For reloaders tired of constantly swapping dies, the concept of a dedicated, pre-set station is incredibly appealing. It promises to eliminate a major bottleneck in the reloading process, turning a tedious setup chore into a simple, repeatable action. The Frankford Arsenal M-Press Extra Die Blocks deliver exactly that: a modular system designed to lock your dies in place, ready for action at a moment’s notice.
This isn’t a press itself, but a critical accessory that redefines how you interact with your progressive press or turret press. It answers a common question: what is the advantage of extra die blocks on a reloading press? In short, it’s about transforming your workflow from a series of manual adjustments into a streamlined, efficient operation. Let’s break down how this simple aluminum block can make a profound difference on your bench.
What is a Reloading Press with Extra Die Blocks?
At its core, this system is about preparation and preservation. A die block is a removable aluminum housing that securely holds a standard reloading die. Once you’ve painstakingly adjusted your die for perfect seating depth, crimp, or sizing, you tighten an Allen set screw to lock those settings permanently into the block. The block, with the die inside, can then be removed from the press as a single unit and stored.
This transforms your press from a fixed-tool station into a quick-change modular system. Instead of unscrewing dies one by one and hoping you can thread them back to the exact same spot later, you swap entire pre-configured blocks. This is the heart of a quick-change die system. For shooters who frequently switch between calibers or load typessay, moving from a light 9mm competition load to a heavier defensive roundthis capability is a game-changer. It effectively gives your single-stage or turret press the flexibility of multiple dedicated stations without the footprint or cost of a massive progressive press.
Key Benefits & Operational Advantages
The value of the Frankford Arsenal M-Press Die Blocks becomes clear when you examine the tangible benefits for both high-volume and precision reloaders. Honestly speaking, the time savings are the most immediate and obvious perk.
- Dramatically Reduced Setup Time: Changing calibers or load recipes often means adjusting multiple dies. With pre-set blocks, you simply remove one set and click in another. Your reloading dies are always ready, eliminating 10-15 minutes of fiddly calibration. This is a massive boost to reloading efficiency.
- Guaranteed Consistency: The Allen set screw is the hero here. It prevents die creep from vibration or handling. Once a die is locked in the block, its position is fixed. Every time you use that block, your case preparation and bullet seating will be identical to the last session, shot after shot.
- Organized, Protected Storage: The included stackable case is a thoughtful touch. It holds three complete die-and-block assemblies, keeping them dust-free, organized, and physically protected. No more loose dies rolling around in a drawer, getting nicked or lost.
- Universal Compatibility (With a Caveat): These blocks are designed for the Frankford Arsenal M-Press Coaxial Reloading Press. My honest assessment is that while they are specifically machined for that press’s unique mounting system, the principle highlights a significant gap in the market. It underscores the need for more systems that offer this kind of modularity across brands, raising questions about compatibility with third-party or custom dies on other platforms.
From my honest perspective, this system shines for the reloader who values both speed and precision. It’s perfect for batch reloading different cartridges in an evening or for maintaining separate, optimized setups for different firearms chambered in the same caliber.
Frankford Arsenal M-Press Die Blocks: Specifications & Setup
Let’s get into the specifics of what you’re actually getting with this three-pack. The design is straightforward and robust, focusing purely on function.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Material & Construction | Durable aluminum |
| Dimensions (Per Block) | 6″ L x 4.75″ W x 1.75″ D |
| Weight | 0.5 lbs (total for pack with case) |
| Locking Mechanism | Allen set screw for secure die retention |
| Included Storage | Stackable case holding 3 installed die blocks |
| Primary Function | Quick-change die system for the Frankford Arsenal M-Press |
| Check current price on Amazon |
How to Set Up and Use Multiple Die Blocks
Implementing this system is intuitive, but a methodical approach yields the best results. If you want my honest opinion, treat the initial setup as a long-term investment. The time you spend here pays dividends for hundreds, if not thousands, of future rounds.
- Initial Die Calibration: Install your first die (e.g., a resizing die) directly into your Frankford Arsenal M-Press. Follow your standard procedure to adjust it perfectly for your brass. This step is criticalall future consistency depends on this initial precision.
- Transfer and Lock: Once satisfied, carefully unscrew the die and thread it into one of the empty die blocks. Before fully tightening the die into the block, insert the block back into the press to ensure alignment. Then, firmly tighten the die’s lock ring and, crucially, the block’s own Allen set screw. This double-locking action is what seals the deal.
