Grizzly G0516 Combo Mini Lathe with Mill

The Grizzly Lathe/Mill Combo is pretty fair value for the price.

Like all Lathe/Mill combos, it fills the job of 2 machines in 1 and will be very suitable for small shops and definitely kinder on the credit card than buying both a lathe and a separate milling machine.

Although, if you can afford the outlay, having lathe and mill as separate pieces of machinery will save time as you won’t have to switch adjustments swinging from lathe over to mill.

But how often will you be turning something down and need do some milling?
grizzly mini lathe

If it’s not often, then go for a combo mini Lathe/Mill.

The Grizzly Lathe GO516 Technical Details:

  • Distance between centers: 21″
  • Lathe motor size (Single-phase, 110V): 3/4 HP
  • Lathe spindle bore: 3/4″
  • Mill/drill motor size (Single-phase, 110V): 1/2 HP
  • Swing: 9-3/4″ (lathe), 12 3/4″ (mill/drill)
  • 6 speeds

There is a full review by an expert over at Amazon, and though this lathe/mill stacks up well, for a few extra dollars you may find the Shop Fox M1018 a little sturdier and more straight forward to use.

Still, the Grizzly GO516 will handle most projects  that a smaller shop will attempt plus save money and space.

Can you use a Wood Lathe to turn Metal?

This is a question that has been put to me on a number of occasions and the answer (with my tongue in my cheek and fingers crossed behind my back ) is Yes, you can.

But Beware.

A Wood Lathe was never designed to do this.

The chuck is different and has a different holding strength, a wood lathe spins faster and you’ll probably have trouble getting down to metal turning speeds, the cutting tool on a Metal Lathe is held tightly in a vice. (And for good reason)

There are details at E How-Using a wood lathe to turn metal which seem fairly comprehensive BUT don’t even think about trying it out until you’ve lots of experience on a Wood lathe and at least some experience on a Metal Lathe.
The Metal Lathe turning time will at least give you some feeling for what turning should feel like on this type of lathe and maybe some inner warning if the metal starts to get loose.

If you only have a Wood Lathe and need to turn something metal, go and knock on some friends door and call in a favor.

Because it can be dangerous.

Hearing Protectors


Hearing Protection is just too easily overlooked in small shops.
hearing protection

On large sites everyone wears them because of Health and Safety rules but at home, they mostly just get left on the shelf.

And the long term effects can be anything from annoying to catastrophic later in life.

The smallest and cheapest type of hearing protection is ear plugs.

Easily kept in a pocket and small enough to keep lots of them around the shop.

The drawback is they become dirty and will often  irritate some ear canals.

Hearing protection cups, like stereo headphones offer the best protection and with padding against the side of the head, won’t annoy or become irritating.

That is until you try to put on a dust mask and one tangles with the other.hearing protection

But with this type of hearing protection you know you’re safe and hearing loss won’t become a problem later.

Protectors come in all varieties of cost and performance.

Get the best you can afford.hearing protection

Metal Drill Bits

One accessory you’re going to need for your shop is a set of  Metal Index Drill Bits

There are bits available at all sorts of prices from very cheap to extremely expensive.
Cobalt Drill Bits

And the rule of thumb is “You get what you pay for“.

The drill bits you’ll find at the local hardware probably won’t be good enough unless they’re Cobalt Drill Bits or at at least HSS which stands for High Speed Steel.

Most everything else is too soft carbon steel which blunts easily and is really only useful for wood. If you find a set of lathe drills that are TiN coated, they’ll be great as the coating stops chips and cuttings from sticking (or welding) to the surface and scoring or marking the drilled surface.

Cobalt Drill Bits are more expensive than lots of other bits but will keep on cutting evenly and that’s what you need on a lathe where pressure is often a whole lot higher that with an ordinary drill press.
I’ve used many Irwin products to date and they’ve never let me down.

If it’s Irwin, I highly recommend it.

You may also need to get a Lathe Drill Chuck for the tailstock if there’s not one in your tool box.

Jet 1014 Variable Speed Mini Wood Lathe

A winner every way you look at it.

