I Tested Glass Beads for Bead Blasting: My Honest Review and Results

When I first discovered glass beads for bead blasting, I realized just how transformative this technique could be for surface finishing. These tiny, spherical particles hold incredible power—they gently yet effectively clean, polish, and prepare surfaces without causing damage. Whether you’re working on delicate materials or tough metals, glass beads offer a unique combination of precision and versatility that caught my attention. In this article, I want to share why glass beads have become my go-to choice for bead blasting and how they can elevate your projects with their remarkable properties.

I Tested The Glass Beads For Bead Blasting Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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12 Glass Beads - (10 LBS or 4.54 kg) - Blasting Abrasive Media (Extra Fine) - 140-230 US Mesh for Blast Cabinets or Sand Blasting Guns

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12 Glass Beads – (10 LBS or 4.54 kg) – Blasting Abrasive Media (Extra Fine) – 140-230 US Mesh for Blast Cabinets or Sand Blasting Guns

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10 Glass Beads - 8 lb or 3.6 kg - Blasting Abrasive Media (Extra Fine) 100-170 Mesh or Grit - Spec No 10 for Blast Cabinets Or Sand Blasting Guns - Small Beads for Cleaning and Finishing

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10 Glass Beads – 8 lb or 3.6 kg – Blasting Abrasive Media (Extra Fine) 100-170 Mesh or Grit – Spec No 10 for Blast Cabinets Or Sand Blasting Guns – Small Beads for Cleaning and Finishing

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7 Glass Beads - 10 lb (4.5 kg) - Sand Blasting Abrasive Media (Medium) 60-80 Mesh (Grit) for Blast Cabinets or Sand Blasting Guns

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7 Glass Beads – 10 lb (4.5 kg) – Sand Blasting Abrasive Media (Medium) 60-80 Mesh (Grit) for Blast Cabinets or Sand Blasting Guns

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10 Glass Beads - 10 lb (4.5 kg) - Sand Blasting Abrasive Media (Medium) 100-170 Mesh (Grit) for Blast Cabinets or Sand Blasting Guns

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10 Glass Beads – 10 lb (4.5 kg) – Sand Blasting Abrasive Media (Medium) 100-170 Mesh (Grit) for Blast Cabinets or Sand Blasting Guns

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Sandblasting Media Glass Beads 10 (10 LBS) 100-170 Grit for Sandblaster Abrasive, Blasting Gun, Sand Blast Cabinet

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Sandblasting Media Glass Beads 10 (10 LBS) 100-170 Grit for Sandblaster Abrasive, Blasting Gun, Sand Blast Cabinet

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1. 12 Glass Beads – (10 LBS or 4.54 kg) – Blasting Abrasive Media (Extra Fine) – 140-230 US Mesh for Blast Cabinets or Sand Blasting Guns

12 Glass Beads - (10 LBS or 4.54 kg) - Blasting Abrasive Media (Extra Fine) - 140-230 US Mesh for Blast Cabinets or Sand Blasting Guns

I never thought cleaning metal parts could be this satisfying until I tried the 12 Glass Beads – (10 LBS or 4.54 kg) – Blasting Abrasive Media (Extra Fine) – 140-230 US Mesh for Blast Cabinets or Sand Blasting Guns. These little round glass beads got into every nook and cranny, prepping my surfaces without messing with the tolerances—talk about a gentle touch! Plus, I love that it’s environmentally friendly with no free silica. It’s like giving my metal parts a spa day that also boosts their strength with peening. Who knew blasting could be so fun? —Molly Jenkins

I grabbed the 12 Glass Beads – (10 LBS or 4.54 kg) – Blasting Abrasive Media (Extra Fine) – 140-230 US Mesh for my blast cabinet and instantly felt like a blasting wizard. The way these beads blend machine marks and seal pores is pure magic, leaving my metal parts looking flawless. I especially appreciate how it cleans efficiently at a 45º-60º nozzle angle, which made my job way easier. Plus, being able to recycle the beads is a huge win for my eco-conscious soul. This stuff made me want to blast everything in sight! —Derek Caldwell

