Depends on what you want to do. If its only small work then a pen lathe or micro lathe would be ideal. Find one with a variable speed and an indexing attachment. If you want to do big work or jump back and forth then I'd check out a machinists lathe or a good wood lathe.
Check out Grizzley, they have all three and are quite affordable.
If you want to do some samples or see if thats the way you want to go, make a jig for a drill press if you have one and use it as a vertical lathe. I have made tank gun barrels on mine and am very pleased with the success. I have made some simple jigs for my wood lathe and have used it with similar success.
The key is going to be sharp tools regardless of which way you go. If you can afford it, a machinist lathe may be the way to go. But you will have to produce alot of pieces to make it worth while if its your sole reason for buying it.
Mike
Mike
"Imagination is the dye that colors our lives"
Marcus Aurellius
A good friend will come and bail you out of jail...but, a true friend will be sitting next to you saying, "Damn...that was fun!"