The Jet JML 1014 Variable Speed Mini Wood Lathe is a smooth, sturdy mini lathe ideal for small, delicate turning.

Heavy duty cast iron bed ensures that the lathe stays stable during turning and the variable speed control box allows the lathe to be used for all types of projects with an extremely wide of speeds from 500 rpm right up to 3,900 rpm.

All powered along by a ½ HP motor.
jet 1014

This model also has 24 indexing positions that will be perfect when fluting or veining, and the spindle lock makes chuck and faceplate removal simple and straightforward.

The 10″ swing over the bed and 14″ spindle capacity lets this mini wood lathe handle work that seems like it should be over its limit but will do easily. And you can increase the project length capability with a 20” bed extension.

There is a 6” tool rest that works well but a good trick with tool rests is to polish the resting edge. This allows smoother tool movement and sliding.

The lathe comes with rubber rests and will normally stay in place when in use. But always bolt or clamp down any mini lathe as they can stutter on some grains and it always seems to happen at those important moments.

Be safe and be sure. Bolt it down.
Jet Pen Lathe

You can get the Jet 1014 Mini Lathe without the Variable Speed for approx $70 less but don’t do it. The extra cost for the Variable Speed is what makes this mini wood lathe stand out from the rest. The normal Jet pen lathe is good but the variable speed control makes it perfect.

Jet 1014 Lathe features:

1″ x 8 TPI Spindle.  #2 Morse Taper on head and tailstock. Motor is 1/2 HP, single Phase, 115 Volt. Overall dimensions of the lathe are 24-5/8″ deep x 7-1/4″ wide x 14″ high. Includes 6″ tool rest, live center, 3″ faceplate, spur center, tooling knockout.

Click Here to get Price and Delivery details of the Jet Mini Lathe

NB: The Variable Speed Lathe is on the LEFT SIDEBAR when you CLICK HERE

Jet 5×9 Metal Hobby Lathe

Small shop but want big results on your small hobby projects?

mini metal latheThen take a look at the JET Hobby Lathe

Solid and sturdy, this lathe may be small but the work you’ll turn out will amaze you.

A bench top lathe of cast iron, featuring a 150W motor with Variable Speeds so that you can turn different metals with ease.

It offers a 5-1/2-Inch Swing over bed; a distance between centers of 9-3/4-Inch and a spindle speed range of 100-2000.

* Electronic Variable Speed 100-2000RPM

* Over-load protection

* Lead screw is protected under the bed with auto-feed mechanism

* Three jaw chuck

* Dead center MT1

A great little lathe, the Jet 610 won’t break the bank and will meet the requirements of the hobby metal worker and like all Jet Lathes, the quality is excellent.

Purchase the JET JHL-610 Hobby Lathe here.

Sharpening Lathe Tools

The only way to attack a piece of timber and get great results is with extremely sharp tools.
sharpening lathe tools

Razor sharp.

You can grind your chisels and knives dry but you take the risk of burning the tip and losing the steel hardness.

To get that extra keenness on the end of a blade, the professional choice is a slow speed wet grinder to sharpen lathe tools.

The slower speed and water delivery ensure better control over edge finish.

At low rpm, chisels take a little longer to get fully sharpened but there is less likelyhood of damage to the steel and better control over the amount of material that is removed plus it’s easier to keep the correct alignment of cutting edge.

Use the leather strop to finish knife and chisel blade sharpening and you’ll have that razor sharpness that almost guarantees good workmanship.

The grinding wheel is 10′ dia. and 2′ wide and the grinder comes with grinding paste.

As far as price goes, the Grizzly Wet Grinder Kit beats everything on the market.

Made in Germany and typical Grizzly quality, you’ll find wet grinding lathe tools on this 10″ grinder will help create a better finish to wood lathe projects.

Powermatic 4224 Wood Lathe

Now you’re getting into the big stuff.powermatic wood lathe

This impressive Powermatic Wood Lathewill handle 20″ plus bowls down to small pens and it has 42″ between centers giving you great versatility when it comes to deciding on projects.

