sharon40
off to a rocking start
Member since November 2017
Posts: 1
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Post by sharon40 on Nov 7, 2017 14:01:38 GMT -5
Hi--I am looking for advice. My 7 year old grandson loves rocks, so I thought maybe a tumbler would be a good Christmas present (plus it will teach him patience!) Not being sure if this is something he will take to, I am trying not to spend too much at first. We can always upgrade later. Harbor Freight sells a brand called Chicago Electric, and I was hoping to get some feedback on whether or not this is a reliable brand. Also, should I get one or two drums?
Thank you for your help!
Sharon
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Post by MsAli on Nov 7, 2017 14:12:09 GMT -5
HI Sharon, There are more knowledgeable and way better tumblers on here than I am so they might have a different opinion, but I live in a small apartment and just have the 3lb from Harbor Freight. It does the job for me (until I get I finally give in to getting a bigger one) I think that brand is a perfect starter for a 7 y/o and not much money invested if he doesn't like it.
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Post by Drummond Island Rocks on Nov 7, 2017 14:12:53 GMT -5
If you were to dig through old posts here you will find a whole lot of information about Harbor Freight tumblers. I would say 85% of those posts are people criticizing them. There are a few people that use them and and say they are OK if you get a different brand of belt for them. I would say a used Lortone or Thumbler brand tumbler might be a better choice if trying to start on a limited budget. I completely understanding not wanting to spend too much until you know if the hobby will stick. I always figure if I buy something used on Ebay or craigslist for $50 and use it a few times it is still pretty much worth what I paid for it if I decide I dont like it and want to sell it.
Two drums would be better for keeping a 7 year old entertained.
Chuck
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Post by Garage Rocker on Nov 7, 2017 14:34:23 GMT -5
Be careful, there are a good many members on here that thought they were getting into this for the kids. Myself included. Here I am two years later, with multiple tumblers, a couple saws and a pile of rocks. And the kids? Meh, takes too long for their liking.
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70karmann
starting to spend too much on rocks
Member since February 2011
Posts: 190
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Post by 70karmann on Nov 7, 2017 18:08:12 GMT -5
Small lortone is the way to go.
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Post by Jugglerguy on Nov 7, 2017 22:10:36 GMT -5
I’d suggest a Lortone 33b from the Rock Shed. Seven year olds probably don’t have enough patience for broken down tumblers. Harbor freights don’t have a great reputation.
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Fossilman
Cave Dweller
Member since January 2009
Posts: 20,681
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Post by Fossilman on Nov 8, 2017 9:22:13 GMT -5
As said Lortone!
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Post by youp50 on Nov 9, 2017 7:41:38 GMT -5
Be careful, there are a good many members on here that thought they were getting into this for the kids. Myself included. Here I am two years later, with multiple tumblers, a couple saws and a pile of rocks. And the kids? Meh, takes too long for their liking. +1
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