Rebel 17 Rock Tumbler

Bought the 20rpm version for rock tumbling. It was easy to assemble and is solidly built. I like the individually adjustable legs to get the base level. It’s only been running for two weeks now on stage 1 grit but so far zero issues. I fill the barrel 3/4 full of rocks with grit and water. The motor has no issues with the load and is very quiet. A big barrel with a thick liner also keeps the noise of tumbling rocks down. I expect this tumbler to last as so far it looks like it will.

I currently have 5 rock tumblers, and this is the best one. It is large, quiet and made from quality parts. It is clearly a copy of a Thumler's Tumbler Model B (not a bad thing) with some quality upgrades, offered at a lower price. I had never heard of this brand and neither had anyone in my rockhounding club. Similar to Thumler's, you cannot buy from them directly and must utilize a 3rd party, but they appear to be a legit if not low-key company. On this Rebel model made by Xtreme, the nuts used to secure the lid were upgraded from pressed wing nuts and washers (used on a Model B) to single nuts encased in plastic that are easier to finger tighten. The axles and bearings also appear to be higher grade steel and are more robust. There does not appear to be many other differences. In fact, this Rebel model and the Model B are so similar they even use the same drive belts. FYI assembly is required for the Rebel. You will need to mount the motor to the tumbler base. Oddly, the motor only uses 3 mounting points but has four threaded posts and the written instructions do not mention the four posts at all. I am guessing Xtreme just bought generic Chinese motors that were not made specifically for their tumbler but fit their purpose. I don't see many other ways the motor can be mounted so I do not think it was to provide more mounting options. Good tumbler overall will probably buy another one.

Not happy with purchase as I bought it prom AU website to be used in Australia I expected it to be 240 VAC not 110 VAX. Now I have to change the motor or buy a 240 VAC to 110 VAC converter. expected more from amazon.

If you are a rock nerd- definitely get this tumbler!! For the level of quality this tumbler offers - the price is worth it. Especially if you can get it on sale (I got lucky with this). It is a little bit loud, but if you have a space to put it (like the garage, separate room, or even a closet)- it's not terrible. This thing is built like a tank, although, some of the black covering does rub off a bit as it tumbles on the exterior of the tumbler. It is kind of heavy- but honestly makes a huge difference on polishing and tumbling rocks compared to other tumblers I've used. It's seamless to use one you have everything locked into place.

Well it takes a lot of rocks to fill up this big girl, but the unit is quiet and revolves slowly. This baby is pricey, but it sure works if you want to tumble lots of rocks from the lake. I like it for fossils too because it tumbles gently. Unit came well packed and on time. Over all I am happy with my Rebel 17th. It will be interesting to see how long the motor lasts. Rebel 17 has been working for 6 weeks now, so far all good.