The Shop > Tools

Is it possible to purchase a good metal lathe for between £300 and £400?

(1/4) > >>

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

Navigation

[0] Message Index

[#] Next page