Manual

Die Installation

The top of the press frame is threaded to accept all standard 7/8”-14 thread reloading dies.

Since die adjustment procedures vary with the brand of dies used, it is recommended that you

first refer to the user instructions provided with your particular die set.

Once adjusted, the die lock ring (provided with the die) should always be tightened to secure

the die in place. To minimize case neck and bullet runout, always run an empty case or case

with a seated bullet up into the die prior to tightening the die lock ring.

Note: Sizing dies should only be turned down enough to take up the slack in the linkage sys-

tem. A toggle type compound linkage system can literally develop tons of force (at its toggle

point) sufficient to spring any press frame. Screwing the sizing die down more than necessary

(well past top dead center) can potentially damage the shellholder, dies, and even the press if

the ram is forced to top dead center under these conditions.

Shellholder Installation

Shellholders are caliber specific and should be selected on the basis of the caliber of dies used.

The press ram is designed to use most popular brands of universal shellholders. Install by slid-

ing the shellholder into the slot at the top of the ram until it snaps in place. It is recommend-

ed that you rotate the shellholder slightly clockwise for easier access (about 60 degrees so that

the slot in the shellholder is perpendicular to the top of the frame). To remove the shellhold-

er, simply pull forward (away from the bench).

Priming

Because hand priming tools offer the reloader a safer and more consistent “feel” for seating

primers, the Frankford Arsenal Model SS-99 press does not come with a universal priming

arm. Universal priming arms lack the proper mechanical advantage and tactile feel necessary

for consistent primer seating depth, are cumbersome to use, and due to necessary frame offsets

and milled slots required for installation, compromise press frame structural integrity. If a

press- mounted priming system is desired, any of the many ram priming systems on the mar-

ket can be installed on the Model SS-99.

Warning

The Midway press has been designed specifically to handle the stresses of

heavy-duty reloading and case forming and is not recommended for use in

bullet swaging operations.

Note this press uses a positive mechanical stop in the compound linkage system to

terminate ram motion at top dead center. To prevent damage to the press, dies, and

shellholder, no further pressure should be applied to the operating handle once this

stop is reached.

The use of a cheater bar (or a pipe) on the press handle to gain additional mechan-

ical advantage may overstress press components. Evidence of such abuse will void

the warranty.