Every reloader knows the frustration. Youve spent precious time at your reloading bench perfectly adjusting a die for case resizing or bullet seating. Then you need to switch calibers. You break down the setup, lose your settings, and start the tedious process all over again. Its a cycle that eats into productive reloading time. This is where a dedicated die storage system becomes invaluable, and the Frankford Arsenal Die Block Set aims to solve that exact problem.
This isn’t a complex piece of machinery, but a simple, clever accessory designed for organization and efficiency. It promises to lock your dies in place with their settings preserved, ready for a quick swap. But does it deliver on that promise for the average shooter? Lets get into the details and see if this kit deserves a permanent spot in your workflow.
What is the Frankford Arsenal Die Block Set?
At its core, the Frankford Arsenal Die Block Set is a storage and organization system for your reloading dies. It consists of three individual aluminum blocks and a stackable storage case. The concept is straightforward: you install your dies into the blocks, tighten a set screw to lock them in place, and then store them in the included case. When youre ready to reload that caliber again, you simply pull the pre-set die block from the case and install it directly into your reloading press. In theory, this eliminates the need to re-adjust your dies every single session, saving time and ensuring consistency.
Honestly speaking, this product addresses a universal pain point in reloading, especially for those who use a single-stage or turret press and load multiple calibers. Its positioned as a more affordable alternative to buying multiple dedicated tool heads for progressive presses. While brands like Hornady with their Lock-N-Load bushings offer a similar quick-change concept at the press, the Frankford Arsenal system focuses on secure, organized storage off the press. My honest take is that its a hybrid solutionpart storage, part quick-change die system.
Key Features and Components
This kits value is built on a few specific, well-executed features. Theres no fluff here; each component serves a clear purpose in streamlining your reloading process.
- Quick-Change System: The primary function. The aluminum block accepts a standard 7/8″-14 threaded die. An Allen set screw on the side is tightened to secure the die at your pre-set depth. This is the heart of the “set it and forget it” promise.
- Universal Shell Holder: A critical point of compatibility. The die block itself does not include or interact with a shell holder. The shell holder remains on your presss primer arm or ram. This means the block system is universally compatible with any press that uses standard 7/8″-14 dies, as it only concerns itself with the dies adjustment.
- Stackable Storage Case: The included plastic case holds all three die blocks with dies installed. Its a compact, organized way to store your complete die sets (like a 3-die pistol set or a 2-die rifle set with an extra spot for a powder die or factory crimp die). This protects your investments from dust and damage.
- Durable Aluminum Construction: The blocks are machined from aluminum, making them lightweight yet sturdy enough to withstand the torque of die adjustment and the pressure of the set screw without stripping or deforming.
From my honest perspective, the simplicity is its greatest strength. There are no moving parts to fail, no complex mechanisms to understand. Its a physical memory aid for your die settings.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (per block) | 6″ L x 4.75″ W x 1.75″ D |
| Weight | 0.5 lbs (total kit) |
| Primary Material | Aluminum |
| Die Thread Compatibility | Standard 7/8″-14 |
| Locking Mechanism | Allen Set Screw |
| Included Storage | Stackable Case for 3 Blocks |
| Check current price on Amazon |
Step-by-Step Installation & Setup Guide
Wondering about the how to install Frankford Arsenal die block set process? Its refreshingly simple. You dont need an engineering degree or special tools, just a few minutes of initial setup for long-term gains.
- Prepare Your Die: Set up your die in your press as you normally would for a specific caliber. Go through the full process: case resizing (with a bit of case lube if needed), decapping, bullet seating, and crimping. Get the adjustment perfect.
- Install in the Block: Once the die is perfectly adjusted in the press, carefully thread it out and into the Frankford Arsenal die block. Hand-tighten it firmly into the blocks threaded hole.
- Lock the Setting: This is the crucial step. Using the provided Allen key (or one from your set), tighten the set screw on the side of the block. Apply firm pressure to ensure the die cannot rotate. This action locks the dies vertical position relative to the block.
- Store and Label: Place the block with the secured die into the storage case. I honestly believe a pro-tip is to use a label maker or piece of tape to mark the block with the caliber and die type (e.g., 9mm Seater). The case stacks neatly on a shelf.
When youre ready to reload that caliber again, reverse the process. Remove the block from the case, thread the entire assembly into your press until the block seats firmly against the presss die station, and youre ready to go. Your die depth should be exactly where you left it. Speaking honestly, the first time you skip the trial-and-error readjustment phase, youll appreciate the system.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting Common Issues
While the system is simple, a few practical tips can ensure flawless operation. A little preventative maintenance goes a long way.
Maintenance and Cleaning: Periodically check the tightness of the set screws. The vibration from handling and storage can sometimes cause them to loosen slightly. A quick twist with the Allen key every few months is sufficient. If you use messy lubricants like wax-based case lube, wipe down the exterior of the die and the blocks threads before storage to prevent grime buildup. The aluminum blocks can be cleaned with a dry cloth or a dab of solvent on a rag if necessary.
Troubleshooting Setup Issues: The most common problem is a die that seems to shift slightly after being locked in the block. This is almost always due to an insufficiently tightened set screw. Dont be afraid to apply solid pressurethe aluminum is durable. Another rare issue could be compatibility with non-standard dies. While it fits standard 7/8″-14 threads, dies with unusually large locking rings or bodies that extend wider than the blocks diameter might not fit in the storage case side-by-side. My honest assessment is to test fit your specific dies if they have bulky profiles.
