We have examined different processing conditions for the synthesis of HCN by the ammoxidation of methane over woven Pt-Ph gauzes in an autothermal bench scale reactor. Compared to the conventional air processes, the HCN yield can be improved 10-15% by preheating the reactant gases, and HCN throughput can be increased 140% by removing N-2 from the feed stream. We were able to attain operation in a high pressure bench scale reactor, and HCN yields were maintained above 0.60 up to 3.5 atm at 300% of the throughput achievable at 1 atm. We also investigated activation of the Pt-Ph gauze catalyst which occurs through facet and pit formation on the metal surface. A high temperature treatment reduced activation times from 30 to 3 h. Pits on the catalyst surface resulted from increased temperatures and NH3 in the reactant gas, but HCN processing conditions were necessary for the catalyst to achieve best performance.