I was just looking online for my first tumbler like two hours ago, and wondered exactly what difference between the two was! This video is a blessing, thank you!
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
I'm here for you, Josais!
@martinphilip8998
11 ай бұрын
I buy then check Consumer Reports after. Lol. I just ordered a vibratory. I want to polish junk silver and foreign coins and turn them into jewelry pins. I live in central Illinois and any roxks around here are under 10 inches of some of the finest topsoil in the world.
@jeffholmes1362
2 жыл бұрын
Rob, one of the most comprehensive reviews I’ve ever seen. Well done. Like you I started with the 33b and got a vibratory after a few years, now I do step 1 in the 33b and finish in the vibratory. The cross shape explanation is fantastic. Thanks for sharing.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks Jeff. I actually didn't finish my first batch in the 33B before buying a Lot-O. I rationalized the purchase with the savings in grit. I'm not sure I have saved enough grit to pay for a Lot-O, but it has to be close by this time.
@ChynaGrove
2 жыл бұрын
My four year old daughter is very interested in rocks and I have been curious about getting into rock tumbling with her. This video (and many of your others) have been really helpful for someone just looking to get started. You are very good at giving clear, concise, easy to follow information. I can tell you were a teacher! Thank you!
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
I'm glad I could help you out. If you have any more questions, just ask.
@UnmaskingTheMachine
Жыл бұрын
This would be a great way for you and your daughter to bond, especially if you all get out in nature and Rockhound together as well. She is lucky to have you as her mom
@AtomicShrimp
2 жыл бұрын
I really like the objectivity in the way you compare the actions and results of the two machines
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks.
@patriciamckean4186
Жыл бұрын
I love my rotary and now that I have your "recipe"! Need to get a vibratory...to tumble some of my cut out designs. You are a great teacher!
@MichiganRocks
Жыл бұрын
Thanks, Patricia.
@CogentConsult
Ай бұрын
Excellent video! Extremely well organized and efficiently-delivered information. You must be a teacher.
@MichiganRocks
Ай бұрын
30 years of junior high math. I retired, but I'm back to teaching just one class at our local Catholic school.
@dragonkat13
4 ай бұрын
Thank you so much! great review! I love rocks and want to start doing rock tumbling with all of the quartz here in our stream! I love the sound of the rotary one! Like a good white noise for me. Although I am impatient, I love the idea of checking and rinsing the rocks once a week in the rotary vs babysitting the vibratory one! thanks again for helping me make this fun decision! Happy Rock Shaping!
@MichiganRocks
4 ай бұрын
I'm glad I helped you out with your decision.
@obieobrien5883
2 жыл бұрын
Fantastic tutorial!The visuals make it even better! I agree about the pudding stones
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
Glad you liked it, Obie!
@angef9687
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you for doing these videos Rob! They are very informative and a great help to those of us just starting out. My friend and I managed to snag a vibratory tumbler each at Princess Auto for $85 taxes included. To get her started with tumbling, I shared your videos and she said they have been a godsend! Have a great weekend and hello to Nancy!
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but if that's the metal tumbler I just saw on their site, it probably won't hold up to tumbling rocks. Metal tumblers are made for tumbling in dry media. They're not designed for the weight of wet rocks and media.
@angef9687
2 жыл бұрын
That would explain why my friend has already had to have them replace hers as the lid lip busted off. She's had pretty good luck with it otherwise. I did chuckle that they were promoting it for rock tumbling, but my hubby insisted on buying it for the kids (his money so I let him buy it lol)
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
@@angef9687 If they were selling it as a rock tumbler, than they should stand behind it if rocks break it.
@elizabethmiller4935
2 жыл бұрын
Been tumbling for a year and boy, this is the BEST video ever!!!! Thanks Rob!!
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
I’m glad you liked it so much! Thanks, Elizabeth.
@kylaabegglen1275
2 жыл бұрын
Great demo and explanation video Rob. I have a double 3 lb and a 15 lb rotary but my next purchase is definitely going to be a vibratory tumbler now. After seeing how quickly yours goes through the last stages I'm in love, plus it's best for shapes and thinner slabs. I want to make us some wind chimes from our MT agates and use the vibratory to polish the slabs so they don't crack & break. Thanks for another awesome video and for teaching us so many helpful and cool things!✌🤠
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
You're welcome, Kyla. From your comment, I think you understand the benefits of a vibratory tumbler.
@cesarplaza6254
Жыл бұрын
Yes I totally agree that the vibratory tumblers are best for small slabs yet I recommend adding plastic pellets to help keep the slabs safe from breakage
@biblefocus2396
4 күн бұрын
Thank you for such a detailed overview! This really helped!
@MichiganRocks
3 күн бұрын
You're welcome!
