Stingray69 Posted August 28, 2006 Posted August 28, 2006 I've been buying machined aluminum parts for a while now, but I'm finally at the point where I just can't afford them all time. So i've been looking into getting mini lathe, but I have no idea where to begin. I don't want to spend anymore than $200. I've used large lathes before but when it comes to something for models I don't know where to look. I'll be machining all sorts of parts from pulleys to fire bottles. Any help would be great.
GTmike400 Posted August 28, 2006 Posted August 28, 2006 You're going to really have to up the amount you want to spend. My basic lathe and essentials is worth about $750, with all the addons that I've done that seem neccesary close to $1000. Stick with Sherline. I use a Sherline and I am more than impressed with its accuracy. Some people may mention the chinese lathes, but they are not very good for our purpose because of the accuracy and size we work with. Even then, the price is still up there ($500). A lathe really isnt cost effective until you start getting into extreme detail or parts that nobody makes and you are willing to invest that money into being a little unique. I helped Clay Kemp and a few other friends pick out their lathes and setup so please feel free to ask me anything. I might do a write up on buying a lathe and machining.
Stingray69 Posted August 28, 2006 Author Posted August 28, 2006 Thanks for the info Mike! I work with a lot of metal on my models, and its getting to the point where some things I just can't do without a lathe. I researched the brand you suggested "Sherline" and found a nice one for around $575. Looks like I'm gonna have to get it!
Scale-Master Posted August 28, 2006 Posted August 28, 2006 Go with the Sherline, you won't be disappointed.
Ray Posted August 28, 2006 Posted August 28, 2006 I don't have one (but I want one) but I hear Sherline is the best.
DaveInTheHat Posted August 30, 2006 Posted August 30, 2006 I got a used Unimat I with a bunch of tools for $135. It works fine for everything I've wanted to do with it. I've been told Sherline is a better lathe. If you're looking to buy a used one check out: www.blueridgemachinery.com They have some pretty good deals on used stuff and they can get parts for just about every kind of lathe ever made.
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now