Hi all.
more pairs of eyes looking is always etter than just one pair....
I'm looking for a very small and simple lathe for my two grandchildren.
They are forever watching and 'helping' me "peeling metal" on my lathe.
I'd love to let them have a go - other than just turning some handles here and there, but it's just too dangerous on a larger lathe.
They are very mechanically adept and use hand-tools, as well as compressed air and battery powered tools very expertly and safely.
Something the size of a Unimat 3, an Adapt or the samllest Sieg (or equivalent) would be fine. I would also like it to be protable, so they can take it to their own workshop when I'm convinced they are safe enough to use it under the supervision of their (woodworker) father.
There are modern tiny lathes on eBay with an envelope of 55mm swing and 115mm centre distance. I had a look at them, but they are a nasty quality toy with lots of plastic components. I just wouldn't entertain one of those....
I'd rather restore a 70 year old cast iron mini lathe for them.
Oh, budget is not great either..... just thought I mention that.....
Cheers,
Joe