@berjo77
2 жыл бұрын
Very, very well done! I’ve enjoyed all of your videos, but this is one that I’ve really needed to see. I’m in that choose-point between tumblers and needed this advice. First, I’m going with the Lortone Model QT66 to replace my limping Harbor freight rotary. I like to idea of the two 6-pound barrels that can run different processes at the same time. A 12-pound barrel may come later if I need to run really big rocks, if it would work that way? After that’s settled, then the Lotto tumbler for speeding up the #2~4 steps when appropriate. Also getting to that superior shine while saving on the grit/polish media. Thanks so much Rob, you’ve really helped my new hobby come up to speed and kept me from making too many mistakes!
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
I'm glad this was helpful, John. You can definitely buy a 12 pound barrels later if you want to. I started with a QT66 for the same reason you did. I bought a twelve pound barrel later.
@berjo77
2 жыл бұрын
@@MichiganRocks The QT66 arrived today via FedEx. Really nice work building this machine. Read the instructions, twice. Oiled it, Then filled both barrels IAW exact instructions with Lake Huron harvest. Now we’re cooking. Super quiet even though it’s spinning 3x what the H.F. Machine could. Thanks again for your work putting this all together to help us interested in the hobby. My 6 y/o nephew wants only two things for his upcoming birthday, a tumbler or a tumbler. Specifically because he’s watched me run through your guidance and the nice results we achieved. I’m calling that a verified win for the hobby. And for my nephew!
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
@@berjo77 Good luck! I think you'll have fun with that.
@urwholefamilydied
2 жыл бұрын
4:12 ya, I personally like littler "imperfections" as long as the rest of the rock is glassy shiny smooth. It's more of a little universe in there and points of interest besides the colors. Plus, you see WAY many more perfectly smooth ones at rock shops, small town jewelry shops, and online. Just seems so much more common, and therefore a little boring to me personally. Those one you have above at the timestamp I listed are gorgeous and a perfect example.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
I'm on the other side of continuum and prefer them really smooth. I sure can see how other people prefer them the way you do though. The nice thing about doing your own rocks, is that you can do them just they way you like.
@tehKap0w
Жыл бұрын
@@MichiganRocks i dunno why but i appreciate your pointing out it's just a preference. I'm in the same boat as Charles, partly because my grandma had bin after bin after bin of perfect agates and other stones she had tumbled to glass finishes. Naw, i take it back, i do know why... it's because you aren't gatekeeping and telling us what everybody should be trying to accomplish. Thanks for just telling us how it is; this is super helpful.
@Justmeke23
8 ай бұрын
That turtle is still so impressive and I love seeing your other work 😊 And I do like how you compared them, very easy to understand. I tend to love that nature look.
@MichiganRocks
8 ай бұрын
I'm glad you found this helpful.
@coldpond
2 жыл бұрын
Excellent points. Thumbs up on concise differences. I'm baby-stepping my 5th day with a giant 1lb tumbler : ) in my garage. I will say with the 1lb sound is somewhat soothing, especially after the 1st day. Thanks again.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
Don't hurt your back emptying that barrel! The smallest barrel I've used is the National Geographic two pound barrel, but it's about the same size as my Lortone three pound barrels.
@BlackHills68
Жыл бұрын
Thank you for the side by side demo. I have a few rotary tumblers. Like you i started cutting designs. Was thinking about a vibratory for those. Now seeing the difference in finished pieces there's no question.
@MichiganRocks
Жыл бұрын
Yep, vibratory tumblers are great for keeping the original shape. I was glad to be able to show it here rather than just explain that to everyone who asked. A picture really is worth a thousand words.
@BlackHills68
Жыл бұрын
Yes that is true about pics. I have a vibratory on the way. Thanks
@theduderollsrocks1843
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you Rob. That was very clear and comprehensive. I use different equipment and don't have your experience but I do have some thoughts on the Thumler's vibe. Purely from watching your videos and others I believe the Lot-O is quieter because of the bowl composition. I use the UV-10. Adding a lot of ceramic helps tremendously. I'm currently running bahias and Brazilians with a bunch of ceramic due to their size and it's fairly quiet. Also the water balance is easier to figure on the Lot-O, but I have a solution for the UV which I show in my first video. The UV does not seem to dry out because of its tighter lid but it will slow in the medium stage due to rock dust. The manufacturer recommended grit amount for the UV is bad in my opinion. I have been using a ratio closer to what you recommend for the Lot-O with great results. I haven't watched your Lot-O video yet but I will soon. Be happy. Be kind.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
That's a good video. I like the thorough explanation you did on how to know if the water is right or not. For anyone with a Thumler's vibratory tumbler, check it out: kzitem.info/news/bejne/1bB-u62henRjbJg
@theduderollsrocks1843
2 жыл бұрын
@@MichiganRocks Thank you kindly.
@michigannative2951
Жыл бұрын
Excellent job reviewing the equipment and materials for use. I appreciate your insight and advice.
@MichiganRocks
Жыл бұрын
I'm glad you found it helpful!
