The Imperative of Clean Brass
If you’re a reloader, you understand the meticulous process of crafting ammunition. From selecting the right components to precisely assembling them, every step demands attention to detail. A crucial, yet often overlooked, part of this process is cleaning your brass casings. Dirty, tarnished brass can lead to inconsistent performance, potential malfunctions, and even damage to your reloading dies. Enter the solution: the humble case tumbler. Today, we’re taking a comprehensive look at the Frankford Arsenal Quick N Ez Case Tumbler, a popular choice among reloaders. This review will explore its features, performance, ease of use, and overall value, helping you decide if it’s the right tool for your reloading needs.
Before diving into the specifics of the Frankford Arsenal Quick N Ez Case Tumbler, let’s briefly explore why cleaning brass is so essential. When a cartridge is fired, residue from the gunpowder and primers coats the brass casing. This residue isn’t just unsightly; it can significantly impact your reloading experience.
Think about the benefits. Firstly, clean brass allows for more consistent bullet seating. The internal dimensions of the casing are more uniform when free of carbon and debris, contributing to improved accuracy. Secondly, reloading dies, which precisely size and shape the brass, will last longer. Abrasive particles can scratch and wear down these expensive tools. Thirdly, clean brass feeds more smoothly through your reloading equipment, minimizing the risk of jams and malfunctions. Fourthly, the overall look of your reloaded ammunition is dramatically improved, a benefit many reloaders appreciate.
Of course, there are different methods for cleaning brass, ranging from simple hand-wiping to ultrasonic cleaners. However, for many reloaders, especially those starting out or working in moderate quantities, a vibratory case tumbler offers an excellent balance of effectiveness, cost, and convenience. The Frankford Arsenal Quick N Ez Case Tumbler falls squarely into this category.
Unveiling the Features
The Frankford Arsenal Quick N Ez Case Tumbler distinguishes itself through several thoughtfully designed features that make it a user-friendly and efficient tool. Let’s break them down:
The construction and materials are generally considered solid for its price point. The base is typically made from a durable plastic, designed to withstand the vibrations inherent in the tumbling process. The bowl, the heart of the tumbler, is often made of a similar, impact-resistant plastic material. The quality is good, suggesting the tumbler is built to last through years of use.
The motor is a key component, responsible for generating the vibration that moves the media and brass. The Frankford Arsenal Quick N Ez Case Tumbler usually employs a vibratory motor. This type of motor provides consistent agitation, ensuring thorough cleaning. The motor is typically designed to be efficient and reliable, working with a relatively low power draw. You can expect it to run smoothly without overheating during normal operation.
The bowl itself is designed for both efficiency and ease of use. Many designs include a removable bowl, allowing for easy loading, unloading, and cleaning. Features such as a recessed bottom or a slightly angled bowl often aid in the brass separation process. A crucial part of the design is how it facilitates the circular motion to make sure every part of the brass is cleaned.
The Frankford Arsenal Quick N Ez Case Tumbler often incorporates an on/off switch. It’s a simple, but essential, control that makes operation straightforward. In some models, you may also find a timer function. This allows you to set the tumbling duration, letting you attend to other tasks while your brass is being cleaned.
How It Performs: The Tumble Process
Using the Frankford Arsenal Quick N Ez Case Tumbler is a straightforward process, designed for ease of use even for beginners.
Loading your brass is the first step. Simply pour your dirty brass casings into the bowl. The tumbler’s capacity is generally suitable for reloading hobbyists. The specific capacity will depend on the caliber, but it’s typically adequate for medium-sized batches of brass. Next, add your tumbling media. This is a crucial element for cleaning, and you have several options. Corn cob media is a popular choice for polishing and removing light oxidation. Walnut shell media is a more aggressive option, ideal for removing heavy grime and carbon buildup. The Frankford Arsenal Quick N Ez Case Tumbler is designed to work well with a variety of media types.
If you’re using polishing compounds, such as liquid brass polish, now is the time to add them. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the compound you choose. Adding a small amount of polishing compound helps the brass shine, providing that satisfyingly clean finish.
