How big of a tumbler do I need?

[NorthernPF]

Hey Guys,

Shopping for a tumbler but I don't know how big of a tumbler I need. I was told by a buddy to get a barrel tumbler because they are alot quieter. Now I see that there's 3lbs, 6lbs, 12lbs capacity but I don't know how big I need.

Any Thought?

 

[Arctic]

Based on the information and numbers of brass you posted, I'd suggest at least a 100 pounder!

 

[getthismanaslap]

i like the frankford arsenal . does a 100 brass in and hour and a half to a nice polish

 

[Drew_CarreyAB]

I have a 6# Thumblers tumbler(I think thats what it's called...) If you use new or newer media(corncob for me) it does take me about 3-4 hours to get the brass really really shiney, but I have done quick runs in over an hour that take off the lube I use, and/or the range crud before sizing too, E-bay special about 4 years ago for $40..LOL btw, can also polish rocks in my setup too!!!!

 

[old owl]

I have a Lyman turbo 1200 and it does a great job but then I normally do from 40 to 60 cases aa a time

 

[Onagoth]

i like the frankford arsenal . does a 100 brass in and hour and a half to a nice polish

x2, and its only 40-50 bucks

 

[hedgehog]

x3 but you never said the volume of shooting you do, pistol or rifle?

 

[Arctic]

That was my point, .....without telling us what you want to do, and in what quantity, it's hard to provide a helpful answer. I've seen guys happy with a small tumbler, and I've seen guys use a cement mixer!

 

[Johnn Peterson]

Until the last few years, I never used a tumbler. When I started my reloading equipment upgrade I decided perhaps it was time to get one, to make the brass 'look pretty'. After a little checking, I decided to go for an RCBS Sidewinder. They are a little more than most but I decided on the Sidewinder because of it's flexibility. I could use the crushed walnut shell or corncob media for most of the cleaning/polishing requirements or go to a chemical solution cleaner for the tougher jobs. It works well.