Re: Lathes and so forth.

Robert Wilson wrote:

Hi folks,
I am just starting out. I have been looking at the Clarke Lathes that
are available from Machine Mart. Now am I using bad language by
mentioning them?

Not so much bad as expensive.

I'm looking at the CL500M Metal Lathe/Mill Drill. Any opinions?

Looks very like the Chester model "B" 3-in-1 - probably made to the same
design, and perhaps in the same chinese factory.

The Chester one will have a cr*p paint job, but it's £140 cheaper after
delivery is taken into account. You may also be able to find something
similar on eBay for less (or more!! see item 330112592370). Chester "B" is
£650, MM Clarke is £790, ebay Clarke is £899 !! all inc delivery


In general I don't like combined lathe/mills, and think that seperate
machines are far better, but ymmv. I don't know the model well enough to
comment directly on it, as I have never used one.

My advice is usually to consider the size of work you want to do, then buy
the next size up from the machine that will do the job you have in mind -
two sizes up if you are working in really hard materials. If you can afford
it, that is.


And then there's the question of old iron, which can be a bargain ...

--
Peter

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