With this lathe you can go into quality production and sell the items you turn out. Load them onto Ebay or such and start to get a return from your hobby.

That can’t be done with a mini lathe.

It has the power and speed control to do just about any wood turning project you wish. Heavy enough to put a kink in your back when assembling (so be CAREFUL) which means it won’t stutter across the floor under cutting pressure. Still not a bad idea to bolt down to the floor as with any lathe.

There’s so much to write about this lathe.

Here are parts from a couple of reviews over at Amazon. The people who bought this lathe just love it.powermatic wood lathe

“If you want to turn little things get a little lathe but if you want to turn big things(and little things) then you should get this machine.”

“I’ve been using this lathe for over 2 years now and it sure is a heavyweight. I turn mostly bowls in the 14-20 inch diameter range and this is the machine to do it on.”

“I bought this lathe about a month ago. Super lathe–the Horse power and weight are well worth the extra cost.”

Have a read of all the features about this lathe and the full reviews from here at Amazon.

3M Respirator Mask

Dust Masks are such a nuisance.
3M dust mask

Until you wish you were wearing one. They get in the way of your vision because they’re never cleaned properly; they make breathing difficuly because the cartridges never get changed and they can be hot and sweaty to wear.

BUT. Stand back and see someone using an angle grinder or bench grinder and you’ll see the sort of garbage that floats around your nose and mouth in the shop.

3M Respirator Masks remove the problems normally found in dust masks with usual 3M effeciency. If you live in a warm climate, they can still get a bit sweaty but they’re more comfortable than most other masks on the market due to the construction and design.

Made from durable silicon material and with Cool Flow exhaust valve for easier breathing, 3M dust masks certainly make the shop a lot safer.

Don’t waste your time or health with on disposable dust mask. They’re for show not safety.

If you’re going to do something in or out of the shop that’ll create clouds of dust or drag out the spray painter and have over spray filling the area, put on a mask. You’ll be very glad later in life.

And always have spare 3M respirator cartridges on hand.

Clean the mask thoroughly before (don’t breathe in old dirt) and after use, change the filters frequently.

The 3M Respirator Mask comes from Amazon so you’re sure on price and delivery.

Lathe Instructions

If you’re new to metal or woodworking and want to know How to Work a Lathe, this is the book to get you started.How to run a lathe

In this 260 page book you’ll find an explanaition of lathe parts, accessories you may want to chase up as you get more experienced including cutting tools and tool holders, you get operating procedures and machine set-up.
Here is what others thought about this book on how to run a lathe:

D Logan owner R F & M -”Very well written a approach rto train the novice machinist. I have seen other books on the subject and find this book starts where it should with very good detail , SAFETY.. Book is well laid out and each chapter provides a good question and answer section at the end ..I highly recomend this book..”

Johan Stokman (Fort Worth, TX USA) “Great book for the “true beginner”, me. Very well written, lots of good advice on safety and operations. Just the info you need to get started, now for the next book..”

This book on Lathe Operation and Maintenance is the place to start whether you’re brand new to lathes or need more lathe instructions to build your experience levels.

SHOP FOX W1752 Mini Wood Lathe

The SHOP FOX W1752 is a stable bench-top wood lathe with six speeds ranging from 480 to 4023 RPM, providing the flexibility for any turning project.

mini wood lathe

Quality castings and good weight makes the lathe operation extremely smooth and quiet. Very well built and solid.

A bed extension is available for this mini lathe that allows centers of over 36 inches.

  • Quick access speed changes
  • Swing over bed: 10-Inch
  • Tailstock travel: 3-1/4-Inch
  • Tool rest length: 6-1/4-Inch
  • Includes tool rest, live rolling center, spur center and 3-Inch face plate

Belt driven 110v 1phase motor.

Paddle type switch with lockout. 1″ x 8TPI Spindle, 3″ Face Plate included.

Outboard spindle 1″x8TPI, Spindle #2 Morse taper, tailstock #2 Morse Taper.

This is what is being said about the W1752 over at Amazon.