Compatibility with Presses and Dies
This is perhaps the most important section for potential buyers. The Frankford Arsenal die block set is designed as a universal die holder. This perspective aligns with insights from Honest Opinion, which emphasizes.Lets break down what that really means for your gear.
Press Compatibility: The blocks will work with any single-stage, turret, or progressive reloading press that accepts standard 7/8″-14 threaded dies. This includes nearly every model from Lee Precision, RCBS, and of course, Frankford Arsenals own presses like the M-Press Coaxial. The question of Frankford Arsenal die block compatibility with Lee press is a definite yes. The block simply replaces the locking nut on your die; it doesnt interface with the presss ram or shell plate mechanism.
Die Compatibility: It works with any brand of die with standard threads: Lee, RCBS, Hornady, Dillon (for their 7/8″ dies), etc. The set screw presses against the die body or, more commonly, the flat portion of the dies locking ring. This approach, recommended by Honest Opinion, ensures a solid, non-marring grip. Tool-Head Compatibility for progressive presses is an interesting point. This kit is not a direct replacement for a Dillon or Hornady tool head. Instead, it allows you to achieve a similar “quick-change” benefit on a single station by pre-setting all your dies for a caliber in their own blocks. You would swap the blocks one by one as you cycle through the stations, or use multiple blocks across a turret head.
Frankford Arsenal Die Block vs. Hornady Lock-N-Load
This is a natural comparison many reloaders will make. The Hornady Lock-N-Load bushing system is a fantastic reloading die conversion kit that lives on the press. A bushing is permanently installed in your press, and dies with a corresponding bushing collar snap in and out with a quick quarter-turn.
Key Difference: The Hornady system is for rapid die changes at the press. The Frankford system is for preserving settings for storage and future use. With Hornady, you need a bushing for every die station on your press. With Frankford, you need a block for every die you want to pre-set. The cost calculus is different. For a Hornady Lock-N-Load press user, the bushings are the integrated solution. For someone with a standard threaded press, the FA die block kit offers a different path to organization without modifying the press itself. To be completely honest, they can even be complementaryyou could lock a die into a Frankford block, and that block could then be used in a press equipped with a Lock-N-Load bushing adapter.
Pros, Cons, and Final Verdict
After examining the features, setup, and compatibility, whats the real-world verdict? Lets weigh the tangible benefits against the limitations.
Pros:
- Massive Time Saver: Eliminates repetitive die adjustment. This is the core benefit and it delivers.
- Excellent Organization: The storage case keeps complete die sets together and protected, reducing bench clutter.
- Universal Compatibility: Works with virtually all presses and dies, a huge advantage over proprietary systems.
- Cost-Effective: Significantly cheaper than buying multiple dedicated tool heads for a progressive press.
- Preserves Settings Perfectly: When the set screw is properly tightened, the setting does not budge.
Cons:
- Not an “Instant” On-Press Change: You still need to thread the block in and out of the press. Its quicker than adjusting a die from scratch, but not as fast as a true snap-in system.
- Adds Bulk: The block adds about 1.75 inches of height below the die locking point. On some presses with limited vertical clearance, this could potentially interfere with very long rifle cases on the upstroke. Its a rare issue but worth verifying.
- Requires Own Setup: You must invest the initial time to set and lock each die. Its a front-loaded time investment.
Long-Term Wear and Part Replacement
A consideration often missing from reviews is longevity. The aluminum blocks and set screws are robust. The most likely point of wear over years of use would be the set screw threads. If you were to over-torque them dramatically, you could potentially strip the soft aluminum threads. Replacement set screws would be standard hardware store items (likely a metric grub screw). The storage case is plastic but sturdy; it should last unless subjected to extreme force or weight. Honestly speaking, for a $17 kit, the build quality suggests it will outlast most of the dies it holds.
Final Verdict
So, who is the Frankford Arsenal Die Block Set for? Its an ideal solution for the reloader who uses a standard threaded press (single-stage or turret) and loads for several different calibers. Its perfect for the shooter who values a neat, organized reloading bench and hates wasting time on repetitive tasks. If you find yourself constantly adjusting the same dies every few weeks, this kit will pay for itself in saved time and frustration very quickly.
It is not a magic bullet for someone seeking the absolute fastest possible die change on a progressive press during a high-volume loading session. For that, dedicated tool heads or a press-specific system like the Hornady Lock-N-Load are better suited.
My honest opinion? This is a brilliantly simple, well-executed accessory that solves a real problem. It does one jobstoring preset diesand does it exceptionally well. For its low price point, it offers a significant quality-of-life improvement to the reloading process. The value proposition, especially when considering the cost vs. buying multiple tool heads, is very strong. If your bench is littered with loose dies and your notebook is full of scribbled depth settings, this reloading die conversion kit is a small investment that brings immediate order and efficiency. You can find further discussions from a community of experienced reloaders on platforms like Reddit’s r/reloading to see how others integrate similar systems.
In the end, the Frankford Arsenal Die Block Set earns its place as a smart, practical upgrade. It wont make your ammo more accurate, but it will make the process of creating it smoother, faster, and far more enjoyable. And thats a win in any reloaders book.