Tumbler for beginners

[N474lie]

Hi all

I’ve just started out with silversmithing so it’s mostly a hobby but I’d like to be able to make a few pieces to sell too. Can anyone point me in the direction of a budget friendly little tumbler please? Also, I’ve read here that stainless steel shot is a good option, does it matter what size/shape/how much you have?
Thanks!

[Dennis]

Hi N474lie, and welcome to he Forum.

Over the years members on a budget have gone for a National Geographic rock tumbler, combined with stainless steel mixed shot.
The problem with shot, is that in order to reach all the nooks and crannies it has to contain needles, and they will invariably cause stippling of any flat surfaces. To offset this, use the smallest shot you can find, and go on tumbling for an extended period, even overnight.

To find out more, use our search box top right, and search with google online. Dennis.

[pearlescence]

Recommend you get a decent one. Don't skimp on a cheapie because it will invariably leak, not rotate properly and drive you nuts, then you will buy a decent one anyway.
I recommend this https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RDs7ekCwM7E
used around the world by other silver workers I know who all recommended it to me when I finally got exasperated with my UK sourced one.
Look on aliexpress and such sites and import direct.

[Caro]

My National Geo one doesn't leak and has proved reliable and I'm happy with it. I use it a couple of hours at a time and a few times a week. If I was making on a larger scale I might go for a "proper one" but quite honestly this is good enough for me at the moment and the rubber barrel is nice and quiet.

I did buy good quality stainless steel shot.

[china]

I agree with the lortone recommendation I have had had mine for 20 years, only ever replaced the bearings once a couple of years ag.