PSA: Don't buy a cheap rock tumbler from that big online store...

I saw a $40 tumbler kit and thought it was a great deal to polish some agates I found. The motor gave out after only two weeks of the first grit cycle... so I lost the whole load of stones and the $40. The barrel just stopped turning and everything inside hardened into a solid brick. I had to throw the whole mess away. Has anyone had better luck with a specific brand that can actually handle the full month-long process?

2 comments

2 Comments

hart.ryan23d ago

Yeah, that "solid brick" part is the worst, happened to me too. I wasted money on two of those cheap ones before I gave up. What finally worked was getting a used Lortone tumbler from a local rock shop. It was like $80 but it's built like a tank. The motor on those things just runs forever, I've had mine for three years now with no problems. It's boring but it actually finishes the job.

campbell.logan23d ago

Wait, you threw away the brick? You can usually salvage those stones by soaking them in vinegar for a few days to break up the grit.