@denisemurray412
2 жыл бұрын
This is an excellent info-tutorial. Concise and instructive. Brought out the teacher in you. Your students must have loved you.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
Some did, some didn't. You can't please everyone.
@pjg_77
2 жыл бұрын
I’m nearly 45 and today I learned of rock tumbling. Wow what a great hobby. Never heard about this and now I’m fascinated by it.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
It really is a fun hobby. If you decide to get into it, let me know if you need any help.
@pjg_77
2 жыл бұрын
@@MichiganRocks Yes Sir. Funnily enough I googled about some info last night & here in the UK it’s a fairly big hobby to. I’ve subscribed to your channel. The year long experiment was the first one that pricked my fascination haha.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
@@pjg_77 You might get some useful info from this channel too. He's in the UK so he might be able to help you with where to get supplies. kzitem.info/rock/LFzJwXLyICX7ATZRmowvvg
@LccAdventures
3 ай бұрын
I like the cracks and stuff look
@RobertNZ
2 жыл бұрын
T.L.D.R.; (00:30 to 03:06) Use coarse grit in a tumbler to reshape the stone to remove sharp edges and holes, then use progressively finer grits in the vibratory tumble to quickly pre-polish, ploish and burnish in a fraction of the time it would take a tumbler.
@metalblack4697
2 жыл бұрын
The best comparison, thanks! Especially appreciate the sound comparison! 👍👍👍
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
Sound is hard to demonstrate on a video, but at least you get an idea.
@lukeschleif683
2 жыл бұрын
Great video! I've been looking into getting my first tumbler this year and it was helpful to learn about the main differences. Thanks!
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
That was the idea, so I'm glad it was helpful.
@olmilfishrock
2 жыл бұрын
Another great video!! I am trying to decide if I should get a flat lap or a tumbler ? I have a small vibratory tumbler I got in the 80s . Tried polishing some rocks but gave up after a couple batches . Wasn’t happy with my results. Now I am retired and ready to try again. I like how you and Thomas built your own tumblers . Thanks for sharing your knowledge with the rest of us . Your videos are VERY HELPFUL!! Keep rockin!!👍😎
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
What is your rock polishing goal? A flat lap and tumbler are very different machines. I used to use my flat lap a lot to polish Petoskey Stones because at the time I didn't know how to tumble them. I also made a lot of round cabs on my flat lap, but for that you also need a saw or two. You have to be able to cut the shape out and may have to be able to slab a rock, unless you just buy slabs. I think for most people their first machine is a rotary tumbler.
@olmilfishrock
2 жыл бұрын
@@MichiganRocks I really like rocks that look natural. One or 2 sides cut and polished. To show what’s inside. Those are the rocks I have displayed in our house. Most of my small polished stones are put away in bags or boxes . That’s why I am leaning towards a flat lap . We will be heading up to Minnesota for the summer in may , so I not gonna buy anything now. Summer is rockhounding and fishing time for me . Got to get up there before Thomas picks everything up ! Lol !!😎
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
@@olmilfishrock A flat lap makes the most sense if that's what you want to do. A cab machine is even better, but a lot more expensive.
@brandon6110
2 жыл бұрын
I will definitely use this information while asking my wife to get two tumblers.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
Good luck with that!
@GoatieMama
6 ай бұрын
Excellent info, I feel confident in my choice now. Thank you!
@OregonCoastAgates
2 жыл бұрын
Really cool video! Thanks for the info, I wish I saw this before I bought my tumbler just for the extra info. 👏
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
You said "tumbler" singular, so I'm assuming you only have one. This video can still help you with all the other tumblers you buy when you realize that one isn't enough!
@OregonCoastAgates
2 жыл бұрын
@@MichiganRocks Oh yeah, I'm sure I'll have a secondary one at some point. I did get a rotary one with a 40lb barrel! Its monstrous! I needed a high capacity one to do huge tumbles but now I see I would appreciate the speed of a vibratory tumbler too.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
@@OregonCoastAgates I can't imaging picking that monster up every week to clean out. I also can't imagine how long it takes to go through all those rocks. But I'm still a little jealous of such a huge tumbler.
@OregonCoastAgates
2 жыл бұрын
@@MichiganRocks Subscribe if you'd like to check it out sometime, I'll definitely do a tumbler vid. Its a beast! I need to get some better tumbling media to try to absorb some of the impact. I was tumbling stones 6" in diameter! 😆
@SherryAustinMcginley
2 жыл бұрын
Good side by side comparison along with pros and cons.
@jamesrich8463
10 ай бұрын
I found your other video on tumbling rocks in the vibrating tumbler very helpful. I'll probably pick up a vibrating tumbler later. Right now I just have the dual barrel rotary tumbler. I don't really have tons of rock to tumble but I think its good to have both especially if you don't want to round off the edges of the rocks in the rotary one.
@MichiganRocks
10 ай бұрын
I love my Lot-O tumbler. I'm currently cranking out Christmas ornaments as fast as I can and they go straight from my saw to the Lot-O.
