Frankford Arsenal M-Press - Loading 223

Published on November 1, 2021
Duration: 76:06

This video provides a comprehensive review and operational guide for the Frankford Arsenal M-Press, a single-stage reloading press with a coaxial design. The instructor details its setup, die compatibility, unique features like the universal shell holder and integrated LED light, and compares its performance in reloading 223 Remington ammunition. The video also delves into testing different die configurations and their impact on runout and group sizes, while addressing potential issues like die clearance and the cam-over versus hard-stop mechanism.

Quick Summary

The Frankford Arsenal M-Press is a single-stage reloading press with a coaxial design, featuring a universal shell holder for automatic case centering, an integrated LED light, and selectable cam-over or hard-stop modes. While praised for build quality and ease of use, potential die compatibility issues limit its recommendation for new reloaders.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Frankford Arsenal M-Press
  2. 00:34Price and Availability
  3. 01:08Comparison to Forster Co-Ax
  4. 01:18Reloading Test Setup and Goals
  5. 03:04Coaxial Press Design and Operation
  6. 03:42Bench Mounting and Handle Clearance
  7. 04:29Spent Primer Tray Feature
  8. 05:42Handle Installation
  9. 05:59Universal Shell Holder System
  10. 08:27Integrated LED Light
  11. 08:54Die Blocks and Compatibility
  12. 13:30Cam Over vs. Hard Stop Linkage
  13. 14:09C-Clip Removal Difficulty
  14. 17:30Setting Up Hard Stop Mode
  15. 19:06Hard Stop Operation Demonstration
  16. 20:06Cam Over Operation Demonstration
  17. 22:26Cam Over vs. Hard Stop Discussion
  18. 24:40Reloading 223 Remington: Load Data
  19. 25:28Die Configurations for Testing
  20. 26:37Brass Preparation
  21. 27:20Lubrication and Press Smoothness
  22. 28:12Sizing with the Lee Die
  23. 30:00Setting Shoulder Bump Target
  24. 32:22Difficulty Achieving Shoulder Bump
  25. 33:36Die Block Adjustment
  26. 35:33Sizing with Redding Die (Carbide Expander)
  27. 40:36Mighty Armory Die Fitment Issues
  28. 42:42Redding Die Setup (No Expander)
  29. 43:59Consistent Shoulder Bump Numbers
  30. 46:00Expanding with 21st Century Mandrel
  31. 46:48K&M Expander Fitment Issues
  32. 50:37Bullet Seating with Lee Die
  33. 53:09No On-Press Priming Option
  34. 54:13Die Clearance Checks (Forster, Hornady)
  35. 56:17Frankford Arsenal Universal Seating Die
  36. 56:52Runout Measurements
  37. 58:20Range Test Plan: Barrel Heat Mitigation
  38. 59:16Magazine Loading and Recoil Considerations
  39. 60:27Barrel Warm-up Shot
  40. 61:15Shooting with the Lee Die
  41. 64:39Shooting with Redding Die (Carbide Expander)
  42. 67:14Shooting with Redding Die (Standard Expander)
  43. 68:39Shooting with Redding Die (21st Century Expander)
  44. 70:45Shooting with Redding Die (K&M Expander)
  45. 72:31Video Goals Recap and Unanswered Questions
  46. 73:27Overall M-Press Review and Recommendation
  47. 75:25Future Video Ideas (Mosin, K31, SKS)

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of the Frankford Arsenal M-Press reloading press?

The Frankford Arsenal M-Press is a single-stage press with a coaxial design, featuring a universal shell holder system that automatically centers cases. It includes an integrated LED light, offers both cam-over and hard-stop modes, and uses die blocks for die retention. It is noted for its robust build quality and smooth operation.

What are the potential die compatibility issues with the Frankford Arsenal M-Press?

The M-Press can have die compatibility issues, particularly with dies that have significant bulges around their threads or are excessively long. Some aftermarket dies, like those with risers or micrometer adjustments, may not fit due to clearance limitations or the inability to screw them in far enough.

How does the universal shell holder on the M-Press function?

The M-Press's universal shell holder automatically centers each cartridge case as it's placed into the press. This feature simplifies the reloading process by eliminating the need for manual alignment, especially during operations like decapping or sizing, and is praised for its consistent performance.

What is the difference between cam-over and hard-stop modes on the M-Press?

The M-Press allows users to switch between 'cam-over' mode (thin end of the linkage on top) and 'hard-stop' mode (thick end of the linkage on top). Cam-over mode involves the linkage camming over past the stopping point, while hard-stop mode provides a definitive mechanical stop at the end of the stroke.

Is the Frankford Arsenal M-Press recommended for new reloaders?

The instructor does not recommend the Frankford Arsenal M-Press for new reloaders. While it's a well-built press, potential die compatibility issues add unnecessary complexity to the learning process. Experienced reloaders looking for a coaxial press might find it appealing, but the limitations on die flexibility are a concern.

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