Warning

 

Close

Confirm Action

Are you sure you wish to do this?

Confirm Cancel
BCM
User Panel

Site Notices
Page / 12
Link Posted: 10/6/2014 7:12:07 PM EDT
[#1]
Link Posted: 10/8/2014 6:17:28 PM EDT
[#2]
Link Posted: 10/9/2014 4:28:33 PM EDT
[#3]
Link Posted: 10/9/2014 5:51:55 PM EDT
[#4]
Link Posted: 10/9/2014 8:25:31 PM EDT
[#5]
Link Posted: 10/9/2014 10:20:47 PM EDT
[Last Edit: RLR350] [#6]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By AJE:
I got it done.
<a href="http://s1153.photobucket.com/user/arfcomaje/media/Guns/IMG_20141009_145433_570_zps14hyzdgt.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i1153.photobucket.com/albums/p505/arfcomaje/Guns/IMG_20141009_145433_570_zps14hyzdgt.jpg</a>

I loaded it with 2lbs of media, two red solo cups full of brass, and water and the total weight of just under 7lbs, so with the equivalent load with the rubber drums, I'm still a pound lighter with the PVC.

I did have to add a few rubber bands so the drum would spin, otherwise it kept slipping.  I had them spaced out but after a couple minutes they slid to one side.

<a href="http://s1153.photobucket.com/user/arfcomaje/media/Guns/IMG_20141009_160448_766_zpseuievrvi.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i1153.photobucket.com/albums/p505/arfcomaje/Guns/IMG_20141009_160448_766_zpseuievrvi.jpg</a>

I was concerned that the brass and media was just sliding around and not mixing but it sounds like there is tumbling going on inside while its running, so I'll have to let it run a few hours and see what they look like.
View Quote


Add one or two pieces of 3/4" PVC inside the drum to act as tumblers.  It will constantly rotate the brass, speed up the process and address the issue you are concerned with.  Cut the ends of the PVC inserts at 45 degress or less to keep the brass from getting caught in the gaps.  Just glue them in using PVC glue - let it dry and you'll find it improves everything.  I didn't need the grip tape/rubber bands to keep mine spinning, not sure why you have that problem, but sounds like you resolved it.  ETA:  Make sure the inserts are short enough not to interfere with the cap.  You can see the discolored marking inside the drum to use as a reference for length.


Link Posted: 10/9/2014 10:42:45 PM EDT
[#7]
Link Posted: 10/9/2014 11:24:06 PM EDT
[#8]
I did some in my little cement mixer today. Ran 4 & 1/2 one gallon ice cream pails of brass at one time.

Getting the pins out and cleaned was kind of a pita though. Brass turned out pretty good.

I used 5 pounds of pins and some Dawn dish soap. Now to resize ,  deprime , and trim.

Then back in the mixer with lemon shine.
Link Posted: 10/9/2014 11:28:06 PM EDT
[#9]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By AJE:
I was considering that but I wondered how well they would stay attached.

I just got done with an electrical project so I have extra pieces of 1/2" I can use.

View Quote


That might be 1/2", I really don't remember.  I used what I had laying around.

I was surprised at how well they stay attached - no problem.  Just prime and glue.  Although I used two, one would suffice.
Link Posted: 10/9/2014 11:55:08 PM EDT
[#10]
Link Posted: 10/10/2014 12:04:03 PM EDT
[#11]
Link Posted: 10/10/2014 2:14:47 PM EDT
[#12]
Link Posted: 10/10/2014 2:57:57 PM EDT
[#13]
I have found this helpful in transferring the stainless media.

Fits into the drums perfectly. Pulls up any media spilled in the sink, counter or containers. Makes the job much easier.

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/375973/frankford-arsenal-media-transfer-magnet-for-stainless-steel-media
Link Posted: 10/10/2014 3:37:28 PM EDT
[#14]
Link Posted: 10/10/2014 7:05:39 PM EDT
[#15]
Link Posted: 10/10/2014 8:43:42 PM EDT
[Last Edit: Saker13] [#16]


Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By RLR350:
Add one or two pieces of 3/4" PVC inside the drum to act as tumblers.  It will constantly rotate the brass, speed up the process and address the issue you are concerned with.  Cut the ends of the PVC inserts at 45 degress or less to keep the brass from getting caught in the gaps.  Just glue them in using PVC glue - let it dry and you'll find it improves everything.  I didn't need the grip tape/rubber bands to keep mine spinning, not sure why you have that problem, but sounds like you resolved it.  ETA:  Make sure the inserts are short enough not to interfere with the cap.  You can see the discolored marking inside the drum to use as a reference for length.





http://i369.photobucket.com/albums/oo134/rlr350/insidedrun_zpsf581e1aa.jpg


View Quote View All Quotes
View All Quotes
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By RLR350:





Originally Posted By AJE:


I got it done.


