Looking to pickup a small lathe to compliment my cnc mill. Like to stay around $3000. Be doing mostly smaller aluminum (75%) -the rest mild steel. Wanted to stay with 220v-single phase so I didn't have to get a converter. Something a little better than the HF, Grizzly brands.
Thought about this Precision Matthews, http://precisionmatthews.com/PM1236Lathe.html
Some horror stories out there about the PM smaller machines.
I've went this morning and looked at this "CutMaster".
http://69.43.61.146/FMPro?-db=wi&-fo...r=1660-N&-Find
Looks very sturdy and seems to built tight. I'm leaning towards this one because :its local, parts are stocked in Calif. (not overseas) and comes with 1 year parts warranty. since they sell about everything, I can trade it in later.Also comes with the stand. Not much out there on the 'net about these yet. I can get it - $3k out the door loaded in my truck.
I'm spoiled by my cnc mill - so gave some thought about getting something that could eventually be converted to cnc. I'm not even sure what to look for on different machines for that capability.
Thoughts & opinions wanted...
Kevin