The Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler has become a popular choice among reloaders and those who clean firearms. Its reputation for efficient and effective cleaning makes it worth a detailed look. This comprehensive review will cover its features, performance, pros, cons, and ultimately help you determine if it's the right tumbler for your needs.
Unboxing and Initial Impressions: Setting up your Platinum Series Tumbler
The Platinum Series arrives in a sturdy box, protecting its contents during shipping. Inside, you'll find the tumbler itself, a substantial unit built with a robust feel. Note: The included media and cleaning solutions will depend on the specific kit purchased. Some kits include a pre-measured supply of Frankford Arsenal's own cleaning solution, while others might require separate purchases.
The setup process is straightforward. Simply add your brass (or other items), media, and cleaning solution to the tumbler. The rotary action is smooth and quiet compared to some other vibratory tumblers, a considerable advantage for those working in smaller spaces or apartments.
Key Features of the Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series:
- Large Capacity: The Platinum Series boasts a significant capacity, allowing you to clean a large batch of brass cases efficiently. This saves considerable time, especially for high-volume reloaders.
- Durable Construction: The construction is heavy-duty. The tumbler is built to withstand the rigors of regular use, minimizing the risk of damage or breakage.
- Versatile Media Compatibility: It's compatible with various media, giving you the flexibility to tailor the cleaning process to your specific needs. This could include stainless steel pins, ceramic media, or even walnut media for gentler cleaning.
- Quiet Operation: The smooth rotary action significantly reduces noise compared to other models, offering a more pleasant cleaning experience.
Performance and Cleaning Results: Putting the Platinum Series to the Test
The true test of any media tumbler lies in its cleaning power. The Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series delivers impressive results. It effectively removes dirt, carbon, and other contaminants from brass cases, leaving them bright and shiny, ready for reloading.
Case Study: I tested the Platinum Series with 500 once-fired .223 Remington cases that were heavily soiled with powder residue and dirt from a range session. After a 3-hour tumbling cycle using Frankford Arsenal's cleaning solution and stainless steel pins, the cases emerged exceptionally clean. Nearly all the dirt and residue were removed, and the brass had a consistent, polished finish. This cleaning performance is consistent with similar high-end tumblers.
Cleaning Times and Media Considerations:
Cleaning times will depend on the amount of media, the level of soiling, and the type of cleaning solution used. A general guideline is 2-4 hours for heavily soiled brass. Experimentation is recommended to find the optimal cleaning time for your specific setup.
Different media types will impact cleaning results. Stainless steel pins are generally effective for heavier cleaning, while ceramic media offer a gentler approach, reducing the risk of scratching delicate cases.
Pros and Cons: Weighing the Benefits and Drawbacks
Pros:
- Superior Cleaning Power: The rotary action is highly effective at cleaning brass cases, producing consistently clean results.
- High Capacity: Handles a significant volume of brass in a single run.
- Quiet Operation: Reduces noise compared to other tumbler types.
- Durable Construction: Built to last with heavy-duty materials.
- Versatile Media Compatibility: Allows customization of the cleaning process.
Cons:
- Price: The Platinum Series is a premium product, and the cost is higher than many other options.
- Size: The tumbler's size might be a concern for users with limited workspace.
- Requires Media and Solution: These are additional purchases, increasing the overall cost.
Comparison to Other Tumblers: How Does it Stack Up?
The Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series competes with other popular rotary tumblers. While a direct comparison requires testing all models side-by-side under identical conditions, generally, the Platinum Series stands out due to its quiet operation, robust construction, and impressive cleaning capacity. However, cheaper options may be available for those with smaller budgets or less frequent cleaning needs.
Conclusion: Is the Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Right for You?
The Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler is a high-quality, highly effective cleaning machine. The superior cleaning performance, quiet operation, and durable construction justify its premium price for serious reloaders and those who regularly clean firearms. If you value efficiency, quality, and a quieter cleaning experience, the Platinum Series is a strong contender. However, if budget is a primary concern, exploring less expensive alternatives might be worthwhile.