<a href="http://s1153.photobucket.com/user/arfcomaje/media/Guns/IMG_20141009_145433_570_zps14hyzdgt.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i1153.photobucket.com/albums/p505/arfcomaje/Guns/IMG_20141009_145433_570_zps14hyzdgt.jpg</a>





I loaded it with 2lbs of media, two red solo cups full of brass, and water and the total weight of just under 7lbs, so with the equivalent load with the rubber drums, I'm still a pound lighter with the PVC.





I did have to add a few rubber bands so the drum would spin, otherwise it kept slipping.  I had them spaced out but after a couple minutes they slid to one side.





<a href="http://s1153.photobucket.com/user/arfcomaje/media/Guns/IMG_20141009_160448_766_zpseuievrvi.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i1153.photobucket.com/albums/p505/arfcomaje/Guns/IMG_20141009_160448_766_zpseuievrvi.jpg</a>





I was concerned that the brass and media was just sliding around and not mixing but it sounds like there is tumbling going on inside while its running, so I'll have to let it run a few hours and see what they look like.






Add one or two pieces of 3/4" PVC inside the drum to act as tumblers.  It will constantly rotate the brass, speed up the process and address the issue you are concerned with.  Cut the ends of the PVC inserts at 45 degress or less to keep the brass from getting caught in the gaps.  Just glue them in using PVC glue - let it dry and you'll find it improves everything.  I didn't need the grip tape/rubber bands to keep mine spinning, not sure why you have that problem, but sounds like you resolved it.  ETA:  Make sure the inserts are short enough not to interfere with the cap.  You can see the discolored marking inside the drum to use as a reference for length.





http://i369.photobucket.com/albums/oo134/rlr350/insidedrun_zpsf581e1aa.jpg


I cut my 4" pvc to 9.5". I used 3 roughly 2" pieces of 1/2" pvc glued inside it at roughly 1/3 increments. I hope that makes sense. It is tumbling some 223 right now or I would get a pic.
 



Eta....  The replacement for the wing nut on the gripper plug is a 3/8-16 nut.
Link Posted: 10/11/2014 5:35:36 PM EDT
[#17]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By AJE:
I got it done.
<a href="http://s1153.photobucket.com/user/arfcomaje/media/Guns/IMG_20141009_145433_570_zps14hyzdgt.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i1153.photobucket.com/albums/p505/arfcomaje/Guns/IMG_20141009_145433_570_zps14hyzdgt.jpg</a>

I loaded it with 2lbs of media, two red solo cups full of brass, and water and the total weight of just under 7lbs, so with the equivalent load with the rubber drums, I'm still a pound lighter with the PVC.

I did have to add a few rubber bands so the drum would spin, otherwise it kept slipping.  I had them spaced out but after a couple minutes they slid to one side.

<a href="http://s1153.photobucket.com/user/arfcomaje/media/Guns/IMG_20141009_160448_766_zpseuievrvi.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i1153.photobucket.com/albums/p505/arfcomaje/Guns/IMG_20141009_160448_766_zpseuievrvi.jpg</a>

I was concerned that the brass and media was just sliding around and not mixing but it sounds like there is tumbling going on inside while its running, so I'll have to let it run a few hours and see what they look like.
View Quote



I built three of these today with materials from Lowes......Fantastic upgrade. I wrapped them each with duct tape and the spin perfectly in the tumbler. They are soooooooooooooo much easier to handle than the rubber containers.

I also put in 1/4 strip of PVC inside the tube as an agitator. Works like a charm.

