Tumbler and lead question

[Wildyams]

Two separate questions here.

I'm looking at getting a tumbler. My options are the Lyman 1200 turbo ($40) or the Thumler's Tumbler 10 ($75) or 18 ($100) I was wondering if the Thumler's tumblers were worth the extra money? From the design, the Thumler's look a lot cleaner because they have a solid lid whereas the Lyman has a slotted lid for separating the media. (not sure if thats true or not) The Thumler's also comes with some media, Lyman does not.

In your honest opinion, are the Thumler's worth twice the money? I'm not planning on tumbling a lot, but I hope to start shooting more once I get this whole reloading thing figured out.






My other question involves reloading with lead. Is it that much different than jacketed? Would you recommend staying with the jacketed stuff until I'm a bit more comfortable with reloading? I will look through my ABC's and Lyman manual and read up more on reloading lead, just wanted some opinions.


Thanks

 

[hokeyplyr48]

Where are you seeing the Lyman 1200 for only $40?

 

[Wildyams]

I have connections with a distributer

but 40 was an estimate, probably closer to 45 or 50

 

[sqlbullet]

The only issue I know about when it comes to the mechanics of reloading that differs from lead to jacketed ammo is seating/crimping. It is much easier to 'shave' the lead bullet if you seat/crimp in one step. Careful die adjustment can compensate, or you can do them in separate steps.

Selecting lead bullets that match your weapon and your load can be a bit more effort to ensure you avoid leading. Keep in mind that most commercially cast lead bullets are too hard, and you have to keep up high on the pressure curve in order to get them to obturate and fill the bore. Leading is more often caused by bullets that are too hard and too small, than bullets that are too soft.

If you want a reduced velocity load, look to a faster powder, not a reduced charge of a slower powder. For instance, in my 10mm, I use Blue Dot and Accurate #9 for my 'max' loads. When I want softer 'plinking' rounds, I switch to loads in Unique. The faster powder gives similar peak pressures, but less velocity and recoil.

 

[KAB55]

I vote for the Thumbler 18, mine is over 20 years old and still going strong.

 

[oneounceload]

With a slotted top - you have an issue with dust particles - bad if indoors.

As to bullets - lead bullets are cheaper to buy, and depending on the gun, just as easy to shoot

 

[Otto]

Where are you seeing a Thumler's Tumbler UV18 for $100? Is it used?

 

[jcwit]

Might take your age into consideration, if you're 65 a tumbler that can last 30/40 years might just be a mote purchase.

 

[Wildyams]

I'm only 21

I'd be shooting the lead out of a Beretta 92

The Thumlers and Lyman are both new, the prices I gave were educated guesses.