@nobody7765
Ай бұрын
I appreciate you taking your time to tell and show the difference. I have both but while I can’t wait to use them for the rocks I’ve found, I’m terrified I’ll ruin my rocks. Lol
@MichiganRocks
Ай бұрын
The only way you could ruin them is to tumble them away to nothing. Otherwise, you can always just go back a step or two and fix up any you aren't happy with. Actually, I just thought of another way you could ruin them. If the rocks are soft or somehow not suited to tumbling, you can never go back to the rough rock you started with. Still, I'd give it a try with some that you could live with losing. I think you'd be hooked.
@nobody7765
Ай бұрын
@@MichiganRocksThese are all pretty hard. They’re river rocks from Louisiana. Jaspers, agates, petrified wood, quartz….a mix of a bunch of things. Now I’m very new to this so I could be wrong in some but that’s most of them. I have a lot that I don’t want the shape gone but I also don’t want those to have that high shine. On the other hand my spouse has a bunch of agates that he wants completely tumbled and rounded off with that mirror finish. Since you’ve explained it so well I know there’s a good chance we can both have what we’re looking for since we have both types of “tumblers”. This should be very interesting to see how it turns out. Also I wanted to ask, if they’re pretty river worn would I skip the first polish? Some are kinda shiny already. Not the high shine but still shiny.
@MichiganRocks
Ай бұрын
@@nobody7765 I never skip any of the stages. I looked at the surface of a rough rock and the same one after the first stage with a digital microscope and you can see there's a big difference.
@ro.samueldumdum6324
2 жыл бұрын
Very informative especially to those who are just starting a project! Thank you very much for this post! 👍🙏
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
You're welcome!
@toddbrewer683
7 ай бұрын
Again, simply spot-on. Thank you.
@MichiganRocks
7 ай бұрын
You're welcome, Todd.
@saralynn518
11 ай бұрын
YES
@brianholcomb940
2 жыл бұрын
As before very informative! I like the fact that you use both! I have the NatGeo tumbler plus a loretone two barrel and a Harbor Freight tumbler (2 barrel)! I just got a flat lap for Christmas last year! I really liked the ornaments you make, they are awesome! You have helped me realize what to do when polishing rocks at all stages and I use your methods most! Thanks for sharing Rob!
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
Now you just need a Lot-O to complete your fleet of tumblers.
@brianholcomb940
2 жыл бұрын
Now to convince the wife! Hhmmmmm!😂😂
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
@@brianholcomb940 Good luck! I told my wife that it would save money on grit. Worked for me.
@brianholcomb940
2 жыл бұрын
😂😂😂😂
@littleredridinghood5092
Жыл бұрын
I had no idea i liked rocks, they just needed some polishing, I love it.
@MichiganRocks
Жыл бұрын
I only got into this about 12 years ago. I sort of liked rocks, but I have a much greater appreciation for them since I started paying attention to them more.
@savagesquirrel9828
9 күн бұрын
Great instruction video….thank you.
@MichiganRocks
8 күн бұрын
You're welcome.
@danahansen5651
2 жыл бұрын
I just ordered a Covington deluxe slanted rotary tumbler I can't wait to use it!
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
I haven't used one of those, but it looks like a really nice machine. I'd be excited too!
@Tnapvrvideo
8 ай бұрын
This explanation was superb!!! Thank you!
@MichiganRocks
8 ай бұрын
Glad it was helpful!
@wizhellrat
Жыл бұрын
I have a small one bedroom apartment. I brought a 2.5 lb tumbler. I have box fans running 24/7 through my rooms to cycle the air since there is no central a/c. I had to put my tumbler on a coushin chair in my kitchen. It does not bother me at all. It actually is a sound I like. 😝.
@MichiganRocks
Жыл бұрын
That's great. With your fans running, I can't imagine it being very loud at all.
@mikehammons2829
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the info. Been collecting rocks for years and thinking about getting into tumbling. This video will definitely help me make my choice. Mike
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
I’m glad to help, Mike.
@lynschultz513
2 жыл бұрын
Excellent lesson Rob!
@sebastiansanmartinr.5458
Жыл бұрын
Excellent technical comparison, thanks for the information
@MichiganRocks
Жыл бұрын
You're welcome!
@mtonjum
2 жыл бұрын
Very clear presentation…thanks for the video! It gets me thinking about looking at vibratory tumbler :).
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
I love my Lot-O. I can't imagine tumbling without it.
@judieahmed98
2 жыл бұрын
I end up rewatching your videos! I think I’m getting better.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
I hope you mean you're getting better at tumbling and not better at watching videos.
@99Rockhounding
2 жыл бұрын
Good information. I had read that vibratory tumblers are more work too, and I guess when you compare it to rotary tumbler it is technically a lot more work. I'm glad you covered that part in the video.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
I'd say a little more work, not a lot. I actually like that it takes more effort because I feel like I have more of a part in the process. With a rotary tumbler, I'm kind of helpless during the week. I have to just wait until the week is over and see what happened. With the Lot-O, I get to participate more in the process.
