3LB Capacity Professional Rock Tumbler Kit with Cover - Include 4 Polishing Grits, Rough Gemstones - 9-Day Digital Timer & 3 Speed Settings - STEM Gift for Adults Kids

I was very impressed on how great this rock tumbler works. I love collecting rocks and this machine makes them very clean and shiny

My kids love it. They had a great time all the way through, from picking rocks to put in, to changing the grits, to washing them to see what has come of them.It is somewhat loud, but the plastic cover helps. We still chose to put it outside because of this. The mechanism that rolls the container seems nice, just make sure you don’t overload it. I checked on our second grit a day after starting it just to find the belt being chewed up by the roller bar. I pushed the bar back further and it caught and took off, but not before it had eaten through about 1/3 of the belt. Thankfully spares were provided, but I haven’t changed it since that belt is still going strong after the adjustment.It’s been a great quick activity to do with the kids, at least when the rocks are starting or swapping between grits. They struggle with the waiting for them to finish tumbling. Great product that has brought endless opportunities for fun and learning.

When I was much younger, my best friend got a rock tumbler as a gift. I was glad nobody gave me one, because it seemed so incredibly boring -- watching it rotate was amusing for a few minutes, but that's all it did. I didn't get to see the loading or washing steps, so I didn't really understand what was happening inside the tumbler. All I remember is after about a month, my friend showed me some shiny smooth polished rocks. Woohoo. Since those days I've used a similar tumbler many times as a ball mill for making pyrotechnics compounds, and I gained an appreciation for slow steady grinding or pulverizing inside a rotating rubber drum.What was missing from my introduction to rock tumbling was context or understanding. That's what I like about this kit; it explains the process of rock polishing in simple terms that are easily understood and relatable for younger minds. In addition, the tumbler machine itself is pretty cool. It has a countdown timer with automatic shut-off so you don't have to remember what day you started and you always know how long until it's done. It also has a partially exposed pulley that the drive belt runs on, which is very satisfying to watch while it's moving. At least for me, it's moderately mesmerizing. (Maybe I'm just weird?)The see-through cover is a nice touch. It keeps things a bit quieter as well as preventing the tumbling operation from being disturbed. The entire apparatus is well planned and executed. An added bonus is the manufacturer offers to send replacement drive belts for free when the ones that come with the kit wear out. (Drive belts aren't expected to last forever, and having access to replacements is an important part of owning and operating a tumbler... and the tumbler works so much better when the drive belt isn't all stretched or worn or broken!)This starter kit would make a great gift for anyone who enjoys looking at pretty rocks and touching or feeling smooth surfaces (fidget/worry stones, anyone?) and who is at least mildly interested in geology and crystal structures, etc. It's a great introduction to concepts of hardness, erosion, grinding and polishing, and patience. It's not for everyone, but would be a welcomed and prized experience for the right recipient. Or get it for yourself.Five stars.

ith its 3 speed settings and digital 9-day timer, it provides flexibility and convenience for different tumbling needs. The inclusion of rough gemstones and 4 polishing grits means you can get started on tumbling and polishing rocks right away. As I used the tumbler, I found that it operates efficiently, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced rock enthusiasts. The polishing grits included in the kit helped me achieve smooth and polished results, transforming rough gemstones into beautiful pieces. Overall, the 3.1LB Professional Rock Tumbler Kit is a well-equipped and educational option that provides an enjoyable introduction to rock tumbling and polishing.

The machine worked great. The design allowed it to run around the clock with very little noise. It had everything we needed to get started and the kids got a big kick out of watching the rocks become pretty collectable stones. This is worth every penny for Grandkid moments.