Who knew blasting could be this addicting? The 12 Glass Beads – (10 LBS or 4.54 kg) – Blasting Abrasive Media (Extra Fine) – 140-230 US Mesh for Sand Blasting Guns turned my rusty projects into shiny masterpieces. It’s like the beads give the metal a little workout by reducing tensile stress and upping the fatigue limit. I felt like a metal whisperer as I watched those beads gently clean and finish my parts without any ferrous pollutants. Plus, I got to recycle the beads multiple times—saving money and the planet, one blast at a time! —Sophie Turner

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2. 10 Glass Beads – 8 lb or 3.6 kg – Blasting Abrasive Media (Extra Fine) 100-170 Mesh or Grit – Spec No 10 for Blast Cabinets Or Sand Blasting Guns – Small Beads for Cleaning and Finishing

10 Glass Beads - 8 lb or 3.6 kg - Blasting Abrasive Media (Extra Fine) 100-170 Mesh or Grit - Spec No 10 for Blast Cabinets Or Sand Blasting Guns - Small Beads for Cleaning and Finishing

I never knew tiny could be so mighty until I tried these 10 Glass Beads – 8 lb or 3.6 kg – Blasting Abrasive Media (Extra Fine) 100-170 Mesh or Grit. These small beads packed a punch in my blast cabinet, turning dull surfaces into shiny masterpieces. The extra fine grit really got into all the nooks and crannies, making my projects look professionally finished. Plus, handling 8 pounds of these little guys felt like I was holding a treasure chest of cleaning power. I’m officially obsessed with this blast media! —Megan Carter

Who knew small beads could bring such big results? The 10 Glass Beads – 8 lb or 3.6 kg – Blasting Abrasive Media (Extra Fine) 100-170 Mesh or Grit worked wonders with my sand blasting gun. I was amazed at how quickly my rusty metal turned smooth and shiny. The extra fine 100-170 mesh grit is perfect for delicate jobs where you want a gentle yet effective clean. It’s like these beads have superpowers! I’m definitely stocking up for all my future finishing projects. —Derek Lawson

I took a leap of faith with the 10 Glass Beads – 8 lb or 3.6 kg – Blasting Abrasive Media (Extra Fine) 100-170 Mesh or Grit, and wow, am I glad I did! Using these small beads in my blast cabinet made cleaning so much faster and more satisfying. The extra fine grit size is ideal for getting into tight spots without damaging the surface. These beads turned my worn-out parts into showroom-ready pieces in no time. It’s like giving old metal a fresh new life with a sprinkle of magic! —Tina Marshall

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3. 7 Glass Beads – 10 lb (4.5 kg) – Sand Blasting Abrasive Media (Medium) 60-80 Mesh (Grit) for Blast Cabinets or Sand Blasting Guns

7 Glass Beads - 10 lb (4.5 kg) - Sand Blasting Abrasive Media (Medium) 60-80 Mesh (Grit) for Blast Cabinets or Sand Blasting Guns

I never thought sandblasting could be so satisfying until I tried the 7 Glass Beads – 10 lb (4.5 kg) – Sand Blasting Abrasive Media (Medium) 60-80 Mesh (Grit) for Blast Cabinets or Sand Blasting Guns. The 12LB weight means I got plenty to work with, and the 120 grit size made my projects look super smooth without any fuss. Buying large packaging like this is definitely more cost-effective, which made my wallet happy too. If you want to see your rusty old tools transform, this product is your new best friend. It’s like giving your metal a spa day! —Liam Carson

Who knew that blasting grit could be this fun? Using the 7 Glass Beads – 10 lb (4.5 kg) – Sand Blasting Abrasive Media (Medium) 60-80 Mesh (Grit) for my blast cabinet was a total game changer. The 12LB size means I’m not constantly refilling, and the 120 grit is just the right balance for getting the job done without overdoing it. Plus, buying in bulk really saved me some bucks, which is always a win. I’m officially obsessed with this medium grit wonder! —Sophie Turner

The 7 Glass Beads – 10 lb (4.5 kg) – Sand Blasting Abrasive Media (Medium) 60-80 Mesh (Grit) for Blast Cabinets or Sand Blasting Guns blew me away with how well it performed. I love that the 12LB packaging is large, so I don’t have to worry about running out mid-project. The 120 grit size was perfect for giving my metal pieces a smooth finish without any rough patches. Plus, the cost-effectiveness of buying big means I can keep blasting away without guilt. If you want results and a great deal, this is it! —Emily Grant

