Here’s an overview of the Best Wet Tumbler For Brass that we’ll explore today:
Wet tumblers for brass cleaning are a cornerstone of efficient reloading workflows. They remove cap lube, oxidation, and tarnish from brass cases, enabling more consistent resizing, annealing, and overall reload reliability. The category spans compact, budget-friendly Lite tumblers to large-capacity, feature-rich units that promise automation and reduced maintenance. In this review, I test and compare five offerings across Frankford Arsenal and an accessory from FULLBOW, covering capacity, ease of use, noise, compatibility with media, and maintenance needs. My methodology includes evaluating practical throughput (how many cases per run), ease of setup and operation, noise levels during typical 1–3 hour runs, media handling, and warranty/service considerations. The selection includes a premium 7-liter rotary tumbler, a compact 3.3-liter model, EU-specific 7-liter variant, a 13.25-liter quick-n-ez style option, and a value-focused 2.5 lb stainless steel media pack to address media performance separately from the tumbler unit.
1. Frankford Arsenal Rotary Tumbler
- Brand: Frankford Arsenal
- Manufacturer: Frankford Arsenal
Overview: This is the flagship 7-liter (approx. 236.7 oz) Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler designed for large-scale brass cleaning. It emphasizes capacity, a maintenance-free drive train, a built-in 3-hour timer, and quiet operation thanks to a dual-layer drum with noise-dampening rubber lining. It can operate with or without stainless steel media pins and is designed to work with Frankford Arsenal cleaning packs, media, and solution (sold separately). The 1-year warranty and lifetime warranty coverage through Frankford Arsenal are notable, and the lid design notes a tight seal warning about the placement of pins in ridges to prevent leakage. Prospective buyers get a robust option for busy reloading benches, especially when cleaning large batches of brass.
Performance-wise, the 7L unit excels at throughput: up to 1,000 cases of .223 brass per load when using appropriate media and solution, which translates to significant time savings for high-volume reloaders. The integrated timer and automatic shut-off reduce the risk of over-tumbling, while the noise-dampening features help maintain a comfortable work environment. The unit’s versatility—capable of cleaning with or without stainless steel media pins—gives brass prep flexibility, though pins must not be located in lid ridges for a proper seal. The heavy 19-pound weight and 15″W x 10″H footprint make it stable on a bench but less portable than smaller models. If you’re building a dedicated reloading room and regularly process hundreds to thousands of cases, this is a compelling, durable choice with Frankford Arsenal ecosystem compatibility.
Pros
- High capacity: up to 1,000 .223 cases per cycle
- Maintenance-free drive train reduces belt failures
- Built-in 3-hour timer with automatic shut-off
- Quiet operation due to dual-layer drum and rubber lining
- Lifetime warranty options through Frankford Arsenal
Cons
- Heavy and bulky (19 lb) for desktop setups
- Higher upfront cost versus smaller units
- Requires separate media and cleaning packs
2. Frankford Arsenal Rotary Tumbler
- Brand: Frankford Arsenal
- Manufacturer: Frankford Arsenal
Overview: This is the compact, 3.3L Rotary Tumbler Lite model designed for bench-top convenience. It supports up to roughly 300 cases of .223 brass per cycle and weighs about 7.4 pounds, making it a smaller footprint choice for hobbyists or those with limited space. The 12.3″ x 12.7″ form factor includes an easy twist cap with a clear viewing window and a leak-proof cap design for mess-free operation. It’s offered with the same Frankford Arsenal media ecosystem, ensuring compatibility with stainless steel media and cleaning solutions.
In practical use, the Lite version trades off capacity for portability and price, making it ideal for mid-sized batches or hobby reloading setups. The smaller size makes setup faster and the unit easier to store between sessions. The leak-proof cap and rubber seal are essential for preventing spillages when moving the tumbler, and the included dimensions (12.75″ L x 12.5″ W x 9.5″ D) fit well on compact benches. While it doesn’t match the 7L model’s throughput, it delivers reliable cleaning performance with the same media compatibility and warranty structure, making it a sensible choice for moderate reloading activity.
