Frankford M-Press Coaxial Models Explained
By Amis Thains Updated 5 min read
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You want consistent alignment without a bulky progressive press, but you’re not sure if the M-Press’s coaxial design is actually better for your case sizes. This page breaks down how the M-Press coaxial model works, who it fits, and what to check before buying.
In short: The Frankford M-Press is a compact, single-stage coaxial reloading press that aligns the ram and die on a common centerline to reduce runout. It uses floating die blocks that swap out in seconds, so you set each die once and keep it for every load. It suits precision pistol and cartridge shooters who value setup repeatability over high-volume speed.
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Includes the press, die blocks, and storage case so you get a complete, ready-to-use coaxial system.
What “coaxial” means in plain words
A coaxial press keeps the ram, die, and shell holder all on the same vertical axis. That alignment is the theoretical ideal for applying even force to a case during sizing and seating. The M-Press builds this concept into a compact, single-stage design. If that sounds like your bench, read up on defining the coaxial reloading platform next.
Unlike a traditional single-stage press where the die is threaded into a fixed head, the M-Press uses individual aluminum die blocks. Each die is set and locked in its own block, which then floats in the press head. This allows micro-adjustments that compensate for minor tolerances in the die or shell holder.
The result is a press that prioritizes concentricity and repeatability over high-volume throughput. It is not a progressive press; it does one operation at a time. But for a shooter chasing sub-MOA groups, that focused approach is the whole point.
Pro tip: The M-Press works with standard 7/8"-14 dies, so you can use most of your existing pistol and rifle die sets.
The P2 bundle is the entry point into this specific coaxial workflow, giving you the press and the floating blocks that make the system work.
- 20" L x 9" W x 6. 5" D and weighs 21 lbs
- Integral floating shell-holder plate
How the M-Press die block system works
The core of the M-Press is its modular die storage. You set a die in an aluminum block, tighten the Allen set screw, and that die is now “locked” in place. When you swap to a different operation or caliber, you pull the block and slide in the next one. No re-threading, no re-adjusting.
The blocks float slightly in the press head. This floating action allows the die to find the perfect concentric position relative to the shell holder every time you cycle the handle. It’s a mechanical cheat code for consistency.
Workflow example:
- Set your sizing die in Block A and lock it.
- Set your seating die in Block B and lock it.
- Swap blocks in seconds between operations or calibers.
The included stackable case holds all blocks with their dies installed. This protects your settings from dust and accidental bumps, which is a huge advantage for a precision bench that might sit for weeks between sessions. We cover rcbs press models by year in a guide of its own.
When a coaxial single-stage press actually matters
The M-Press makes the most sense when you are reloading for precision targets where case consistency is a top priority. It is the right tool for:
- Pistol cartridge work: Where even slight case wall thickness variations can hurt group size.
- Load development: When you’re switching between multiple die sets or calibers and hate re-threading.
- Travel or portable benches: The compact head and light aluminum construction make it easier to set up in a truck or at the range.
If your goal is to crank out hundreds of rounds of FMJ ammo for practice, a progressive press like the Frankford X-10 is a better fit. The M-Press is not built for speed; it’s built for setup consistency.
If you realize you need volume over precision, the X-10 is the high-volume alternative on the site that solves the speed problem.
- 10-Station Design: Built for maximum versatility with automatic, specialized stations
- Precision Engineered: With integrated ball bearings and an included Powder Measure, the
Common myths about the M-Press coaxial design
Myth: The M-Press is a “floating” press in the same way a Forster Co-Ax is.
Fact: The M-Press uses a fixed frame with a floating die block system. The frame itself does not float. The alignment comes from the die blocks finding center relative to the shell holder. This is a different mechanical solution than a fully floating head.
Myth: It replaces a sizing die for all calibers.
Fact: It is a single-stage press. You still need to use the correct sizing die for each specific case. The coaxial design improves how the die works, not the compatibility of the die itself.
Myth: It is hard to maintain.
Fact: The aluminum construction is corrosion-resistant. Maintenance is mostly keeping the ram linkage lubricated and wiping the die block channels clean after use. It is simpler than most progressive presses.
Pro tip: If you encounter a tight die block fit, apply a light coat of dry lubricant to the block channels to ensure smooth swapping. Before you buy anything, it is worth looking at frankford arsenal m-press review.
Choosing the right M-Press package
Most buyers should start with the complete M-Press kit, which includes the press, the floating shell-holder plate, and the die block set. This ensures you have the matching components required for the system to function as designed.
Check your die inventory before buying. If you have a mix of high-end and entry-level dies, the M-Press will maximize the performance of the better ones. The floating system helps correct minor runout in decent-quality dies, but it won’t make a poor die perform like a precision die.
Best practice:
- Identify your top two calibers for precision work.
- Set your highest-quality dies in the included blocks.
- Store the blocks in the provided case when not in use.
This setup makes the M-Press a dedicated precision tool rather than just another piece of bench clutter.
The bottom line
The Frankford M-Press is the right choice for precision shooters who value repeatability over volume and want a compact, organized setup. Its coaxial design with floating die blocks solves the headache of re-adjusting dies between sessions. If you’re reloading for target work and have space constraints, this is the system to get.
- 20" L x 9" W x 6. 5" D and weighs 21 lbs
- Integral floating shell-holder plate
Frequently asked questions
Is the M-Press a progressive press?
No. The M-Press is a single-stage coaxial press. It performs one operation per cycle, which is ideal for precision but not for high-speed production. For progressive work, look at the Frankford X-10.
What die threads does the M-Press use?
It uses standard 7/8″-14 threaded dies. This means it is compatible with the vast majority of rifle and pistol reloading dies on the market.
Can I use the M-Press for long rifle cartridges?
Yes, but you must ensure your specific long rifle cartridges fit within the shell holder and headspace of the M-Press. The coaxial design works for any standard cartridge that the physical dimensions of the press can accommodate.
How does the M-Press compare to a Forster Co-Ax?
The M-Press uses a fixed frame with floating die blocks, while the Forster Co-Ax is a fully floating head system. Both aim for perfect alignment, but the M-Press is more compact and uses a modular die storage approach that Forster does not.