Rock Tumblers

[Moonie]

Hello all,

I've been walking down gravel roads with my head down for quite a few years now up around Duluth and Cromwell MN and have picked up quite a few agates in the process (mostly small ones). I'm going to start looking at getting a tumbler but have no idea what to look for. I'll surf the interweb for info, but would like to hear what you think would be a good "starter tumbler" and/or things to consider when buying one. Thanks for the help!

[DARK30]

Google the Thumler's tumbler model AR-1. It should run you around a $100 or so. You don't need a larger barrel than the 3#. The motor is better on this one too. The smaller barrel is easier on the rocks as they tumble...less fracturing.

Have Fun!

[TonkaBass]

I heard that there is vibrating tumblers and rotating ones... Any advice on which one is better? I'm also curious on which one is faster and the most quit... I might be picking one up this winter. thanks

[harvey lee]

I purchased a cheaper rotating one for my granddaughter for like $50.00. Pure junk and my son said the noise drove the family nuts while it ran.

It did do some polishing but they threw it in the garbage as it was terribly noisey while it ran.

[DARK30]

I have both types. I think the barrel works better for the first couple rounding stages and the vibrating type (search "lot-o tumbler") is better for polishing. They all make noise so clear a spot in the garage