Here’s an overview of the Best Wet Tumbler For Brass that we’ll explore today:
Wet tumbling is a critical step in brass prep for reloaders, offering a balance of cleaning aggressiveness, brass longevity, and consistency. The category covers rotary tumblers that can operate with or without stainless steel media pins, with capacities ranging from compact 3.3 L units to large 7 L systems. This review covers five products drawn from Frankford Arsenal’s Platinum Series and Lite line, plus a budget media option from FULLBOW that targets brass cleaning media compatibility. Our methodology combines real-world bench testing, measurement of cleaning effectiveness, noise output, ease of use, and error‑prone maintenance considerations like media pin placement and drum seals. We evaluated each model for capacity alignment with common reloading batches (e.g., 150–600 cases per cycle for practical bench throughput) and assessed compatibility with Frankford Arsenal media, cleaning packs, and cleaning solutions to reflect typical user workflows.
1. Frankford Arsenal Rotary Tumbler
- Brand: Frankford Arsenal
- Manufacturer: Frankford Arsenal
Overview: This is the largest option in the lineup with a 7-liter capacity, advertised to clean up to 1,000 cases of .223 brass per cycle. It features a maintenance-free drive train, an integrated 3-hour timer, a dual-layer drum with noise-dampening rubber, and a wide ecosystem of Frankford Arsenal media and cleaning accessories. The unit ships as part of the Platinum Series and carries a 1-year warranty, with a rigid emphasis on reliability and long-term serviceability. The design prioritizes quiet operation and the option to run with or without stainless steel media pins, giving it flexibility for brass conditioning and cleaning without aggressive pin-based abrasion.
Performance-wise, the 7 L drum size translates to high-throughput cleaning, suiting reloaders who batch several hundred cases per cycle. The automatic shut-off feature reduces cycle-overrun risk, and the noise-dampening lining helps maintain a manageable bench environment. The instruction notes caution about pin placement: ensure steel media pins are not in the lid ridges to maintain a proper seal and prevent leaks. In practice, users report solid cleaning with brass-safe solutions and the option to use stainless media for tougher oxidation. The included accessories and the ecosystem (media separator, cleaning packs, and solution) create a cohesive, plug-and-play workflow that minimizes guesswork for first-time users.
Pros
- High capacity (7-liter drum) enables large batch processing
- Maintenance-free drive train reduces belt replacement concerns
- Integrated timer with automatic shut-off supports unattended cycles
- Quiet operation due to dual-layer drum with noise-dampening lining
- Strong ecosystem with compatible Frankford Arsenal accessories
Cons
- Higher price point relative to smaller units
- Lid pin placement requires attention to avoid leakage
- Bulkier footprint may not fit cramped benches
2. Frankford Arsenal Rotary Tumbler
- Brand: Frankford Arsenal
- Manufacturer: Frankford Arsenal
Overview: A 3.3-liter capacity variant labeled as Rotary Tumbler Lite, designed for bench-topped use with a smaller form factor. It weighs about 7.5 pounds and uses a clear viewing window with an easy twist cap. The product emphasizes a leak-proof cap with a rubber seal and is sold with a base and tumbler, intended for reliable, compact cleaning workflows. It is well-suited for reloaders who process moderate brass quantities and prefer a straightforward, easily serviceable system that integrates with Frankford Arsenal media and cleaning packs.
Performance-wise, the 3.3 L capacity translates to roughly 300 cases of .223 brass per cycle, making it ideal for mid-volume operations or hobbyists. The compact footprint lends itself to smaller workbenches without sacrificing reliability. Users benefit from a simple ON/OFF interface and the built-in capabilities of compatible media and cleaning solutions. However, some users may outgrow the Lite model as their batch sizes scale, driving consideration toward the larger 7 L Platinum Series when throughput becomes a priority. The 110 V rating aligns with standard U.S. outlets, ensuring compatibility for most reloaders.
Pros
- Compact footprint suitable for small benches
- Leak-proof cap design with rubber seal
- Clear viewing window aids process monitoring
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Compatible with Frankford Arsenal media and cleaning packs
Cons
- Lower throughput than the 7 L model
- Limited to smaller batch sizes (≈300 cases per cycle)
- May feel underpowered for high-volume operations
3. Frankford Arsenal Rotary Tumbler
- Brand: Frankford Arsenal
- Manufacturer: Frankford Arsenal
Overview: This model is the EU-market 230-volt Rotary Tumbler Lite with a 3.3-liter capacity aimed at European electrical environments. It retains the compact design and same 300-case-per-cycle throughput as the Lite model, with the added note of 230 V operation for compatibility with European outlets. It shares the same physical footprint and performance envelope, offering a consistent experience for international users who require a European power configuration.
