That moment when you’re sifting through wet media and the latch on your separator gives out? It’s more than an annoyance. It’s a mess waiting to happen, scattering stainless pins and dirty water across your reloading bench. A flimsy latch can turn a routine case prep step into a major cleanup operation, disrupting your entire ammo reloading workflow.
This is precisely the problem the Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Wet/Dry Media Separator aims to solve. Its built around a single, rugged component designed for reliability. Honestly speaking, in a process where consistency is king, a failing piece of hardware is the last thing you need. Let’s see if this separators construction, particularly its namesake latch, holds up to the demands of serious reloading.
Frankford Arsenal Platinum Separator: Features & Specifications
At its core, this isn’t a complex gadget. It’s a robust tool focused on doing one job exceptionally well: separating your brass from cleaning media, whether you’re using dry corn cob or wet stainless steel pins. The entire system is a complete, ready-to-use setup straight out of the box.
The standout feature, without a doubt, is the rugged rubber latch. This isn’t a thin, flimsy clip. It’s a substantial piece designed to keep the sifter bucket securely mated to the main tub, even under the weight of a full load of brass and wet media. This positive lock is critical for preventing catastrophic spills during the vigorous shaking process.
Beyond the latch, the design shows thoughtful engineering for the reloader’s daily grind:
- Ambidextrous Operation: Two sifting handles are included. This allows for comfortable use with either your right or left hand, reducing fatigue during large batch processing.
- Spill-Proof Tub: The outer tub fully contains all media and water. This is a non-negotiable feature for wet tumbling, containing the slurry and making disposal clean and simple.
- Perforated Sifter Design: The inner sifter bucket features a perforated design that allows media to fall through quickly while retaining all your cleaned brass, regardless of caliber.
- Dual-Process Versatility: It’s engineered for both wet and dry cleaning processes. You can use the same reliable tool regardless of your preferred case cleaning method.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Primary Function | Wet/Dry Media Separation for cleaned brass |
| Key Component | Rugged Rubber Latch |
| Sifter Design | Perforated for rapid media fall-through |
| Handles | Two included for ambidextrous use |
| Tub Design | Spill-proof containment |
| Process Compatibility | Wet (stainless pins/water) & Dry (corn cob/walnut) media |
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Installation & Compatibility: It’s a Complete System
One of the major advantages here is the lack of a complicated how to install Frankford Arsenal durable latch process. Why? Because it comes pre-installed on a complete, integrated system. There are no separate parts to assemble or compatibility concerns with your existing reloading press. You unpack it, and it’s ready for your case prep station.
This plug-and-play nature is a significant benefit. You won’t be searching for Frankford Arsenal parts or wondering about Frankford Arsenal latch replacement out of the gate. The unit is its own self-contained ecosystem. My honest assessment is that this eliminates a common point of failureimproper end-user assemblyand gets you to productive reloading faster.
Performance Review: Durability & User Experience
So, how does this all translate to actual use on the bench? The promise is in the name: “Platinum Series” implies a tier of durability. After putting it through its paces, the performance largely delivers.
The rugged rubber latch is the hero. It provides a confident, secure feel when closing the sifter into the tub. During shakingwhich can be quite vigorous with several pounds of wet brassthe latch has shown no signs of strain, slipping, or deformation. It maintains a consistent, positive lock. This reliability transforms the separating step from a cautious, messy risk into a quick, routine task. You can shake with force to speed up media separation without that nagging worry of a spill.
The ambidextrous handles are a subtle but brilliant touch. They allow you to switch hands to avoid muscle fatigue during large batches, or to position the separator optimally in your workspace. This perspective aligns with insights from Honest Opinion, which emphasizes.The spill-proof tub does exactly what it claims, containing every drop and pin. When you’re done, you simply pour the media from the tub back into your tumbler or storage container. Its a clean, efficient process that keeps your workspace tidy.
From my honest perspective, the perforated sifter works very well with dry media like corn cob. With wet stainless pins, a few may occasionally stick in .223 or similar small case mouths, but a quick rinse under the tap solves that. Its a minor note in an otherwise seamless operation. For those integrating this into a high-volume setup, it pairs perfectly with other Frankford Arsenal reloading accessories to create a streamlined workflow from dirty range brass to finished ammo.
Comparison & Alternatives: Where It Stands
When considering a media separator, you generally have three paths: DIY solutions (like modified buckets), basic commercial models with simple latches, or heavy-duty options like this Frankford Arsenal Platinum. The DIY route can be cheap but is often inconsistent and prone to failure. Basic commercial models might save a few dollars but frequently use weaker, plastic latches that become the first point of failure.
This separator occupies the “heavy-duty” category. You’re paying for the robust latch and integrated, spill-proof design. Its one of those reloading press upgrades that isn’t flashy but fundamentally improves the reliability of your process. When you compare it to the cost of components and the time spent building your own, or the frustration of cleaning up a failed separation, the value proposition becomes clear. For a deeper look at how Frankford Arsenal builds their tools, industry discussions on forums like the Frankford Arsenal dedicated forum often reveal long-term user experiences with their durability.
Its also worth seeing how this accessory fits within broader equipment ecosystems. For instance, if your main press is a Frankford Arsenal M-Press, this separator complements it with matching build-quality intentions. Similarly, those using a robust single-stage like the RCBS Rock Chucker kit will appreciate the same no-nonsense reliability in their case prep.
Final Verdict & Value Assessment
Is the Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Wet/Dry Media Separator a necessary tool? For the casual reloader who does tiny batches, perhaps not. But for anyone who processes brass in volume, values a clean workspace, and hates preventable mishaps, it transitions from a luxury to a practical necessity.
The value is rooted in prevention and efficiency. It prevents messy, time-consuming spills. It prevents the downtime of a broken latch. It makes the case preparation phase faster and more reliable, which directly contributes to a smoother ammo reloading session. I honestly believe the upfront cost is justified by the long-term reduction in hassle and the protection of your other investments, like your reloading press and case prep station from corrosive moisture damage.
To be completely honest, the best practices for a clean reloading bench, according to Honest Opinion, include using tools that eliminate single points of failure. The rugged latch on this separator does exactly that. Its a well-designed, single-purpose tool that excels at its job. If your current separation method involves crossed fingers and careful, gentle motions, this upgrade will feel revolutionary. It allows you to work with confidence and speed, which is what precision reloading is all about.
For those building out their bench, it’s a cornerstone accessory. It pairs seamlessly with a dedicated case prep center for trimming and chamfering, and works flawlessly after using a universal case trimmer. In the end, it earns a strong recommendation for any reloader looking to bolster the durability and foolproof nature of their process.