Once your brass, media, and compound (if applicable) are loaded, secure the lid of the bowl. Turn on the tumbler by engaging the power switch. If your model has a timer, set the desired tumbling duration. This can vary depending on the condition of your brass and the media you are using. Typically, a few hours of tumbling will produce excellent results.
As the tumbler vibrates, the brass and media move around, cleaning the cases. After the tumbling cycle is complete, turn off the tumbler. The next step involves separating the brass from the media. There are various methods for this, which we’ll cover later.
You will want to inspect the results. Your brass should be noticeably cleaner and brighter. If the brass is particularly dirty, or the media is old, you may need to tumble for a longer period.
The Frankford Arsenal Quick N Ez Case Tumbler typically runs at a manageable noise level. It’s not silent, but it’s usually not loud enough to disturb conversations.
The Good and the Bad
Let’s weigh the pros and cons of the Frankford Arsenal Quick N Ez Case Tumbler:
The benefits of this tumbler are easily apparent. Ease of use is one of the most significant advantages. It’s a plug-and-play solution. The streamlined design allows for quick setup and operation, making it accessible even for beginner reloaders. Efficiency is a key strength. It quickly and effectively cleans brass, saving valuable time during the reloading process.
Effectiveness is another strong point. The vibratory action and the right media combination will deliver excellent results. The Frankford Arsenal Quick N Ez Case Tumbler will remove dirt, grime, and even light oxidation, leaving your brass looking clean and ready for reloading. The price point is another advantage. It’s often available at a very competitive price, making it an affordable option for new and experienced reloaders. The construction is usually quite durable. The components are generally built to last, offering a good return on investment over time. The tumbler’s compact size means it doesn’t take up a lot of storage space in your reloading area.
What are the downsides? One minor drawback is that some users might find the noise level noticeable. Though not excessively loud, the motor does produce a humming sound during operation. Capacity is another thing to consider. While it can handle a reasonable batch of brass, it might not be suitable for high-volume reloading operations that require processing hundreds of cases at a time.
User Experience: What People Are Saying
User reviews offer valuable insight into the real-world performance of the Frankford Arsenal Quick N Ez Case Tumbler. Generally, users express satisfaction with its ease of use and cleaning effectiveness. Many users appreciate the tumbler’s value, finding it an excellent entry-level option for brass cleaning. Positive comments often highlight the simplicity of operation and the ability to produce clean brass in a relatively short time. Some users also report that it’s well-suited for smaller reloading operations.
Negative feedback, while less common, may focus on the noise level. A few users find the motor’s hum to be a bit loud. Overall, the feedback indicates that the Frankford Arsenal Quick N Ez Case Tumbler consistently delivers on its promise: clean, polished brass with minimal effort.
Keeping Your Tumbler in Top Shape
Proper maintenance ensures that your Frankford Arsenal Quick N Ez Case Tumbler continues to perform well.
Cleaning the tumbler after each use is a good practice. Remove the bowl and wipe it clean. Remove any residual media or dust. Regularly inspect the motor. Keeping the outside surfaces clean helps extend its lifespan.
Tumbling media doesn’t last forever. Over time, the media will become saturated with dirt and grime, reducing its effectiveness. It’s recommended to change the media regularly.
When the tumbler is not in use, store it in a dry, dust-free environment.
Regularly check the power cord and connections for any signs of wear and tear. Address these issues immediately for your safety.
By following these simple maintenance steps, you’ll ensure that your Frankford Arsenal Quick N Ez Case Tumbler will continue to provide reliable performance.
A Clear Recommendation
The Frankford Arsenal Quick N Ez Case Tumbler is an excellent choice for reloaders of all experience levels. Its ease of use, efficiency, and affordability make it particularly well-suited for those just getting started with reloading or those reloading in moderate quantities. The Frankford Arsenal Quick N Ez Case Tumbler will help bring your brass back to life.
If you’re looking for a reliable and effective way to clean your brass casings, look no further. The Frankford Arsenal Quick N Ez Case Tumbler offers a winning combination of features and performance.
Get your Frankford Arsenal Quick N Ez Case Tumbler today!