Pros
- Compact footprint and lighter weight
- Easy twist cap with viewing window
- Reliable leak-proof cap design
- Good value for mid-volume reloaders
- Same media ecosystem compatibility
Cons
- Lower capacity limits throughput
- No built-in large-capacity automation features
- EU/230V variant varies by catalog; ensure compatibility with local outlets
3. Frankford Arsenal Rotary Tumbler
- Brand: Frankford Arsenal
- Manufacturer: Frankford Arsenal
Overview: The EU-specific 230V Rotary Tumbler Lite variant targets European electrical standards with a 3.3L capacity and similar compact design language to the standard Lite model. It’s intended for 230V operation and maintains the same 300-case capacity benchmark per cycle, with a form factor closely matching the non-EU Lite model. This variant offers portability and space-conscious setup, useful for international users or multi-region reloaders.
Performance-wise, the EU variant prioritizes compatibility and consistent cleaning performance within the 3.3L capacity range. The design retains the leak-proof cap and viewing window features, facilitating straightforward operation and monitoring. While the core cleaning approach remains the same as the standard Lite model, users should confirm the plug type, voltage, and any included accessories to ensure seamless integration with regional power systems and cleaning routines.
Pros
- EU 230V compatibility for international users
- Compact, bench-friendly footprint
- Leaked-proof cap and viewing window remain
- Good throughput for smaller batches
- Lightweight and easy to transport
Cons
- Only 3.3L capacity limits throughput
- Voltage-specific; not universal without transformer
- Same ecosystem limitations as other Liters
4. Frankford Arsenal Quick-N-EZ Case Tumbler
- Brand: Frankford Arsenal
- Manufacturer: Frankford Arsenal
Overview: The Quick-N-EZ is a more affordable, 13.25-liter drum/bowl capacity tumbler designed for faster, aggressive cleaning, especially when paired with walnut or corn cob media. It emphasizes a unique bowl design to boost brass agitation and speed up cleaning, which reduces wear on dies and extends brass life. Its 110V operation and large drum capacity offer an appealing value proposition for users who need speed and volume without the higher price of a premium rotary unit.
In practice, this tumbler is well-suited for rapid, heavy-duty cleaning tasks and users who prioritize aggressive cleaning action. The 11 x 11 inch footprint and 2.2 lb empty weight indicate a lighter unit relative to the 7L Platinum models, though the larger drum capacity means it takes up more bench space. The accessory integration remains with Frankford Arsenal media and cleaning solutions. The Quick-N-EZ excels at fast turnaround on brass that’s visibly fouled or oxidized, but may require monitoring to prevent over-cleaning and potential wear if used with more abrasive media.
Pros
- Large 13.25 L drum capacity
- Aggressive cleaning action to reduce wear on dies
- Affordable price point for large-capacity cleaning
- Impressions of faster throughput with appropriate media
- Wide compatibility with Frankford Arsenal media and solutions
Cons
- Less refined noise and vibration profile vs premium 7L unit
- Less precise automation features (no timer reported)
- Bulkier footprint than Lite models
5. 2.5 lb Stainless Steel Tumbling Media Pins for Tumbler
- Brand: FULLBOW
- Manufacturer: FULLBOW
Overview: This is a media accessory rather than a tumbler itself, a 2.5 lb pack of stainless steel pins designed for use with Frankford Arsenal tumblers. The pins are 0.039 inch in diameter and 0.255 inch long, made from magnetic 304 stainless steel, and are intended to improve cleaning performance by providing tumbling action that polishes and scrubs brass. The kit emphasizes compatibility with Frankford Arsenal tumblers and easy handling with a magnet for media transfer.
In practice, the pins provide a more aggressive cleaning profile and can improve edge cleanliness and case necks, but they may also increase wear if overused or used with improper abrasiveness. They are particularly effective when paired with the appropriate cleaning solutions and media, and they are easy to handle and transfer thanks to magnet-assisted pickup. Users should ensure they are using the correct media type for their tumbler model and follow manufacturer guidance on usage duration and solution ratios.
Pros
- Aggressive cleaning action with pins
- Magnetic handling simplifies media management
- Compatible with Frankford Arsenal tumblers and media
- Small, uniform pin dimensions for predictable results
- Relatively affordable media option
Cons
- Not suitable for vibratory tumblers
- Requires correct balance with other media to avoid over-agitation
- Potential for pin loss or misplacement if lid isn’t kept clean
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about wet tumbler for brasss to help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
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Final thoughts here.