Rotary Case Tumbler Advice

[Fordy]

Hi all,

I am thinking of purchasing a rotary case tumbler as the next step in my reloading career, that I was planning on using stainless steel pins in.

What is holding me back at the moment however is the price of some of the big name brand ones (RCBS, Frankford Arsenal etc)

I was wondering has anyone had any experience using a cheaper version , something like a basic rotary tumbler designed for jewellery and such? And how does it compare to branded ones? Are there any suggestions on a good one that does the job well and doesn't break the bank? I am open to ideas.

Thanks

 

[angusb1]

I have a 3kg one off eBay. Works well but if I would probably buy a 5kg one if I were doing it again

 

[Fordy]

I have a 3kg one off eBay. Works well but if I would probably buy a 5kg one if I were doing it again

Ideal thanks, what type of media do you use in it?

 

[trickie]

@angusb1 say is correct - if you plan on having to clean many cases at once, for 150 223 or 100 308 the 3kg one may suit you better. I bought a bag from spud ages ago

STM Stainless Steel Pins

Stainless Steel Pins for rotary tumblers.

1967spud.com

 

[angusb1]

Ideal thanks, what type of media do you use in it?

I use these pins. They work ok with my 270 and 308 cases

1 LB GUNTAP Stainless Steel tumbling media - reloading | eBay

In the description it says this about calibre

"The key feature is the unique dimension of the pin media - 0.047” diameter by 0.255” length (tolerance < ±5%). Guntap only offers this size pin since it does not get jammed in primer pockets or flash holes, making the clean-up process quick and easy.


Although the pins are compatible with almost all common brass cartridges, certain cartridges that use a 25 caliber or 6.5mm diameter projectile can have some pins stuck sideways inside the neck. Keeping cartridges unsized when cleaning will help mitigate this issue. Stuck pins don't always occur, but good handloading practice dictates that all cartridges should be inspected prior to loading."

 

[Len the dog]

I've also got the 3kg Vevor tumbler, works brilliantly. I do 100x 22-250 cases at a time but I reckon it would easily do 150.
You get a bag of carbon steel balls with it, throw them in the bin and get some stainless steel balls and pins.

The adverts on Ebay show a belt drive and the reviews quite often mention belts snapping, mine must be a newer revision because it is direct drive.

Definitely recommend it.