Bench Top Lathes???

C130 Chief said
A lot depends on how serious you are. If you just plan to make bushings and such, the low end Asian machines will do you fine. If you plan to do more precision work, you'll quickly wish for a bigger and nicer machine. Older American or European machines can be bargains or money pits. I picked up a 10"x24" Logan a few years back for $600. It didn't come with much tooling and by the time I got a quick change tool post and hopefully soon a newer 3-jaw chuck, I'll have that much into it again easily. There's a lot of overpriced junk out there so don't pay too much. Check out www.hobby-machinist.com forums.

if you're serious, I'd recommend getting the biggest, heaviest lathe you can afford, and have room for. The heavier lathes are less prone to vibration. Previous post, had a really good point, to try and get one with as much tooling as possible, because that can end up costing more than the lathe, itself, to round up after the fact. You will need a 3-jaw and 4-jaw chuck, w/cam-locks is a good option, steady rest. Live center, dead center, quick change tool post is great. taper attachment is a bonus. Hollow spindle of substantial dia is good, too. Look for damaged ways, crashed apron. Might want to check the gears in the headstock, for damaged gears and proper oil level. Helical-cut gears are quieter, generally.