Thumler's Model B Rotary Tumbler vs National Geographic Hobby Rock Tumbler

Buy the National Geographic Hobby Rock Tumbler for a child or a first-time hobbyist: it comes with rocks, grit, jewelry fastenings, a guide and a shut-off timer, and owners rate it well. Buy the Thumler's Model B for an adult, school or shop that needs a large, continuous-duty barrel and will finish polishing in a separate slower machine. The Thumler's is the tougher, higher-capacity build with a five-year barrel and liner guarantee; the National Geographic is the easier, more complete starter kit.

• Choose the Thumler's Model B if you need a heavy-duty 15 lb barrel for rough grinding, brass cleaning or batch work and already know how to finish stones.
• Choose the National Geographic Hobby Rock Tumbler if you want a ready-to-run kit for a kid aged 8 or up, with rocks, grit, a timer and a guide included.