Wet vs Dry Tumbling

🧽 Wet Tumbling (with water, stainless pins, soap, etc.)

✅ Pros:

• Deep Clean: Cleans inside the case and primer pockets thoroughly.
• Shiny Finish: Brass comes out polished and like-new.
• No Dust: Wet process eliminates airborne dust (better for health and cleanliness).
• Better for Heavily Soiled Brass: Removes carbon and grime more effectively.

❌ Cons:

• Takes Longer: Requires drying time after cleaning.
• More Equipment Needed: Requires stainless pins, soap, water, and a rotary tumbler.
• Messier Process: Involves water disposal and more cleanup.
• Can Be Noisier: Rotary tumblers with water can be louder.

🌽 Dry Tumbling (with corn cob or walnut shell media)

✅ Pros:

• Fast & Easy: Drop brass in, let it run, and you’re done.
• Less Mess: No drying or water cleanup involved.
• Lower Cost: Fewer accessories needed; vibratory tumblers are often cheaper.
• Less Setup Time: No water or pin measuring.

❌ Cons:

• Doesn’t Clean Primer Pockets: Media doesn’t reach those areas.
• Dusty: Creates fine dust, which can be harmful to breathe and messy.
• Surface Clean Only: Won’t fully clean inside cases or stubborn fouling.
• Media Replacement: Needs regular media replacement as it wears out or clogs.

🔧 Which Should You Use?

• Choose Wet Tumbling if you want the cleanest, most professional-looking brass and don’t mind the extra time and gear.
• Choose Dry Tumbling if you value speed, simplicity, and lower upfront cost and are okay with a lighter clean.

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