Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

I purchased this unit about a year ago through another online retailer. I read all the reviews here and elsewhere and noted possible issues with the belt and or shaft bushings. I have completed 6 batches of stones with the original belt intact. Take the time to align the belt and tighten only enough to prevent slipping. It actually looks a bit too loose, but hey, it is still working great. Small drop of machine oil at the nylon bushings and you are good to go. I re-adjust and oil after each completed 5 cycle batch. Unit is a bit noisy if you set it up in your bedroom, but the garage is the ideal location that will bother no one. Follow the instructions for tumbling that comes with the unit. You must be thorough with the cleaning in between cycles to prevent contamination. I learn something new every batch I tumble. #1 lesson was do not tumble hard and soft stones together. Add tumbling ceramics to bring the load up to specs. Basically, 2/3 of the barrel should be full of material. This was going to be my "learner" machine but it performs so well I have cancelled all thoughts of buying another unit. 3 lbs capacity is a lot. I tumble shells, semi precious stones, beach glass, Apache Tears, etc. Agates are my favorite. They are a harder stone with lots of color and polish very well. I make a little jewelry now and then and prefer to polish my own stones. The serious tumbler might prefer a larger capacity barrel but this unit is perfect for me.