Thanks for the info!!!!!
Link Posted: 10/11/2014 6:03:31 PM EDT
[Last Edit: AJE] [#18]
Link Posted: 10/28/2014 2:18:38 PM EDT
[#19]
Hello all. I am looking to upgrade my HF tumbler and had some thoughts and questions. Using the pvc pipe mods posted what are you guys using for a mix ratio of media, water, and brass by weight? Also I've looked through all the posts and seemed to miss where I can find a replacement belt. I've noticed that my reloading equipment seems to go down after store hours and would like to have one on hand. Finally my motor seems to get fairly warm with use. Not very hot but I would like to make it last longer. I was thinking of removing the top silver cover completely and either replacing it with wire mesh or adding some vent holes to it and taking some temp. readings. I could post the results for those interested. Anybody think it would be worth the effort?
Link Posted: 11/2/2014 5:10:07 PM EDT
[#20]
Could someone who built one of the PVC drums measure what the usable length is inside when it's sealed up?  I'm thinking of building one of these drums to clean a monocore suppressor and just want to make sure it'll fit.

Thanks!
Link Posted: 11/13/2014 1:00:04 AM EDT
[#21]
On sale and a 20% off coupon.

Just started this up because my shooting buddy said his brass was shinier than mine....

Anyway, dual tumbler was $40, and media off Amazon was $20, so $60 to get into wet tumbling, and I'll likely just sell off my dry tumbler to recoup cost. I hate dealing with dry media, so I usually just tumble everything all at once and then let it sit and dull over time as I slowly load.

Not anymore!
Link Posted: 11/30/2014 1:29:36 AM EDT
[#22]
My wife is getting me the Thumlers Tumbler that was on clearance at Midway. Now I need to get son SS media and a separator.

Any thoughts on the best case separator?  

Link Posted: 2/9/2015 1:09:00 PM EDT
[Last Edit: RWEIII] [#23]
Why Schedule 40?  Wouldn't 20 or 10 work and be lighter (more brass)?  Or does it even matter if we are gaining more brass with the conversion?
Link Posted: 2/9/2015 5:57:37 PM EDT
[#24]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By RWEIII:
Why Schedule 40?  Wouldn't 20 or 10 work and be lighter (more brass)?  Or does it even matter if we are gaining more brass with the conversion?
View Quote

Because lowes has sch 40 and all the fittings, if you can make it out of a thinner tube, I'm sure it will still work fine.
Link Posted: 2/10/2015 11:41:29 AM EDT
[#25]
Thanks.

I have both in the shop and I am going to make a couple for friends, might try several out.
Link Posted: 2/10/2015 3:33:10 PM EDT
[#26]
Is 9.5" the general OAL?  (Figured I would just cut here as I have all the toys out, tumbler at home)
Link Posted: 2/13/2015 10:57:14 AM EDT
[Last Edit: SloppyBrassJobs] [#27]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By AJE:
I got it done.
<a href="http://s1153.photobucket.com/user/arfcomaje/media/Guns/IMG_20141009_145433_570_zps14hyzdgt.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i1153.photobucket.com/albums/p505/arfcomaje/Guns/IMG_20141009_145433_570_zps14hyzdgt.jpg</a>

I loaded it with 2lbs of media, two red solo cups full of brass, and water and the total weight of just under 7lbs, so with the equivalent load with the rubber drums, I'm still a pound lighter with the PVC.

I did have to add a few rubber bands so the drum would spin, otherwise it kept slipping.  I had them spaced out but after a couple minutes they slid to one side.

<a href="http://s1153.photobucket.com/user/arfcomaje/media/Guns/IMG_20141009_160448_766_zpseuievrvi.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i1153.photobucket.com/albums/p505/arfcomaje/Guns/IMG_20141009_160448_766_zpseuievrvi.jpg</a>

I was concerned that the brass and media was just sliding around and not mixing but it sounds like there is tumbling going on inside while its running, so I'll have to let it run a few hours and see what they look like.
View Quote


Order you some of these rubber bands(Picture shows three but two at each end is more than enough, super tight and tacky)

http://www.ebay.com/itm/SOBE-Rubber-Bands-1-Wide-3-1-2-Long-Heavy-Duty-Strong-1-Dozen-12-/261030895182?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3cc6a75e4e

Link Posted: 4/2/2015 1:32:45 PM EDT
[#28]


Just a heads up for anyone who hasn't got one of these yet - the Harbor Freight tumbler is on sale for $54.99, and there are 20% and 25% coupons available to bring the price down below $44.

http://www.harborfreight.com/dual-drum-rotary-rock-tumbler-67632.html

http://www.harborfreight.com/20off-coupon912-aff-17549.html
Link Posted: 4/2/2015 1:42:10 PM EDT
[#29]
Link Posted: 7/16/2015 12:24:33 AM EDT
[#30]
So I've built a couple of the PVC tumblers with the knockout caps, but both of them have minor leaks.