This is a very solid, rigid lathe that will help you turn out some very good work. If you’re looking for chisels and knives to go with this great machinery, have a look at Wood Turning Tools from Amazon.

This review is from: SHOP FOX W1752 Mini Wood Lathe (Amazon Tools & Hardware)

by William H. Knauer Jr.

“I totally agree with the first reviewer. (Except there is no first reviewer)This lathe is every bit as good as the JET series in its class at half the price. Turned a pen this evening and it was so nice to do on a smooth running quite lathe. I also purchased a Baracuda chuck but have not used it yet. I’m thinking that this must be SHOP FOX’s well kept secret. Better jump on this before they realize what they have here.”

This review is from: SHOP FOX W1752 Mini Wood Lathe (Amazon Tools & Hardware) by L. Menzel.
“Pretty darn good lathe. Especially for the price. I’m with the majority here. I think it’s every bit as good as my previous Jet, and even better as it handles 15″ material with ease, and with the extension bed (a must-have item, IMO) stretches it out to an unbelievable 38 inches.
I checked out the welds on my tool rest, etc., and can find no evidence of breaking or cracking. The belt is snug and very smooth (previous reviewer: did you loosen the belt tension lock knob and snug up the belt?). It’s quiet and does an excellent job for me.
Price and free shipping! I recommend this W1752 to anyone who needs a mini-lathe.”

Shipping details from Amazon.com

Jet 9×20 Belt Driven Metal Lathe

The Jet 9″ X 20″ Belt Drive Bench Lathe is precisely the type and size midi metal lathe that will fit in a small shop and can
mini lathe for sale
handle the projects of any hobbist.

The spindle is supported by precision tapered roller bearings removing shudder and hardened and ground bedways will provide long life and correct sizing.

Power Longitudinal feed allows threading and reverse threading while the enclosed gear box ensures safety and a clean belt drive area.

The standard 1-1/2 X 8 TPI spindle mount allows for many aftermarket accessories. Reversing switch included for added versatility.

Backlash adjustments are provided throughout the carriage and the tailstock is adjustable for taper cuts. Quick change gearbox provides a wide range of inch and metric threads.

4″ 3 jaw chuck with threaded back plate

7″ 4 jaw chuck with threaded back plate

Four way tool post

Single tool post

Steady and follow rest

If you’re looking for a small metal lathe that can do a big job, you can’t go past the Jet 9″ X 20″ Bench Lathe. Jet mini lathe for sale here.

JET Variable Speed JWL-1642EVS 16×42 Wood Lathe

Now you’re getting into the JET Variable Speed Woodworking Lathe that’s perfect for the wood worker who wants power and size.
jet variable speed wood lathe

With a 1-1/2HP, three phase, 115-volt motor for more than enough power and 16-inch swing with 42-inches between centers  for turning much larger projects. It has the power to turn big peices.

For shops that do not have 220-volt power available, an electronic inverter does all the work to convert 115-volt from the “1 phase” to “3 phase.”

Constructed from heavy-duty iron castings, the JWL-1642EVS provides long-term accuracy and smooth, vibration-free operation and stands on cast iron legs with adjustable pads holding the lathe 44 1/2 inches above floor level.

The large-diameter spindle has a 1.25 x 8 threads-per-inch nose that supports the large chucks typically used with this type of lathe and the outboard end of the spindle is fitted with a barrel-type grip for turning the spindle by hand.

The spindle also has internal indexing built in that allows you to lock it in 36 positions.jet 1642 lathe guard

A heavy-gauge wire guard for operator safety.

The variable speed is simply a dial that works like one of those pushbutton/turning light switches so you can dial in any speed you like.

The JWL-1642EVS measures 29 x 28 x 59 inches (WxHxL), weighs 410 pounds, and is covered by a five-year warranty.
Sales Details of the Jet 16×42 Wood Lathe.

This lathe rivals any of those costing much more.

Dewalt 8 inch Bench Grinder

The DEWALT DW758 8-inch heavy-duty bench grinder comes with a powerful 3/4-HP induction motor for heavy-duty grinding operations.
8" bench grinder

The bearings are such fine fittings that after the grinder is switched off, the grinding wheels will keep turning for some time.

