malduin
starting to shine!
Member since June 2022
Posts: 29
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Post by malduin on Sept 9, 2022 9:21:53 GMT -5
I have a bucket of rocks where the largest is about 6 inches long and 3-4 inches wide. I would like a tumbler that would work for this but not something overly large. Basically looking for the smallest tumbler that I could use for this. I am not sure a 6 pound tumbler would be large enough, anyone have suggestions?
Thanks!
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ericabelle
spending too much on rocks
Instagram acct: @erica_shoots_everything
Member since April 2021
Posts: 482
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Post by ericabelle on Sept 9, 2022 14:27:00 GMT -5
Hello! I have a Thumler's Model B, which has a 15lb barrel, and it does great with rocks of that size. However, I just bought a Rebel 17 (same barrel size) - I literally just got it rolling yesterday - and it appears to be SO much better made than the Thumler's in every way; so you may want to check that one out as well. Plus, it claims it can hold more due to its ball bearings. (if you look into this tumbler keep in mind there is a rock tumbler and also a high speed version.) Now I will say, at this 15lb size, you may not be able to put a whole lot of that size rocks in. I've never tried putting more than a few in at a time (along with many other sizes for a good tumble.) So, I am very interested to hear other's recommendations on the next size up! Maybe I need a bigger tumbler...
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Post by jasoninsd on Sept 9, 2022 14:39:19 GMT -5
Thumler Model B rotary UV-18 vibtratory
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Post by Son Of Beach on Sept 9, 2022 14:41:49 GMT -5
Hello! I have a Thumler's Model B, which has a 15lb barrel, and it does great with rocks of that size. However, I just bought a Rebel 17 (same barrel size) - I literally just got it rolling yesterday - and it appears to be SO much better made than the Thumler's in every way; so you may want to check that one out as well. Plus, it claims it can hold more due to its ball bearings. (if you look into this tumbler keep in mind there is a rock tumbler and also a high speed version.) Now I will say, at this 15lb size, you may not be able to put a whole lot of that size rocks in. I've never tried putting more than a few in at a time (along with many other sizes for a good tumble.) So, I am very interested to hear other's recommendations on the next size up! Maybe I need a bigger tumbler... I highly recommend the Rebel 17, mine has been nothing but solid in the time I've had it.
While you can fit bigger rocks in there, just know that the more big rocks the less movement, so use your best judgement. A rock that big might be best solo or maybe with another of the same size or slightly smaller. Use plenty of smaller rocks to provide the friction you are looking for.
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Post by HankRocks on Sept 9, 2022 15:07:54 GMT -5
I have a bucket of rocks where the largest is about 6 inches long and 3-4 inches wide. I would like a tumbler that would work for this but not something overly large. Basically looking for the smallest tumbler that I could use for this. I am not sure a 6 pound tumbler would be large enough, anyone have suggestions? Thanks! You definitely need a tumbler with a barrel capacity of 15 pounds, maybe larger for the large rock you describe. A lot will depend on the smoothness you desire and the original state of the rock(s). If it is very pitted and you want smooth, that is going to take a long time with many 1st stage runs. There is also the problem of putting several large rocks together in a barrel, they will fight!! and bruising will most likely occur. I have thought about getting a 20 pound tumbler but the thought of the lifting involved during cleanouts with that weight has made me shy away. You can get more movement in the larger barrel and more grinding, but you can easily slip into more damaged rocks without a proper mix of rocks to cushion and prevent the damage. Be curious to see the rocks you are thinking about tumbling. If they are already smooth like some river-tumbler or lake shore tumbled, you may have an quicker path to a good polished rock.
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howgneiss
starting to shine!
Member since May 2022
Posts: 25
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Post by howgneiss on Sept 10, 2022 0:37:54 GMT -5
I've been running a Rebel 17 for a few months now and I would recommend it so far. It seems really well made. Just make sure you get the rock tumbler version and not the high speed one.
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malduin
starting to shine!
Member since June 2022
Posts: 29
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Post by malduin on Sept 10, 2022 9:08:55 GMT -5
Would a Lortrone QT12 be large enough? Most of my rocks are nature tumbled by Lake Ontario. I am attaching a sample rock that would be tumbled.
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nursetumbler
Cave Dweller
Member since February 2022
Posts: 981
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Post by nursetumbler on Sept 11, 2022 12:47:49 GMT -5
malduinKingsley North says they have them in stock for 30$ less than Amazon and 70$ less than ebay at $269.99, 6% Michigan sales tax and free shipping. Just dont buy them all cause I may get one too. After my purchase yesterday I may want to wait a day or two though. 🙃 Kelly
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