I just ordered a Homier for which based on my research was the best
buy I could find. It costs $299 and the only accessory it comes with
is a fixed center.
Cummins sells the same machine but it comes with extras for $399. For
the extra $100 you get (1) Tailstock Drill Chuck 1-13mm (with key, (2)
Moving Steady, (3) Fixed Steady, (4) 6 1/4" diameter Face Plate, (5) 5
piece cutting tool set. Bought separately, these total $103, so unless
you need all of them, I didn't see it as worth it.
Homier also sells an Accessory Kit for $99 (which I got for 10% off at
their eBay store). It includes (1) Tailstock chuck, (2) Face plate,
(3) Lathe dog, (4) Rolling center, (5) Knurling tool, (6) Follow rest,
and (7) Spindle center. I figured these would cost $128 separately, so
I thought it a better deal than the Cummins with accessories.
Shipping for the Homier was $6 cheaper ($49 vs $55), but what really
swayed me to Homier was the customer service. Cummins was real slow to
answer emails, 3 - 4 days, and never did tell me if the lathe was in
stock.
I ordered the Homier on-line Friday night when I saw they went from
Out of Stock to Supplies Limited. I called this morning (Monday) to
see if they got the order and was told it was being shipped. Got email
with UPS tracking number this afternoon and it's scheduled for
delivery Wednesday.
If I had the money, my first choice would have been the MicroMark
(82710), $673 delivered. It's 2" longer, has inch lead screws, and a
digital speed readout.
Other options are the Grizzly (G8688) at $700 delivered (some think
it's worth it for the better customer service) and Harbor Freight
(33684) which is a 7x10 (2" shorter). It's $419 but is available in
stores and with a 30% off coupon can be had for $293 + sales tax. (The
coupons come out every few months.)
Hope this helps, and let us know what you decide.
Ed
