any thoughts on 3 in 1 lathe/mill/drill combos?

S

shaggy

New member
Was thinking of getting a small 3-in-1 to learn on and eventually work on some guns and ideas for small parts . Currently I'm looking at a used Smithy AT300 for about $700-800. Any opinions on these machines or another type/brand?
 
My friend has one and really likes it. I've never used one (I did spend 25 years using professional metworking tools), but the Smithy should be fine if you understand what you get. There are always compromises in multi-function tools. It won't be the best lathe, nor the best mill, but for the purpose you describe, it should be adequate.

BTW: There's nothing quite as gratifying as looking at some fine machine work and saying to yourself "I made that!".;)

Have fun and post pix of your projects.
 
I got that little HarborFreight 4x7. Way too small to do any serious gun smithing, but it works quite well for what I do.

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=39743

This one looks to be in your price range:

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=46199

Just remember to disassemble, wash down and lube all moving shafts, gears and such before using it. They have a history of coming in with machining / casting grit in the guts, whether from HF, Grizzly or whomever.

Pops
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top