Best ultrasonic cleaner for brass cases

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Ultrasonic cleaner for brass cases is a tool that will help you quickly cope with the task of brass cleaning. The best ultrasonic cleaner is Hornady Lock-N-Load Sonic Cleaner 2L. The runner-up and best budget are RCBS Ultrasonic Cleaner and Lyman Turbo Sonic Case Cleaner 115V. Their main advantages are to make the work easier and save your time. Next, we will take a closer look at the 5 best ultrasonic cleaners on our list.

List of the Best ultrasonic cleaners

So, what about best ultrasonic cleaners by customer choice?

Best by customer choice:
SaleBestseller No. 1
Magnasonic Professional Ultrasonic Jewelry Cleaner with Digital Timer and 20z Stainless Steel Tank for Eyeglasses, Rings, Earrings, Coins, Tools, Dentures, Hygiene Items (MGUC500)
  • PROFESSIONAL STRENGTH CLEANER - Cleans and restores shine to jewelry, eyeglasses, watches, coins and more by penetrating to remove particulates from crevices and cavities in minutes without damaging them (Does not remove discoloration due to tarnish)
  • ULTRASONIC TECHNOLOGY - Generates 42,000 Hz of ultrasonic sound waves creating millions of microscopic bubbles that force out contaminates adhering to any surface for a powerful yet gentle clean
  • NATURAL AND ENVIRONMENTLY FRIENDLY CLEANING – Clean your jewelry at home using only tap water without requiring harsh chemicals that could damage your valuables or the environment
  • EASY TO USE WITH DIGITAL DISPLAY: Easily read the status of your clean cycle, choose from 5 presets (90, 180, 280, 380, & 480 seconds) with auto shut off and basket included to secure items
  • DURABLE STAINLESS-STEEL TANK - Features a generous 20 oz (600 mL) capacity that can easily fit multiple pieces of jewelry, dentures and hygiene items for a thorough and quick cleaning
Bestseller No. 2
VEVOR Professional Ultrasonic Cleaner, Easy to Use with Digital Timer & Heater, Stainless Steel Industrial Machine for Parts, 110V, FCC/CE/RoHS Certified (3L)
  • Powerful Cleaning Effect: The machine possesses ultrasonic cleaning frequency 40kHz, the most fitable frequency, with ultrasonic power 120W and heating power 100W. The scientific parameter design of frequency and power can effectively make your valuables and items clean as ever without any damage
  • Advanced Transducer Technology: The Cleaning machine enables 2 advanced transducers (2 x 60 W = 120 W) , equiped with sandwich piezoelectric transducer structure. The transducers with latest technology can greatly improve cleaning efficiency
  • Special Capacity Design: Capcity 3L with Tank Size: 10.4''x6.3''x3.9'', It is made of high quality 304 stainless steel, which is more durable and sturdy to last for many years, coming with matching basket for keeping your coin, ring, diamond, jewelry, watches and small parts in place
  • Digital Control Panel: The Cleaning machine features a digital display for precise time and temperature control. Available setting rang, Time:0-30mins, Temperature:0-80℃/176℉. The digital panel with easy operation and elegant appearance satisfying the most customers
  • Practical Application: This ultrasonic cleaner, with excellent apperance, performance and special capacity design, is widely used for cleaning jewelry, eyeglasses, watch, circuit board, dental equipment, tableware, and other small parts, FCC/CE/RoHS/UL Certified

Last update on 2024-01-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The best ultrasonic cleaners by expert choice are below!

