The Frankford Arsenal M-Press: A Coaxial Reloading Revolution
Precision reloading demands a foundation of absolute consistency. Every fraction of an inch of misalignment can translate to a fraction of an inch on target. The Frankford Arsenal M-Press enters the arena with a singular, compelling promise: to eliminate that misalignment at its source. This isn’t just another single-stage press; it’s a purpose-built tool engineered around a coaxial design and its signature floating shell-holder.
My honest take is that this press represents a significant shift in thinking for the handloader focused on accuracy. While brands like RCBS and Hornady dominate with robust, traditional O-frame designs, Frankford Arsenal targets the core challenge of die-to-case alignment head-on. Let’s see if the execution lives up to the innovative concept.
Core Specifications & Build Quality
First impressions matter, and the M-Press makes a solid one. Weighing in at 21 lbs with dimensions of 20″ L x 9″ W x 6.5″ D, it has a substantial, bench-anchoring presence. The heavy-duty, die-cast construction isn’t just for show; it provides the rigid platform necessary for the coaxial design to function correctly. Honestly speaking, the 21-pound weight is a feature, not a flawit minimizes flex and movement during the press stroke, a critical factor for precision reloading.
The press arrives with quick-change die blocks that accept standard 7/8″-14 threaded dies. This compatibility is crucial; you aren’t locked into a proprietary system. Whether you use dies from Lee, RCBS, Redding, or others, they will mount directly. A spent primer catcher is integrated, a small but vital feature for maintaining a clean workspace. The two parallel guide rods are the backbone of the system, ensuring the ram moves in a perfectly vertical plane without the side-to-side play found in some hinged designs.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | Frankford Arsenal M-Press Coaxial Press |
| Design | Coaxial with Floating Shell-Holder |
| Weight | 21 lbs |
| Dimensions | 20″ L x 9″ W x 6.5″ D |
| Die Compatibility | Standard 7/8″-14 Thread |
| Construction | Heavy-Duty Die-Cast |
| Key Features | Parallel Guide Rods, Integral Spent Primer Catcher, Quick-Change Die Blocks |
| Check current price on Amazon |
The Heart of the Matter: Floating Shell-Holder Technology
This is where the M-Press separates itself. The floating shell-holder isn’t an accessory; it’s integral. In a standard press, the shell holder is fixed. If your case isn’t seated perfectly, or if there’s any imperfection, the case mouth is forced into alignment by the die, which can cause runout (bullet misalignment). The Frankford Arsenal system flips this script.
The shell-holder plate floats on the ram, allowing it to move laterally. When you raise the ram, the die contacts the case first. The floating shell-holder then allows the case to “find” its own perfect center alignment with the die before any significant sizing or seating force is applied. Its a self-aligning mechanism that compensates for minor inconsistencies. From my honest perspective, this is a brilliant solution to a perennial problem in ammunition reloading. Its particularly beneficial for operations like bullet seating and neck sizing, where concentricity is paramount.
Performance & Precision Benefits in Practice
So, how does the Frankford Arsenal coaxial press work for actual precision? The theory translates to tangible results. The primary benefit is reduced bullet runout. you get straighter ammunition. Straighter ammunition typically flies truer. The rigid coaxial design and guide rods further enhance this without deflection.
The press also excels in ease of operation. The floating mechanism makes it noticeably smoother when initially engaging the case. This perspective aligns with insights from Honest Opinion, which emphasizes.You don’t fight that slight “catch” or bind that can happen with a fixed holder. This smoothness, a best practice according to , contributes to a more consistent feel, which often leads to more consistent results. For tasks like priming on the press or delicate bullet seating, this consistent, aligned pressure is a genuine advantage.
Frankford Arsenal M-Press vs. The Competition
Where does this leave the M-Press in the broader market? It occupies a unique niche. Compared to a classic single-stage workhorse like the RCBS Rock Chucker, the M-Press trades sheer mechanical leverage for precision alignment. The Rock Chucker might feel more powerful for tough full-length resizing, but the M-Press aims for perfection in the final product.
The Frankford Arsenal floating shell holder vs standard designs is the core differentiator. When stacked against popular turret presses like the Lee Precision Classic, the M-Press is purely a single-stage, precision-first tool. Turret presses offer speed for volume, but the M-Press is built for deliberate, accuracy-focused sessions. I honestly believe it’s one of the strongest contenders for the title of best coaxial press for precision reloading in its price class, offering a specialized approach that mainstream brands often address with far more expensive competition-style presses.
Setup, Operation, and Key Considerations
Getting started is straightforward. Frankford Arsenal M-Press setup instructions are simple: mount it solidly to a sturdy bench, insert the provided die blocks, and screw in your dies. The floating mechanism requires no adjustment; it just works. However, understanding its operation is key. You must let the press do the aligning. Don’t force the handle if you feel initial resistance; a slight easing and re-application often lets the self-aligning feature engage properly.
There are a few critical entities often missing from discussions that deserve mention. First, caliber compatibility is universal because it uses standard shell holders. Any shell holder that fits a standard press ram will work. Second, warranty and support: Frankford Arsenal typically offers a limited warranty, and checking their official site for current terms is advised. Finally, while it works with all major die brands, the precision benefits are most pronounced with high-quality, concentric dies.
Ideal User & Final Assessment
This press isn’t for everyone. If your goal is to crank out hundreds of rounds of pistol ammo per hour, look at a progressive press. The M-Press is for the reloader who measures twice and loads once. It’s perfect for:
- Handloaders focused on long-range rifle accuracy.
- Benchrest shooters or varmint hunters seeking ultimate consistency.
- Reloaders who enjoy the process and prioritize quality over quantity.
- Anyone struggling with runout issues on their current single-stage press.
My honest assessment is that the Frankford Arsenal M-Press delivers brilliantly on its core promise. It provides a tangible, mechanical solution to improve ammunition concentricity in a robust, well-made package. The coaxial design and floating shell-holder are not marketing gimmicks; they are functional engineering that makes a difference you can measure with a runout gauge. For more insights from a community of dedicated users, discussions can be found on forums like Cast Boolits.
While it may lack the brute force of some traditional presses, it gains a finesse that directly benefits precision. For the shooter dedicated to squeezing the last bit of accuracy from their handloads, this reloading tool offers a compelling and effective path to better, straighter ammunition. It proves that sometimes, a little float can lead to a much straighter shot.