I'm researching the possible purchase of a metal working micro-lathe to turn cork handles & inserts, and to make custom reel seat skeletons. I've looked at the Sherline, Micro-mark, Harbor Freight and Grizzly lines. Any opinions on these products or an alternative?
Thanks for any advice.
Erik

The Taig lathe. Outstanding tool for not very much money. Very precise. Anglers Workshop sells this unit. The only drawback is going to be the short bed, which I think is only 10 or 11 inches between centers. Once you install a chuck and tailstock, I doubt you could turn grips, if you wanted it for that purpose.

I've turned dozens of reel seat skeletons, inserts, hosels, caps, etc., on mine. Great tool. The only one you mention that I would rate as highly is the Sherline. Also a great tool.

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The Taig is excellent but for making skeletons I think you'd be better off with the 7x10 HF or Grizzly because of their geared thread cutting capability. You might need to do some one time tweaking to get the precision right, but once that's done you'll be all set.

Their are several Internet sites dedicated to the HF and Grizzly 7x10 metal lathes, check them out. They go over any tweaking you would want to make on majority of 7x10 metal lathes.

Christian

Are you guys telling me that there is an economical way to make my own reel seat skeletons? Oh man, I had hoped to regain a portion of my sanity in the coming year. Oh, well, maybe next year....

go to www.minilathe.com for a review of all mini lathes i have the homier version www.homier.com i love it also check out back issues of powerfibers avail. on cd for info on making your own reel seats www.powerfibers.com. hope this helps

Gentleman. Thank you for your replies. And Bill, I found the web site www.minilathe.com great for comparisons. Thanks again, Erik

I have the Harbor Freight 7x10 and it's a good lathe but it's a big hassle drilling out inserts because the bed is to short.. I am now looking to get a bigger lathe.. Thanks Dave