The Frankford Arsenal Quick-N-Ez Case Tumbler is a popular choice for many reloaders seeking a simple and effective way to clean their brass. But how does it stack up against the competition? This in-depth review will explore its features, pros, and cons to help you decide if it's the right case tumbler for you.
What is the Frankford Arsenal Quick-N-Ez Case Tumbler?
The Frankford Arsenal Quick-N-Ez Case Tumbler is an entry-level, budget-friendly option in the world of case cleaning. It's a vibratory tumbler, meaning it uses vibrations rather than rotation to clean brass. This design makes it relatively compact and quieter than its rotating counterparts. It's designed for smaller reloading operations, perfect for those who don't process thousands of cases per session. The key selling point is its ease of use and affordability.
Key Features and Specifications
- Vibratory Action: Cleans brass using vibrations, resulting in gentler cleaning compared to rotary tumblers.
- Compact Size: Its small footprint makes it ideal for those with limited bench space.
- Easy to Use: Simple operation with minimal setup time.
- Affordable Price: Generally less expensive than larger, more feature-rich tumblers.
- Capacity: Holds a substantial amount of brass for its size (though less than larger models). The exact capacity varies slightly depending on case size and shape.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of regular use.
How it Works: A Step-by-Step Guide
The Quick-N-Ez's simplicity shines in its operation:
- Prepare your brass: Inspect and sort your brass, removing any significant debris.
- Add media: Fill the tumbler with your chosen media (usually corncob or walnut media). The manufacturer recommends a specific media-to-brass ratio for optimal cleaning results. Too much media can reduce effectiveness. Too little media may lead to insufficient cleaning.
- Add cases: Place your brass cases into the tumbler, ensuring they're evenly distributed.
- Add cleaning solution (optional): While not strictly necessary, using a mild brass cleaning solution can enhance cleaning effectiveness. This is particularly beneficial for removing stubborn fouling.
- Close the lid: Secure the lid tightly.
- Turn it on: Plug it in and let it run for the recommended cleaning time. This varies based on the level of soiling and the type of media used.
- Drain and rinse: Once the cycle is complete, carefully remove the lid. Pour out the used media and rinse your cases thoroughly with water to remove any remaining cleaning solution or media residue. A fine mesh sieve can be helpful here.
- Dry: Allow your brass to dry completely before storing or reloading.
Pros and Cons: A Balanced Perspective
Pros:
- Affordability: The Quick-N-Ez's price point makes it accessible to reloaders on a budget.
- Compact Design: Its small size saves valuable bench space.
- Ease of Use: Simple operation makes it ideal for beginners.
- Quiet Operation: Significantly quieter than many rotary tumblers.
- Gentle Cleaning: Vibratory action is less abrasive on brass than rotary tumbling, reducing the risk of damaging cases.
Cons:
- Lower Capacity: Compared to larger rotary tumblers, the Quick-N-Ez handles fewer cases per cycle.
- Cleaning Effectiveness: While effective for lightly soiled brass, it may struggle with heavily carbon-fouled cases. Multiple cycles may be necessary.
- Media Consumption: The vibratory action can result in higher media consumption compared to rotary tumblers.
- No built-in timer: You have to manually control the cleaning duration.
Case Studies and User Feedback
Many online forums and reloading communities offer substantial user feedback on the Frankford Arsenal Quick-N-Ez. Positive reviews often highlight its ease of use and affordability. Negative reviews frequently cite lower cleaning power compared to rotary tumblers and the need for multiple cycles for heavily soiled cases. It is generally agreed that this is a good entry-level model for those with smaller reloading volumes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What type of media is best for the Quick-N-Ez?
A: Corncob media is a popular and cost-effective choice. Walnut media is also a good option, offering potentially gentler cleaning.
Q: How long should I run the tumbler?
A: The recommended cleaning time varies, but a good starting point is 1-2 hours for lightly soiled brass. Heavily soiled brass may require longer cleaning times.
Q: Can I use this tumbler for all calibers?
A: Yes, the Quick-N-Ez can handle a wide range of calibers.
Conclusion: Is it Right for You?
The Frankford Arsenal Quick-N-Ez Case Tumbler is a solid choice for reloaders seeking an affordable and easy-to-use case cleaning solution, particularly those with smaller reloading volumes and lightly soiled brass. However, if you need to clean large batches of heavily fouled cases regularly, a larger, more powerful rotary tumbler might be a better investment. Weigh the pros and cons carefully based on your specific needs and budget.