When it comes to reloading, having the right tools can make all the difference. Brass tumblers play a significant role in ensuring your cases are clean and ready for reuse. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, selecting the right tumbler can enhance your entire reloading experience. From compact options to heavy-duty models, there’s a perfect fit for your needs. Let’s explore the top picks that can elevate your reloading process even further.
Stainless Steel Ammo Reloading Kit – Rebel 17 Tumbler
If you’re serious about reloading and want to achieve pristine, like-new brass, the Stainless Steel Ammo Reloading Kit featuring the Rebel 17 Tumbler is your best choice. This kit includes a heavy-duty tumbler and 5 lbs of stainless steel media, specifically designed for cleaning brass of all caliber sizes. You’ll love how it effectively cleans primer pockets, restoring them to nearly new condition. Plus, the thick rubber liner protects your brass during tumbling. With the included LemiShine Detergent, a few drops guarantee your brass shines brightly. Just follow the usage instructions for peak results, and enjoy a hassle-free reloading experience!
Best For: Reloading enthusiasts who want to achieve clean and polished brass for their ammunition.
Pros:
- Durable construction: The heavy-duty metal design of the Rebel 17 Tumbler ensures long-lasting performance.
- Effective cleaning: The stainless steel media effectively cleans brass, including primer pockets, restoring them to like-new condition.
- Convenient usage: The inclusion of LemiShine Detergent enhances the cleaning process, making it easy to achieve shiny brass.
Cons:
- Initial investment: The cost of the kit may be higher compared to other cleaning methods.
- Requires time: Tumbling takes time, which may not suit those looking for a quick cleaning solution.
- Size limitations: The tumbler may not accommodate very large quantities of brass at once, requiring multiple batches.
Frankford Arsenal Quick-N-EZ Vibratory Case Tumbler
For those new to reloading or looking for an affordable yet effective cleaning solution, the Frankford Arsenal Quick-N-EZ Vibratory Case Tumbler stands out with its impressive capacity to hold up to 600 9mm or 350 .223 cases. Weighing just 2.2 pounds and featuring a compact design, it’s easy to store and operate. Its unique bowl design enhances brass agitation for efficient cleaning, while the low noise level makes it suitable for any workshop. Users appreciate the effectiveness of walnut media for a brilliant shine. With a one-year warranty, this tumbler is a reliable choice for enhancing your reloading experience.
Best For: The Frankford Arsenal Quick-N-EZ Vibratory Case Tumbler is best for new reloaders seeking an affordable and efficient brass cleaning solution.
Pros:
- Effective cleaning: Unique bowl design enhances agitation for faster and more thorough cleaning.
- Low noise level: Operates quietly, making it suitable for use in workshop settings.
- User-friendly: Compact and lightweight design with clear instructions for easy operation.
Cons:
- Limited capacity: May not be suitable for larger batches of brass cleaning.
- Media dependency: Effectiveness can vary based on the type of media used.
- Voltage compatibility: Caution needed for users in regions with different voltage standards.
Frankford Arsenal Quick-N-EZ Case Tumbler Kit for Brass Cleaning
The Frankford Arsenal Quick-N-EZ Case Tumbler Kit is an ideal choice for both novice and experienced reloaders seeking efficient brass cleaning and polishing solutions. This kit accommodates up to 600 9mm or 350 .223 cases, ensuring you can clean plenty of brass at once. It includes a rotary media separator, brass polish, and cleaning media, making setup straightforward. Just fill the bowl, add polish, and let it run for about 45 minutes for sparkling results. Users appreciate its quiet operation and impressive cleaning efficiency, making it a practical addition to your reloading setup. Enjoy cleaner brass with ease!
Best For: Novice and experienced reloaders looking for an efficient and easy-to-use brass cleaning solution.
Pros:
- Effective cleaning: Cleans external surfaces and flash holes efficiently, delivering sparkling results.
- User-friendly setup: Simple operation with straightforward setup instructions, making it accessible for beginners.