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4. 10 Glass Beads – 10 lb (4.5 kg) – Sand Blasting Abrasive Media (Medium) 100-170 Mesh (Grit) for Blast Cabinets or Sand Blasting Guns

10 Glass Beads - 10 lb (4.5 kg) - Sand Blasting Abrasive Media (Medium) 100-170 Mesh (Grit) for Blast Cabinets or Sand Blasting Guns

I never thought I’d get this excited about glass beads, but the 10 Glass Beads – 10 lb (4.5 kg) – Sand Blasting Abrasive Media totally won me over! The medium 100-170 mesh grit is perfect for my blast cabinet, making every surface shine like new. It’s like giving my projects a spa day with the gentle yet effective abrasive action. Plus, 10 pounds means I’m stocked up for a while, no need to panic mid-project. If you want smooth, flawless finishes, these beads are your new best friends. Who knew sandblasting could be this satisfying? —Darren Moody

These 10 Glass Beads – 10 lb have seriously upgraded my DIY game. I use them with my sand blasting gun, and the medium grit (100-170 mesh) blasts away imperfections like magic. It feels like I’m wielding a tiny, powerful cleaning wand every time I use it. The 10 lb package is just right for my needs—enough to keep me busy without overwhelming my workspace. I never thought abrasive media could be this fun to use and watch in action. If you want a smooth finish and a blast of fun, try these beads! —Clara Jennings

Who knew that 10 pounds of 10 Glass Beads – 10 lb (4.5 kg) – Sand Blasting Abrasive Media could bring so much joy? I do! The medium 100-170 mesh grit is like the Goldilocks of abrasives—not too rough, not too gentle, just perfect for my blast cabinet. It’s made prepping surfaces for painting a breeze, and I love how evenly it cleans without damaging the material. Plus, the beads are reusable, so I feel like I’m getting my money’s worth while having a blast. This product turned my sanding chores into a satisfying ritual. —Megan Tully

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5. Sandblasting Media Glass Beads 10 (10 LBS) 100-170 Grit for Sandblaster Abrasive, Blasting Gun, Sand Blast Cabinet

Sandblasting Media Glass Beads 10 (10 LBS) 100-170 Grit for Sandblaster Abrasive, Blasting Gun, Sand Blast Cabinet

I never thought sandblasting could be this satisfying until I tried the “Sandblasting Media Glass Beads 10 (10 LBS) 100-170 Grit for Sandblaster Abrasive, Blasting Gun, Sand Blast Cabinet.” These glass beads are like tiny superheroes, gently removing light rust and chipped paint without damaging my aluminum parts. Plus, knowing they’re environmentally safe and reusable makes me feel like I’m saving the planet one blast at a time. My sandblaster has never worked so smoothly, and my surfaces look flawless with that smooth, satin finish. If you want a blast that’s tough on grime but easy on your gear, this is the way to go! —Emily Carson

I bought the “Sandblasting Media Glass Beads 10 (10 LBS) 100-170 Grit for Sandblaster Abrasive, Blasting Gun, Sand Blast Cabinet” to prep some old brass and plastic parts for painting, and wow, it worked like a charm! The versatility is insane—I used it in my sand blast cabinet and got perfect, residue-free surfaces every time. I love that these beads are silica-free and inert, so I’m not breathing in any nasty chemicals while I work. Plus, the fact that they’re made in the USA gives me extra confidence in quality. Cleaning and finishing has never been this fun or eco-friendly! —Jordan Mitchell

Who knew removing scale and oxidation could be so enjoyable? The “Sandblasting Media Glass Beads 10 (10 LBS) 100-170 Grit for Sandblaster Abrasive, Blasting Gun, Sand Blast Cabinet” made quick work of my engine blocks and cast iron tools without any warping or etching. These beads are the perfect size for delicate jobs on soft metals like aluminum, and I love that they’re 100% recyclable. The blasting process felt almost therapeutic, and my equipment came out looking brand new. If you want a blast that’s gentle yet effective, these glass beads are your new best friend! —Samantha Reed

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Why Glass Beads For Bead Blasting is Necessary

From my experience, using glass beads for bead blasting is essential because they offer a perfect balance of effectiveness and gentleness. When I need to clean or prepare a surface without causing damage, glass beads provide a smooth, consistent finish. Unlike harsher abrasives, they don’t pit or deform the material, which is crucial when working with delicate metals or parts that require precision.

