FA M-Press part 2 - Loading for my milsurps

Published on November 8, 2021
Duration: 67:06

This guide details how to improve the security of the Frankfurt Arsenal M-Press by replacing small, inadequate screws on the carriage plate with larger, more robust hardware. Following a suggestion from viewer Harold, the process involves drilling out existing holes and tapping them for larger screws, addressing a common issue where the original screws can come loose under stress, potentially leading to component failure.

Quick Summary

The Frankfurt Arsenal M-Press carriage plate screws are prone to loosening due to their small size. A common modification involves drilling out three holes and tapping them for larger screws to improve stability and prevent failure during reloading operations. This addresses a known design flaw and enhances the press's reliability.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Press Issues
  2. 04:01Improving Screw Security on the Carriage
  3. 05:33Universal Shell Holder Adjustments
  4. 06:30Large Hex Key Screws & Die Block Issues
  5. 08:23Critical Surfaces & Carriage Tilt
  6. 10:37Integrated Shell Holder Functionality
  7. 11:49Sizing 223 Brass with New Setup
  8. 14:41Stuck Case Scenario & Plate Failure
  9. 15:59Shell Holder Positions for Different Calibers
  10. 16:56Decapping & Sizing 30-06 Brass
  11. 22:53Sizing 7.5x55 Swiss Brass
  12. 24:45Sizing 7.62x54R Brass & Shell Holder Fit
  13. 27:35Sizing 7.62x39 & 223 Brass
  14. 31:35Setting Up the Universal Bullet Seating Die
  15. 34:51Seating 30-06 Bullets & OAL
  16. 37:39Seating 7.5x55 Swiss Bullets
  17. 40:32Seating 7.62x54R Bullets
  18. 42:05Seating 7.62x39 Bullets & Compressed Loads
  19. 46:19Concentricity Results & Analysis
  20. 47:20Range Day: M1 Garand (30-06)
  21. 55:49Range Day: Swiss K31 (7.5x55)
  22. 59:55Range Day: Mosin Nagant (7.62x54R)
  23. 62:47Range Day: Chinese SKS (7.62x39)
  24. 66:03Final Thoughts on Press Tilt & Future Testing

Frequently Asked Questions

What common issue affects the Frankfurt Arsenal M-Press's carriage plate screws?

The Frankfurt Arsenal M-Press commonly experiences issues with the small screws securing the carriage plate. These screws are prone to loosening due to their size and strength, which can compromise the press's stability and lead to potential component failure during reloading operations.

How can the stability of the Frankfurt Arsenal M-Press carriage plate be improved?

To improve carriage plate stability on the Frankfurt Arsenal M-Press, you can drill out three of the existing screw holes and tap them for larger, more robust screws. This modification, suggested by viewer Harold, addresses the inadequacy of the original small screws and enhances the press's overall reliability.

What are the potential problems with the M-Press's universal shell holder rotating mechanisms?

The universal shell holder rotating mechanisms on the M-Press may require cleanup with a file or Dremel to ensure smooth operation. If they bind, the square part pressed into the silver disc can strip, rendering the mechanism ineffective and potentially leading to further issues.

Does the Frankfurt Arsenal M-Press have machined surfaces for die alignment?

No, the Frankfurt Arsenal M-Press does not feature machined critical surfaces where the die block interfaces. Unlike presses such as the Forster Co-Ax, the M-Press has powder-coated cast texture in these areas, which may affect alignment consistency during reloading.

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