How to Clean Your Brass Wet Tumbler, Ultrasonic, Dry Tumbler, and Free! Frankford Arsenal Review

Published on April 15, 2023
Duration: 9:21

This guide details how to clean brass using a Frankford Arsenal wet media tumbler. It covers the necessary components, the cleaning process, and essential tips for effective brass preparation for reloading. The instructor emphasizes sorting brass by caliber to avoid nesting issues and recommends specific cleaning agents for optimal results.

Quick Summary

For cleaning reloading brass, methods include dry media tumblers (risk of lead particulate), ultrasonic cleaners (slow, potential brass weakening), wet media tumblers (efficient, uses stainless steel pins), and a free DIY method involving shaking brass with soap and water. The Frankford Arsenal wet tumbler is reviewed as a cost-effective, heavy-duty option.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Dry Media Tumbler Warning
  2. 00:06Deuce and Guns Intro
  3. 00:27Wet Media Tumbler First Test
  4. 00:34Free Brass Cleaning Option
  5. 00:46Past Methods: Dry Media Tumbler
  6. 01:55Dry Tumbler Health Concerns (Lead)
  7. 02:14Dry Tumblers as Powder Coaters
  8. 02:21Ultrasonic Cleaner Downsides
  9. 02:42Ultrasonic Cleaner: Pink Brass Issue
  10. 03:09Frankford Arsenal Tumbler Review
  11. 03:39Wet Tumbler Components: Pins, Detergent, Lemon Shine
  12. 04:06Frankford Arsenal Transfer Magnet
  13. 04:22Frankford Arsenal Tumbler Tips
  14. 04:30Small vs. Large Frankford Arsenal Tumbler
  15. 04:43Rubber Bands on Drive Wheels Issue
  16. 05:20Small Load Tumbler Setup
  17. 05:37Real World Tip: Sort Your Brass
  18. 06:01Consequences of Not Sorting Brass
  19. 06:27Almost Free Brass Cleaning Method
  20. 06:36DIY Brass Cleaning Container
  21. 06:54DIY Brass Cleaning Ingredients
  22. 07:14DIY Brass Cleaning Process
  23. 07:36Final Assessment: Frankford Arsenal Tumbler
  24. 08:06Frankford Arsenal Tumbler Leaking Issue
  25. 08:34Future Video: Suppressor Parts Cleaning
  26. 08:52Not a Sponsored Video
  27. 08:59Conclusion: Tumbler vs. Free Method
  28. 09:12Outro

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main methods for cleaning brass for reloading?

The video discusses four primary methods: dry media tumblers (corn cob/walnut shells), ultrasonic cleaners, wet media tumblers (using stainless steel pins), and a free DIY hand-shaking method. Each has pros and cons regarding cost, effectiveness, and potential drawbacks like lead particulate or capacity limitations.

What are the risks associated with dry media tumblers for brass cleaning?

Dry media tumblers release lead particulate into the air, posing a health risk. They should only be used in well-ventilated outdoor areas to prevent inhalation of these particles. Some reloaders repurpose them for powder coating bullets.

How does a wet media tumbler like the Frankford Arsenal compare to other methods?

Wet media tumblers, especially with stainless steel pins, are highly effective and can clean large volumes of brass quickly (around an hour). They are generally considered more powerful and leak-free than some alternatives, though initial cost and potential for leaks if not sealed properly are considerations.

What is the 'free' method for cleaning brass mentioned in the video?

The free method involves a lidded container, water, Dawn dish soap, and Lemon Shine. For very dirty brass, a pound of stainless steel media can be added. The mixture is shaken vigorously for about five minutes, providing results comparable to tumblers for smaller batches.

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