Let’s Talk About Hornady Rotary Case Tumbler 110 V
The Hornady Rotary Case Tumbler 110 V promises to bring a factory-new shine to your spent brass, making reloading cleaner and more efficient. Hornady, a trusted name in the reloading world, offers this tumbler as a solution for removing carbon buildup, grime, and oxidation from cartridge cases. This is crucial for smooth feeding and chambering, as well as extending the life of your reloading dies.
I was seeking a reliable way to streamline my reloading process. Hand-cleaning hundreds of brass cases after a range session was time-consuming and tedious. I wanted something that could handle larger batches and deliver consistent results, saving me valuable time and effort.
My initial experience with the Hornady Rotary Case Tumbler 110 V was positive. The unit felt solid and well-constructed. The six-liter drum size seemed adequate, and the digital timer offered a convenient way to set the tumbling duration.
Before purchasing, I considered the Frankford Arsenal Rotary Tumbler and the RCBS Rotary Case Tumbler. I opted for the Hornady model based on the brand’s reputation and the inclusion of steel pin tumbling media, which promised a superior cleaning action compared to traditional media. I was excited to finally try wet tumbling.
My first impression was a mix of excitement and cautious optimism. While the construction seemed robust, some initial user reviews raised concerns about motor overheating and lid seal issues. I hoped my experience would align more with the positive reviews highlighting its cleaning capabilities.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Rotary Case Tumbler 110 V to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Hornady Rotary Case Tumbler 110 V took place after a day at the range, where I had accumulated around 300 rounds of mixed .223 and 9mm brass. I followed the instructions, filling the drum with the provided steel pins, water, Hornady One Shot Cartridge Case Solution, and the brass. I then set the digital timer for two hours.
The tumbler operated smoothly and relatively quietly. After two hours, I was impressed with the initial results. The brass cases were noticeably cleaner and brighter than they had ever been using my old vibratory tumbler with walnut media.
However, I noticed that a few cases still had some stubborn carbon residue in the primer pockets. I also observed some water leaking from the lid during the tumbling process, despite ensuring it was tightly sealed. This made me question the long-term integrity of the seal and the potential for water damage to the motor.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, I began to experience some of the issues reported by other users. The lid seal continued to be a problem, requiring me to monitor the tumbler and clean up occasional water spills. The timer worked well.
Durability-wise, the drum and motor casing have held up well. However, the motor itself showed signs of strain when processing larger batches of brass (around 5 pounds as specified). The steel pins require occasional cleaning to remove accumulated grime, which can be a bit tedious.
Compared to my previous vibratory tumbler, the Hornady Rotary Case Tumbler 110 V undoubtedly delivers superior cleaning results. The wet tumbling process with steel pins leaves brass looking almost new. However, the reliability issues and the smaller drum capacity compared to some competitors are drawbacks.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Rotary Case Tumbler 110 V
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Hornady
- Voltage: 110 volts
- Drum Capacity: 6 liters (approximately 5 pounds of brass cases)
- Timer: Digital, adjustable in half-hour increments up to 8 hours
- Included Media: Steel pin tumbling media
- Recommended Solution: Hornady One Shot Cartridge Case Solution
These specifications are crucial for understanding the Hornady Rotary Case Tumbler 110 V‘s intended use and limitations. The drum capacity determines the batch size, affecting processing time. The digital timer allows for precise control over the cleaning cycle, preventing over-tumbling.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Rotary Case Tumbler 110 V excels at cleaning brass cases. The rotary action combined with the steel pin media effectively removes dirt, carbon, and oxidation. However, the motor’s performance can be inconsistent, particularly when operating at or near full capacity.
A strength is the consistent and superior cleaning of the brass. A weakness is the potential for motor overheating with larger loads. The lid seal needs improvement to prevent leaks and potential motor damage.
The tumbler largely meets expectations for cleaning effectiveness, but falls short in terms of reliability and overall build quality.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hornady Rotary Case Tumbler 110 V features a simple, functional design. The plastic drum is durable, and the digital timer is easy to use. The unit’s weight is manageable, but the lid closure mechanism could be more secure.
The unit is generally user-friendly, although the lid seal issue can create frustration.
Durability & Maintenance
The drum and casing appear durable and are easy to wipe down. However, the motor’s long-term durability is questionable, based on user reports of overheating and failure. The steel pins require periodic cleaning.
The tumbler’s long-term reliability remains a concern given the feedback regarding the motor.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady Rotary Case Tumbler 110 V comes with steel pin tumbling media. The Hornady One Shot Cartridge Case Solution is recommended, but other brass cleaning solutions are compatible. There are no significant customization options for this product.
The unit can be used with aftermarket brass separators and media dryers for a more complete cleaning and processing setup.
Pros and Cons of Hornady Rotary Case Tumbler 110 V
Pros
- Superior Cleaning: Delivers significantly cleaner and brighter brass compared to traditional vibratory tumblers.
- Digital Timer: Provides precise control over the tumbling duration, preventing over-cleaning and potential damage.
- Steel Pin Media: The steel pins effectively reach into primer pockets and other hard-to-reach areas, ensuring thorough cleaning.
- Easy to Use: The tumbler is simple to set up and operate, even for beginners.
- Compact Design: The unit’s size makes it easy to store when not in use.
Cons
- Reliability Issues: Reports of motor overheating and failure raise concerns about long-term durability.
- Lid Seal Problems: Water leakage from the lid can be messy and potentially damage the motor.
- Limited Capacity: The drum’s six-liter capacity may be insufficient for reloaders processing large quantities of brass.
Who Should Buy Hornady Rotary Case Tumbler 110 V?
The Hornady Rotary Case Tumbler 110 V is perfect for reloaders seeking superior cleaning of their brass. It’s suitable for those who prioritize cleaning quality over processing speed and volume.
Individuals who process large quantities of brass or require a highly reliable and leak-proof tumbler should skip this product.
Must-have accessories include a high-quality brass separator and a media dryer to streamline the cleaning process.
Conclusion on Hornady Rotary Case Tumbler 110 V
The Hornady Rotary Case Tumbler 110 V offers excellent cleaning performance. However, the reported reliability issues and lid seal problems are significant drawbacks.
The price of $258.49 is high considering the potential for motor failure and the need for constant monitoring to prevent leaks.
I would cautiously recommend this product to reloaders who are willing to accept the risk of potential issues in exchange for superior cleaning. It is worth considering alternative rotary tumblers with better reliability ratings. Weigh the pros and cons carefully before investing.