Best by our choice:
Product
Best
Hornady Lock-N-Load Sonic Cleaner 2L, 110V, 043320 - Premium Way to Clean Gun Parts & Bullet Casings - 80 Watt Heated Ultrasonic Cleaner Helps Remove Built-Up Carbon Residue with High Frequency Energy
Runner up
RCBS Ultrasonic Case Cleaner -2 120Vac-US/Can
Best budget
Lyman, Turbo Sonic Case Cleaner 115V Multiple ,Large
Image
Hornady Lock-N-Load Sonic Cleaner 2L, 110V, 043320 - Premium Way to Clean Gun Parts & Bullet Casings - 80 Watt Heated Ultrasonic Cleaner Helps Remove Built-Up Carbon Residue with High Frequency Energy
RCBS Ultrasonic Case Cleaner -2 120Vac-US/Can
Lyman, Turbo Sonic Case Cleaner 115V Multiple ,Large
Features
80 watt ceramic heater that enhances cleaning action. Deep Cleaning. 5 to 30 minute timer.
6.3-Quart (6.0 liter) capacity. Stainless steel parts basket. Smaller stainless steel parts tub. LED display. Limited one year Warranty.
2.5L tank capacity. Heated tank and plastic basket. Timer with 1-8 minutes cleaning cycle.
Product Dimensions
12 x 10.5 x 8.6 inches
22.5 x 14.25 x 12.5 inches
‎5.31 x 3.66 x 3.94 inches
Weight
6 Pounds
2 Pounds
0.38 Pounds
Customer Reviews
4.7 (770+ reviews)
4.0 (20+ reviews)
4.5 (220+ reviews)
Best
Product
Hornady Lock-N-Load Sonic Cleaner 2L, 110V, 043320 - Premium Way to Clean Gun Parts & Bullet Casings - 80 Watt Heated Ultrasonic Cleaner Helps Remove Built-Up Carbon Residue with High Frequency Energy
Image
Hornady Lock-N-Load Sonic Cleaner 2L, 110V, 043320 - Premium Way to Clean Gun Parts & Bullet Casings - 80 Watt Heated Ultrasonic Cleaner Helps Remove Built-Up Carbon Residue with High Frequency Energy
Features
80 watt ceramic heater that enhances cleaning action. Deep Cleaning. 5 to 30 minute timer.
Product Dimensions
12 x 10.5 x 8.6 inches
Weight
6 Pounds
Customer Reviews
4.7 (770+ reviews)
Runner up
Product
RCBS Ultrasonic Case Cleaner -2 120Vac-US/Can
Image
RCBS Ultrasonic Case Cleaner -2 120Vac-US/Can
Features
6.3-Quart (6.0 liter) capacity. Stainless steel parts basket. Smaller stainless steel parts tub. LED display. Limited one year Warranty.
Product Dimensions
22.5 x 14.25 x 12.5 inches
Weight
2 Pounds
Customer Reviews
4.0 (20+ reviews)
Best budget
Product
Lyman, Turbo Sonic Case Cleaner 115V Multiple ,Large
Image
Lyman, Turbo Sonic Case Cleaner 115V Multiple ,Large
Features
2.5L tank capacity. Heated tank and plastic basket. Timer with 1-8 minutes cleaning cycle.
Product Dimensions
‎5.31 x 3.66 x 3.94 inches
Weight
0.38 Pounds
Customer Reviews
4.5 (220+ reviews)

Last update on 2024-01-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best: Hornady Lock-N-Load Sonic Cleaner 2L is the best option in terms of price-quality ratio, which is suitable for everyone. This ultrasonic cleaner has the right functions and is generally well made.

Runner-up: RCBS Ultrasonic Cleaner is the second-best option, but more expensive than the first. It is also well made, durable, and will be a good helper.

Best budget: Lyman Turbo Sonic Case Cleaner 115V is the best budget option, for those who have a limited budget, but want quality and inexpensive products.

Next, let’s take a closer look at the products and learn about their advantages and disadvantages.

