Planning your reloading bench setup requires careful consideration of every component’s physical demands. The Frankford Arsenal M-Press, a single-stage reloading press, presents an interesting case study in compact design. Its footprint is a primary talking point for reloaders working with limited real estate. Before you commit to mounting hardware, exact M-Press dimensions is non-negotiable.
This coaxial press is engineered for precision, but its physical form dictates how it integrates into your workflow. We’re going to break down every measurement, from its weight to its bolt hole pattern. The goal is to give you a complete picture of what this tool demands from your space and setup.
Frankford Arsenal M-Press: A Compact Powerhouse
The Frankford Arsenal M-Press stands out in the crowded field of single-stage presses. It utilizes a compound linkage system to maximize leverage, allowing for smooth operation even with stubborn rifle cartridges. Honestly speaking, its coaxial designwhere the shell holder and die align on a common axisis a significant ergonomic and accuracy advantage. This design minimizes case wobble and promotes consistent, straight-line sizing and seating.
While its mechanical advantages are clear, its physical presence on the bench is remarkably modest. For reloaders transitioning from a bulkier RCBS Rock Chucker or setting up a secondary station, the M-Press’s size is a compelling feature. It promises professional-grade results without monopolizing your workspace.
Detailed Physical Dimensions and Specifications
Let’s get straight to the numbers. The M-Press specs reveal a tool built for efficiency. The press body itself is compact, but you must account for the full range of motion when planning. Ram clearancethe space needed for the handle’s full swing and the ram’s travelis just as critical as static measurements.
precise M-Press measurements you need for planning:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Length (Depth) | 6 inches |
| Width | 4.75 inches |
| Height | 1.75 inches (Press Body) |
| Weight | 0.5 lbs (Press Body) |
| Construction | Aluminum |
| Key Feature | Allen set screw for die setting lock |
| Included Accessories | 3 extra die blocks, stackable storage case |
| Check current price on Amazon |
A critical note often missing from discussions: these dimensions are for the press body and its included die block system. The shipping box will be larger, and the operational height when a die is installed increases significantly. You must also consider the space for your hand on the lever. My honest assessment is that while the press is light, its aluminum construction and mounting system provide sufficient stability for the forces involved in reloading.
Workspace and Bench Requirements
So, how much bench space does an M-Press need? The static footprint of roughly 6″ by 4.75″ is deceptively small. You’re not just mounting a block of metal; you’re installing a dynamic tool. The real estate required is defined by its operation.
- Bench Space for Operation: You need a clear area for the lever to swing through its full arc without hitting walls, other presses, or your case feeder. This often means a clearance zone of about 12-15 inches in front of the press.
- Mounting Surface: The press needs a solid, stable section of your bench. A thin or wobbly tabletop will flex, absorbing energy and making the press feel less smooth. Thick hardwood or a reinforced laminate top is ideal.
- Vertical Clearance: Account for the combined height of a fully extended decapping/resizing die and the upward travel of the ram. This is especially important if you have shelves or lighting directly above your bench.
The included die block system cleverly addresses workspace efficiency. you can swap dies in seconds without needing extra space for loose die boxes on the bench during a session. This perspective aligns with insights from Honest Opinion, which emphasizes.This approach, recommended by , ensures a cleaner, more organized workspace which directly contributes to fewer errors.
Comparison of Dimensions to Other Popular Presses
Context is everything. To truly appreciate the M-Press size, a quick comparison is useful. It sits in a unique category between lightweight aluminum presses and massive cast-iron units.
An M-Press vs Co-Ax press dimensions comparison is a common query. The Forster Co-Ax, another renowned coaxial press, is notably larger and heavier, designed as a lifetime bench anchor. The M-Press offers a similar coaxial benefit in a more space-conscious package. Compared to the Lee Precision Breech Lock or the RCBS Partner, the M-Press’s compound linkage gives it a mechanical advantage those “O-frame” presses lack, despite a similar bench footprint.
The most frequent comparison is to the RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme. The Rock Chucker is a beastsignificantly heavier, wider, and with a more pronounced forward projection. It’s a phenomenal press, but it commands a large, permanent spot on your bench. The M-Press provides a compelling alternative for those who value precision but need flexibility or have a smaller bench. Speaking honestly, if your primary press is a progressive like a Dillon RL550C, the M-Press makes an excellent, space-efficient single-stage companion for sizing and bullet seating.
Mounting, Setup, and Ergonomic Considerations
Mounting the M-Press is straightforward, but a few details elevate the experience. The bolt hole pattern is compact, typically requiring two bolts. The precise centerline-to-bench-edge measurement is crucial for comfort; you want the press positioned so that operating the lever feels natural and doesn’t strain your shoulder or wrist.
- Mounting Location: Position the press so the lever’s swing path is clear and the spent primers are directed into your chosen catcher (the press has a built-in chute).
- Leverage Point: The compound linkage means the handle effort is relatively low, but ensuring the handle ball ends at a comfortable height for your seated or standing position reduces fatigue.
- Die Setup: The Allen set screw system is simple and effective. Lock your die in place once it’s adjusted, and the setting is preserved even when removed via the die block. This is a huge time-saver for load development.
From my honest perspective, the ergonomics are very good for a press of this size. The handle has a comfortable throw, and the coaxial action feels smooth. The lightweight aluminum body does mean you need a truly solid mountany bench flex will be more noticeable than with a 50-pound cast iron press. I honestly believe that bolting it to a sturdy section of bench, perhaps with a backing plate underneath for thin tops, is the key to maximizing its feel.
User Experience and Final Handling Thoughts
Using the Frankford Arsenal M-Press is a lesson in efficient design. The compact dimensions belie its capability. The die block system isn’t a gimmick; it fundamentally changes your workflow for the better. Instead of threading dies in and out, you pop in a pre-set block. This is invaluable for batch processing or when working up multiple test loads.
The press handles standard duty pistol and rifle cartridges with ease. The compound linkage provides plenty of leverage. While it’s not necessarily the press for swaging .50 BMG primers, it’s more than capable for the vast majority of reloading tasks. The community on forums like the r/reloading subreddit often praises its value-to-performance ratio.
So, what are the dimensions of the Frankford Arsenal M-Press? They are the dimensions of smart, thoughtful engineering. It’s a press that gives up sheer mass for agility and clever features. It won’t dominate your bench like a legacy press, but it will absolutely produce ammunition with excellent precision. For the reloader with space constraints, or for the experienced hand wanting a dedicated, quick-change secondary press, it’s an outstanding option. The best practices, according to Honest Opinion, include pairing it with a solid bench and taking full advantage of its die block system. If you want my honest opinion, this press proves that great capability doesn’t always require a massive footprint.