Sturdy tool rests are easily adjustable and won’t move once locked tight.

Key features include an industrial cast-iron base and motor housing for added durability and prolong life, and the motor runs at 3,600 RPM for easy and reliable high speed material removal.

There’s a 12-1/2-inch distance between wheels for longer and larger grinding applications, and precision-machined adjustable aluminum tool rests allow the user to accurately position work.

Rear exhaust ports in the wheel guards provide smooth operation. This grinder measures 16 inches long and weighs 39-1/2 pounds and comes with a 36-grit wheel, a 60-grit wheel, eye shields, spark deflectors, tool rests, and an adjusting wrench.

No wheel dressing tool comes with the grinder and this is a very necessary tool to keep your chisels and metal cutting equipment edges straight when sharpening. Something you will definitely need.

The DEWALT DW758 8 Bench Grinder is going to do lots of work in your shop and the 8 inch size abrasive wheels give a cleaner finish then smaller wheels that tend to create grinding bounce and inaccuracy.

Wood Turning Tools

There are quite a number of woodworking lathe tools on the market and not all are the quality needed to turn out great projects. The type of steel will determine just how sharp you can get lathe chisels and if you can’t keep a chisel sharp, you’re going to end up with lots of chuncking and difficult to remove marks. These wood lathe turning tools are carbon steel and will retain that keen edge longer than cheap, low grade steel chisels.

The 800 by Great Neck is an 8 Piece Wood Turning Tool Set

wood lathe turning tools

The set are high carbon alloy tools.

Comes with season kiln-dried hardwood handles and plate ferrule.

The set is accurately ground, sharpened, hardened and tempered.

Blades are made of high quality forged tool steel, correctly hardened, ground with proper bevels, and polished.

Blades are securely fitted with long tangs into special designed natural finish hardwood handles.

Blades are 6 1 2″ long, handles are 10 1 2″ long. More information on Great Neck Lathe Chisels

Steelex Plus D2304 Deluxe HSS 6 Peice Lathe Chisel Set

This Deluxe Lathe Chisel Set features beefy ash handles for unsurpassed control, brass ferrules and high speed steel
wood turning chisel
blades.

Includes:

17″ long 13/16″ Parting Tool

13/16″ Round Nose and 3/8″ Gouge

19″ long 1″ Skew

5/8″ Gouge and a 22 3/4″ long 3/8″ Gouge.

Comes in a beautiful red blow-molded carrying case.

Steelex Wood Turning Lathe Tools are the very best quality and won’t let you down.

Steelex 4 Jaw Chuck for Wood Lathe

Increase your wood lathe’s versatility with this Steelex Chuck for Wood Lathes

Four jaw lathe chuck

This 4-jaw chuck is 6″ in diameter and comes complete with key.

The 4-jaw chuck is an independent-type chuck that is used for square and odd-shaped pieces.

Each jaw tightens individually and can be turned around to hold larger dimension workpieces.

This 4 Jaw Chuck will help you add new and interesting designs to your work and let you create more complex work pieces and projects.

Steelex Chucks fit many of the wood lathes in the U.S.A.
Will it fit yours? Click on the image to get further information.

Shop Fox M1015 6 x 10-inch Micro Lathe

This Shop Fox 6 x 10-inch Micro Lathe is a perfect lathe for someone who wants a durable and well-designed machine that can fit in a small location. 6x10 mini lathe

This Mini-Lathe gives model makers, toolmakers, gun hobbyists, and the weekend machinist a way to economically produce small precision parts, threaded parts, fittings, and dies. Distance Between Centers: 10-Inches and Spindle Speed: 100-2000 RPM.

  • Features:
  • * 4 hex wrenches
  • * Double ended wrench
  • * Socket head wrench
  • * Center MT #1
  • * Oil cup * Fuse
  • * 2 T-nuts
  • * Chuck key
  • * 3 external jaws Specifications:
  • * Motor: 1/5 HP, 110V, Single-Phase
  • * Swing Over Bed: 6-Inches

A perfect lathe for small workshops and for small spaces. MORE INFORMATION

Jet 12 x 20-inch Wood Lathe

The newest addition to the JET® line of Woodturning Lathes is the model708376 JWL-1220 or 12 x 20-inch Wood Lathe jet 12x20 wood lathe

This new variable speed, 3/4HP lathe supports stock up to 12″ in diameter and 20″ in length.