@rebeccaofsunnybrookefarm8469
2 жыл бұрын
@@MichiganRocks I'm more involved then I expected, however I'm in the newborn stage so I'm sure it will work out to be less..
@CityRockhounding
2 жыл бұрын
Awesome video Rob, great information, changed my world on tumblers today! I had no idea, thank you. Sorry Nancy that you and my wife have to deal with the noise! I appreciate all your hard work and knowledge!
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
It's funny that you mentioned noise. With two Lot-Os under the stairs, she thinks it's louder than before. That makes sense, but I don't really notice a difference. I always feel bad when I spend the day cutting and grinding rocks in the basement. That's a lot louder than the tumblers. I have also been researching ways to make the audio on my videos less echoey. I started installing mineral wool between the floor joists in the basement. I guess it's the ceiling of the basement and the floor of the main level of the house. I'm not quite half finished. I really hope it helps solve both problems.
@CityRockhounding
2 жыл бұрын
@@MichiganRocks Yeah, I can see that. I try to cut my rocks when my wife leaves for a while, run out to the garage real quick. I would think that the mineral wool would help something. I will follow up with you on how that works, interested for my own use.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
@@CityRockhounding I plan to work on it more tomorrow, but I've got something else going too. If I don't get it done tomorrow, it'll be next week before I get back to it. If I forget to let you know how it goes, send me a message, ok?
@CityRockhounding
2 жыл бұрын
@@MichiganRocks Ok sounds good, thanks Rob!
@tinymetaltrees
2 жыл бұрын
Great comparison. Thanks! I might end up going flat lap instead, but I need to buy another saw first, anyway.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
So many choices!
@TheOverproof151
Жыл бұрын
One of each it is then.... Thanks!
@MichiganRocks
Жыл бұрын
That's the correct decision if you can afford it.
@matthewlamers9966
Жыл бұрын
Great video. I have been debating what to do with rotary or vibratory because I am just getting started. I will start vibrating and see if I want to add the rotary later. Thank you!
@MichiganRocks
Жыл бұрын
I had the same question when I started. If I had to have just one, I'd go with a rotary because I like my rocks to be very smooth and rounded. Others would make the opposite choice. At least you know the difference now.
@decibellone696
7 ай бұрын
Go BLUE! not the vid i thought it was, but My kids go to Michigan so - high five!
@MichiganRocks
7 ай бұрын
I'm not sure what you were expecting, but Go Blue!
@decibellone696
7 ай бұрын
lol, brass cleaning. but i learned a little about rock tumbling. so it worked out.@@MichiganRocks
@Danny-9404
2 ай бұрын
You already know what my name is. Two things from your thumbnail I want is a QT12 tumbler and that vibratory tumbler, but my parents would be very annoyed if I got these. It's on my wishlist when I become independent.
@MichiganRocks
2 ай бұрын
It's nice to have goals.
@oldgamerchick
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you for this comparison. I can't afford a vibratory tumbler so I gotta make do with what I have. My first batch is almost done. Thank you so much for all these great videos. 🙃☕❤❤❤
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
Maybe some day. Save those pennies.
@michaelvandyke6715
2 жыл бұрын
I run both types.... For obsidian you need a vibe,plus it runs a bit faster for tumbling .. I still like the old school rotary too ..
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
Hi Mike! I like the rotary for the first stage and the Lot-O for all other stages. They both have their strengths.
@Presidentgraham
Жыл бұрын
Thank you for the demonstration. I learned something
@MichiganRocks
Жыл бұрын
Great, that was what I was hoping for!
@sawedoffbastard8078
2 жыл бұрын
I appreciate your advice to buy both styles. They both have advantages. 🙂
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
Yes, I really enjoy having both.
@leslievangils7093
16 күн бұрын
Great video - thx I'v had my single Lortone tumbler for 25+ years, use it occasionally for hand fab metal chain. Vibratory tumblers have never used before...was going to purchase for backup (was on sale for good $!) I always had an interest in rock tumbling, stone cutting & polishing ... I have some Q's, can I pm you? Thank you again
@MichiganRocks
16 күн бұрын
I have turned off PMs everywhere because I was getting overwhelmed with them. I do respond to all of the comments on my videos though. That way, if I answer your question, someone else might read the answer and save me from answering the same question again.
@robertbradford3461
2 жыл бұрын
Nice job on comparison, thanks
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
You're welcome!
@jneihart2
2 жыл бұрын
Excellent informational video!
@stephaniem839
6 ай бұрын
My husband has a machine shop and isn’t using his vibratory anymore. He’s bringing it home for me to play with. It’s huge! Hopefully it works well. We’ll see….
@MichiganRocks
6 ай бұрын
That should be fun. Might take awhile to gather enough rocks to fill it though.
