If you're looking for the best tumbling media for brass, you'll want to pay attention to a few key factors before making your purchase. For starters, consider the size and shape of your brass pieces, as well as the type of finish you're looking to achieve. You'll also want to think about the level of abrasiveness needed for your specific application, as well as the type of tumbler you'll be using.
When it comes to selecting tumbling media for brass, there are several different options available, each with its own unique benefits and drawbacks. Corn cob media, for example, is a popular choice for its gentle exfoliating properties, while walnut shell media is known for its ability to remove tough residue and polish brass to a high shine. Ceramic media is another option worth considering, particularly for heavy-duty applications.
As you begin your search for the best tumbling media for brass, ask yourself a few key questions to help narrow down your options. Are you looking to clean brass cases for reloading or to polish finished brass pieces for display or use? What size and shape are your brass pieces, and how many do you plan to tumble at once? By keeping these factors in mind, you'll be better equipped to select the ideal tumbling media for your needs.
10 Best Tumbling Media For Brass
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It is ideal for tumbling and polishing metal parts, jewelry, rocks, and small items.
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It is ideal for tumbling and polishing various types of metal and non-metal objects in a tumbler machine.
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The product is ideal for abrasive blasting and sandblasting various surfaces, including metal, wood, and concrete.
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This product is ideal for tumbling or vibrating machines to smooth and polish rocks, metal, or other materials.
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It is ideal for cleaning and polishing various surfaces, including metal, plastic, and glass.
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It is ideal for tumbling, vibratory or blasting due to its ground walnut shell media abrasive with 12-20 grit.
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The product is ideal for polishing and cleaning brass cartridges used in reloading ammunition.
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This product is ideal for polishing and buffing brass in a vibratory finishing machine.
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This product is ideal for cleaning and polishing brass cartridges used in reloading.
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10
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The product is ideal for cleaning and polishing brass and other metals using corn grit as a media.
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1. 5 Lb. 12/20 Medium Walnut Shell Tumbler Tumbling Media Untreated
Walnut shell grit is a versatile and eco-friendly product that is made from crushed or milled walnut shells. This product is considered a soft abrasive, making it an ideal choice for removing undesirable coatings without causing any damage to the surface. The grit is multi-faceted, angular, and extremely durable, making it a reliable choice for various applications.
If you need to clean heavily tarnished brass casings, walnut shell media is the preferred choice over corncob media. This media is more aggressive and can effectively remove stubborn stains and discolorations from brass casings that have not been cleaned after several reloads or have been sitting on the ground for a long time. Walnut shell media will work in both rotary and vibratory tumblers, but vibratory tumblers often provide the best results.
For those who want a bright polish on their brass, treated walnut media is an excellent option. However, if you prefer to add your own polish, untreated walnut shell media can also be used. The pellets are tough, possess high strength and resist break down, but are non-abrasive in character. This makes them an excellent choice for a variety of blast equipment, as they create low dust and are reusable. Walnut shell media is also great for tumbling and vibratory operations, and it can reduce the cycle time of finishing operations. For best results, it is recommended to replace the media periodically for optimal performance.
In addition to being a great cleaning agent for brass casings, walnut shell grit is also used for reptile terrariums. It creates a natural and attractive desert environment, and it is an excellent heat conductor. The grit stimulates natural digging and burrowing behavior in reptiles, making it a great option for creating a natural habitat for your pets.
2. 8 Lb. 8/12 Course Walnut Shell Tumbler Tumbling Media Untreated
The crushed or milled walnut shells create a hard-fibrous product called walnut shell grit, which offers remarkable benefits. This soft abrasive is biodegradable, multi-faceted, angular and highly durable. It is capable of removing unwanted coatings without causing any etching, scratching or marring on surfaces.
If you are looking to clean heavily tarnished brass casings, or discolored range pickings, crushed walnut shell media is a popular choice. It is more aggressive than corncob media and yields the best results when used on such surfaces. If you desire a bright polish on your brass, adding your own polish to untreated walnut shell media will do the trick. Treated walnut media is also available for those who prefer a bright polish.
