Cleaning and polishing brass cartridge cases is essential for reloaders aiming for optimal performance and longevity of their brass. Wet tumblers are popular tools that combine media and cleaning solutions to efficiently remove tarnish, carbon buildup, and oxidation. Below is a comparison table summarizing some of the top wet tumblers and related products for brass cleaning available on Amazon, followed by detailed reviews of each product.
| Product | Brand | Capacity / Features | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler | Frankford Arsenal | 7-liter capacity, auto shut-off, no steel pins needed | View on Amazon |
| Frankford Arsenal Ultrasonic Brass Cleaning Solution | Frankford Arsenal | 32 fl oz, durable formula, removes carbon and tarnish | View on Amazon |
| Frankford Arsenal Quick-N-EZ Vibratory Case Tumbler | Frankford Arsenal | Clear lid, effective lube/oxidation removal, uses media | View on Amazon |
| Flitz Tumbler Media Additive, Brass Cleaner and Polish | Flitz | Ammonia-free, reduces tumbling time, compatible with media types | View on Amazon |
| Hornady Rotary Case Tumbler with Steel Media | Hornady | 6-liter drum, 5 lbs case capacity, includes steel pins | View on Amazon |
Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Rotary Tumbler With 7-Liter Capacity
This rotary tumbler boasts a large 7-liter capacity, capable of cleaning up to 1,000 .223 brass cases in one batch. Its maintenance-free drive train eliminates belt replacements, enhancing reliability. A built-in timer allows up to 3-hour runs, automatically shutting off to conserve energy and avoid overcleaning. Unlike traditional tumblers that use steel media pins, it excels in wet tumbling with just a brass cleaning solution and water mixture, reducing noise and mess. This tumbler offers versatility for reloaders seeking efficient and quiet wet cleaning without additional steel media.
Frankford Arsenal Ultrasonic Brass Cleaning Solution 32 Fl Oz
This 32-ounce bottle of brass cleaning solution is scientifically formulated to quickly remove carbon buildup, tarnish, and oxidation. It is durable enough for multiple tumbling cycles without needing replacement, making it economical and effective. Designed for use with rotary tumblers, this solution enhances cleaning action, resulting in cleaner, shinier brass cases. Its formulation is specialized for brass and gun parts, ensuring safe and thorough cleaning without damaging your components.
Frankford Arsenal Quick-N-EZ Vibratory Case Tumbler With Clear Lid
This vibratory tumbler features a unique bowl design that increases brass agitation for fast and aggressive cleaning. It effectively removes lubricants and oxidation, helping reduce wear on reloading dies. The clear viewing lid allows users to monitor progress, while the cord-mounted on/off switch offers convenience and safety. Designed for use with walnut hull or corn cob media, this tumbler provides a flexible, efficient option for both wet and dry brass cleaning.
Flitz Tumbler Media Additive – Ammonia-Free Brass Cleaner
Flitz offers a tumbler additive that cuts tumbling time in half, enhancing efficiency and performance. This ammonia-free additive provides safe and effective tarnish removal and brass polishing. It works with various media types including corn cob and walnut media, making it versatile across different tumblers. The formulation helps achieve a brilliant shine without harsh chemicals, providing an excellent option for those wanting an environmentally safer yet efficient brass cleaner.
Hornady Rotary Case Tumbler With Steel Tumbling Media
Hornady’s rotary tumbler comes with a 6-liter drum and steel tumbling media, capable of cleaning up to 5 pounds of brass cartridge cases at once. The rubber-lined drum reduces noise during operation. This wet tumbler works well with Hornady’s One Shot Cartridge Case Solution, keeping brass polished to a brilliant shine. The rotary action ensures thorough cleaning and polishing, suitable for reloaders handling large volumes of brass regularly.
Buying Guide for Wet Tumblers for Brass
Capacity and Size
Select a tumbler with enough capacity to handle the volume of brass you reload. Large rotary tumblers (6-7 liters) are ideal for bulk cleaning, allowing up to 1,000 cases at a time, whereas smaller vibratory tumblers suit lighter loads.
Type of Tumbler
Rotary tumblers offer gentle, thorough cleaning with less case damage, using a rotating drum. Vibratory tumblers use agitation for faster cleaning but may require more careful media and media-stick selection to avoid polish wear.
Media Compatibility
Cleaning Solutions and Additives
The right cleaning solution affects cleaning speed and brass finish. Look for formulas designed to remove carbon, oxidation, and tarnish specifically from brass without damaging it. Ammonia-free additives are safer and can reduce tumbling time.
Noise Level and Ease of Use
Rotary tumblers often run quieter than vibratory models. Features like automatic timers, clear viewing lids, and maintenance-free drive trains improve user experience and convenience.
Durability and Construction
Choose tumblers made with quality materials and durable motors, as reloading equipment undergoes frequent use. Noise dampening features and rubber linings can reduce operation noise and increase longevity.
Additional Features
- Automatic shut-off timers prevent over-tumbling
- Clear lids for monitoring progress
- Inclusion of sifters or media separators
- Compatibility with ultrasonic cleaning solutions for enhanced performance
Evaluating your reloading volume and desired cleaning speed will help determine which wet tumbler suits your needs best. Whether you prefer the gentle rotary motion or the aggressive vibratory action, selecting the correct media and cleaning solutions ensures clean, polished, and reusable brass every time.