Best Ultrasonic Cleaner For Brass Cases

1. Hornady Lock-N-Load Sonic Cleaner 2L

Hornady Lock-N-Load Sonic Cleaner 2L, 110V, 043320 - Premium Way to Clean Gun Parts & Bullet Casings - 80 Watt Heated Ultrasonic Cleaner Helps Remove Built-Up Carbon Residue with High Frequency Energy
  • Hornady Lock N Load Sonic Cleaner – Features an 80 watt ceramic heater that enhances cleaning action, which is especially helpful when cleaning gun parts. Make easy work of brass preparation!
  • For Gun Owners – Use the Hornady Sonic Case Cleaner/ultrasonic gun cleaner to clean gun parts and equipment, as well as cases. It's large, 2 liter stainless steel tank holds up to three hundred 223 cases or one hundred fifty 308 cases
  • Deep Cleaning – Unlike Tumblers, the Hornady Sonic Cleaner quickly cleans the exterior and interior of the case, as well as primer pockets using the microjet action. The ultrasonic brass case cleaner also removes carbon residue and other debris from small gun parts and other small metal equipment
  • Product Details – Item No. 043320. The Sonic Cleaner Machine Tank dimensions : 6.25 x 6 x 3 inches. Tank capacity : 2 liters. For best results, use with Hornady One Shot Sonic Clean Solution (not included). The 5 to 30 minute timer allows you to choose the appropriate cycle for your application
  • Case Care – Hornady cleaning, case care and prep tools make gun cleaning, trimming, deburring, or chamfering cartridge cases easier. Each product is designed to boost the accuracy of your handloads and increase the efficiency of your efforts, saving you valuable time on the bench so you can get out in the field!

Last update on 2024-01-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

First, let me introduce to you the best ultrasonic cleaner Hornady Lock-N-Load 2L. The best ultrasonic cleaner can clean 300 9mm bullets and small gun parts. The sonic cleaner has a two-liter storage capacity. You can use it for heating and degassing.

It is small in size and can be placed on a small table. This unit is ideal for those who only reload small batches of cases at a given time. It can hold up to 150 x 308 cases at once due to its 2-liter tank. The price is quite high considering its size. It has shiny and smooth metallic finishing that is easy to keep clean.

It takes only a low, audible buzzing sound that is easy to ignore. This unit will not cause you to suffer from living in an apartment, unlike vibratory tumblers. Hornady Sonic Cleaner has a degassing feature. This removes micro air bubbles which improve brass cleaning efficiency and reduces the chance of bullet rusting.

Heating also improves brass cleaning efficiency. Be careful when using the heating function. Exercising the heating function too often can cause the brass to rust and make it less effective at cleaning. The heating feature also helps in cleaning the tub itself when it has seen no use for a moderate unit of time.

Ultrasonic cleaners have a built-in timer that allows for up to 30 minutes of operation. You can choose between 5 minutes and 30 minutes. Hornady recommends that after cleaning the cleaner for at least 30 minutes, let it cool for five minutes to not damage the device.

Pros
  • Heating function
  • Includes degassing function
  • 30-minute uninterrupted run timer
  • Timer with multiple settings
  • Specially designed for brass
Cons
  • Small capacity
  • Short power cord

2. RCBS Ultrasonic Cleaner

RCBS Ultrasonic Case Cleaner -2 120Vac-US/Can
  • 6.3-Quart (6.0 liter) capacity
  • Stainless steel parts basket
  • Smaller stainless steel parts tub
  • LED display
  • Limited one year Warranty

Last update on 2024-01-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

RCBS holds the largest tank among all ultrasonic cleaners. The second-best ultrasonic cleaner also has a heating function and a degassing function. It also has an additional timer that informs the user when the cleaning solution should be changed. A valve on the bottom allows you to drain the solution easily without having to lift the cleaner.

This tank is the largest of the group, as we have already mentioned. It holds up to 225 x 308 cases in a massive 3.2 quart (3 liters) tank. It’s not much, but it’s the largest you can get with this particular group of ultrasonic cleaners.

It has a heating and degassing function, just like Hornady. RCBS also includes a second timer to keep track of solvent usage. An indicator is also included to alert the reloader that it’s time for a change in the solution or concentrated cleaning detergent. RCBS includes a 5-stage temperature control system. This allows you to operate the device for anywhere between 1 and 30 minutes.

The result is visually similar to that of any other ultrasonic cleaners of this size. But this unit is the most user-friendly because to drain the unit all you need to do is connect the hose pipe included in the package, place the other end in a bucket or sink and turn the drain valve.

This prevents any spillage that may occur when you tilt to drain the solvent. It has a solvent indicator and timer, but we still visually inspect the solvent clarity to see if it can be reused.