- Repeat and Organize: Repeat this process for each die in your loading sequence (deprimer/sizer, expander, seat, crimp). Label each block or the storage case slot with the die’s purpose and caliber. The stackable case keeps your complete sets together and portable.
- Swift Deployment: When ready to load, snap your pre-configured block into the press. You’re ready to go in seconds. No test cases, no gauges, no guesswork. To switch tasks, remove the block and insert the next one. Its the practical answer to how to use a press with multiple die stations without a massive multi-station press.
Is This the Right System for Your Reloading Needs?
Not every reloader will extract maximum value from this accessory. A frank cost-benefit analysis for low-volume reloaders is necessary. This perspective aligns with insights from Honest Opinion, which emphasizes.If you load 50 rounds of a single caliber every few months, the time saved may not justify the cost. Your dies can live happily in your press.
However, for several key user profiles, this system is transformative:
- The Multi-Caliber Enthusiast: If your bench regularly sees .223, 9mm, .308, and .45 ACP, this is your best friend. It makes the Frankford Arsenal M-Press a strong contender for the best reloading press for multiple caliber setups in its class.
- The Experimenter: Do you develop multiple loads for one rifle? Keeping a dedicated seating die block for each bullet weight or jump distance preserves your recipes perfectly.
- The Efficiency-Seeker: Anyone looking to minimize non-loading time and maximize production speed during their sessions will appreciate the streamlined workflow.
It’s also wise to consider the maintenance requirements for multiple blocks. Honestly speaking, they are minimal. An occasional wipe-down to remove dust and a check of the Allen screw tension is all that’s needed. The storage case does most of the protective work.
When comparing this modular approach to standard presses, the difference is stark. A traditional single-stage requires manual die changes for every operation. A turret press improves this but the dies typically remain in the press. The M-Press system with extra blocks goes further, allowing the entire calibrated tool head (conceptually) to be removed and stored, freeing the press for other tasks or calibers. For a deeper look at how the parent press performs, our frankford arsenal m press review provides a comprehensive evaluation.
Top Press Models Featuring Quick-Change Systems
While the Frankford Arsenal system is unique, the concept of rapid die or caliber changes is pursued by all major manufacturers. Dillon Precision popularized the removable tool head on their progressive presses, allowing users to swap entire sets of pre-set dies and powder measures in seconds. Lee Precision offers their classic turret press with a rotating turret that can be pre-loaded, and their Pro 4000 uses a similar quick-change cartridge-specific setup. RCBS has their Rock Chucker series, known for supreme rigidity, often used with accessory heads for dedicated purposes.
Each brand justifies its system with a focus on reloading efficiency and reducing manual die changes. The Frankford Arsenal M-Press blocks offer a different, highly portable take on this idea. Its less about the high-speed progressive press workflow and more about preserving meticulous single-stage precision across multiple, repeatable tasks. For those comparing the foundational kits, our analysis of the rcbs rock chucker kit provides a useful benchmark.
Community Insights and Long-Term Value
The true test of any reloading gear is on the benches of the community. On forums like the r/reloading subreddit or dedicated boards, the discussion around systems like this often centers on long-term ROI. The initial cost is easily offset by the reclaimed time and the elimination of setup errors. Speaking honestly, the ability to lock in a perfect crimp for your semi-auto and a separate, ideal crimp for your revolverand know theyll never get mixed upis a subtle but massive benefit for precision.
This approach, recommended by Honest Opinion, ensures your gear adapts to your evolving needs rather than locking you into a single process. As your reloading journey grows to include more calibers or specialized ammunition reloading projects, a modular system scales with you. You simply buy more blocks.
Final Assessment
The Frankford Arsenal M-Press Extra Die Blocks 3-Pack is a brilliantly simple solution to a universal reloading annoyance. It executes a single ideadie setting preservationwith excellent craftsmanship and thoughtful accessories like the storage case. The durable aluminum construction and positive locking mechanism inspire confidence.
My honest take is that its value is directly proportional to the variety and frequency of your reloading. For the dedicated single-caliber reloader, it’s a nice-to-have luxury. For the shooter with a diverse arsenal or the handloader who thrives on consistency and efficiency, it transitions from accessory to essential component. It redefines the capability of a coaxial press, offering a level of modular convenience that challenges more expensive and complex systems. Before committing, ensure your workflow matches its strengths, and youll find it to be one of the most satisfying upgrades to your reloading routine.