- Quiet operation: Generally operates quietly, allowing for use without disturbing others.
Cons:
- Limited to specific media: Works best with certain types of cleaning media, which may require additional purchases.
- Potential for mixed brass issues: Users need to be cautious with mixed brass sizes to avoid unpolished bases.
- Time-consuming: Requires 45 minutes to 1 hour for optimal cleaning results, which may not suit all users’ schedules.
Lyman Case Cleaning Kit with 1200 Pro Tumbler and Corncob Media
Lyman’s Case Cleaning Kit, featuring the 1200 Pro Tumbler and 2lbs of Corncob Media, stands out as an essential tool for serious reloaders who want to restore tarnished brass to a like-new condition. This kit efficiently cleans and polishes your dirty cases in just a few hours, preparing them for reloading. The 1200 Pro Tumbler’s built-in sifter lid makes media separation a breeze, while its capacity allows you to clean up to 350 cases per cycle. If you’re seeking effective and reliable case cleaning, this Lyman kit is a perfect choice for enhancing your reloading experience.
Best For: Reloaders looking for an efficient and effective solution to clean tarnished brass cases.
Pros:
- Built-in sifter lid for easy media separation, making cleanup quick and convenient.
- Cleans up to 350 cases per cycle, allowing for a large batch processing.
- Fast cleaning process, restoring cases to a like-new condition in just a few hours.
Cons:
- Limited to corncob media, which may not be suitable for all cleaning preferences.
- Requires electricity, making it less portable for users without access to power outlets.
- Initial investment cost may be higher compared to basic cleaning methods.
Hornady M-1 Case Tumbler for Brass Cartridges
Designed specifically for cleaning brass cartridges, the Hornady M-1 Case Tumbler stands out as an exceptional choice for reloaders seeking efficiency and quality. With a 3-1/2 quart capacity, it easily holds up to 400 .38 Special cases or 180 30-06 cases. You’ll appreciate its quiet, fan-cooled motor and robust construction that guarantees durability. Using Hornady Tumbling Media, it delivers a brilliant shine through cyclonic and vibratory action. Users rave about the effective performance and minimal noise, making it a favorite among reloaders. Plus, the included sifter simplifies separating polished brass from media, enhancing your overall reloading experience.
Best For: The Hornady M-1 Case Tumbler is best for reloaders looking for an efficient and quiet way to clean and polish large quantities of brass cartridges.
Pros:
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting use and reliability during regular cleaning tasks.
- Quiet operation with a fan-cooled motor allows for use without disturbing others.
- Effective performance with cyclonic and vibratory action delivers a brilliant shine on brass.
Cons:
- Initial defects have been reported by some users, leading to occasional concerns about quality control.
- Tumbling media is sold separately, which adds to the overall cost of ownership.
- Capacity limitations may not be sufficient for users with very high volume cleaning needs.
Lyman Pro 1200 Tumbler (115-Volt)
If you’re looking for an effective solution to clean your brass quickly and efficiently, the Lyman Pro 1200 Tumbler (115-Volt) is a standout choice. With a capacity to hold 2 pounds of media, it cleans up to 350 cases per cycle, ensuring you spend less time reloading. The built-in sifter lid simplifies media separation, eliminating the need for a separate tool. Compact and easy to set up, this tumbler operates quietly compared to its competitors. Users rave about its performance, achieving near-new condition for brass. Just remember to cover the sifter cutouts to minimize dust during operation.
Best For: Reloaders and shooting enthusiasts looking for a reliable and efficient brass cleaning solution.
Pros:
- Effectively cleans brass to near-new condition within a single cycle.
- Compact design makes it easy to store and set up.
- Quieter operation compared to other tumblers on the market.
Cons:
- Media can sometimes collect to one side, affecting cleaning efficiency.
- Lacks a solid cover, which may lead to dust escaping during operation.
- Some users find it slightly loud despite being quieter than competitors.
Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler for Reloading
For anyone serious about reloading, the Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler stands out with its impressive 7-liter capacity, allowing you to clean up to 300 cases of .223 brass at once. Weighing just 7.5 lbs, it’s designed for 230V outlets, making it perfect for European users. The clear viewing window and simple controls enhance usability, while the leak-proof design keeps your workspace mess-free. Users rave about the shiny results after a 3-hour cleaning cycle, especially when paired with Frankford’s stainless steel media. Just remember, it can be noisy, so consider using it in a garage for ideal performance.
Best For: Reloading enthusiasts looking for an efficient and effective way to clean brass cases.
Pros:
- Excellent cleaning efficiency, leaving brass looking like new.
- Large capacity, able to clean up to 300 cases of .223 brass at once.
- Leak-proof design with a clear viewing window for easy monitoring.
Cons:
- Some users report durability issues with plastic components.
- The tumbler can be noisy, requiring use in a garage or stable area.
- Mixed feedback on customer service regarding shipping and missing parts.
Lyman 7631550 Cyclone Rotary Tumbler 115V,Multi
The Lyman 7631550 Cyclone Rotary Tumbler is ideal for reloaders seeking superior cleaning performance. With a capacity to hold up to 1000 pieces of .223 brass, it’s perfect for your reloading needs. This tumbler comes with a media sifter and 5 pounds of stainless steel tumbling media, ensuring your brass is thoroughly cleaned. Its rubber lining not only protects your brass but also reduces noise during operation. You’ll appreciate the built-in timer, which you can set from 0 to 3 hours, allowing for precise cleaning times. Upgrade your reloading experience with this efficient, high-performance tumbler!
Best For: Reloaders looking for a high-performance tumbler that provides superior cleaning for brass.
Pros:
- Cleans brass more effectively than vibratory tumblers.
- Includes a media sifter and 5lbs of stainless steel tumbling media for optimal performance.
- Features a built-in timer allowing for customizable cleaning durations.
Cons:
- Higher initial investment compared to some vibratory tumblers.
- May be bulkier and heavier than simpler cleaning options.
- Requires electricity to operate, which may limit portability.
Frankford Arsenal Walnut Hull Media for Case Tumbling
When it comes to keeping your brass cases in top shape, Frankford Arsenal’s Walnut Hull Media is an excellent choice for reloaders who value efficiency and cleanliness. This 15 lb bag of tan walnut media quickly removes dirt, grit, and powder residue, ensuring your cases are spotless before reloading. It also helps maintain your reloading dies and can be used multiple times, though periodic replacement is recommended for peak performance. Customers rave about its low dust and effectiveness, rating it 4.7 out of 5 stars. Just pour it into your tumbler, and you’re ready to clean!
Best For: Reloaders who seek an efficient and effective solution for cleaning brass cases and maintaining their reloading equipment.
Pros:
- Effective cleaning: Quickly removes dirt, grit, and powder residue from brass cases.
- Low dust production: Customers appreciate the minimal dust compared to other media options.
- Versatile use: Can be utilized in brass tumblers as well as for filling shooting bags.
Cons:
- Periodic replacement needed: The media should be replaced periodically for optimal cleaning performance.
- May require polishing compound: Some users suggest using a polishing compound for a better shine.
- Storage conditions important: Needs to be kept in a dry environment to prevent swelling.
Frankford Arsenal Stainless Steel Media for Case Tumbling and Reloading
Looking for a reliable way to achieve pristine, shiny brass? Frankford Arsenal Stainless Steel Media is your go-to choice. With 2 lbs of high-quality 304 stainless steel pins, this media excels in rotary tumbling, delivering unmatched cleaning results. It effectively cleans both the inside of primer pockets and case bodies, leaving even tarnished cases looking brand new. Users recommend pairing it with hot water and dish soap for ideal results. Plus, its durability and magnetic properties make handling easy. With a 4.7-star rating and excellent customer support, you can trust this media to enhance your reloading experience.