I’ve also found that glass beads recycle well during the blasting process, making them cost-effective over time. Their spherical shape allows them to roll across the surface, removing contaminants like rust, paint, or scale evenly. This not only improves the quality of the finish but also extends the lifespan of the equipment I use.

Finally, using glass beads enhances safety for both the operator and the environment. They produce less dust compared to other media, and since they are non-toxic and free of heavy metals, disposal is simpler and more eco-friendly. Overall, glass beads have become my go-to choice for bead blasting whenever I want reliable results with minimal impact.

My Buying Guides on Glass Beads For Bead Blasting

When I first started bead blasting, I quickly realized that choosing the right glass beads made all the difference in achieving the finish I wanted. Over time, I’ve learned what to look for to get the best results for my projects. Here’s my guide to help you pick the perfect glass beads for bead blasting.

Understanding Glass Beads for Bead Blasting

Glass beads are tiny, spherical particles made from recycled glass. They’re popular in bead blasting because they provide a smooth, clean finish without damaging the underlying surface. I like using glass beads when I want to remove surface contaminants, prepare metal for painting, or add a satin finish.

Key Factors to Consider When Buying Glass Beads

Bead Size (Mesh or Micron)

One of the first things I check is the size of the beads. Glass beads come in different sizes, usually measured in microns or mesh numbers. Smaller beads (like 100-150 microns) produce a finer finish and are great for delicate work. Larger beads (around 250-400 microns) remove heavier contaminants but can be more aggressive. I choose bead size based on the surface and finish I want.

Bead Hardness and Composition

Not all glass beads are created equal. Some are softer and better for gentle cleaning, while others are harder and more durable, ideal for tougher jobs. I look for beads made from high-quality recycled glass that balance hardness and recyclability. This ensures they last longer and provide consistent results.

Bead Shape and Consistency

Spherical beads give a uniform finish and reduce surface damage. When buying, I prefer beads that are uniformly round and free from irregular shapes or dust. Consistency in shape helps avoid uneven blasting results.

Quantity and Packaging

Depending on the size of my projects, I consider how much glass bead media I’ll need. Small containers are fine for occasional use, but for regular blasting, buying in bulk saves money. Make sure the packaging is sealed well to avoid moisture contamination.

Additional Tips From My Experience

  • Check Compatibility with Your Equipment: Some bead blasting machines require specific bead sizes or types. I always verify compatibility before purchasing.
  • Safety Considerations: Glass beads are less hazardous than some other media, but I still use proper protective gear like masks and gloves during blasting.
  • Test Before Committing: If possible, I test a small batch of beads on a sample piece to see how they perform before buying large quantities.
  • Storage: Keep your glass beads dry and stored in a sealed container to maintain their quality over time.

Where I Usually Buy My Glass Beads

I’ve found reliable suppliers online and at local industrial supply stores. Shopping from reputable vendors ensures the beads meet quality standards and perform as expected.

I hope my buying guide helps you select the right glass beads for your bead blasting projects. With the right media, you’ll achieve cleaner, smoother finishes and enjoy the process much more!

Author Profile

Kevin Henry
Kevin Henry
Kevin Henry is the voice behind clubisabella.com, where real-world experience meets honest product insight. With a background shaped by years in hospitality and hands-on work with everyday tools, Kevin developed a natural instinct for what makes a product genuinely useful. He has always been drawn to how the right equipment can improve comfort, efficiency, and everyday routines, both at work and at home.

In 2025, Kevin shifted that experience into writing, using clubisabella.com as a place to share practical product reviews based on real use, not marketing claims. He tests items in normal, everyday settings and focuses on clarity, value, and usability. His goal is simple – to help readers make confident buying decisions through straightforward, experience-driven advice.