Separating your freshly cleaned brass from the media is arguably the least glamorous part of the wet tumbling process. It’s a messy, tedious chore that can dampen the satisfaction of seeing gleaming cases. That’s where a dedicated tool like the Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Media Separator steps in, promising to streamline this final stage of brass cleaning. This reloading accessory aims to replace the DIY bucket-and-colander method with a purpose-built system.
Designed for both wet and dry media, it presents itself as a complete, ambidextrous solution. But does its performance justify adding another piece of gear to your bench? I’ve put it through its paces to see if it truly delivers on its promise of ease and reliability, or if it’s just another piece of plastic destined for the back of the shelf. The real test lies in its day-to-day use and long-term durability.
Frankford Arsenal Media Separator: Key Features & Build Quality
At first glance, the Frankford Arsenal separator is a straightforward two-piece system. It consists of a large, spill-proof collection tub and a perforated sifting basket that locks inside. The construction is entirely of molded plastic, which immediately raises questions about longevity but also explains its accessible price point. Honestly speaking, the plastic feels robust enough for the intended jobit’s not flimsy, but it’s not industrial-grade either.
The design incorporates several thoughtful features aimed at user convenience. The rotating basket has two handles, making it genuinely ambidextrousa small but appreciated detail. A rugged rubber latch secures the basket lid, which is crucial for preventing a catastrophic spill of pins and dirty water. The tub features a molded drain plug at the bottom, a critical component for efficiently emptying slurry after separation.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type | Wet/Dry Media Separator |
| Components | Spill-proof tub, perforated sifter basket, two handles |
| Primary Use | Separating stainless steel media or dry media from cleaned brass |
| Key Mechanism | Rotating basket with ambidextrous handles |
| Security Feature | Rugged rubber latch on sifter lid |
| Drainage | Integrated drain plug in collection tub |
| Check current price on Amazon |
Setup, Use & Real-World Performance
Using the Frankford Arsenal media separator is intuitive. You simply lock the sifter basket into the tub, pour your wet brass and pins from the rotary tumbler into the basket, and secure the lid with the rubber latch. Then, it’s a matter of rotating the basket using the handles. The perforations allow water and stainless steel pins to fall through into the tub below, leaving your brass inside the basket. When done, you lift the basket out, set your brass aside to dry, and use the drain plug to empty the tub.
My honest assessment is that it works exactly as advertised for standard batches. The throughput is good for a couple hundred pieces of pistol brass or a smaller batch of rifle brass. The process is significantly cleaner and faster than makeshift methods. However, there are nuances. The plastic gears that facilitate the rotation can be a point of concern. Some long-term user reports on forums like dedicated reloading communities mention wear or cracking after extensive use, which is a valid consideration for high-volume reloaders.
Noise level is moderateit’s the sound of plastic gears meshing and water sloshing, which is far quieter than the tumbler itself. Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward: rinse it out and let it dry. To be completely honest, ensuring the drain plug area is free of debris is the main task to prevent leaks. For a detailed look at how to use Frankford Arsenal media separator, the process is simple, but consistency in setup prevents messes.
Addressing Common Questions and Problems
When evaluating any tool, it’s wise to consider the potential pitfalls. The question of Frankford Arsenal media separator problems often centers on durability. The plastic construction, while cost-effective, isn’t indestructible. Over-tightening the latch or forcing the basket when it’s overly full can stress components. Speaking honestly, treating it with reasonable care mitigates most of these risks. It’s a tool for separation, not a brute-force device.
Another frequent comparison is the Frankford Arsenal media separator vs. homemade solutions. The homemade route is cheaper, often using a kitchen colander over a bucket. The Frankford Arsenal’s advantages are its integrated drain, secure latching lid, and designed handles, which collectively reduce spill risk and improve ergonomics. Whether that’s worth the investment depends entirely on how much you value convenience and a dedicated, tidy workspace. This approach, recommended by , ensures you weigh convenience against pure cost.
Pros, Cons & User Feedback
After extensive use, the strengths and weaknesses of this separator become clear. It excels at its core function while presenting some trade-offs typical of its price category. This perspective aligns with insights from Honest Opinion, which emphasizes
Pros:
- Effective Separation: It quickly and cleanly separates pins from brass, fulfilling its primary job.
- Integrated Drain Plug: The built-in drain is a game-changer for messy water disposal.
- Ambidextrous Design: The dual handles make it comfortable for all users.
- Secure Latching Lid: The rubber latch reliably prevents mid-process spills.
- Spill-Containment Tub: It captures all media and dirty water, keeping your area clean.
Cons:
- Plastic Construction: Long-term durability, especially the gears, can be a concern under heavy use.
- Capacity Limitations: Very large batches may require multiple cycles, affecting throughput.
- Gear Noise: The rotating mechanism isn’t silent, though it’s not overly loud.
User feedback generally aligns with these points. Most agree it’s a massive upgrade from the DIY approach and offers solid value for money. The critical feedback, as seen in broader discussions on platforms like r/reloading, consistently highlights the plastic gears as the potential failure point. From my honest perspective, for the casual to moderate reloader, this separator is more than adequate. The high-volume shooter running thousands of cases weekly might need to consider a more heavy-duty option or be prepared for possible part replacement down the line.
Frankford Arsenal vs. The Competition
Naturally, the Frankford Arsenal vs. RCBS comparison comes up. RCBS offers a similar rotary-style separator, often noted for its slightly more robust feel but at a higher price point. The Lyman model is another direct competitor. The choice often boils down to brand preference and minor design differences. The Frankford Arsenal typically wins on price, while some users perceive the RCBS as having a durability edge. I honestly believe the performance difference for most users is negligible; the decision often comes down to budget and which brand’s ecosystem you’re already invested in.
When searching for the best media separator, it’s less about a single “best” and more about the best for your specific needs and volume. For the price, the Frankford Arsenal makes a compelling case. It integrates well with other Frankford Arsenal tools, like their popular case prep center or their M-Press coaxial press, creating a streamlined workflow from dirty brass to loaded round.
Final Verdict: Is the Frankford Arsenal Media Separator Worth It?
So, is the Frankford Arsenal media separator worth it? My honest take is a resounding yes for the vast majority of reloaders. It solves a messy problem with a simple, effective, and affordable tool. The convenience it adds to the wet tumbling process is immediately apparent, transforming a chore into a quick, clean, one-minute step.
Its value for money is its strongest attribute. You get a dedicated, functional system that works reliably. You must accept the trade-off: the plastic construction may not last a lifetime under extreme, high-volume use, but it is perfectly suited for typical reloading schedules. If you’re just starting with stainless steel media cleaning or are tired of the colander method, this separator is an excellent investment. It’s one of those accessories you’ll wonder how you ever lived without.
For those whose volume pushes the limits, or who simply prefer all-metal construction, looking at the RCBS or similar models is prudent. But for everyone else, the Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Media Separator earns its place on the bench. It does one job, and it does it very well, which is the hallmark of a great reloading accessory. It won’t make your ammo more accurate, but it will make the process of preparing your brass significantly more pleasant and efficient.