I've tried using silicone caulking to fill the corners, but that lasted for about 4 tumbling sessions before the pins got the best of it.

Any ideas on how to stop the leaks.
Link Posted: 8/24/2015 2:26:33 PM EDT
[#31]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By Redcat:
So I've built a couple of the PVC tumblers with the knockout caps, but both of them have minor leaks.

I've tried using silicone caulking to fill the corners, but that lasted for about 4 tumbling sessions before the pins got the best of it.

Any ideas on how to stop the leaks.
View Quote



Maybe try swabbing with the pvc cleaner and dry, then swab with glue.  That or epoxy.
Link Posted: 8/24/2015 3:00:33 PM EDT
[Last Edit: RWEIII] [#32]
This is sad, I have had all the parts but finally got around to making my tube for the HF tumbler this weekend.  I cut mine (Cellular Core Sch 40 PVC) to 9.25, cleaned and glued the plug and let it set in the sun for a while to dry and over night (about 36 hours total).  I added 300 pieces of filthy .40S&W range brass, 2# pins, water to about 2 inches below the rim and let it run for 2.5 hours.



I see no need to add an "aggitator", the brass tumbled without one.

I also did not need any rubber bands, etc, the tube did not slip.  Maybe the weight was just right.
Link Posted: 8/25/2015 1:48:16 PM EDT
[#33]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By RWEIII:
This is sad, I have had all the parts but finally got around to making my tube for the HF tumbler this weekend.  I cut mine (Cellular Core Sch 40 PVC) to 9.25, cleaned and glued the plug and let it set in the sun for a while to dry and over night (about 36 hours total).  I added 300 pieces of filthy .40S&W range brass, 2# pins, water to about 2 inches below the rim and let it run for 2.5 hours.

http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s245/1Bullsprig/ddd12389-6a1e-4b15-86d1-d3537f2e5edd_zpsipafph8u.jpg

I see no need to add an "aggitator", the brass tumbled without one.

I also did not need any rubber bands, etc, the tube did not slip.  Maybe the weight was just right.
View Quote




How was the realization that you have been missing out for so long?
Link Posted: 8/25/2015 2:20:15 PM EDT
[#34]
I have been using the HF tumbler "as-sold" for some time now.  The tube just makes things a little easier and more volume.
Link Posted: 8/25/2015 3:24:29 PM EDT
[#35]
How are people drying to avoid water marks etc?
Link Posted: 8/25/2015 4:20:13 PM EDT
[#36]
Here is what I do:

Shake out well in strainer then lay them on the center of a towel, fold side over side, grab the ends and twist a little then do the bowling ball polish move (one hand up/one down - make the brass go back and forth a few times.  Spread out on a table or tailgate in the sun or if the weather, season, time of day (night) throw them on a cookie sheet and put in oven, set temp for 200 and start - brass is dry by the time the oven pre-heats
Link Posted: 8/25/2015 5:30:58 PM EDT
[Last Edit: mogunr1] [#37]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
How are people drying to avoid water marks etc?
View Quote



Cheap Harbor Freight food dehydrator.
Link Posted: 8/25/2015 6:58:16 PM EDT
[#38]
Link Posted: 8/27/2015 12:43:18 PM EDT
[#39]
I also use an old food dehydrator that I got from a yard sale for $2.  I leave the brass in to dry overnight.  No problem even if I forget to take out for a day.
Link Posted: 10/1/2015 8:55:41 PM EDT
[Last Edit: Fox-WI] [#40]
I just picked up my Harbor Freight dual drum tumbler last weekend. I can't wait to give it a go on my .223 brass.

Also since it is obvious we are all into saving money, here is a link to a Lemishine coupon! $1.00 off any Lemishine from the manufacturer.

http://lemishine.com/system/coupons-offers/

How about them apples?
Link Posted: 10/1/2015 9:09:16 PM EDT
[#41]
Link Posted: 10/1/2015 10:41:38 PM EDT
[#42]
Link Posted: 11/13/2015 12:54:02 PM EDT
[#43]
I've been dragging my legs on rolling my own and I finally decided I'd get it done.

