Major perks are the size, portability. The multitude of add on and tasks that it can do. It truly is a all in one machines that you can use as needed or time allows and then put it away. I also have a long bed Atlas 10" and a antique Monarch 14" QC that I use.
-----Original Message-----
From: Aaron Woods <awoods550@...>
To: [email protected]
Sent: Wed, Apr 12, 2023 10:59 am
Subject: [Unimat] Why Unimat?
I don't have a Unimat. I'd like one but I already have several small lathes so getting one is simply a want rather than a need.
I became interested in a lathe for model work, and ended up buying a Sherline, since they could be bought new and have a good reputation.?
The topic of small lathes often comes up in modeling circles. I can do a decent comparison between Taig, Sherline and Atlas / Craftsman 6" since I have used them, but have never been hands on with a Unimat.
For somebody in the market for a small lathe, what would you say the major perks of a Unimat are??
Obviously size goes for the SL/SB if someone wants very compact and the various attachments can make it a handy if expensive many in one tool.
With the prices Unimats can ask, I begin to wonder if they are still a good suggestion for a beginner. You can get a new Taig or Sherline for about the same money as the average asking price of a Unimat.
As I don't have experience with Unimat that is a question I can't answer.