This little powerhouse features variable 270-4200RPM continuous speed operation, a self-ejecting tailstock for added safety, spindle lock and indexing capability for fluting and veining applications, built-in work light to illuminate your work piece, and much more.

If you are looking for a big lathe for your shop, but are short on space, give the a try, you’ll be glad you did.
You can visit Jet 708376 JWL-1220 12 x 20-inch Wood Lathe details and shipping.

Grizzly G4000 9″ x 19″ Bench Lathe

The Grizzly G4000 Bench Lathe is precision crafted by one of our most-trusted factories for superior accuracy & long-lasting dependability.

You won’t find a better combination of price & performance on a full-featured 9″ x 19″ lathe anywhere among miniature lathes!

Specifications:

Swing over bed: 8-3/4″

Swing over cross slide: 5″

Distance between centers: 19″

Motor: 3/4 HP, 110V

Range of speeds: 130, 300, 400, 600, 1000, 2000 RPM

Carriage travel: 16″

Overall dimensions:

37″L x 20″W x 15″H

Approx. shipping weight: 293 lbs.

Grizzly are including lots of extras and a special price at the moment.

More details of the Grizzly 4000, further specifications and more mini lathes for sale here

JET JML 10 X 14 Inch Indexing Mini Lathe

The new JET JML 1014I 10 Inch X 14 Inch Indexing Mini Lathe JET Mini-Lathe replaces the popular JML-1014. Without changing the basic reliable lathe, Jet has added arbor locks and indexing.
jet 10x14 wood lathe

Jet variable speed mini lathe is a powerful cast iron machine for smaller projects. The headstock is driven by a 1/2-horsepower motor with six speed selections to choose from and comes with several accessories included that are optional on other machines.

This model is also machined on the tailstock end to accept the JET 20-inch bed extension.

Wood turning can be enhanced by adding fluting, which is running decorative grooves lengthwise down a spindle by utilizing the indexing options. This powerful cast iron machine provides stable, virtually vibration free turning.

Six speeds: 500, 1200, 1450, 2130, 2400 and 3950 RPM

10″ swing over the bed.

14″ spindle capacity – which can be increased by adding a 20″ bed extension.

1″ x 8 TPI Spindle.

#2 Morse Taper on head and tailstock.

Motor: 1/2 HP, 1 Ph, 115 Volt.

Overall dimensions 24-5/8″ D x 7-1/4″ W x 14″ H.

Includes 6″ tool rest, live center, 3″ faceplate, spur center, tooling knockout, and safety goggles.

An extremely versatile lathe.

Purchase details and shipping of JET JML 10 X 14 Here.

Delta 46-455 12-1/2-inch 5-Speed Midi Lathe

The Delta 5-Speed Midi Lathe Delta 46-455 12 1/2-Inch 5-Speed Midi Lathe provides the largest capacity in its class and five speeds for versatile turning operations.


The lathes 3/4-horsepower motor reaches speeds up to 4,000 RPM for fast material removal without sacrificing turning quality. The automatic belt tensioning system of this Midi Lathe lets you change the speeds quickly and easily to minimize downtime. The 46-455 5-Speed Midi Lathe also has a cast-iron construction that provides stability and makes for an extremely durable machine. Features:

Large 12-1/2-inch swing capacity provides the largest capacity in its class

Easy front panel access to five speed controls (500; 950; 1,550; 2,700 and 4,000) reduces down time

Patented automatic belt tensioning system for easy and quick speed changes and sets the belt at the correct tension every time for maximum power transfer and longer tool life

Indexing pin to lock the head stock spindle in 24 different locations for fluting and other decorative applications

Over headstock on/off switch provides easy in use access

With a maximum distance between centers of 16-1/2 inches this lathe turns objects as long as a chair leg or as short as a thimble – can do more with a bed extension (sold separately)

Ball-bearing live center for smooth turnings

Heavy-duty, steel knockout bar Four groove belts provide superior power to turn large objects

Large up front belt access allows the user to easily change speeds

On-board storage for easy access to adjustment tools 6-inch and 10-inch tool rests provide tool support in a variety of turning applications

This Delta lathe is great value and offers versatility with its multi speed drive.

