tumbler

I have both--the Thumler has been with me now for decades without a break down of the motor. It wasn't consistently in operation all that time, but it certainly has years under its belt (literally).

The Lortones have had slightly more problems, but nothing significant, and the lids are easier to close. The rubber over the metal on the lid wears out quickly, but it is inexpensive to replace. And--the rubber o-ring holding the lid on the Thumler stretches and needs to be replaced fairly often.

I don't think you can go wrong with either.

Susan

John - what would you consider the next step up on rotary tumblers?

In my opinion, the next step up is a pretty tall step price wise. Covington's rotary tumblers use beefier motors and a real V-belt. Price is way over the Thumler's and Lortone in under 12 lb. sizes. I think the double and triple gallon models are a good value. All of Diamond Pacific 's rotary tumblers are rebadged Highland Park models. Their 12T at $700 list is what, 4 times a Thumler's B model?. Four times better? I don't know. I'm pretty fond of the Thumler's Model B and it has the same drum as the 12T. Barranca has a new inclined barrel 6 lb. rotary that is really nice and faster due to the inclined barrel. It "ain't cheap" either. I bought a used Lortone QT66 that I have not been home long enough to use. I'd like to find a 12 lb. barrel for it. That combination would make a really nice choice for as much as I will tumble. If I were to tumble commercially I'd probably buy a double gallon Covington and finish in a 10 lb. GyRoc vibe. I once had a 40 lb. HP and it was just too big.

I'd second Paul's vote. The Lortone QT66 is a good machine and like him, if I decide to buy a new tumbler, that would be it. If I had to go with one tumbler, and were purchasing my first, I'd probably opt for the Lortone 33B with a spare 3lb barrel (for polish) though. The QT66 is an excellent rough tumbler, but the 3lb barrels are better as an initial tumbler because it doesn't take so long to collect enough processed rough (for a 6lb barrel) to start on subsequent stages. If your plan is to do larger rocks frequently, the 6lb barrels may be a better fit after all.

Just for some reference information I've come to understand - for a relatively smooth and consistent operation with good results, it will generally take about 24-36lb's of rough tumbling to regularly keep a single 3lb barrel for subsequent stages in action. A 6lb barrel would theoretically take twice that amount to keep a single 6lb barrel in action with subsequent stages. What isn't made up for in rough processing weight will require more time in smaller barrels.

I haven't used Thumlers gear, so I can't comment, but I've read they make fine equipment and I do particularly like their 15lb barrels. I just personally like Lortone, have used their tumblers for years without issue (other than maintenance) and feel very comfortable maintaining all their models.

iam try to deside between the lortone qt66 and the 15 pound thumler whitch do you think want to do some bigger rocks not just small stuff but the 15 pounder just has one barrel so dont no what would be best

Tim

The QT 66 and 12lb. are same tumblers with different drums. That makes it pretty versatile. The Model B is far superior as far as motor, bearings and drum. The only conversion possible is a conversion kit to make it a double 3 lb. tumbler. I like the Model B better but would probably go the Lortone route (QT66 with an extra 12 lb. drum.

I'm kind of down on Lortones right now. I have five waiting for various repairs right now all with motors that have stopped turning at speed or with enough strength to turn even a light load. I've been tumbling for years and used to be Lortones were fantastic right out of the box and ran forever with just belt changes or new barrel lid liners. Every one I've bought recently has needed tweaking right out of the box and the motors last just long enough to run out the warranty. I haven't used Thumblers and like to keep one kind so I can cannibalize parts. Lortone barrels are in my book still top notch but I now run them on a different base unit ( MJR). I've gotten so I use the rotaries mainly for coarse grind and do everything else in a UV-10 vibe unit which seems to be fantastic so far....Mel

Mel,

Funny you should mention your problems with newer Lortones. My newest one, a 33B, is conking out. It will only run one barrel at present. Maybe just a new belt--but I've never even had a belt fail on my older Lortones or te Thumler.

Susan

got it in yesterday