Beginner reloader, tumbler issues

[rsrocket1]

Try the walnut with nothing else other than the cut up used dryer sheets. The dryer sheets will come out tan for the first few batches because they will be picking up all the walnut dust. After that, they'll come out gray from picking up just the soot (including primer dust which contains lead styphnate).

Any additives used to "reduce dust" or polish will also pick up soot and eventually turn the walnut dark brown/black. If you keep the walnut clean and dry it will last a lot longer without the soot sticking to it. I picked up a 50# bag of crushed walnut at a feed store for $17 several years ago and go through 4-5 pounds about once a year or longer, cleaning ~10,000 cases a year.

Shiny is nice, clean is all that matters.

[dreyna14]

One issue using any kind of polish is when it is poured in, it can stick to the bottom of the bowl. Then when you add the brass it sticks to the brass. Any polish added I will break up any clumps by hand and scrape it off the bottom with something. I then run it for 15-20 mins and repeat if necessary. It only takes once and then the brass goes in.

[propman07]

I am relatively new to reloading as well. Started off with a similar setup that I put together from HF products. Bought some walnut media from Petco (reptile bedding, I think), and tried that for a while. Brass came out okay. I upgraded to the stainless steel pins in a tumbler with dish soap and a small amount of lemishine....never looked back. I was able to clean cruddy range brass so it looked practically brand new.