开云体育

I've owned a Craftsman 6 inch in the past and would consider it better
quality and, if in good condition, likely to produce better results than the
minilathes as they come out of the box. They weren't a "kit", as many on
this group have described the Chinese minilathes. I've got a MicroMark
which is like the Homier and except for some bells and whistles is as good,
or bad, as the Homier.

Condition is the catch. Used ones can have some real wear problems than can
put them next to worthless. Especially look for wear on the flat ways. I'd
suggest buying one where you could get your hands on it first unless you had
some reason to be more comfortable. Seems awhile back somebody was selling
a one that looked like it had hardly been used and had many accessories
still in the box. That would make for a pretty decent basic lathe, in my
opinion. (Something I haven't seen since I joined this group is a request
for somebody to inspect something for them. Guys in a car group I'm in do
that from time to time.)

While you're looking, if you have the space, you might want to consider the
10" version. Like the 6", it's not a top of the line design, but pretty
good. I have a friend who was a tool and diemaker, is one of the dwindling
number of true craftsmen out there, and used one to build a very nice live
steam railroad engine.

One good thing about small used lathes like the Craftsman: It seems there
is always a willing market wanting to buy the things. Let's face it - it
looks more like a "real" lathe than a hobby lathe. So if you got one and
changed your mind, you can likely easily sell it locally.

Chuck K.