you need them and start using them.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, these buttons should last for a considerable time. The plastic material is resistant to most common solvents and oils used in reloading. Maintaining them is easy; simply wipe them clean as needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Frankford Arsenal X-10 Spare Locator Buttons don’t come with any specific accessories, nor do they offer much in the way of customization. They are designed as a standalone organizational tool. They are inherently compatible with any reloading setup, as they are simply placed on the bench or other work surface.
Pros and Cons of Frankford Arsenal X-10 Spare Locator Buttons
Pros
- Simple and easy to use.
- Helps to prevent small parts from getting lost.
- Durable and resistant to solvents/oils.
- Inexpensive organizational tool.
- 25 buttons provide ample coverage for multiple reloading stations.
Cons
- Small size limits the type and number of parts that can be held.
- Not suitable for larger parts.
- Can be slippery if oily or greasy.
Who Should Buy Frankford Arsenal X-10 Spare Locator Buttons?
The Frankford Arsenal X-10 Spare Locator Buttons are perfect for reloaders of all skill levels who frequently work with small parts. They are particularly useful for those with cluttered workbenches or those prone to misplacing small components. Anyone looking for a simple and inexpensive way to organize their reloading bench will find these buttons helpful.
Those who primarily work with larger parts or have exceptionally well-organized reloading setups might not find these buttons necessary. Individuals who require more robust or versatile organizational solutions may want to consider magnetic trays or multi-compartment organizers instead.
There are no must-have accessories or modifications needed, as the buttons are designed to be used as-is.
Conclusion on Frankford Arsenal X-10 Spare Locator Buttons
The Frankford Arsenal X-10 Spare Locator Buttons are a simple and affordable solution for preventing small parts from getting lost during reloading. While their small size limits their versatility, they are undeniably useful for organizing small screws, springs, and detent balls. The price is justified for the peace of mind they provide.
I would personally recommend these buttons to any reloader looking for a basic organizational tool, especially beginners who are still developing their bench setup. For a small investment, the Frankford Arsenal X-10 Spare Locator Buttons can save you time and frustration, making your reloading process more efficient and enjoyable. Consider adding these to your bench and say goodbye to the dreaded “where did that spring go?” moment.