What size/grade to look for in pool filter sand?

[mrjbacon]

Is there any good way to grade/sift sand? I've been using generic (not '#20') Fairmount-Santrol AquaQuartz in my tanks and while it looks good, I don't think it's quite fine enough. Or, at least there seems to be a high percentage of particles that aren't fine enough. The size ranges from 0.5-2.5mm (80-85%) and the rest is 3-5mm, which seems huge for some species. Is there a way to tell if it's too large, and if so should I try and sift it or just replace it with something that has a more uniform size?

 

[Katsutaro Yoshimoto]

You can try sifting it with a fish net. It should catch the larger pieces and let the small ones fall through. Though it might take a while. Or maybe get a stainless steel colander that you use for food and try it that way. I've had great success with the caribsea super naturals sand, but I got it when it was on sale and it might be a little pricey for bigger tanks.

 

[mrjbacon]

Yeah, I'm looking for sand for two 40gal breeder tanks, so 50 lbs at the very least.