We're in the final stages of selecting a new long bed Lathe for production shaft work.

I have the option of turning in a longer bed machine where the part is held Z+ of the Chuck or alternatively going with a shorter machine where part of the work inserts into the spindal of the machine.

The shorter machine will obviously have a much larger spindal bore to accomodate this (320mm as opposed to 165).

Does anyone have experience working with large bore (oil country style machines) and are there any quirks or disadvantages or weaknesses to this type of machine?

Any advice or experiences appreciated. BR