Best For: Reloading enthusiasts looking for a reliable and effective solution to achieve clean, shiny brass.
Pros:
- High-quality construction with durable 304 stainless steel ensures long-lasting use.
- Magnetic properties allow for easy handling and cleanup of the media.
- Excellent cleaning performance that effectively cleans both primer pockets and case bodies.
Cons:
- Some users reported packaging issues and receiving incorrect weights.
- Availability can sometimes be a concern, leading to purchase difficulties.
- Requires additional items like hot water and dish soap for optimal cleaning results.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Brass Tumblers for Reloading
When choosing a brass tumbler for reloading, you’ll want to take into account several key factors. Cleaning efficiency, media compatibility, and capacity can make a big difference in your reloading process. Additionally, think about noise level, durability, and maintenance to guarantee you pick the right tumbler for your needs.
Cleaning Efficiency
Choosing the right brass tumbler for reloading hinges on understanding cleaning efficiency, which is primarily affected by the type of media you use. Stainless steel media excels in removing dirt, grime, and tarnish from both the exterior and interior of cases, including primer pockets. When it comes to time, vibratory tumblers usually take 45 minutes to 1 hour, while rotary tumblers need about 3 hours for ideal results. The tumbler bowl’s design can also enhance cleaning efficiency; unique designs that promote agitation lead to quicker, more thorough cleaning. Additionally, maintaining a clean environment around your tumbler and using appropriate cleaning agents can further boost the overall cleaning efficiency of your brass cases.
Media Compatibility
Media compatibility plays an essential role in selecting the right brass tumbler for your reloading needs. Different tumblers excel with specific cleaning media, like walnut hull, corn cob, or stainless steel pins, which directly affects cleaning efficiency. For example, rotary models often require liquid media, while vibratory tumblers typically use dry media. This choice impacts your cleaning method and results. Additionally, the size and shape of the media can reach areas like primer pockets that others may miss. Regularly replacing your media is vital for maintaining performance; walnut or corn cob media needs periodic updates. Many reloaders also recommend pairing compatible media with cleaning agents, like lemon shine, to achieve a polished finish on your brass cases.
Capacity and Size
Selecting the right brass tumbler involves more than just compatibility with cleaning media; capacity and size are equally important. Brass tumblers typically hold between 350 to 600 cases per cycle, but smaller models may only accommodate 100 to 200. If you’re working with larger volumes, consider rotary tumblers that can handle up to 1,000 pieces. The size of the tumbler affects both the media needed and the space it occupies, so make sure it fits your workspace. Additionally, higher-capacity tumblers may require more power and longer run times, so it’s essential to match the tumbler’s size with your reloading needs. Always check the internal capacity and overall dimensions before making your choice.
Noise Level
When considering a brass tumbler for reloading, noise level can greatly impact your experience, especially if you’re working in a shared space or at home. Noise levels can vary considerably, with some tumblers operating between 70 to 80 dB, which is generally acceptable for workshops. If you want a quieter option, look for models with sealed ball-bearing motors and rubber linings, as they tend to operate more quietly. Vibratory tumblers often produce a consistent hum, while rotary tumblers may be noisier due to their mechanics. For indoor use, consider tumblers designed to minimize noise, so you won’t disrupt others. Choosing the right noise level can make your reloading sessions more enjoyable and less intrusive.
Durability and Maintenance
Choosing a durable brass tumbler is essential for ensuring it withstands the rigors of regular use while delivering effective cleaning results. Look for heavy-duty metal designs, as these typically last longer than plastic models. Maintenance can vary; rotary tumblers often require regular cleaning of internal components to prevent media buildup. A rubber liner can protect your brass during tumbling and reduce noise, enhancing both durability and cleaning quality. Regularly inspect your tumbler for wear and tear, especially in parts that maintain the seal, to prevent leaks. Additionally, choose your tumbling media wisely; stainless steel is more durable and effective than corn cob or walnut, impacting both cleaning efficiency and the tumbler’s lifespan.