Tumbler advice needed.....
I ask this on the reloading forum, but just in case I'll post it here also. I have decided to buy a tumbler, and I need to know the best for the money. What type of media? Liquid cleaner in the media? Media separator? I only handload a few boxes at a time, so I don't need anything too fancy or expensive. Thanks in advance for your help!!!!!
0
-
Best buy I have found is Harbor Freight, their five pound bowl for $55.00, much better than similar sized units. They also make an 18lb size for 200.00. I have tried just about all in 30 years. Contact me direct about tumbling media. sp0045@earthlink.net 0 -
I like the vibarator type cleaner media all depends on how dirty /stained the brass is . The cheapest rice you can buy will leave a great looking slick finish that really works good to full length size rifle cases. Treated walnut hulls will really clean dirty brass. Walnut hulls from PET STORES will do a good job just not as fast as the treated stuff. If you want to treat your own media be aware DO NOT use anything that has AMMONIA in it on brass it will make brass brittle. I do not like corn Cob media. just my $.02 0 -
I've found it worthwhile to pay a bit more for something that will last.
I've had my Lyman tumbler for 20 years and I expect it will last another 20 more. Brown Lyman media and a few used dryer sheets works for me.0 -
I have a Thumlers Tumbler Model B which I bought years ago and has served me well for some 25 years. The only thing it needed over the years were some belts. They are fairly expensive now in the $150 ball park but I think they are still worth it. I also agree with the Harbor Freight vibrating cleaner. They have 20% off coupons that are easy to come buy and I got mine for like $39. I bought this one as a back up just because of the large amount of brass I have. Bought it about 2 years ago and have no complaints. As far as media I use the Thumlers media in that unit and the corn coB stuff with some Flitz mixed in the vibratory unit. 0 -
I have a pair of Dillon CV-2001's one with treated crushed walnut shells for primary cleaning and one with ground corncob and jeweler's rouge for high polish - I just like that factory look. They are both very capable and show no sign of getting tired. 0 -
I got my Midway vibrator in '91. It is still going strong.
Have a Thumler,s model B that is about 30 some years old that is still working very good. Use it as a back up when doing a lot of brass.0 -
i bought a used thumblers model 20 years ago which holds 4 or 5 gallons used with walnut media bought 50lbs at same time still on the same media with a dash of brass polish 0 -
Thanks to all!!!!!!!!!!!![8D] 0 -
partisan,
I originally posted this on the Competition/Reloading forum in response to another query:
We get to dance with this same question frequently because of the advent of new products and services available to the reloader, fortunately.
I am one of those indefatigable tinkers on the constant search for better cleaners and polishers that don't require so much time and energy. I have too much brass to clean to use expensive and long term processes. I finally found one that suits both my volume and time constraints.
http://www.stainlesstumblingmedia.com/
While this may not suit you, it is the best process/cost I've used yet. The brass comes out like new, even the primer pockets. Most reloaders are too cheap to invest in this type of brass processing but once you've tried it you won't go back to kitchen chemistry and those poor results.
Best.
This process is fast, quiet, clean and doesn't wear out like the other ground media does. You'll be amazed at how much difference there is between soft media 'clean' and SS clean.
Best.
Yes it works just like the ad states. We have one running all day, every day at the shop and it's doing a fantastic job on the brass we all shoot in competitions and practices.
Best.0 -
Nononsense,
I just read that add from the link you posted. That really works as advertised? I have to get one. I was about to suggest Frankfurt Arsenal stuff, and treated walnut media.
Best0 -
quote:Originally posted by nononsense
partisan,
I originally posted this on the Competition/Reloading forum in response to another query:
We get to dance with this same question frequently because of the advent of new products and services available to the reloader, fortunately.
I am one of those indefatigable tinkers on the constant search for better cleaners and polishers that don't require so much time and energy. I have too much brass to clean to use expensive and long term processes. I finally found one that suits both my volume and time constraints.
http://www.stainlesstumblingmedia.com/
While this may not suit you, it is the best process/cost I've used yet. The brass comes out like new, even the primer pockets. Most reloaders are too cheap to invest in this type of brass processing but once you've tried it you won't go back to kitchen chemistry and those poor results.
Best.
This process is fast, quiet, clean and doesn't wear out like the other ground media does. You'll be amazed at how much difference there is between soft media 'clean' and SS clean.
Best.
I wouldn't mind trying that, but as with many nice things, the initial cost outlay has to be weighed. For those shooting a lot of rounds, thousands a year and up, it may be just the thing. But just like buying a high energy efficiency water tank may save money in the long run, affording the initial outlay- even if it pays for itself over years- is hard. That's where I am with the SS media now. At some point I'll pop for it.
However, my two cents for now are untreated walnut to remove dirt, corncob to polish. If you have a lot of soot or bullet lube on your cases, or oil for some reason, add a little mineral spirits to the mix in lieu of polish. A tsp. will do.
I usually run about an hour to clean, then lube and size, then comes the question- how to remove the lube. Tumbling works but clogs the flash holes. These days I usually just toss the cases in a pot of boiling water with a little dawn, let soak for 5 minutes, rinse and let dry. Doesn't leave them perfectly shiny but gets the case lube off.0 -
Like the boss stated--- That S/S media will do the best job ever, and the price is not all that bad considering what you get for the money, plus no dust to deal with.... 0
Please sign in to leave a comment.
Comments
12 comments