Neo
off to a rocking start
Member since July 2022
Posts: 14
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Post by Neo on Aug 22, 2022 12:09:28 GMT -5
I have found on several instances where I end up with a rock that has one or two minor spots I’d like to grind down. Either before or after stage 1. Rather than continuously doing a stage 1 and removing more material that I really need to. Or just to shape a rock a bit before stage 1. I don’t think I’m ready for a full on belt grinder, but I was thinking something like a Drexel tool. Can anyone recommend one that will do the job, and what types of bits do you use?
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QuailRiver
fully equipped rock polisher
Member since May 2008
Posts: 1,640
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Post by QuailRiver on Aug 22, 2022 12:29:53 GMT -5
IMHO the best tool for pre-shaping/prepping rocks for tumbling would be the Rock Rascal model "T" outfitted with a coarse grit diamond wheel (60 or 8o grit).  |
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Deleted
Deleted Member
Member since January 1970
Posts: 0
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Post by Deleted on Aug 22, 2022 15:07:27 GMT -5
NeoAny dremel will work, but one with an adjustable speed would be better but not necessary. For the bits you need diamond bits any will do as long as they are diamond coated. Make sure you are wetting the rock every few seconds or so and wearing a mask and eye protection. Be in a well ventilated room or outside if possible. You don't want to breath the rock dust.
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quartzilla
Cave Dweller 
Member since April 2020
Posts: 1,240
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Post by quartzilla on Aug 22, 2022 20:48:26 GMT -5
I use a Diamond 100 grit on a flat lap. I don’t usually use that till after they’ve tumbled a while and if the rock is worth the extra attention. I put them back in coarse after any flat lap work, that 100 grit diamond is pretty gnarly and leaves scratches of its own in the stones.
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Neo
off to a rocking start
Member since July 2022
Posts: 14
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Post by Neo on Aug 24, 2022 17:12:00 GMT -5
Would be nice to get one of those Rock Rascals, but that’s a little out of my budget for now. I just picked up a Dremel 3000, and tried to grab some decent bits from Amazon. But, I’m not even sure what grit they are. Hopefully the package says. I’m excited about cleaning a few up, and maybe carving some designs in others.
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nursetumbler
Cave Dweller
Member since February 2022
Posts: 992 
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Post by nursetumbler on Aug 24, 2022 18:57:01 GMT -5
Would be nice to get one of those Rock Rascals, but that’s a little out of my budget for now. I just picked up a Dremel 3000, and tried to grab some decent bits from Amazon. But, I’m not even sure what grit they are. Hopefully the package says. I’m excited about cleaning a few up, and maybe carving some designs in others. I just bought the little dremel from harbor freight with the diamond bits. I figured I wouldn't be out to much money if I don't like the results I used it once and it worked just fine for me |
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