Expensive sandblasting or buy a weed burner?

So apparently I have a better chance of finding a needle in a haystack than I do of locating an affordable sandblaster for my new unlined UDS drum. One place in the city wanted $100 and another place closer to home wanted $150, but I need to call them back tomorrow and try and negotiate it down from $150. I prefer the peace of mind, but $150? I've probably got a bit money more invested in the drum than I want, and I wanted a nice end product that will last, but geesh. Makes me wish I bought an SS drum to start with.

I found one place that sells blasting supplies but doesn't do the actual blasting, a few places that only do large orders and I've called an auto body shop that doesn't do any blasting and doesn't know anyone locally that does.

I also can't do a large burn (town/village rule) and don't have a more remote place I can take the drum, so unless I call some more auto shops, it looks like I may be in the market for a weed burner. Any suggestions on type? I'd be looking for safe/easy to use.

I've never used a weed burner before and have none of the needed supplies, but as others have mentioned, I can probably get the one that HF sells with the push button igniter, plus striker, gloves, propane tank, and propane for less than what the sandblasters want, and at least I'd have some tools I can use again. I've also got some 220 grit sandpaper and some green scotch brite pads from the hardware store so I can scuff/clean the exterior after the burn before priming.

Anyone else find the search for a decent sandblaster this difficult? I read about folks having drums blasted for around $50 and figured it'd be cake to find someone in the NW Chicago 'burbs but apparently not. Thx for the help. I've got everything built and just need to get the burn or blasting done so I can paint and get to cookin'.

Thanks for input.

Bigbux58 said:

Sandblast it....

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I'm considering it, mostly because it'd be a professional job and I believe in the "do it right the first time, or else invest more time/money to fix it" approach.

ITBFQ said:

I called around to a couple places here in Naperville and Yorkville. The Naperville place was around $150 if I remember right. The Yorkville place did some small work for me (an old school desk legs) and charged me next to nothing. They might be worth a call, but its a long haul from BG. Its Fox Valley Sandblasting and Powdercoating.

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Yup, Fox Valley is a hike. I was hoping for a place closer by, but I've been searching on and off for weeks. If I go that route, I'll let you know.

Fwismoker said:

I got mine sandblasted and high heat powder coated for 80 dollars.... they are WAY overcharging! The place i called all they do is powder coat and ceramic coating.

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Yeah, no kidding. But I guess it is what it is. If I go with it, hopefully they do a good job. It stinks too since I'm practically done with the build. I'll figure it out, one way or the other.

Thanks for the suggestions on the sandblasting equipment. That idea did occur to me, but then I'd need the compressor, the media, respirator, etc. but I'll keep it mind. I'm gonna call the sandblaster tomorrow and try and lower the price down from the $150.