More information and sales access here>

The Shop Fox M1018 Combo Lathe Mill

Some machinists say they prefer that the mini lathe and a small mill as 2 separate machines which is fine if you have the room and the money. But for the smaller shop and the more economical budget the Shop Fox M1018 Lathe Mill is the perfect mini lathe mill combo.  You’ll find that you need to spend a little time setting adjustments when you switch from lathe to mill but you’ll also find that the space and money savings are well worthwhile. For a little more than just a lathe, you now have 2 machines and a much more effective work shop. shop fox m1018 lathe mill

Hobby or entry-level machinists will not want to pass up this versatile machine. Great for turning, cutting threads, drilling and milling small projects, this combo lathe is packed with extra add-ons like a 4-way turret tool post, 9-1/2″ faceplate, 4″ 3-jaw chuck, and a built-in rotating vise. Features a 16-1/2″ swing over bed, 11-1/2″ swing over saddle, 19-3/16″ distance between centers, 3/4″ spindle bore, and MT #3 tapers.

The list of features is huge for such a mini lathe:

  • T-slots in cross slide
  • Cuts inch and metric threads
  • Turret tool post
  • Tailstock offsets 1/2″
  • Built-in vise
  • 4″ 3-jaw chuck
  • 1/2″ drill chuck
  • MT #3 chuck arbor
  • 2 dead centers
  • Change gears
  • 5″ backplate
  • 9-1/2″ faceplate
  • Motor size: 3/4 HP, 110V, single-phase
  • Swing over bed: 16-1/2″
  • Swing over saddle: 11-1/2″
  • Distance between centers: 19-3/16″
  • Spindle bore: 3/4″
  • Lathe spindle taper: MT #3
  • Mill/Drill spindle taper: MT #3
  • Tailstock taper: MT #3
  • Draw bar: 3/8″-16 TPI
  • Tailstock barrel travel: 1-1/2″
  • Cross slide travel: 4-1/2″
  • Number of Mill/Drill speeds: 14
  • Mill/Drill speeds: 117, 150, 220, 290, 276, 345, 360, 440, 450, 575, 640, 836, 1000, 1300 RPM
  • Number of Lathe speeds: 7
  • Lathe speeds: 160, 300, 375, 470, 600, 870, 1360 RPM
  • Thread range (inches): 27 @ 8 – 120 TPI
  • Thread range (metric): 18 @ .2 – 3.0 mm
  • Approximate shipping weight: 475 lbs.

This is a review from Amazon.com by someone who purchased this lathe.

From: SHOP FOX M1018 Small Combo Lathe Mill (Amazon Tools & Hardware) by B.Christensen.

“This is the “real deal.” It is mostly cast or machined steel and very heavy – shipping weight was 501#. I used a diesel engine hoist to get it up on the workbench. The workmanship appears to be very good. The vise and beds are very tight and no visible or measurable play (by hand) yet moves smoothly. The gears, motor and all drive parts run very smooth and quiet. I have not used the mill portion yet but will update when I do. If you buy one, be certain to check EVERY nut and bolt as loosening may occur in shipping. The gearbox on mine was only half full of gear oil. Also be sure to run the break-in process outlined in the manual. It takes about 6 hours to complete so plan time for it. I ran a 1/2″D x 6″L round 6160 and had less than .002 variation over the length. I then threaded the piece and was quite pleased with the consistency and accuracy of the threading. CEVA was the shipper and they were anything but expedient, I had to call them after sitting on in for almost a week at the local dock – CEVA does have tracking on their own Internet page. I have some materials ordered for upcoming projects and will update this when the machine has had more use.”

