The Frankford Arsenal Priming Tool has earned a reputation in the reloading community for offering precision, efficiency, and comfort in seating primers. For reloaders who demand consistency and reliability in their handloading process, a quality priming tool can make all the difference. The Frankford Arsenal model stands out with its solid construction, thoughtful ergonomics, and wide compatibility. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced reloader, understanding the features and advantages of this priming tool will help you make informed choices for your reloading bench.
Introduction to the Frankford Arsenal Priming Tool
What Is a Priming Tool?
A priming tool is an essential device in the ammunition reloading process. It is used to insert a primer into a cartridge case after it has been cleaned and resized. A good priming tool allows you to seat primers with the right depth and pressure, which is crucial for proper ignition and consistent firing. The Frankford Arsenal Hand Priming Tool is a handheld device that combines durability with user-friendly features.
Overview of Frankford Arsenal
Frankford Arsenal is a trusted name in the reloading industry, known for producing reliable tools, brass preparation equipment, and accessories. Their priming tool has become a popular choice due to its balance of price, quality, and performance. It is designed to provide reloaders with greater control during the priming phase, a step where precision can directly impact shooting accuracy and safety.
Key Features of the Frankford Arsenal Priming Tool
Ergonomic and Durable Design
The Frankford Arsenal Priming Tool features a robust die-cast metal body with a smooth handle that fits comfortably in the hand. Unlike plastic-bodied tools, its metal construction ensures long-term durability. The lever action is smooth, and users often appreciate the minimal hand fatigue even during extended priming sessions.
Adjustable Seating Depth
One of the standout features is the ability to adjust the primer seating depth. This is particularly important for achieving consistent ignition. With precise control, users can fine-tune how deep each primer sits in the primer pocket, accommodating both small and large primers depending on the cartridge being reloaded.
Rotating Primer Tray
The priming tool comes with a universal primer tray that accepts most primer packaging. It automatically orients primers face-up, allowing for smooth feeding. The rotating tray is designed to prevent tipping and misalignment, which contributes to faster and safer priming.
Quick-Change Shell Holders
The tool includes a variety of shell holders that can accommodate a wide range of calibers. These holders snap in and out easily, making caliber changes quick and convenient. This makes the tool ideal for reloaders who work with multiple cartridge types regularly.
Advantages of Using the Frankford Arsenal Priming Tool
Consistency and Accuracy
Proper primer seating depth is essential for consistent ignition. If primers are seated too shallow or too deep, they may misfire or affect accuracy. This tool helps ensure each primer is seated with uniform pressure and depth, improving overall ammunition performance.
Speed and Efficiency
With its ergonomic handle and well-designed feeding tray, the priming process is significantly faster than using a press-mounted or older priming system. The large tray holds up to 100 primers, allowing for longer work sessions without reloading the tray frequently.
Versatility Across Calibers
The included set of shell holders covers most common rifle and pistol calibers. This makes it suitable for those who reload everything from.223 Remington to.45 ACP. For rare calibers, additional shell holders may be required, but for most users, the included set is more than sufficient.
How to Use the Frankford Arsenal Priming Tool
Step-by-Step Priming Process
- Start by selecting the correct shell holder for your cartridge case.
- Insert the shell holder into the tool until it clicks into place.
- Pour your primers into the tray and close the lid.
- Shake the tray gently to orient all primers correctly.
- Insert a cleaned and resized case into the shell holder.
- Squeeze the handle to seat the primer into the case.
- Remove the primed case and repeat the process.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure primer pockets are clean before seating primers.
- Wear safety glasses while priming for added protection.
- Keep the tool clean and lubricated for smoother operation.
- Do not force the handle if resistance is unusually high; check the primer pocket and alignment.
Comparing to Other Priming Tools
Frankford Arsenal vs Lee Auto Prime
The Lee Auto Prime is another popular hand priming tool. While it’s known for affordability, the Frankford Arsenal version offers superior build quality and a more robust primer tray. It also features adjustable depth, which the Lee Auto Prime lacks.
Frankford Arsenal vs RCBS Hand Priming Tool
The RCBS tool is known for precision and smooth operation, but it often comes at a higher price. The Frankford Arsenal model is a great middle-ground option, offering nearly the same features at a more budget-friendly cost, making it an excellent value for money.
Who Should Use This Priming Tool?
Ideal for Beginners
New reloaders will find the Frankford Arsenal tool easy to use and understand. The simple mechanism and clear operation steps make it less intimidating than some press-mounted systems. The inclusion of shell holders also reduces the need to purchase additional accessories.
Great for Experienced Reloaders
Those with more experience will appreciate the tool’s reliability, especially when loading large batches of ammunition. It allows users to work efficiently while maintaining tight control over seating depth and pressure, which is critical for accuracy in competitive shooting or hunting.
Maintenance and Longevity
Care and Storage
Keeping the tool clean and dry is essential to maintaining its longevity. After each use, wipe it down with a soft cloth and ensure no primers or powder residue are left behind. Light lubrication of moving parts will keep the action smooth over time.
Spare Parts and Warranty
Frankford Arsenal offers customer support and replacement parts if components wear out. Though the tool is built to last, having access to spare parts is a valuable feature for those who reload frequently.
The Frankford Arsenal Priming Tool is a well-designed, reliable piece of equipment that adds efficiency and precision to the reloading process. With its sturdy construction, adjustable primer depth, ergonomic grip, and inclusive shell holders, it appeals to a broad range of reloaders. Whether you are new to reloading or a seasoned enthusiast, this tool offers excellent value and dependable performance on your reloading bench. Investing in the right priming tool can make your work faster, safer, and more accurate and Frankford Arsenal delivers on all those fronts.