Testing the Frankford Arsenal QNEZ Case Tumbler: What You Need to Know
As a seasoned reloader with over a decade of experience preparing ammunition for everything from precision rifles to high-volume pistol shooting, clean brass is paramount. The Frankford Arsenal QNEZ Case Tumbler promises a quick and efficient solution for removing oxidation, lube, and fouling, so I was eager to put it through its paces. Case preparation is crucial for consistent reloads and I can’t stand handling dull, dirty brass.
My trusty Lyman Turbo 1200 recently gave up the ghost, prompting a search for a reliable and reasonably priced replacement. Unboxing the Frankford Arsenal QNEZ Case Tumbler, my initial impression was of a no-frills, purpose-built machine. The blue and grey plastic construction felt sturdy enough for its intended use, and the clear lid was a welcome feature for monitoring the tumbling process.
Compared to my old Lyman and other tumblers I’ve used, like the RCBS Vibratory Case Tumbler, the Frankford Arsenal unit seemed more compact. I picked this one over the others based on user reviews citing consistent performance and the Frankford Arsenal reputation for reloading equipment. I was cautiously optimistic. It looked like it would be a good tool to keep my brass clean.
My first impression was positive, though tinged with a bit of plastic-aversion. The overall design was functional. I hoped that the performance would outweigh my material preferences.
Real-World Testing: Putting Frankford Arsenal QNEZ Case Tumbler to the Test
First Use Experience
I put the Frankford Arsenal QNEZ Case Tumbler to work immediately after a range session where I fired approximately 500 rounds of 9mm. Using corn cob media treated with a metal polish, I filled the bowl to just below the recommended level. I wanted to see how it would handle a moderate load of dirty brass.
The tumbler operated without issue, even in my somewhat dusty garage environment. The cord-mounted power switch was conveniently placed and easy to use. After two hours, the brass was significantly cleaner and brighter than before.
There were no immediate problems, although the tumbler was slightly louder than my previous Lyman model. The slightly elevated noise level wasn’t a deal-breaker, but I would note that it is something to be aware of.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, cleaning thousands of pieces of brass ranging from .223 to .45 ACP, the Frankford Arsenal QNEZ Case Tumbler has proven to be a reliable workhorse. It shows no signs of significant wear and tear. I make sure to wipe down the bowl and lid after each use to prevent any media buildup.
Maintaining the unit is straightforward. Periodically, I replace the corn cob media and add a small amount of metal polish to maintain its cleaning effectiveness. The Frankford Arsenal QNEZ Case Tumbler has outperformed my expectations for a tumbler in this price range.
It cleans brass just as well as my old Lyman, and its compact size makes it easier to store. Overall, I am very happy with how this tumbler has performed.
Breaking Down the Features of Frankford Arsenal QNEZ Case Tumbler
Specifications
The Frankford Arsenal QNEZ Case Tumbler is designed for quickly and efficiently cleaning brass casings. It is constructed with a durable plastic bowl and features a clear lid for monitoring the tumbling process. It is designed to remove fouling, lube, and oxidation.
Here’s a rundown of its key specifications:
- Manufacturer: Frankford Arsenal
- Weight: 8 oz
- Color: Blue/Grey
- Condition: New
- Cartridge: Universal
- Capacity: Up to 600 9mm or 350 .223 cases. This allows for cleaning a substantial amount of brass in a single cycle.
These specifications contribute to the unit’s overall functionality and user experience. The universal cartridge compatibility means it can be used for a wide range of calibers. The large capacity reduces the number of cycles needed to clean a large batch of brass.
Performance & Functionality
The Frankford Arsenal QNEZ Case Tumbler excels at its primary function: cleaning brass. The unique bowl design creates a vigorous tumbling action that effectively removes fouling, lube, and oxidation. This results in clean, bright brass that is ready for reloading.
Its strengths lie in its simplicity and effectiveness. Load the brass, add media, set the timer, and let it run. The clear lid allows you to check the progress without interrupting the cycle.
One area for potential improvement could be noise reduction. As previously mentioned, it’s a bit louder than some other tumblers on the market.
Design & Ergonomics
The Frankford Arsenal QNEZ Case Tumbler features a straightforward and functional design. The plastic bowl is lightweight yet durable. The clear lid provides excellent visibility.
The cord-mounted power switch is a simple but effective feature, enhancing ease of use and safety. There is a slight learning curve associated with determining the optimal tumbling time for different calibers and levels of fouling.
Durability & Maintenance
The Frankford Arsenal QNEZ Case Tumbler is built to last, with a sturdy plastic construction that can withstand regular use. The motor seems robust. It has shown no signs of overheating or slowing down during extended tumbling sessions.
Maintenance is minimal. Simply wipe down the bowl and lid after each use. Replacing the tumbling media is the only regular maintenance required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Frankford Arsenal QNEZ Case Tumbler is a standalone unit and doesn’t offer extensive customization options. It doesn’t come with any included accessories beyond the tumbler itself. However, it is compatible with a wide variety of tumbling media, including corn cob, walnut shell, and treated polishing media.
Users can also add liquid brass cleaning solutions to the media for enhanced cleaning power. The media and cleaning solutions can greatly improve the cleaning performance of the tumbler.
Pros and Cons of Frankford Arsenal QNEZ Case Tumbler
Pros
- Quickly and efficiently cleans brass, saving time and effort.
- Large capacity allows for tumbling a significant amount of brass at once.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to reloaders on a budget.
- Simple to use with a clear lid for monitoring progress.
- Cord-mounted power switch adds to the safety aspect and ease of use.
Cons
- Can be a bit noisy during operation compared to some other models.
- Plastic construction might not appeal to users who prefer metal components.
- No included accessories beyond the tumbler itself.
Who Should Buy Frankford Arsenal QNEZ Case Tumbler?
The Frankford Arsenal QNEZ Case Tumbler is perfect for reloaders of all experience levels who want a quick, easy, and affordable way to clean their brass. It’s especially well-suited for high-volume shooters and reloaders who process a large quantity of brass regularly. This is a great tool for anyone looking to improve their reloading process.
This product might not be ideal for users who are extremely sensitive to noise or who prefer a more premium, all-metal construction. A must-have accessory is a quality media separator for quickly separating the cleaned brass from the tumbling media.
Conclusion on Frankford Arsenal QNEZ Case Tumbler
The Frankford Arsenal QNEZ Case Tumbler offers an excellent balance of performance, ease of use, and affordability. It efficiently cleans brass. It saves time and effort compared to hand-cleaning methods.
At a price of $66.79, the Frankford Arsenal QNEZ Case Tumbler represents a solid value proposition. I would personally recommend the Frankford Arsenal QNEZ Case Tumbler to any reloader looking for a reliable and cost-effective brass cleaning solution.
Don’t settle for dirty brass – invest in the Frankford Arsenal QNEZ Case Tumbler and experience the difference! Upgrade your reloading bench today!
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