@dave7830
2 жыл бұрын
I have found that using a drum type for the first step smooths the sharp corners off the rocks better than the vibratory tumbler. I then use the vibratory machine for the last three steps, will do the same polishing job as the drum tumbler, but much faster.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
That's exactly what I do and what I tried to explain in this video. Sorry if I was unclear.
@jessicacappellini4252
2 жыл бұрын
thank you so much for this video!!!! so informative!!! just what i needed!
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
You're welcome, I'm glad it was helpful.
@adrianpopa6844
11 ай бұрын
thank you
@amrocktumbling8298
2 жыл бұрын
Good comparison. I'm glad to hear I'm not the only one that's ever accidentally let my lot-o dry out lol. Could have included your info on how much electricity they use, I found that very interesting.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
I have let my Lot-O dry out more than once and it has never hurt anything. It does lead to a lot of ceramics getting stuck to the sides of the barrel, which is a pain though. I explained how much electricity the Lot-O uses in my review of the Lot-O that was released at the same time as this video. I also tested all the tumblers I own to see how much they cost to run in this video: kzitem.info/news/bejne/wqSs16Gkkamqe2k
@amrocktumbling8298
2 жыл бұрын
@@MichiganRocks yeah I saw that. I watched that next lol.
@mjoyparks
2 жыл бұрын
Great information, thank you so much for this video!
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
You're welcome, Maggie!
@UnmaskingTheMachine
Жыл бұрын
Thank you sir
@MichiganRocks
Жыл бұрын
You’re welcome!
@wyomingadventures
2 жыл бұрын
Rob your tumbling videos are helpful. I hope I can buy a vibrant tumbler sometime. I have the Lortone 45c. Both tumblers would be great to have.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
Yep, I use both all the time.
@MariaCCurry
2 жыл бұрын
wow- that big tumbler you built at the end is hard core - great work - looking forward to getting a tumbler to start all of these rocks i have stored away from various trips - i got an app called rock identifier like the plant one but it isn’t very accurate - the plant one works much better
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
I have heard god things about the plant identifier app and nothing good about rock identification apps. I just got the plant one and have tried it a few times myself.
@sharpshooter33
Жыл бұрын
You have convinced me I cont have the patience for this hobby
@MichiganRocks
Жыл бұрын
You might be surprised. If you enjoy the process, it's not bad. It also gets easier the more you do it. Then again, it might just not be right for you.
@craftykat
Жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for this! I've been wanting a rock tumbler since I was a little kid and I'm finally going to get one for my birthday this year (and I'll be 59, lol). I think I'm going to get the vibratory tumbler because I live near Lake Superior and most of our rocks are already pretty rounded; I just want to polish them.
@MichiganRocks
Жыл бұрын
Sounds like a good reason to me.
@teelahollinhead6021
Жыл бұрын
Awesome video thank you!
@greatnorthernviews3052
2 жыл бұрын
Nice comparison I was thinking to pick up a Lotto Tumbler to finish my. Rocks after using my rotary tumbler for the final steps.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
That's what I do for almost all of my rocks.
@greatnorthernviews3052
2 жыл бұрын
@@MichiganRocks Great advice Grit can get a little pricey!
@R.M.MacFru
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the comparison, Rob. I'm probably in the minority, but I did prefer the puddingstone that was only in the vibratory tumbler. It looked more like you just picked it up off the beach. I can see times of wanting things very smooth, but not often. But as one of my friends says, if we all liked the same things, there'd be a terrible haggis shortage. 😉
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
Lots of people like that more natural look. Like you, I'm really glad that we don't all have the same taste. What fun would that be?
@leodapat9139
2 жыл бұрын
Hi hillo idol, God bless you. Watching from setio palanog Garita San Enrique Iloilo.
@thestonecraftingworkshop7490
2 жыл бұрын
Excellent as always, very interesting. Pity lotto and Lortone not available in the UK. Cheers!
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
Yes, that's a shame. Whenever I get questions about where to find supplies in the UK, I send them your way. I hope you don't mind.
@stevewalker3058
2 жыл бұрын
@@MichiganRocks of course I don't mind, I enjoy the interaction with other tumblers. All the best.
@GalaxieMama
Жыл бұрын
Could you carpet the walls and ceiling in the cubby under your steps for extra soundproofing? Just a thought.
@MichiganRocks
Жыл бұрын
I could, but I haven't. You can only hear it upstairs if I have both Lot-Os running simultaneously. Even then it's pretty quiet. They're both running right now, and I can't hear them.
@jasonochoochoski7442
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks so much for the video...very beneficial for me.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
You're welcome, Jason.
@Fred-rs7py
Жыл бұрын
Have learned so much from your videos... Thanks for taking the time to make them !! Have you any opinions you care to share concerning the Tumble Bee 14 ? I have had three Harbor freight units fail and need a replacement now that I have a Raytech Vibratory but have not enough $$$ to get a Loretone . Is there another "budget" tumbler you can recommend that is more reliable than the HF?