Pros
  • Degassing function
  • Cleaning timer: 1-30 minutes
  • Largest tank in this category-3.2 quarts
  • Timer to notify when to change the cleaning solution
  • Drain valve for draining the cleaning solution
  • 5 temperature settings
Cons
  • Expensive

3. Lyman Turbo Power Professional Ultrasonic Cleaner

Sale
Lyman, Turbo Sonic Case Cleaner 115V Multiple ,Large
  • Package length: 34.29 cm
  • Package width: 25.4 cm
  • Package height: 22.606 cm
  • Product Type: SPORTING GOODS

Last update on 2024-01-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This Lyman product is a great option for professionals looking to purchase a high-quality ultrasonic cleaner for their gunsmithing shop. This powerful cleaner is too powerful for home use.

The extra-long heated tank can accommodate almost any barreled action, upper receiver, or other gun parts. There is very little that won’t fit into this ultrasonic cleaner for a good scrub down. And speaking of scrubbing down, this unit used 10 industrial-grade transducers. That’s a lot of cavitation!

All of the performance comes at a high price. This unit is the most expensive. This cleaner can clean almost any item. Is it possible to afford ramen noodles for one month? Absolutely. This doesn’t mean that the unit isn’t worthwhile.

This unit is a great investment if you make money cleaning or gunsmithing for others. There are cheaper options available that will work just as well for small home operations.

Pros
  • Large tank
  • Heated tank
  • 10 transducers
  • Very solid
  • Durable
Cons
  • Very expensive
  • It is large and takes a lot of space

4. Lyman Turbo Sonic Case Cleaner, 115V

Lyman Products Turbo Sonic Power Professional Ultrasonic Cleaner
  • Designed for high volume ultrasonic cleaning
  • Can easily handle most barreled actions upper receivers as well as quantities of handguns
  • Aggressively deep cleans and degreases items both inside and out

Last update on 2024-01-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Lyman Turbo Sonic Case Cleaner for brass is another case cleaner that can clean all your cases. Although it has a heating function, unlike Hornady’s, this cleaner does not have a degassing option. This means that brass can rust faster if it is left in the cleaner overnight. It is recommended to use distilled water to prevent rusting and water spots.

The tank capacity of ultrasonic cleaner for brass is slightly larger at 2.5 liters, compared to Hornady’s 2 liters. This Ultrasonic cleaner can hold a few more cases than Hornady. The heated tank and the case cleaning solution will clean the case and primer pockets efficiently every single time.

We haven’t fully tested the “overnight” part yet, but that is the logical conclusion we have at the moment. To increase the reusability of the brass, we used distilled water instead of normal tap water.

This unit is similar to the Hornady and makes only the sound of vibrating water. It cleans well and has a heating function.

The Ultrasonic cleaning machine comes with a timer that lasts 480 seconds so that is 8 minutes. After that, it automatically shuts off. To clean it again, you’ll need to turn it back on.

Pros
  • Heating function
  • Affordable
  • Pretty large capacity
  • Durable
  • Sturdy quality
Cons
  • Maximum 8-minute cycle

5. Hornady Lock-N-Load Hot Tub Sonic Cleaner

Hornady Lock-N-Load Hot Tub Sonic Cleaner – Clean Cases, Guns, Gun Parts and Equipment – Removes Carbon Residue, Tarnish and Oxidation – 9L Tank, Black
  • Hornady Sonic Cleaner – Using a combination of intense ultrasonic cleaning action and a unique cleaning solution, this Hornady Hot Tub Sonic Cleaner quickly removes tarnish, oxidation, and carbon buildup from cases. Make easy work of brass preparation! Long enough to accommodate and clean a 16 inch AR-15 upper
  • For Gun Owners – Use it to clean gun parts and equipment as well. Features a 9 liter stainless steel tank, removable basket drain trays, de-gas function, adjustable heating function, a digital time, a solution usage timer and suspension cored for larger items
  • Deep Cleaning – Unlike Tumblers, the Sonic Cleaner quickly cleans the exterior and interior of cartridge cases, as well as primer pockets. May also be used to clean other small parts
  • Product Details – Item No. 043310. Tank dimensions : 25.5 x 7 x 4 inches. Tank capacity : 9L. Timer settings: 0 - 30 minutes. For best results, use with Hornady One Shot Sonic Clean Solution (not included)
  • Case Care – Hornady cleaning, case care and prep tools make cleaning, trimming, deburring, or chamfering cartridge cases easier. Each product is designed to boost the accuracy of your handloads and increase the efficiency of your efforts, saving you valuable time on the bench so you can get out in the field!

