The Lyman Pro 1200 Turbo Tumbler has quickly become a favorite among serious reloaders seeking efficient and consistent brass cleaning. This in-depth review will explore its features, performance, and overall value, helping you decide if it's the right investment for your reloading needs.
What Makes the Lyman Pro 1200 Turbo Stand Out?
The Lyman Pro 1200 Turbo distinguishes itself from other tumblers through several key features:
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High Capacity: Its sizable 1200-case capacity significantly reduces the time spent cleaning large batches of brass. This is a massive time-saver for high-volume reloaders.
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Turbo Action: The "Turbo" in the name isn't just marketing. The powerful motor ensures consistent and thorough cleaning, even with heavily soiled cases. This robust action significantly speeds up the cleaning process compared to slower, less powerful tumblers.
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Durable Construction: Built to withstand years of heavy use, the Lyman Pro 1200 Turbo features a rugged design and high-quality materials. This translates to a long lifespan and a reliable investment.
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Versatile Media Compatibility: This tumbler works effectively with a variety of cleaning media, allowing you to experiment and find the best option for your needs and budget.
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Easy Operation and Maintenance: The intuitive design makes the Lyman Pro 1200 Turbo easy to use and maintain. Cleaning and changing media is a straightforward process.
Performance and Practical Considerations
In practical use, the Lyman Pro 1200 Turbo delivers on its promises. The high capacity is a game-changer, especially for those prepping hundreds or even thousands of cases. The speed and thoroughness of the cleaning action are noticeable, resulting in consistently clean brass.
However, there are some points to consider:
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Noise Level: Like most tumblers, the Lyman Pro 1200 Turbo generates some noise during operation. While not excessively loud, it's not silent either. Consider placing it in a dedicated reloading space or using noise-reducing measures if noise is a significant concern.
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Media Consumption: Due to the high capacity and vigorous cleaning action, the Lyman Pro 1200 Turbo may use slightly more cleaning media than smaller tumblers. This is a trade-off for speed and efficiency.
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Size and Weight: Its large capacity means it's a larger and heavier unit than some smaller tumblers. This needs to be considered if space is limited in your reloading area.
Is the Lyman Pro 1200 Turbo Right for You?
The Lyman Pro 1200 Turbo Tumbler is a fantastic choice for reloaders who:
- Reload large volumes of ammunition: Its high capacity makes it ideal for high-volume reloaders.
- Value time and efficiency: The turbo action significantly speeds up the case prep process.
- Require consistently clean brass: Its powerful motor ensures thorough cleaning.
- Prioritize durability and reliability: Its robust construction ensures a long-lasting investment.
However, it might not be the best option for reloaders who:
- Have limited space: Its larger size might be a drawback for those with limited reloading areas.
- Are on a tight budget: While a worthwhile investment in the long run, it's a more significant upfront cost than smaller tumblers.
- Are only reloading small batches of ammunition: A smaller tumbler might be more appropriate for occasional or low-volume reloading.
Conclusion: A Powerful Tool for Serious Reloaders
The Lyman Pro 1200 Turbo Tumbler is a powerful and efficient tool that streamlines the case-cleaning process for serious reloaders. Its high capacity, turbo action, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for those who value speed, efficiency, and consistently clean brass. While the noise level and media consumption are factors to consider, the overall benefits often outweigh these drawbacks for high-volume users. If you fall into that category, the Lyman Pro 1200 Turbo deserves serious consideration.