Walnut shell media works well in both rotary and vibratory tumblers, but the latter yields the best results. The pellets possess high strength, resist breakdown, and are non-abrasive. They can be used in all types of blast equipment, and offer excellent reuse with low dust. These pellets are also ideal for tumbling and vibratory operations and reduce the cycle time of finishing operations. It is recommended to replace them periodically for optimal performance.
Apart from brass cleaning, walnut shell grit has other uses as well. It is an excellent option for reptile terrariums as it creates a natural and attractive desert environment. It is also an excellent heat conductor and stimulates natural digging and burrowing behavior.
3. 14/20 Mesh (#2) Corn Cob Media Abrasive, All-Natural And Biodegradable (10 Lbs)
Introducing an all-natural and environmentally-friendly abrasive option – Corn Cob products! These versatile products are suitable for a variety of applications such as media blasting, tumbling, and even cosmetics.
The Corn Cob products come in a mesh size of 14/20 (#2) and have a specific gravity range of 1.2-1.4, making them a lightweight option for your needs. With a hardness of MOH 4.5, these abrasives are tough enough to get the job done while being gentle on surfaces to avoid any damage.
The granular appearance of the Corn Cob products adds to their versatility, making them easy to use and apply to a variety of surfaces. Plus, being all-natural and biodegradable, you can feel good about using them without worrying about harmful environmental impact.
Whether you're looking for an abrasive option for your media blasting needs, tumbling projects, or even cosmetics, the Corn Cob products are an excellent choice. With their reliable parameters and specifications, you can trust that you're getting a quality product that will get the job done efficiently. Choose Corn Cob products for a natural and eco-friendly abrasive solution!
4. Green Resin Pyramid Tumbler Media With Storage Bag
Introducing the high-quality pyramid-shaped tumbling media, perfect for those looking to achieve a polished finish on their metalwork. With a 1/4" x 1/4” x 1/4” shape and density of 60 lbs. per cu. ft., this media is designed to provide the optimal tumbling experience.
With an approximate 320 grit, this media boasts a 3:1 ratio of media to material, ensuring that your metalwork is polished to perfection. Whether you're using a tumbling machine or a vibrating machine, this media is compatible with both liquid compounds and water, providing maximum versatility.
For easy storage, this pyramid-shaped tumbling media comes with a bag that allows you to keep it clean and dry between uses. This ensures that the media remains in optimal condition, ready for your next project.
If you're using an 18 lb Vibe Tumbler, you'll need 7-8lbs of media, while a 5 lb Vibe Tumbler uses 1.5-2.5 lbs of media. This makes it easy to know exactly how much media you'll need to achieve the desired finish for your metalwork.
5. Raytech 41266r Dri-Shine Iii Corn Cob Media, 15 Lbs
Introducing a high-quality Abrasive product, designed to meet all your sanding needs. This product is manufactured in the United States, ensuring top-notch quality and durability.
The package dimensions of this product are 31.75 cm in length, 31.75 cm in width, and 26.162 cm in height, providing ample space for the product. The package weight of this product is 17.0 lbs, ensuring that you receive an adequate quantity of the product for your sanding projects.
This Abrasive product promises to deliver a smooth and even finish, making it ideal for use in various applications. Whether you need to sand wood, metal, or plastic, this product is sure to get the job done efficiently.
The high-quality material used in the manufacturing of this Abrasive product ensures that it is long-lasting and can withstand heavy use. This makes it an ideal choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.
6. 1.8 Kg Or 4 Lb Ground Walnut Shell Media Abrasive 12-20 Grit For Tumbling, Vibratory Or Blasting …
The 12-20 Course Grit Walnut Shell Abrasive Media is an ideal solution for those looking to polish surfaces without causing any damage to the substrate. Made from 100% crushed walnut shells, this media is perfect for tumbling, vibratory or blasting applications.
One of the most significant advantages of using walnut shells is that they are incredibly gentle on the surface being polished. This means that they can effectively polish surfaces without causing any scratches or other forms of damage. Additionally, walnut shells are an environmentally friendly option that is suitable for use in a wide range of applications.
It is important to note that this media should be used with low pressure, ranging from 20-60 PSI for soft and sensitive materials. Exceeding 80 PSI can lower the longevity of the walnut shell media, which may impact its effectiveness over time.
