Where can I buy stainless shot?
by Kristi
(CA)
Where can I buy stainless steel shot for a good price? $20.00/ lb. is the cheapest I have found so far for it.
Also how much do I need for a 3 lb tumbler that will only tumble a "few" small pieces of Sterling flat metal at a time?
Stacy's Answer:
Hi Kristi!
Rio Grande Jewelry Supply has a great price on Stainless Steel shot - jewelry mix. As of this writing, for one pound it's $18 or if you have a friend that needs some too, buy 2 pounds for $16.65 per pound. They have different shipping options, so figure that into the price also.
In my 3 pound tumbler, I add one full pound of shot. I'm not sure know why you are only tumble a few small pieces of flat metal. Perhaps it's not a 3 pound capacity tumbler?
I tumble 2-3 big bangles or a hand-full of earrings, etc. at one time. As long as you don't overtax your motor by tumbling more than the 3 pound weight load, you should be fine. Remember to add only as much water as covers everything by about 1/2 inch or so. Don't fill up the tumbler all the way with water.
In my
article about tumbling, I mention Lortone and Harbor Freight tumblers. If you don't have one of those, perhaps you'll want to check them out and see if one is good for your needs and budget.