The Shop Fox M1018 from Toolking.com ( I recommend you have a look at Toolking as they are more of a machinery specialist) is extremely versatile and you’ll end up making projects that were impossibe without the vertical mill. Offering much more latitude than you can get on a 7×17 or 8×12, this mini lathe mill combination is the answer to saving space, saving money and turning out exciting and inspiring work.
The Workshop Manual for the M1018 is available at on the lathe Hints page

General International MAXI Wood Turning Lathe

The General International Maxi Wood Lathe is one of the most popular and one of the most reasonably priced wood turning lathes on the market. The maxi lathe is a bench top model although there is a solid metal stand available to suit this lathe. The swing and centers sizes allow for a great range of projects that will cover the needs of most home wood turners.general international wood lathe
As with turning on any wood lathe, remember your safety first, particularly with a lathe such as this as there are many speed variations to choose from and the lathe will take a decent size piece of timber.

Features:

* Quick lock control levers easily position tool rest
* Large 10-inch inboard turning capacity
* Cast-iron frame, head and tailstock to reduce chatter and vibration for smoother turning
* Maximum turning capacity of 15-inches between centers
With optional bed extension (sold separately), maximum turning capacity of 45-inches between centers
* V-belt provides smooth turning – 6 speeds: 480, 1270, 1960, 2730, 3327 & 4023 RPM

Specifications:

* Spindle Speeds (6): 480, 1270, 1960, 2730, 3327, 4023 and RPMgeneral international lathe
* Swing Over Bed: 10-Inches (254 mm)
* Swing Over Base: 7-1⁄2Inches (190 mm)
* Distance Between Centers: 15-Inches (382 mm)
* Spindle Thread: 1-Inch – 8 TPI
* Hollow Tailstock: 3/8Inch DIAMETER
* Morse Taper: MT #2 (Headstock & Tailstock)
* Self Ejecting Travel: 2-Inches (51 mm)
* Tool Rest: 6-Inches (152 mm)
* Face Plate: 3-Inches (76 mm)
* Motor: 1⁄2 HP, 110 V, 1720 RPM, 3.8 A
* Weight: 106-Pounds (45 Kg)

Pricing and delivery details of the General International Wood Lathe available here.

Shop Fox M1016 10 x 20-inch Metal Lathe

This Shop Fox M1016 Metal Lathe is a very handy small size midi lathe that will handle most of the work required by hobbyists and model makers due to 9-3/4″ swing and 21″ distance between centers. The Model M1016 10×20 metal lathe comes with 5″ 3- and 4-jaw chucks, 8-1/2″ faceplate, 4-way turret tool post, quick change tool post, quick change collet set, plus a heap more accessories.shop fox lathe

  • Cross slide table
  • 11 change gears
  • 2 dead centers
  • 4-way turret tool post
  • Eye shield
  • 6 speed lathe with speeds of 150, 240, 490, 750, 1,200 and 2,400 RPM
  • Forward / reverse switch with emergency stop

Manufactured by Woodstock International, the Model M1016 operates on input Voltage 110 volt / 120 volt @ 60hz (North America) and has a .75 horsepower (HP) motor.

  • Lathe Size 10-inch x 20-inch
  • RPM (Rotations Per Minute) 1,725
  • Work Light No
  • Speed Adjustment Type Variable Speed (Trigger Controlled)
  • Swing Over Bed 9-3/4-inch
  • Swing Over Tool Rest Base 6-inch
  • Distance Between Centers 20-inch
    • Headstock Taper MT #3
    • Tailstock Taper MT #2
    When working with any metal lathe you get the best results if your cutting tools are razor sharp. And Dewalt make a brilliant 8″ grinder, perfect for the small shop. If you need a grinder, this is a good ‘un.
    As the lathe weights in at around 400 lbs, you’ll need to be ready with some lifting help when this midi lathe arrives at your shop.
    Access to shipping details for the  Shop Fox M1016 10 x 20-inch Metal Lathe from Toolking available Here.

PDF version of the M1016 Workshop manual available on Lathe Hints Page