7. Lyman Reloading Turbo Brite Brass Polish (20-Ounce)
The product is the go-to choice for serious shooters and reloaders. With a wide range of tools and accessories, this product caters to the needs of any shooter out there. The tools are designed to be innovative and user-friendly, making it easy for anyone to use them.
This product offers a variety of parameters and specifications that make it stand out from the rest. The tools and accessories are made of high-quality materials that ensure durability and reliability. The product is designed to be versatile, making it suitable for use with a wide range of firearms.
One of the unique features of this product is its user-friendly design. The tools are designed to be easy to use, even for beginners. This makes it a great choice for those who are just starting out with reloading or shooting.
Another great feature of this product is its innovative design. The tools and accessories are designed to be efficient and effective, allowing shooters to get the most out of their firearms. This ensures that the user gets the best possible performance from their firearm.
This product is also designed to be highly durable. The materials used to make the tools and accessories are of the highest quality, ensuring that they can withstand the rigors of regular use. This makes it a great investment for anyone who takes their shooting or reloading seriously.
8. Brass Buffing Balls – Strong & Spherical
Introducing the highly durable and efficient ceramic porcelain polishing sphere media with aluminum oxide abrasive of #1200 grit. This product boasts a density of 120 lb/cu.ft and comes in a sphere ball size of 6 mm, making it the perfect choice for use in vibratory bowl, centrifugal disc, barrel, and tumbling barrel machines.
Whether you're looking for a general-purpose polishing solution, buffing, burnishing, smoothing, or cleaning, this ceramic porcelain polishing sphere media has got you covered. It is specially designed to provide you with superior results and is sourced directly from the manufacturer in bulk supply.
With its high-density composition and advanced aluminum oxide abrasive, this product is built to last and can withstand even the most rigorous polishing and buffing processes. Its unique composition ensures that it will deliver consistent results and offer a long-lasting performance that you can depend on.
Whether you're looking to polish metals, ceramics, or other materials, this ceramic porcelain polishing sphere media is the perfect solution. It is easy to use, highly efficient, and provides excellent results every time. So, if you're looking for a reliable and high-quality polishing media, look no further than this ceramic porcelain polishing sphere media with aluminum oxide abrasive of #1200 grit.
9. Frankford Arsenal 4 Oz. Bottle Of Ammonia-Free Quick-N-Ez Brass Polish For Tumbler And Reloading
Introducing a reliable and efficient brass polish that is perfect for any reloading enthusiast. This brass polish comes in a sturdy 4 oz plastic bottle that is easy to use and transport.
To activate new media, simply add three teaspoons of the polish and one teaspoon for used media to reactivate it. The process is straightforward and hassle-free, ensuring a clean and smooth reloading experience.
One of the best features of this brass polish is its non-hazardous formula. It is ammonia-free, which means that it is safe to use and handle. Plus, the container is biodegradable, making it an eco-friendly choice for any user.
Additionally, the polish has a refreshing citrus scent that keeps reloading rooms smelling fresh and clean. This feature adds an extra touch of convenience and comfort to your reloading experience.
The brass polish is also highly durable. It strengthens brass and prevents it from becoming brittle, ensuring that your reloading equipment remains in top shape for longer.
10. Get Cob Corn Grit Brass Cleaning & Polishing Media, 50 Lb
The Brass Cleaning and Polishing Media is a versatile and effective solution for all your polishing and restoration needs. This product is designed to be used with a case tumbler, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to restore and revitalize their brass items.
Made with 100% natural untreated corn cob grit granules, this media is a safe and eco-friendly choice for any consumer. The granules are carefully selected and processed to ensure a high-quality product that is effective at polishing and cleaning.
This media is perfect for tumbling and polishing a wide range of items, including brass, jewelry, and small metal parts. It is also an excellent choice for restoration projects, helping to remove dirt, grime, and other stubborn stains from your items.
In addition to its polishing and restoration applications, this media is also an excellent choice for blasting. It can help you achieve a smooth and even finish on a variety of surfaces, including metal, wood, and plastic.
Finally, this media is also suitable for use as small pet bedding and litter. It is a safe and natural choice that provides a comfortable and absorbent bedding option for your furry friends.
