I am considering purchasing a smaller lathe for rod building and other projects. What lathe manufactuers and models are considered ideal for turning handles and fabricating metal parts for rods... let alone would come in handy for other smaller projects around the house? I would like something that could be used for both metal and wood working. Thanks!

For metal? I'd look at Taig and Sherline.

Or, any of the small metal lathes from Grizzly, Jet, etc., although these won't be the quality of the Taig or Sherline, their swing and bed length will better accommodate wood turning if you want to do that, too.

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[littlemachineshop.com] Check out this comparison page it will give you a list of small metal lathe choices. Bill

Pete,
The requirements for wood turning - compared to metal turning are quite different.

One thing to consider, if you wish to puchase a metal - specific lathe for rod building and handle turning is the length of the bed.

Many metal turning lathe beds are relatively short, and normally don't have bed extensions available.

However, many of the smaller wood lathes have a longer bed to begin with, and then have an extension as well.

Of course, if you want to do a lot of metal turning work, a wood lathe is really not suitable for the job.

The best of both worlds would be to have one of each, since the needs are quite different.

You will also find that you can find an OK wood lathe for $100-$200. To get a good metal lathe, you are looking at $400-$1000.

Good luck
Roger

Roger, you said OK wood lathes for $100-$200...What type are you refering too?
I am interested in a small lathe for turning my own grips.
Thanks!