Last update on 2024-01-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This ultrasonic cleaner is a great choice if you’re looking for a cleaner that has all the features you need without spending as much as a commercial unit. Hornady’s large hot tub cleaner was made with gun owners in mind.

This basket can hold a full 16-inch AR-15 upper receiver. It is an amazing feature. The ultrasonic cleaner can clean the entire AR-15, with only a basic field stripping required. The heated 9-liter tank can be set to 5 temperatures, from 100 to 140 degrees. 4 transducers provide plenty of cleaning power.

Although this unit is less expensive than a commercial unit it is still quite costly. An ultrasonic cleaner this large will cost you more than one that is smaller and designed to clean only brass.

This is because you will need a larger tank and more transducers. This ultrasonic cleaner is a great value for cleaning full-length rifles and brass.

Pros
  • A large tank can clean rifles up to the full length
  • 4 transducers
  • Many accessories
  • Durable
  • Sturdy quality
Cons
  • High price
  • The large unit can take up a lot of space

Buyer’s guide

There are many options on the market for ultrasonic brass cleaners. A buyer’s guide can help you make the right choice if this is your first time using one.

It’s essential to take a perfect look at some of the crucial aspects that give the overall value of an ultrasonic cleaner. Continue reading to find out the details.

1. Tank heater

You should always inspect the tank heater in your ultrasonic cleaner, regardless of how much you have to spend. This is where all your brass parts will be cleaned. Most ultrasonic cleaners designed for gun cleaning have a tank heater. However, it may not be the case for the cheaper and smaller models.

Heating the cleaning solution will improve the results when cleaning brass. It is due to the solubility of heated waters. It will be easier to dissolve dirt, gunk, and fouling in brass elements if the water has been heated. Oils and greases become less viscous and effortless to dislodge.

The heated ultrasonic cleaner has shown superior results in cleaning gun elements and brass cases for many years.

2. Tank Size

The size of the tank will depend on what you intend to clean with the ultrasonic cleaner. There are many ultrasonic cleaners on the market that are created for cleaning brass. Large and square baskets are common for this type of ultrasonic cleaners.

On the other side, the cleaners made for cleaning gun parts will be skinny and long, but also rather shallow. It’s a design that ensures the best fit for the frames, receivers, barrels, and various elements.

Gun parts and firearms come in many shapes and sizes so you will need an ultrasonic cleaner that is specifically designed for cleaning gun parts. An affordable, basic ultrasonic cleaner won’t fit the empty brass or AR-15 barrel. You may occasionally be able to accommodate some parts of your handgun, but you won’t enjoy the best cleaning performance ultrasonic cleaners can offer.

3. Frequency range

While the majority of ultrasonic cleaners used for guns operate at 40-kHz, it is important to understand the importance of frequency range on gun cleaning equipment.

The frequency increases and the ultrasonic cleaner produces smaller bubbles. For certain, the space between cavitation points will decrease. This is a very important effect for cleaning small and intricate parts.

It’s something you should use when cleaning jewelry and not firearms. With gun parts being essential and having fewer details, you don’t need high-frequency cleaning.

Long story short, any frequency of the ultrasonic cleaner will be enough for brass cleaning. If you intend to clean other parts of your gun, you should not look for a cleaner with a higher frequency.

4. Timer

Ultrasonic cleaning is fast. It is not a good idea to leave the brass in the cleaner for the entire night. Gun parts can also be filthy, so cleaning them at different times is necessary.

Ultrasonic cleaners that are less expensive typically have one to two cycles. You may need to return to the cleaner to get good results.

This is not a problem if you buy an ultrasonic cleaner that’s made specifically for brass and gun parts. Even though 5 minutes is enough to clean a ring but it’s not enough for cleaning the barrel of 1911.

