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| Is it possible to purchase a good metal lathe for between £300 and £400? |
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| Paddington:
Hey folks, I have read through the forums trying to find out about lathes; however, I feel I'm none the wiser. My question is simply: Is it possible to purchase a good metal lathe for between £300 and £400? If so, can you point me in the right direction? Cheers folks, Paddington. |
| Twinsquirrel:
Hi Paddington, Depends on what you call a "good" metal lathe, I have a chinese 7 x 12/14 lathe which I bought new for less than £300, I am very happy with it and have been able to produce work which I am quite proud of. Or if you want to go a higher quality route you need to search out the bargains on ebay and the like but I think you may be hunting for a long while. Some of the older and larger 3 phase stuff goes for around your budget but you would need to factor in either a single phase motor replacment or a good quality VFD which would be at least £200 on top. I prodiced an LTD stirling engine on my cheapo chinese machine as my first project, LTD's require a good deal of accuracy for the power piston and cylinder and my lathe coped admirably. Here's a gratuitous pic (I know pride is a sin) :D David |
| Darren:
David, I've got a bone to pic with you :poke: How come it's taken you this long to show us this masterpiece, it's blooming gorgeous mate :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup: Paddington, You need to narrow down the question a little, what sort of lathe, how big/small do you think you need, what do you hope to do with it? Give us something to go on and I'm sure the advice will flood in for you... :thumbup: |
| Twinsquirrel:
Darren, Wheres that bushel, I think I've left my light under it :D Thanks for the comments though David |
| sbwhart:
Paddington The Chines kit on the market is good value for money especialy as now they seem to be sorting out the quality issues. I started off with a Chines made 3 in 1 from Chester, though having experienced a 3 in 1 I wouldn't recomend one far better to get a lathe followed by a mill whatever you go for be prepared to budget extra for tools etc. You'll never be stuck for ideas for Birthday/Christmas presents Good Luck if you any questions ther's plenty of here to give you advice. Stew |
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