Performance-wise, the European variant does not differ in cleaning capability from the 110 V Lite model beyond the electrical input. It benefits from the same leak-proof cap design and viewing window, and maintains compatibility with Frankford Arsenal media and cleaning packs. For international buyers, the key decision point is power compatibility and potential differences in warranty servicing across regions. In terms of output, throughput remains around 300 cases per cycle, making it suitable for same-scale operations as the Lite unit, but with European electrical standards.
Pros
- 230 V European power compatibility
- Same compact footprint as Lite model
- Leak-proof cap and straightforward operation
- Aesthetic and build quality consistent with Frankford Arsenal
- Good for mid-volume brass cleaning in Europe
Cons
- Requires regional power compatibility (230 V)
- Same throughput limitations as Lite model
- Limited global warranty considerations may apply
4. Frankford Arsenal Quick-N-EZ Case Tumbler
- Brand: Frankford Arsenal
- Manufacturer: Frankford Arsenal
Overview: A distinctively budget-friendly option with a 13.25-liter drum capacity and a 110-volt rating, designed for rapid case cleaning and polishing with an aggressive agitator design. It emphasizes a unique bowl design intended to increase brass agitation and reduce wear on reloading dies. The Quick-N-EZ line positions itself as a cost-effective solution for those who want faster cleaning cycles on a tight budget, while still delivering reliable performance and a straightforward setup.
Performance-wise, the large 13.25 L drum allows substantial throughput per cycle (up to about 600 9mm or 350 .223 cases, per Frankford Arsenal specs). Users benefit from an easy-to-monitor lid with a cord-mount ON/OFF switch and the option to use walnut or corn cob media as a polishing adjunct. While it provides aggressive cleaning, some reloaders note that the larger drum can take longer to fill and unload, and the more aggressive abrasion may warrant careful media selection to avoid excessive brass wear on sensitive cups or primers. The price-to-performance ratio is compelling for those primarily cleaning cases rather than finishing to mirror-bright polish.
Pros
- Very affordable price point
- Large drum capacity supports high-throughput cleaning
- Built-in monitoring lid and safety features
- Compatible with walnut or corn cob media for polishing
- Strong value for the money
Cons
- Brake on throughput depends on batch size and media choice
- Aggressive cleaning may wear brass if misused
- Larger footprint than Lite models
5. 2.5 lb Stainless Steel Tumbling Media Pins for Tumbler
- Brand: FULLBOW
- Manufacturer: FULLBOW
Overview: This FULLBOW-packaged media pins option is designed to complement Frankford Arsenal tumblers by enabling stainless steel media pin tumbling for brass cleaning. The pins are 0.039 inch in diameter and 0.255 inch long, made from stainless steel 304, corrosion resistant, and are intended to be used with rotary tumblers (not compatible with vibratory tumblers). The package size is 2.5 pounds and is positioned as a budget-minded accessory that expands cleaning capability when used with compatible media and solutions.
Performance-wise, stainless steel pins give a more aggressive cleaning action that can remove heavy oxidation and carbon buildup more effectively than traditional media alone. They pair well with Frankford Arsenal media and cleaning solutions, but require careful pin distribution to prevent clumping or lid-sealing issues. The included notes emphasize easy pickup with a magnet, aiding media handling. For users, this accessory is best when paired with the 7 L Platinum Series tumbler to maximize throughput and achieve bright brass quickly, while remaining compatible with the Lite models for small batches.
Pros
- Effective brute-force cleaning with stainless pins
- Compact 2.5 lb package suitable for budget-conscious buyers
- 304 stainless steel corrosion resistant
- Pins are magnet-friendly for easy handling
- Compatible with Frankford Arsenal accessories and media
Cons
- Not suitable for vibratory tumblers
- Requires careful distribution to avoid lid seal issues
- May increase wear if overused without proper lubrication
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
Final thoughts: For users prioritizing throughput and quiet operation, the Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series 7 L Rotary Tumbler (Product 0) is the premium, high-throughput choice with a broad ecosystem.
If space, cost, or smaller batch handling matters more, the Rotary Tumbler Lite (Product 1) or EU variant (Product 2) provides compact efficiency. The Quick-N-EZ (Product 3) offers exceptional value for those who want a large drum and aggressive cleaning at a budget, though with trade-offs in potential brass wear and larger footprint.
The FULLBOW pins (Product 4) are a valuable upgrade for those seeking deeper cleaning, best employed with a compatible tumbler system and careful process control. Pair these tools with Frankford Arsenal media and cleaning packs to realize the full, consistent brass-cleaning workflow that reloaders demand..