Lathe's

[Mr Bowcat]

Hi guys.

Not sure if this is the right forum for this, so mods please move if inappropriate.

For some time now I've been thinking about buying a small lathe. No particular reason, I just fancy learning how to turn metal, and maybe make the odd AFV barrel, or a muzzle brake for one of my rifles.

I've been looking at mini lathes as I don't have room for anything much bigger, and in particular the Warco WM180.

I was just wondering if anyone had much experience with this type of lathe, or any suggestions for alternatives.

Cheers,

B

 

[wotan]

Bob

I have not used one but a lot guys who build wooden ships use this make of lathe.



This is made by Proxxon

John

 

[Mr Bowcat]

Thanks John, I'll take a look at that one.

 

[stillp]

Bob, Proxxon stuff is good but a bit too expensive. Have a search at https://www.axminster.co.uk/ who have Proxxon as well as some mor reasonably priced lathes, still made in China but with their own brand and guarantee.
Pete

 

[Mini Me]

What ever you buy Bob, make sure before hand that the manufacturer will stand behind it and that it will hold tight tolerances. Otherwise it will be a big disappointment when you are trying to produce something that is very exacting such as a firearm component. Rick H.

 

[Mr Bowcat]

Cheers for the replies gents.

 

[Martin64]

I have a Conquest Lathe from Chester U.K Limited,Machine and Tooling Specialists. I’ve had it for a few years now,it’s not in the same class as a Myford ML7, but it does the job. A big learning curve if you’ve not had lathe turning experience. I am a Mechanical Fitter by trade, and have quite a lot of turning experience and maintenance of machine tools.
Martin

 

[Mr Bowcat]

Cheers Martin, I'll have a take a look at the Conquest.

Learning how to use it is part of the fun. I'm pretty handy, and already have a few other machine tools that I maintain.

 

[Martin64]

Actually the Conquest Lathe is upgraded now to the one I have, just had a look on Chester UK website.
Martin