Bought the harbor freight tumbler and ss media. Threw in the 308 that I had ddeprmed, dry tumbled, sized, and trimmed. Pulled out some really shiny stuff.

The primer pocket holes didn't get as clean as I wanted though.
Link Posted: 11/13/2015 2:39:40 PM EDT
[#44]
Link Posted: 11/14/2015 2:35:21 AM EDT
[#45]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By dryflash3:

  A longer tumble time will fix that.


I have a timer and tumble for 4 hours to get clean primer pockets.
View Quote View All Quotes
View All Quotes
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By dryflash3:
Originally Posted By sysops666:
I've been dragging my legs on rolling my own and I finally decided I'd get it done.

Bought the harbor freight tumbler and ss media. Threw in the 308 that I had ddeprmed, dry tumbled, sized, and trimmed. Pulled out some really shiny stuff.

The primer pocket holes didn't get as clean as I wanted though.

  A longer tumble time will fix that.


I have a timer and tumble for 4 hours to get clean primer pockets.


It has been a great space saver though as I have both the dry tumbler and the wet tumbler tucked under my workshop table.  And I never thought the brass would get that clean.

This thread is awesome.
Link Posted: 11/14/2015 7:24:05 AM EDT
[#46]
I just finished my 4th load in my new frankfort tumbler. Definately a game changer for me. Sure beats my rcbs sonic. Plus don't have to use the chemicals used in the sonic. Thats a big plus for me. Wish I would have started with wet tumbling. Love the bling.
Link Posted: 3/11/2017 1:11:45 PM EDT
[#47]
I scanned through all 11 pages and didn't see that anyone had done the following - if it's a repost or if there's another thread detailing this, my apologies.

Instead of building a drum with PVC, I read on another forum that a 1lb Alliant powder jug will fit the Dual Drum tumbler.  I tried it (I use a lot of Alliant Power Pistol, so I had a 1lb container available) and it works great.  I thought not having an agitator inside would be a problem, but here's the before/after.  Note: recipe for 1lb Alliant bottle was 2 lbs brass (230 pieces 9mm), 1 second squirt of Dawn, 2 9mm cases of Lemishine, 2 lbs SS pins, and the bottle filled to within 1" of top with cold, softened tap water.

9mm brass I scrounged up - this is after washing with water to get the loose dirt off:


After wet tumbling - I can't pick out the two pieces from the above picture - they all look new:


Here's a pic of the tumbler with the Power Pistol bottle:


FYI -

2 lb 9mm brass = 230 pieces
2lb 45ACP brass = 150 pieces
2lb 5.56 brass = 140 pieces
2 lb 30.06 brass = 70 pieces
2 lb 308 brass = 80 pieces
Link Posted: 3/20/2017 10:37:06 AM EDT
[#48]
I have been using the dual drum for about 6 months now. What's the secret to getting the primer pockets totally clean? It does pretty good with pistol but it barely touches 223 primer pockets. I'm not over loading it and I have a pound of pins in each drum. FYI, I don't know if it's been mentioned here but the armor all wash and wax is the best cleaner. It takes longer for the cases to tarnish.
Link Posted: 3/20/2017 11:24:54 AM EDT
[#49]
Just wondering if anyone has tried this dry, with just pins and no water. Probably wouldn't work, but maybe someone has tried it.

Reason I ask if for the 6.5x55 swedish wooden bullet ammo. Most has some corrosion and I don't trust the wooden plug bullet to keep the powder dry. It might on a short run, but it might not. I could dump the powder first, but I want the primer too.

I have my HF dual tumbler, but I haven't ordered any pins yet to try it myself.
Link Posted: 3/20/2017 11:31:53 AM EDT
[#50]
Page / 12
Close Join Our Mail List to Stay Up To Date! Win a FREE Membership!

Sign up for the ARFCOM weekly newsletter and be entered to win a free ARFCOM membership. One new winner* is announced every week!

You will receive an email every Friday morning featuring the latest chatter from the hottest topics, breaking news surrounding legislation, as well as exclusive deals only available to ARFCOM email subscribers.


By signing up you agree to our User Agreement. *Must have a registered ARFCOM account to win.
Top Top