The choice of which rock tumbling machine to buy is an important decision for many future rock hounds as they take their first steps into the wonderfully fascinating and addictive world of lapidary, the purchase of a rock tumbler requires careful consideration and this article will guide you through the basics to help you choose the perfect machine for your requirements.
Which is the best rock tumbler?
The answer to this question is that it depends upon how you are going to use the rock tumbling machine. For instance, you will need to take into account the size of rocks you intend to polish, the volume of rocks you want to polish per session of tumbling, the final shape of rocks that you desire and, of course, your budget.
The size of rocks that you intend to polish in a rock tumbling machine is an important consideration, as this will determine which size machine you should buy, generally, this is measured by the weight capacity of the rock tumbler.
Types of rock tumbling machines
Anyone looking to purchase a rock tumbling machine for the first time may find the whole exercise rather daunting as there is so much to choose from on the market, you may want to start with deciding which type of rock tumbler you would prefer. There are two main types of rock tumblers, the rotary rock tumbler and the vibratory rock tumbler, these machines each work in a different way and each have their advantages and disadvantages.
The rotary rock tumbling machine
A rotary rock tumbling machine works in exactly the way that its name suggests, it consists of a barrel that rotates in order to tumble the rocks, water and grit that are sealed within it. A rotary rock tumbler produces smooth and rounded stones.
The rotary rock tumbler is generally the preferred option for beginners, this is mainly because it is the cheaper option, although many people begin with this type of machine and stick with it. When using a rotary rock tumbler, the process of rock polishing takes quite a bit longer than with a vibratory tumbler, you will also need to use more grit and polishing media, this may affect your decision as, although the initial purchase price may be less, the energy costs will be greater and you will spend more on grit, polish and other tumbling media.
A great way to increase your output would be to purchase a rotary rock tumbler that has a pair of barrels, rock tumblers with dual barrels allow for the simultaneous tumbling of rocks of different hardness, or different stages of tumbling at the same time, or just double the number of rocks.
Rotary rock tumblers are also known as standard rock tumblers and they are available to suit a range of budgets, we recommend that you avoid the cheapest on the market as they are often of poor build quality with plastic parts, these tumblers will be much noisier than better quality machines and will likely not last very long. Cheap, poor quality tumblers are often marketed as suitable for children, however, a machine that fails after limited use is a very disappointing way for anyone to begin their journey into the wonderful world of lapidary.
The vibratory rock tumbling machine
A vibratory rock tumbling machine works by vibration, the rocks, grit and water are sealed in a bowl or cylinder that is then shaken rapidly, this creates friction amongst the rocks and grit, resulting in beautifully smooth and polished stones. A vibratory tumbling machine will produce angular stones, rather than rounded.
As previously mentioned, vibratory tumblers are more expensive than the rotary versions which often means that those new to the hobby tend to avoid them in favor of the rotary tumbler, however, it should be noted that the vibratory tumbling process can be around 30% faster and you will use less grit and polishing media, thus saving on energy costs and consumables.
A vibratory rock tumbler will require more maintenance as the grit must be changed regularly, as opposed to the more “load it and leave it” process of the rotary tumbler. Vibratory tumblers are also likely to be nosier, meaning that you may need to locate your machine away from the main house or in the basement.
Many suppliers of rock tumbling machines offer a starter kit, this is a great way to enter the pastime of lapidary as your kit will include all you need to get started, along with full instructions.
Conclusion
So, to sum up, there are a number of factors to consider when you are in the market for a rock tumbling machine and we trust our guide has proved useful to you in your quest. We recommend that you seek advice from any family members or friends who already enjoy this pastime, speak to rock tumbling machine suppliers and check online reviews before you make your purchase. Whatever your decision, we are certain that you will find this an absorbing and fascinating hobby that the whole family can become involved in.