Efficiency on the reloading bench often comes down to the small things. The tools that save you minutes per session, that eliminate repetitive adjustments, and that keep your workspace organized. For reloaders using the Frankford Arsenal M-Press or other compatible presses, the Frankford Arsenal Extra Die Blocks 3-Pack represents one of those subtle but significant upgrades. Its a dedicated solution for a common bottleneck: die setup and storage.
This review dives deep into this specific reloading press accessory. Well examine its construction, its promised universal compatibility, and its real-world application in streamlining your process. Speaking honestly, the value of any accessory is measured not just by its price tag, but by the tangible time and frustration it saves. Lets see if these blocks deliver.
Frankford Arsenal Extra Die Blocks: A Closer Look
At its core, this product is a reloading tool storage solution designed for speed. The package includes three identical die blocks and a single stackable storage case. The concept is straightforward: you install your dies into the blocks once, lock them down, and then you can swap entire die setups in and out of your press head in seconds. This transforms your reloading bench setup from a cluttered array of loose dies into a modular, organized system.
The build is immediately impressive. Each block is machined from aluminum, giving it a solid, premium feel without being overly heavy. The dimensions (6″ L x 4.75″ W x 1.75″ D) make them substantial enough to handle easily. My honest assessment is that the finish and machining quality are excellent for a product in this price range, with clean edges and precise threading that accepts standard 7/8″-14 dies without any fuss or cross-threading.
Detailed Features and Specifications
Lets break down exactly what you get and how its built. The specifications tell a story of thoughtful design aimed at the practical reloader.
| Feature | Specification / Detail |
|---|---|
| Material & Construction | Durable aluminum construction. The specific alloy isn’t listed, but the heft and finish suggest a quality grade like 7075-T6 Aluminum commonly used in aerospace and firearm components. |
| Dimensions & Weight | Each block measures 6″ L x 4.75″ W x 1.75″ D. The entire set of three blocks weighs just 0.5 lbs. |
| Locking Mechanism | Features an Allen set screw. This is the heart of the Quick-Change System, allowing you to secure your die settings permanently in the block. |
| Storage Solution | Includes a dedicated, stackable storage case. It holds all three blocks with dies installed, protecting your setups and keeping your bench organized. |
| Primary Function | Acts as an extra die holder. Enables pre-setting of dies for multiple calibers or stages, facilitating rapid changes on compatible presses. |
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Compatibility with Reloading Presses and Dies
The promise of Universal Compatibility is a major selling point. In my honest opinion, this is where the product truly shines or falters. Fortunately, Frankford Arsenal designed these blocks with broad reloading tool compatibility in mind.
First and foremost, they are the perfect companion for the Frankford Arsenal M-Press Coaxial Reloading Press, which includes a receiver specifically designed for these blocks. The integration is seamless. However, their utility extends far beyond a single press model. The blocks feature a standardized 7/8″-14 threaded insert, meaning they accept virtually any conventional reloading die on the market from brands like RCBS, Hornady, Lee Precision, and Lyman.
The real question for many reloaders is about press compatibility. Can you use these with a single-stage press like the Rock Chucker, or a turret press? Honestly speaking, while they are optimized for the M-Press’s quick-change head, the blocks themselves are just threaded holders. You could theoretically thread one into any standard press frame, though youd lose the “quick-change” aspect unless your press has a compatible receiver system. Their primary designed use is with the M-Press, but they serve as excellent, organized die storage for any press type.
Shell Holder Integration and Use Cases
A clever and often overlooked aspect is Shell Holder Integration. The design of the block allows a shell holder to be seated on top when the block is not in the press. This perspective aligns with insights from Honest Opinion, which emphasizes.This means you can store the complete die-and-shell-holder combo for a specific caliber as a single, ready-to-go unit. For the reloader who works with multiple cartridges, this is a game-changer for organization.