5. Total value

There are many aspects that matter, but it all depends on your level of attention. While some may prefer a cleaner with a smaller footprint, others want it to run quietly.

The ultrasonic cleaner’s value will be increased by its smart design, build quality, and ease of use. A simple setup, clear instructions, and a removable power cable that can be stored when not in use or durability feel will also make the difference between a poor and an excellent ultrasonic cleaner.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the basic definition of an ultrasonic brass cleaner?

The ultrasonic cleaning uses high-frequency sound waves to remove dirt and contaminants from the objects that have been placed in the cleaning solution. Ultrasonic sound waves reach into areas that are difficult to reach and get rid of debris that isn’t easy to clean using other methods.

What are the benefits of cleaning brass with an ultrasonic cleaner?

When using an ultrasonic cleaner for cleaning brass, you won’t need to disassemble any parts. Because the solution can reach places of brass that are difficult to clean with traditional methods, it will clean every crevice.
You can clean multiple pieces at once, which is a time- and cost-savings. Every time you clean brass parts, they will shine and look new.

Can anyone use ultrasonic brass cleaners?

If you have brass items, a perfect ultrasonic cleaner is a great option to clean them. Even if good models aren’t cheap, it’s a wise investment to make, as proper cleaning expands the lifespan of brass elements.
A reliable and durable ultrasonic brass cleaner is essential for gunsmith shops. In just a few cycles, it can complete the cleaning and polishing of small parts and brass cases. This machine is a time-saver and a great tool for cleaning.

Is it necessary to clean brass before reloading the gun?

Truth be told, brass doesn’t need to be cleaned before you reload. You may need to clean and lubricate them, especially if they are bottlenecked. Take your time drying them thoroughly, and make sure to remove any lube after the cleaning process.
It’s funny how some reloaders can clean dirty brass but still achieve good results.

How long will it take for ultrasonic cleaners to clean brass?

It is not an easy question to answer as it depends on how much how dirty brass is. It all depends on how the cleaner performs and what you expect to achieve.9 out of 10 times, the ultrasonic cleaner should last between 5 and 25 minutes. For cleaning extremely corroded brass cases, it takes only 25 minutes.

Is “squeaky clean” a downside for brass?

We should remind you that the ultrasonic cleaning process makes the cartridge brass “squeaky clean”. You may therefore need to use a greater force to seat the bullets. The risk of them “grabbing” the necks as they pass in the necks is very high.
You can reduce the effort of bullet-seating by putting some waterproof case lube in the case neck before loading. A nylon brush can be used for this job.
For the same results, combine the cleaning solution and a teaspoon of Ballistol lube. It acts as a trace lubricant in the necks without altering the power ignition.

Should I de-gas the solvent prior to adding the brass?

Reloaders who have experience in cleaning will tell you that it is important to de-gas the cleaning solution before you clean. The cleaning solution will have dissolved any air bubbles in the tank, which will trap the ultrasonic energy until it degasses.
To ensure that the tank de-gasses, allow it to run for at least 20 minutes. Only after the cleaning solution has been removed from the container, will you see better results.

Final thoughts

This is all you need to know about ultrasonic cleaning products. These are the best ultrasonic cleaners. It all depends on what you need and how much money you want to spend. They are a good investment for gun owners and almost mandatory for modern reloaders who want to produce thousands of rounds per month.

These ultrasonic cleaners can be used for any purpose and make it easier to clean your gun parts and prep your case.

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Author - Hans Wimberly
Hans-Wimberly - the owner of Gearsadviser
When I`m not spending time with my beautiful wife and great 3 children, you will find me reloading ammo!
Doing sport shooting, or talking with my friends about (oh, yeah!) guns.

Read more about me here.

At Gearsadviser, I`m committed to ensuring that you have the best possible reloading experience. I conduct thorough research, testing, and evaluation of reloading gear, offering impartial and informative reviews to assist you in making informed purchasing decisions. My reviews are based on hands-on testing, research, and analysis of customer feedback. I regularly update my reviews to reflect changes in product availability and new information, so you can be confident that you're receiving the most current recommendations.

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