4 Best Wet Brass Tumbler For Reloaders 2025 in the United States

The Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler is designed to meet the needs of reloaders looking for an efficient and user-friendly way to clean brass cases. With a generous 7-liter capacity, this tumbler can handle up to 1,000 .223 brass cases at once, making it a strong choice for those with larger reloading tasks. One of its standout features is the maintenance-free drive train, which eliminates the hassle of replacing belts, and the built-in timer that allows for up to 3 hours of operation before it shuts off automatically—helping to prevent over-cleaning.

Noise level is often a concern with tumblers, but this model addresses that with a dual-layer drum and noise-dampening rubber lining, making it considerably quieter than many rivals. Additionally, it offers flexibility in cleaning methods, as it doesn’t necessarily require stainless steel pins, relying instead on a solution of cleaning liquid and water.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. While the tumbler is efficient, some users might find it a bit bulky given its dimensions of 15 x 15 x 10 inches, which could be challenging for those with limited storage space. Cleaning only requires hand washing, which may be inconvenient for some users. Also, users should ensure that steel media pins are correctly placed to maintain an effective seal, as improper positioning can lead to leaks or suboptimal cleaning performance.

The Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler Lite is designed specifically for reloaders looking for an efficient way to clean and polish brass cases. With a 3.3L capacity, it can accommodate up to 300 .223 brass cases at once, making it suitable for those who need to clean multiple cases efficiently. Its compact size of 12.75" x 12.5" x 9.5" allows it to fit well on most workbenches, and it weighs only 7.5 lbs, making it portable while in use.

A standout feature is the clear viewing window and easy twist cap, which allows users to monitor the cleaning process without opening the tumbler. The leak-proof cap design ensures that you won't have messy spills while running the machine. The unit operates on 110V power, delivering reliable cleaning performance with minimal fuss. Additionally, it's compatible with Frankford Arsenal's stainless steel media and cleaning solutions, although those need to be purchased separately.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. The 3.3L capacity may not be sufficient for users who have larger quantities of brass to clean, like those who shoot extensively or reload in bulk. Some users have also noted that it can be somewhat noisy during operation, which might be a concern for those who prefer a quieter workspace. While the tumbler is easy to use, the requirement for separate cleaning media adds an extra step and cost to the cleaning process.

The Hornady Rotary Case Tumbler is designed specifically for reloaders who want to clean and polish their brass cartridges effectively. With a 6-liter drum, it can hold up to 5 pounds of cases at once, making it suitable for larger batches, which is a significant advantage for those who reload frequently. The included stainless steel pins add to its cleaning efficiency, ensuring that cases come out shiny and ready for reloading.

A notable feature is the digital timer that allows you to set cleaning times in 30-minute increments, up to 8 hours. This flexibility is great for users who may want to leave the tumbler running while attending to other tasks. Its rubber-lined drum is also built to minimize noise, which can be a plus for those looking to maintain a quieter workspace.

The tumbler can be on the heavier side at nearly 8.5 kilograms, which may make it less portable. Some users might find it bulky depending on their workspace or storage. Additionally, while the cleaning results are generally excellent, achieving that brilliant shine requires the right cleaning solution, like Hornady's One Shot Cartridge Case Solution, which is sold separately. This means an extra cost for users who are just starting out.