I built one about 7 years ago. I initially used 1/2 inch mesh hardware cloth but it causes lots of peas to fall through because it is too big. I was able to acquire a piece of 3/8 mesh that beekeepers use to keep mice out and it works better for pinkeye peas and you get very few hulls in the hopper. My beater speed is around 425 rpm. My drum speed is about 125 rpm. I used a 1 hp motor wired for 220 volts and it has plenty of power. I've shelled over 200 lbs of finished product this year already. Good luck with your project. It looks nice.