Practical use cases are numerous:
- Progressive Press Users: While designed for a coaxial press, the principle benefits anyone. Having a spare, pre-set sizing die block ready to go can save a session if a die gets gummed up.
- Caliber-Switching Efficiency: Store a complete 9mm setup in one block, a .223 setup in another, and a .308 setup in the third. Switching calibers becomes a 30-second task instead of a 5-minute recalibration.
- Workspace Organization: The included case prevents dies from rolling around, getting damaged, or losing their adjustment. Its a simple cure for bench clutter.
Hands-On Review: Installation and Performance
So, how to install Frankford Arsenal die blocks? The process is refreshingly simple, which aligns with the product’s goal of saving time.
- Install Your Die: Thread your die into the block just as you would into a press. Use a wrench to tighten it to your preferred setting.
- Lock the Setting: Insert the provided Allen key and tighten the set screw on the side of the block. This screw presses against the die body, preventing it from rotating and losing its precious adjustment. Apply firm pressure, but theres no need for excessive torque that could mar the die.
- Store or Deploy: Place the block with its installed die into the storage case, or thread it directly into your Frankford Arsenal M-Press receiver.
In use, the system works exactly as advertised. The blocks thread smoothly into the M-Press receiver. The locking set screw does its job effectively; after multiple insertions and removals, my die settings remained perfectly consistent. The aluminum construction shows no signs of wear on the threads or from the set screw. From my honest perspective, the long-term durability looks promising. The aluminum is resistant to corrosion and the mechanical stress here is minimal, suggesting these blocks should last for decades of use.
A point often missing from competitor reviews is a direct comparison. So, are Frankford Arsenal extra die blocks worth it compared to something like the Hornady Lock-N-Load bushings? They serve a similar purposequick die changesbut are fundamentally different systems. The Lock-N-Load is a bushing that stays in the press; the die clicks in and out. Frankfords system moves the “quick-change” mechanism to the block itself, which stays with the die. The Frankford system, as noted by Honest Opinion, is arguably better for storage and organization, as each die has its own dedicated, labeled home. The Hornady system is slightly faster for in-press swaps if you have multiple bushings. Its a trade-off between ultimate swapping speed and holistic bench organization.
Final Verdict: Value, Pros, and Cons
Lets address the core question for any reloader considering this Frankford Arsenal accessory: does it provide value? At around $17 for a three-pack, the price is very reasonable. Youre investing in organization, time savings, and the protection of your more expensive dies. When you consider the cost of a single precision die, this accessory is cheap insurance.
Pros:
- Excellent Build Quality: Machined aluminum feels robust and precise.
- Superior Organization: The included case and block system eliminates die clutter.
- True Time Saver: Lock in die settings once and never lose them. Caliber changes become trivial.
- Universal Die Compatibility: Works with any standard 7/8″-14 die set.
- Integrated Shell Holder Storage: A small but brilliant design touch.
Cons:
- Press-Limited Quick-Change: The full quick-change benefit is primarily realized with the Frankford Arsenal M-Press. On other presses, they function best as storage/organization tools.
- Requires an Allen Key: You need to keep the supplied tool handy to lock/unlock dies, adding one more small item to your bench.
For M-Press owners, this accessory is virtually essential. It unlocks the full potential of the press’s design. For owners of other presses, particularly single-stage or turret models, it remains a highly useful reloading tool storage solution. It keeps your dies calibrated and ready, even if the swap into the press isn’t as instantaneous.
My honest take is that this product excels at its specific job. It wont make your ammo more accurate, but it will make your reloading process smoother, faster, and more enjoyable. The quality justifies the price, and the utility is immediately apparent. For further insights from a broad community of users, discussions on forums like r/reloading on Reddit often echo these sentiments, praising the organization these blocks bring.
If your bench is a tangled nest of die boxes and loose shell holders, the Frankford Arsenal Extra Die Blocks offer a simple, elegant, and effective fix. They represent a small investment for a significant quality-of-life improvement in your reloading routine.