@MichiganRocks
Жыл бұрын
I don't have much experience with anything but Lortone and Thumler's. I have a small, two barrel Thumler's that I don't like much. I have heard about lots of Harbor Freight tumblers not being reliable, which is why I spent the extra money on a Lortone. I don't know much at all about the Tumble Bee tumblers. Sorry that I'm not more help.
@sylviesgf6623
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you! it answers many questions that I had. I am new to tumblling rocks and what I have is a two 6 pound tumbler (Lortone). I was wondering if I should also get a vibratory tumbler, so now I know what both can do.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
I have that same Lortone QT66. I use the barrels in my big homemade tumbler now, but that's a good machine. A Lot-O would go great with it.
@CityRockhounding
2 жыл бұрын
Double feature today, nice!
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
Yeah, but it will cost you twice as much.
@CityRockhounding
2 жыл бұрын
Its worth the information!
@judieahmed98
2 жыл бұрын
Your a great mentor
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks, Judie.
@scottcates
Жыл бұрын
Great
@whitesheepdog7298
2 жыл бұрын
I really appreciate your videos you do a good job and I don’t usually have any questions after watching them because you do such a thorough job of explaining. Thank you, keep it up 👍
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks, I'm glad they're helpful.
@caseywaggoner9997
Жыл бұрын
Do you have a video on different vibratory tumblers? I bought one on eBay that is quite a bit larger than the one you use. New to the tumble world and live by your videos!
@MichiganRocks
Жыл бұрын
Nope, this is the only vibratory tumbler I own.
@d.jensen5153
Жыл бұрын
This was really interesting! Kind of a pity that the motor in the Lot-O isn't what it used to be, and that so many other vibratory tumblers are sold out - and have been for a while. I decided to take a chance on a Raytech TV-10 for polishing. If nothing else I'll get an education. ;)
@MichiganRocks
Жыл бұрын
I heard from someone who would have a better idea than I do that the motor issue may be improving. It's a little early to tell for sure, but I hope they've got this figured out.
@kalmarfamily6874
Жыл бұрын
Hi, I'd really love to know more about your tumbler cabinet - can you do a video giving a closer look at it - is it a custom made all-in-one mechanism or is it 3 separate machines? Thanks
@MichiganRocks
Жыл бұрын
It's homemade by me, but designed by a friend of mine. One motor drives the whole thing. Homemade Tumbler: kzitem.info/news/bejne/l6d_yX9ok6GZeoI Tumbler Update: kzitem.info/news/bejne/sXeDtXeZa3R_fYI
@kalmarfamily6874
Жыл бұрын
@@MichiganRocks thanks
@normawinton6832
Жыл бұрын
Harbor freight sells them also. Thanks for the info
@MichiganRocks
Жыл бұрын
Harbor Freight vibratory tumbler are for tumbling metal. They're not built for the weight of rocks. I've heard that the barrels wear out really quickly. Their rotary tumblers don't have a great reputation for durability either, although they are made for rocks. I'd suggest looking at Kingsley North or the Rock Shed for a Lortone tumbler. They don't cost much more and they're much better rotary tumblers. There are links in the description of this video if you're interested in comparing prices.
@nicolagraynewzealandrockho8976
2 жыл бұрын
Excellent demo. Id really like to get a loto. Tumblers are really expensive here in NZ. That pudding stone frome the rotary looked amazing.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
That puddingstone is my favorite tumbled puddingstone.
@nicolagraynewzealandrockho8976
2 жыл бұрын
@@MichiganRocks it really is gorgeous
@nicolagraynewzealandrockho8976
2 жыл бұрын
@@MichiganRocks I recently tumbled a pretty conglomerate about the same size. Completely different minerals, but it came out a little fractured
@bdr1968
2 жыл бұрын
I always enjoy your rockhounding and I want to get the lot o rock vibratory tumbler. Any ideas.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
I like that idea. I bought two. That being said, I have heard of a lot of people having really bad luck with the motors burning out on recent Lot-O tumblers.
@Tealtra
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you great information.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
You're welcome!
@corteltube
Жыл бұрын
Very informative…thanks.
@MichiganRocks
Жыл бұрын
You're welcome.
@sparkywatts3072
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you. Very informative
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
You’re welcome, Sparky. Is you middle name “Amps” or “Volts”?
@sparkywatts3072
2 жыл бұрын
@@MichiganRocks Sparky Joule Watts
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
@@sparkywatts3072 Ah!
