How to Buy a Metal Lathe
There are other advantages to using a metal lathe besides being able to work with wood or metal. Although it's more expensive, a metal lathe gives you some mechanical help whereas a wood lathe requires more hands-on skill. If you are looking to cut simple yet flawless curves on wood, a metal lathe will do the trick. Lathes can range in size from 7 by 10 feet to 9 by 20 feet; however, a 7-foot lathe is often a practical choice for frequent use in a home workshop.
Instructions
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Decide whether you want to purchase a lathe that's 7 by 10, 7 by 12, or 7 by 14 feet. The basic difference between the models is the length of the bed. Depending on the type of wood or metal projects you do, you may need a lathe with a longer bed for drilling. The 7 by 10 actually only measures 7 by 8, which may not be appropriate if you need the additional 2 inches.
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Examine the quality of the machine. Look for a lathe with a speed of 500 to at least 3,000 RPMs (this is the power output). Choose a 7-by-14 lathe if you are looking for a tool with a more powerful motor. You also want a lathe with a cast iron bed and a MT-2 headstock and tailstock taper.
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Make sure the headstock and tailstock line up. Return the lathe to the store or distributor if they don't align. Since this is the area where the piece being worked on is supported, proper alignment is necessary.
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Ask if the price includes added features or accessories. Most lathes come with a couple sets of chuck jaws, along with hex wrenches and open-end wrenches of various sizes. You are going to need different size wrenches to adjust and operate the lathe, including adjusting the angle of the slides and rotation speeds. However, some lathes offer variable speeds. An indexing head is another feature that allows rotation at different angles.
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Inquire about customer support. If you have questions, you want to be able to talk to someone who actually knows how to use a lathe. A knowledgeable customer-support team gives you direct access to the expertise of others, allowing you to get the most value for your money. Find out how quickly customer support responds to inquiries. Many companies offer a toll-free telephone number to call and an email address where you can direct your questions.
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Check websites and sales advertisements frequently to purchase a lathe at the best price. Tools go on sale throughout the year, but particularly during Christmastime. The larger the size of the lathe you want to buy the more it will cost. Depending on the size and manufacturer, you can purchase a quality metal lathe for $500 to $1,000.
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Tips & Warnings
Chuck jaws are the clamps that grip a piece of wood being rotated in the lathe, and can be used for a variety of applications.
