Lathe - how to learn?

[JustSomeDude]

I'm wanting to get some metal lathe training to fabricate my own odds and ends, and basically have a little side hobby. Problem is, I have no idea where to begin. CCCS has some lathe classes, but you need other machine shop pre-requisite courses to be able to sign up. Ideally I'd like to learn from some one who has their own.

Does anyone know anybody that has a lathe who'd be willing to teach some one the basics?

I don't know what I can offer in exchange, but I'd be willing to explore all non-invasive options (unless it's a hot chick who wants to get invasive).

:yumyum:

[dattaway]

I was lucky and worked with machinists in a manufacturing plant. I learned just by watching and had no problems. Youtube has some good videos if you don't mind watching how its done. Just search for "lathe" in youtube.

[BigE]

So do you have a lathe yet?

I did machining for a few years.
Basically, you need to know feed rates, turning speeds and have good cutting tools.
My dad has been looking at the cheapo lathes at Harbor Freight and I'd be curious to know if anyone has used them? They don't look like the repeatability would be great but for one off little pieces...may be worth it.

[Kim-n-Dean]

Oh, Lord no!!! You're right!! Never be able to repeat one single move.

I looked for a brief second at Harbor Freight (Can't believe I did!!) before I had my CNC mill custom made. I needed something small, but dead nuts accurate to a thou and be able to get reasonable accuracy to a tenth.

I'm not sure I would even buy a wood lathe from H.F.

[CYCLE_MONKEY]

I'm wanting to get some metal lathe training to fabricate my own odds and ends, and basically have a little side hobby. Problem is, I have no idea where to begin. CCCS has some lathe classes, but you need other machine shop pre-requisite courses to be able to sign up. Ideally I'd like to learn from some one who has their own.

Does anyone know anybody that has a lathe who'd be willing to teach some one the basics?

I don't know what I can offer in exchange, but I'd be willing to explore all non-invasive options (unless it's a hot chick who wants to get invasive).

:yumyum:
I would recommend taking the classes. in addition to learning about cutting different metals, you'd get a lot of safety tips. I can't think of a quicker way to f#ck yourself up than with a metal lathe.

Best of luck.

[dirkterrell]

Sheila posted this link a few weeks back:

http://www.clubworkshop.com/

I'm thinking about checking it out. They offer classes on a variety of topics.

Dirk

[BigE]

Oh, Lord no!!! You're right!! Never be able to repeat one single move.

I looked for a brief second at Harbor Freight (Can't believe I did!!) before I had my CNC mill custom made. I needed something small, but dead nuts accurate to a thou and be able to get reasonable accuracy to a tenth.

I'm not sure I would even buy a wood lathe from H.F.

:lol: That's kinda my thoughts exactly!

[Sortarican]

I checked out those H/F mini lathe/mill machines and came to the same decision as most here. (I even get the family discount.)
Might be good for hobby work but I wouldn't do mechanical peices with it.
(Or gunsmithing which is what I wanted it for.)

If you're looking for a lathe check out the commercial/farm auctions.
Upside of a down economy is plenty of industrial equipment up for sale as places go under.

A good (and cheap) place to take classes is the Emily Griffith Opportunity School:
http://www.egos-school.com/trades/public/ProgramCourses

[CYCLE_MONKEY]

I checked out those H/F mini lathe/mill machines and came to the same decision as most here. (I even get the family discount.)
Might be good for hobby work but I wouldn't do mechanical peices with it.
(Or gunsmithing which is what I wanted it for.)

If you're looking for a lathe check out the commercial/farm auctions.
Upside of a down economy is plenty of industrial equipment up for sale as places go under.

A good (and cheap) place to take classes is the Emily Griffith Opportunity School:
http://www.egos-school.com/trades/public/ProgramCourses
The auctions are good......if you know enough to know what you want/need, and what is a good price. we sell used equipment here at WG sometimes.

[neh]

This site has some links concerning the mini lathes and mills.

http://www.mini-lathe.com/

[wulf]

The cheapest lathes out there that are decent are Smithy brand, several steps above harbor freight.

[Sortarican]

Grizzly brand are supposed to make nice lower/mid priced units too.
http://grizzly.com/home.aspx