Best Thumler's rock tumbler: A-R1, A-R2, A-R12, Model B and UV-10

What the listing offers

• Two barrels holding 6 lb in total double throughput over the A-R1 for a small extra cost
• Separate barrels keep coarse grit away from polish, which reduces contamination between stages
• Made in USA with a metal frame and Fasco motor named in the listing

Limits to know

• Each barrel is still 3 lb, so it does not suit stones much over 2 to 3 inches
• Listing does not include grit or rough, and the copy repeats marketing text rather than motor specs

What the listing offers

• Continuous-duty, fan-cooled motor with overload protection suits the 1 to 2 week runs of each grit stage
• Molded rubber barrel is quieter than plastic and is a stock Thumler's part that can be replaced
• Lowest price in the Thumler's line, with the same frame and motor build as the two-barrel model

Limits to know

• Single 3 lb barrel means one stage at a time, so a full 4-stage run on hard stone takes over a month
• Machine only: the listing names no grit, media or rough in the box

What the listing offers

• 15 lb hex barrel processes far bigger batches than the 3 lb barrels, and the hex shape helps the load roll
• Removable rubber liner can be replaced without buying a new steel barrel
• Listing states a 5-year warranty on the barrel and coating

Limits to know

• A large barrel needs a large load and a lot of grit per stage, which raises running cost
• Most expensive rotary here and more machine than a beginner with a few pounds of rough needs

What the listing offers

• One pack covers the whole Thumler's rotary line named in the listing
• Polyurethane belts are listed as more stretch resistant than standard rubber
• Four belts in the pack, at a fraction of a new machine's cost

Limits to know

• Third-party belt, not an original Thumler's part
• The manufacturer does not give belt dimensions, so you rely on the model fit list

What the listing offers

• Thumler's is an established rock tumbler brand with replacement parts and grit widely sold
• 3 quart bowl gives room for a useful batch of finished-shape stones in the later stages
• Built as a rock tumbler rather than a metal-parts cleaner, so it fits a grit and water workflow

Limits to know

• The listing is very thin: one bullet with the capacity and no details on lid, motor or what is in the box
• Highest price in this guide, and sold by a third-party reseller rather than the maker

What the listing offers

• Part of the same A-R family as the A-R1 and A-R2, so belts and service parts are shared across the line
• Steps up in capacity from the 3 lb barrels without moving to the steel hex barrel of the Model B
• Priced between the A-R2 and the heavier Model B

Limits to know

• Listing states no capacity, barrel count or motor detail, only the model name
• Sold with no grit, rough or instructions named in the spec sheet