Best Tumbling Media For Brass FAQs
Are there any safety precautions I should take when using tumbling media for brass?
Yes, there are several safety precautions you should take when using tumbling media for brass. Firstly, you should always wear protective gear such as gloves and safety glasses to protect your hands and eyes from the abrasive media. Additionally, you should ensure that the media is used in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling any dust particles. It's also important to keep the media away from any sources of heat or open flames as it can be flammable. When handling the media, be sure to do so carefully and avoid any sudden movements that could cause it to spill or scatter. Finally, when you're finished using the media, be sure to dispose of it properly in accordance with local regulations. By following these safety precautions, you can ensure that you and those around you stay safe while using tumbling media for brass.
Can I reuse the same media for multiple brass tumbling cycles?
Yes, you can reuse the same media for multiple brass tumbling cycles. However, it is important to note that after multiple uses, the media can become worn and less effective at cleaning and polishing the brass. It is recommended to periodically check the media for signs of wear and replace it as needed. Additionally, it is important to properly clean and store the media after each use to ensure its longevity and effectiveness. This can include removing any debris or residue from the media and storing it in a dry, cool place. Overall, reusing media for multiple brass tumbling cycles can be a cost-effective option, but it is important to monitor its condition and take proper care of it to maintain its effectiveness.
How can I achieve a mirror-like finish on my brass using tumbling media?
Achieving a mirror-like finish on brass using tumbling media can be a tricky task but it is definitely possible with the right approach. Firstly, it's important to choose the right tumbling media. Stainless steel media is recommended for brass as it is harder than brass and can effectively remove any imperfections on the surface.
Next, ensure that the brass is clean and free from any oils or debris before tumbling. This can be achieved by using a degreasing solution or simply wiping the surface with a clean cloth.
When tumbling, it's important to use a fine grit media and to avoid overloading the tumbler. The brass should be tumbled for an extended period of time, usually around 6-8 hours. During this time, check on the brass regularly to ensure that the surface is not becoming damaged or over-polished.
After tumbling, the brass should be rinsed thoroughly with water to remove any remaining media. A final polish with a soft cloth and a brass polish can help to achieve the desired mirror-like finish.
Overall, achieving a mirror-like finish on brass using tumbling media requires patience and attention to detail, but with the right approach, it is achievable.
How can I find the most effective tumbling media for brass?
Finding the most effective tumbling media for brass can greatly improve the quality of your brass polishing process. The first step in finding the best media is to determine your specific needs. Are you looking to remove heavy tarnish or just polish the surface of the brass? Once you have identified your needs, you can begin researching different types of media.
Common tumbling media options for brass include walnut shells, corn cob, and steel media. Walnut shells and corn cob are natural, biodegradable options that are gentle on the brass surface. They are best used for light polishing and removing surface dirt and grime. Steel media is more aggressive and is best used for heavy duty cleaning and removing heavy tarnish.
When selecting a tumbling media, it is important to consider the size and shape of the media as well. Small media, such as fine walnut shells or corn cob, work well for intricate or small pieces of brass. Larger media, such as coarse walnut shells or steel media, work well for larger pieces of brass.
Ultimately, the most effective tumbling media for brass will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It may take some trial and error to find the perfect media, but experimenting with different types and sizes can lead to great results.
How do I clean and maintain my tumbling media for brass?
Cleaning and maintaining tumbling media for brass is a crucial aspect of maintaining the quality of your brass cases. Here are some steps that can help you clean and maintain your tumbling media effectively:
1. Remove any debris: Before cleaning the media, remove any debris or foreign objects from it. This can be done by hand or using a strainer.
2. Use a cleaning solution: Mix a cleaning solution with water and add it to your tumbler. This solution can be a commercial brass cleaner or a homemade solution made of vinegar and water.
3. Add the media: After adding the cleaning solution, add the media to the tumbler and run it for a few hours.
4. Rinse the media: After the cleaning process, rinse the media thoroughly with water to remove any cleaning solution residue.
5. Dry the media: Allow the media to dry completely before storing it in a clean, dry place.
6. Store the media: Store the media in an airtight container to prevent contamination from dust and debris.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your tumbling media remains clean and effective in polishing your brass cases.
