The Members Of Fame. I am a New comer to the maniture machine work hobby. I have purchased a used "model 9A Southbend lathe", that I think is in reasonably decent condition. I have purchased seperatly, a four-jaw chuck,some collets,an Omni-Post tool holder,some cutting tools,and a steady rest. I`m now considering the purchase of a suitable table-top mill-drill, to help with the work that can be done with the lathe. I would prefer an "American or Canadian" made machine if possible. I have been looking at the "Grizzly" table-top machines for approximately $950.00 and $975.00 dollars. The "Micro-Mark" unit looks good at much less money, My concern is, how accurate are they ?? A local out-let does have a table-top Mill-drill available, how-ever, I`m concerned about the availability of "repairs and accessories", If I need them. The web sight of "lathemaster.com" also shows a very nice Mill-drill, however, it appears "very expensive" for what a person may be getting. Small quantities of round stock in aluminum, iron and brass are also very hard to obtain here. Recomended suppliers would be appreciated. Sincerely William R.
I had a G1006 2 HP Mill/Drill type mill. It is heavy as h@!! and worked great. for the extra 200 bucks it is worth it. If you have room and a good back to move it, I would get this type. You can take heavy cuts like a real mill.
Try to buy something heavy with a square column. I bought a Prazi, great machine, small, precise well built, but the major issue is the column to raise and lower the cutting head is round. this provides with a decent amount of vibration in heavy cuts and some rotation while cutting. If you are careful, you can compensate for the head rotation but this will make operations a bit longer since you have to take lighter cuts. Finally decided to buy a Bridgeport, what a difference, I like the heavy and sturdy machine, tools and parts are readily available..
So if you have the space and money, I would say take the plunge and buy a Bridgeport or similar machine..
My first machine was a Grizzly 3 in 1 and the mill drill head is on a round post. If I take moderate cuts the head often rotates a few degrees so I must plan my cuts so that rotation moves the cutter away from what I want to keep and so the cutter does not get driven in to part (final cuts only). David