small, inexpensive lathe?

[Rick Callison]

I'd like to have a lathe for turning horn plugs and stoppers. Any ideas on a small, cheap lathe? The only ones I have found are too big and expensive for occasional use for small items. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

 

[crockett]

Check out the April 2004 issue of Muzzle Blasts, tells you how to build a small lathe for turning powder horn plugs, etc. Cost to build $10-20. The NMLRA will probably sell you a back issue if needed.

 

[Rick Callison]

Thanks, Crockett!

 

[Bob Riegl]

:v Google Grizzly Tools and look at their selections. :thumbsup:

 

[Rick Callison]

Thanks, Pasquenel. I think their hobby lathe may be just what I need.

 

[Oldnamvet]

In a pinch you can also use a drill press. I have seen a small kit that you can put onto a drill press for just that purpose. Of course the turning is done with things vertical but for only an occasional thing it should be OK.

 

[boondocker]

Tex before you buy a new one check craigslist or put a wanted on craigslist. Alot of people have these sitting around but dont think of getting rid of them untill you spark their mind. Kinda like a treadmill everyone has them with coats hanging on them. I got alot of my casting stuff that way real reasonable. Boon :thumbsup:

 

[blacksmithman64]

Tex,I have a wilton mini lathe and for 89 bucks new its the best tool for the money I own. infinite variable speed and quite a few accesories are included.One thing I added (made)was a drill chuck so I could turn REALLY small stuff! The thing weighs 47 lbs and only 2 feet long.You do want to invest in a good set of lathe chisels though, cheap ain't gonna "cut" it! :haha: Try feebay for used or penn state industries for new.I've done lathe work off and on for 25 years and the wilton is a durn good little lathe.

 

[Pork Chop]

Harbor freight...

 

[BillinOregon]

Texhunter: I built a simple foot-powered pole lathe. Do a google search for bodgers and you'll find inspiration ...

 

[Rick Callison]

Thanks, all you guys. I love the forum!

 

[shooyer_250]

yup, harbor frieght....OLDNAMVET....THANK YOU AND WELCOME HOME...Lee

 

[DBox]

My lathe isn't exactly small. It's a 1930 something model Atlas 9" with a 32 inch bed. I think I gave $100 for it a bunch of years a go. I have used it to turn everything from large steel bushings for farm equipment to 40 grain powder measures out of maple. It's a handy piece to have.