How long should I tumble brass using different types of media?
The duration of tumbling brass using different types of media varies depending on several factors such as the type of media, the level of dirt and debris, and personal preference. Generally, tumbling brass should take between 30 minutes to 2 hours. If you are using corn cob or walnut media, you may need to tumble for a longer duration to achieve desired results. It is essential to keep a close eye on the brass during the tumbling process to avoid over-tumbling, which can lead to excessive wear and tear on the brass. Over-tumbling may also cause unnecessary damage to the media. It is advisable to use a timer to ensure that you don't exceed the recommended tumbling duration. Remember, the goal of tumbling brass is to achieve a clean and polished finish, so the duration may vary depending on how dirty or tarnished the brass is.
What are the different types of tumbling media suitable for brass?
There are several types of tumbling media that are suitable for cleaning and polishing brass. One of the most popular types is corn cob media, which is made from ground-up corn cobs. Corn cob media is an excellent choice for cleaning brass because it is gentle yet effective at removing dirt, grime, and tarnish.
Another popular type of media for brass tumbling is walnut shell media. This type of media is made from crushed walnut shells and is slightly more abrasive than corn cob media. It is great for removing stubborn stains and tarnish from brass.
Stainless steel media is another option for those looking for a more aggressive cleaning method. It is highly durable and can be reused multiple times, making it a cost-effective choice. However, it is important to note that stainless steel media can leave tiny scratches on brass if not used properly.
Lastly, ceramic media is a highly abrasive option that is best suited for heavily tarnished or corroded brass. It is made from a blend of ceramic materials and is excellent at removing stubborn stains and polishing brass to a high shine.
Ultimately, the type of tumbling media you choose will depend on the level of tarnish and dirt on your brass, as well as your personal preferences regarding the level of abrasiveness.
What are the pros and cons of using stainless steel media for brass tumbling?
Stainless steel media has become increasingly popular for brass tumbling due to its durability and effectiveness in removing debris and polishing the brass. Some of the pros of using stainless steel media for brass tumbling include its long lifespan, which can save money in the long run compared to other types of media. Stainless steel media is also non-corrosive, meaning that it won't rust or deteriorate over time, and it can be reused many times before needing to be replaced.
However, there are also some cons to using stainless steel media for brass tumbling. One of the main issues is that it can be more expensive than other types of media, such as corn cob or walnut shell. Additionally, stainless steel media can be quite heavy, which can make it difficult to handle and may require more time to clean up after use. There is also the risk of the media causing damage to the brass if it is not used properly or if the tumbling process is too aggressive. Overall, while stainless steel media offers many benefits for brass tumbling, it's important to weigh the pros and cons to determine if it's the best choice for your needs.
What is the best tumbling media for brass?
When it comes to tumbling brass, the best media will depend on your specific needs and preferences. However, many experienced reloaders and shooters prefer using stainless steel media for tumbling brass due to its durability, effectiveness, and longevity. Stainless steel media is capable of cleaning brass to a high shine and removing stubborn stains and debris. It is also long-lasting and can be reused for multiple tumbling sessions. Other popular tumbling media for brass include corn cob and walnut shell media. Corn cob media is softer and less abrasive than walnut shell media, making it ideal for polishing brass without damaging its surface. Walnut shell media is more abrasive and can help remove heavy fouling from brass. Ultimately, the best tumbling media for brass will depend on your specific needs, budget, and preferences. It is recommended to experiment with different media and find what works best for you.
What is the difference between ceramic, walnut, and corn cob media for brass tumbling?
Ceramic, walnut, and corn cob media are commonly used for brass tumbling. Ceramic media is harder and more durable than the other two, making it ideal for removing tough stains and blemishes on the brass. It is also more expensive than the other two options. Walnut media is softer and gentler than ceramic, making it ideal for polishing and shining brass. It is also less expensive than ceramic media. Corn cob media is also a gentle option, but it is not as effective at removing tough stains as ceramic or walnut media. It is, however, the most cost-effective option of the three. Ultimately, the choice between these three media types comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user. For example, those looking for a quick and effective cleaning may prefer ceramic media, while those looking to save on cost may opt for corn cob media.