@scrand6
2 жыл бұрын
Hi Rob...great video again....I've just purchase the Lot-O and am waiting for shipping to bring it to me across country. I've had numerous rotary tumblers so I'm interested in using the vibratory. A couple of things about my experience and your video. Most all the time I use my 3 pound barrels and love how the stones turn out....looking forward to doing Petoskey and Cladopora per your instrunctions with the Lot-O and corn cob media. I also have a 12 pound barrel and have given it a shot a couple of times but have been less than happy with the finished polished results...so hoping the Lot-O steps up the results and then I'll go back to using the 12# again for stage 1. A question on media used in the Lot-O. I've never purchased or used ceramics (and now the local dealer has closed shop for good) but I have used beach pebbles of various sizes in the rotary tumblers that I re-use and I was wondering if you think that that would be an adequate substitute for ceramics? Otherwise I'll find somewhere in Ontario that sells it and have it shipped to me.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
I know of a woman who gets really good results using large aquarium gravel. I think it's quartz. That would be similar to using small beach gravel. The only thing you'd have to do is tumble those pebbles first so that they're completely smooth before using them in the finer stages.
@scrand6
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks….so that will be the plan going forward…will let you know how it turns out. I’d stopped using plastic tile spacers in my tumblers over a year ago for environmental reasons and gone exclusively to beach pebbles with great results. So I have a couple jars of just those now when needed. As a bonus….those are a couple of really cool looking jars.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
@@scrand6 Sounds like you've got a plan. I hope it works out well for you.
@jimcurtis569
2 жыл бұрын
Another good video. Do you have any good sources for Lortone parts? I purchased an old double barrel that needs new belts. Thanks.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
Kingsley North and the Rock Shed both cary Lortone parts. There are links to both places in the description of this video.
@carmenevans7651
2 жыл бұрын
99rockhounding has a great tutorial on a diy rotary tumbler for those who are on a tight budget.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
Yes he does. Here's a link to it for anyone reading this. kzitem.info/news/bejne/pGNmu3hmjoJ5gn4
@carmenevans7651
2 жыл бұрын
I have a used sump pump motor for someone in Central Minnesota who wants to use Thomas's plan.
@kimdedominicis6893
2 жыл бұрын
I have the Raytech vibratory. It’s ok. A pain because you need a wrench but was about $100. Would love the Lot-o but it’s a little pricey.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
What kind of wrench costs $100? I don't understand.
@kimdedominicis6893
2 жыл бұрын
@@MichiganRocks lol. Not the wrench but the tumbler! Sorry I wasn’t clear. Wrench came from my husband’s stash! There is a bowl on the tumbler. It had to be secured with a rubber nut and then the clear plastic lid had to be secured with a rubber nut and a regular nut that needs a wrench to tighten. If it’s not tight the bowl spins and makes a huge mess!
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
@@kimdedominicis6893 Oh, ok. That makes more sense! I couldn't figure out what you were talking about.
@aubriannezamora2648
2 жыл бұрын
Great review, Rob! I've got 2 rotary tumblers now (the Harbor Freight version of the 33b - I know the reviews aren't great, but I've had nothing* but good luck) and looking forward to getting a vibratory tumbler in the next month or so. My first batch has been in polish for about 4 days now and I'm chomping at the bit to see what's going on! 😂 Patience is a virtue I do not have in bulk.
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
Those Harbor Freight tumblers get very mixed reviews. Some people have good luck with them, others not so much. Don't buy the Harbor Freight vibratory tumbler though, it's not a rock tumbler. It's made for tumbling metal parts in dry media and won't hold up to tumbling rocks. I think a vibratory tumble will help with your patience deficiency!
@aubriannezamora2648
2 жыл бұрын
@@MichiganRocks I actually bought the HF vibratory tumbler, then read a bunch of reviews on it and exchanged it for my second rotary tumbler. They do sell an 18lb capacity vibratory tumbler meant for rocks, but I don't think I'd have that much of a similar material to run at a time. I'm just going to wait and get a Lot-O.
@aubriannezamora2648
2 жыл бұрын
I'm hoping to have enough self-collected quartz ready to run through a Lot-O when I get it to have at least one practice run before I need to move my contest rocks on. I definitely don't want to use it for the contest rocks first thing out of the box!
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
@@aubriannezamora2648 Good luck!
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
@@aubriannezamora2648 Oh, I didn't know any of them were made for rocks. Thanks for the correction.
@Rocking-SLC
2 жыл бұрын
Hey Rob, have you ever had to replace the motor on the Loto? How hard is it? My Loto motor went belly-up and boy, did it make a lot of noise. I've found a good indicator your motor needs replacing is the weights do not stay aligned. The Rock Shed sent me a replacement amazingly quickly but I've yet to make the change. Hopefully, I'll be at full capacity soon. ea
@MichiganRocks
2 жыл бұрын
I changed my motor after about ten years of use. The bearings had been going bad for years because it went from a hum to more of a buzz over that time. It wasn't hard to change the motor at all. If I remember correctly it was just a little time consuming to get the nuts off because of where they were. But the whole job was very straight forward.
@stephenmacpherson3754
2 жыл бұрын
I just finished my first load through stage 1 and 2 in my vibratory tumbler... They look like chewed bubble gum. 😀 So I need to do stage 1 in my rotary, and then try the next stages in the vibratory, I guess.
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