Best Metal Lathe: Reviews for 2021 (Recommended)

4. Mophorn 7x12 inch Metal Lathe

There are not many mini metal lathes, which can compete with the sturdiness of this product. This is because it is manufactured using high-quality iron. It features nylon gears that make the machine durable, more professional-looking, and water-resistant.

A 550w motor powers this metal lathe, and the extended length splash guard offers optimum protection. The variable speed of the machine ranges from 0 to 2250, and it moves both forward and reverse. There is a three-jaw self-centering chick that allows you to set the materials properly as well as steadily. Moreover, precision tapered roller bearings allow the machine to provide an accuracy of 0.01 mm.

With the quick change tool post, you can accomplish various positions of face cutting, bevel cutting, and internal cutting. Moreover, the slide is made using abrasive resistance, which moves the blades efficiently with a feed rod. This versatile product can be used in different areas, including sample processing, mini precision parts processing, modeling works, etc.

Features of the product:

• The product is made using high-quality iron material.
• It offers a variable speed that ranges from 0-2250 RPM, and it offers forward and reverses speeds.
• There is a three-jaw self-centering chuck that steadily stuck the material.
• The professional compound rest allows you to get accurate positions of face cutting, internal cutting, and bevel cutting.
• It is used for wide applications such as modeling, sample processing, parts processing, etc.

5. Jet 321360A BDB Metalworking Lathe

This is another best metal lathe that has gained a lot of traction in the market and for all the right reasons. It is powered by 1 PH, two horsepower, and 230 volts motor that offers adequate operation for various metal works.

It comes with a covered gearbox featuring helical cut gear for efficient operation as well as noise reduction. This machine is designed to have a high tolerance and continues to offer quality, accurate, and consistent performance.

The company offers quick and easy speed changes. Moreover, the helical cut headstock gear is added to reduce noise. Additionally, the T-slotted compound slides through a four-way tool post, which adds to the stability and reliability.

Jet Store is one of the popular brands in the market, so you can be rest assured of their quality. However, in case you need any repair or service, you can contact their Authorized Service Centers, and the company offers a two years warranty with the metal lathe.

Features of the product:

• The product is powered by two horsepower, 1 PH, and 230 volts motor.
• It features one 3/8th inches spindle hole
• The swing measures 13-inches, and the centers measure 40 inches.
• The product comes with 12 spindle speeds that range from 60 RPM to 1240 RPM.

6. Grizzly G8688 Mini Metal Lathe

This metal lathe by Grizzly is powered by a 3/4th motor that generates 110 volts. This mini metal lathe is ideal for the hobbyist. You will be able to accomplish a lot of home as well as workshop projects.

There is a 7-inches swing over the bed, accompanied by 12-inches between the centers. The swing and center distance encompass a 20 mm spindle bore and a two ¾ cross slide travel as well as 2 ½ tailstock travel.

A standard 12-52 TPI thread is also found in the machine, along with handwheel graduations and a threading dial indicator. Within the package, you will get one mini metal lathe, one chip pan, a three-jaw chuck featuring external jaws, a backsplash guard, one steady rest, MT-2 dead center, and 4-way turned post.

Features of the product:

• It comes with a 16-TPI reversible lead screw.
• The product offers variable speed
• The machine offers forward and reverse at different speeds.
• There is an addition of a backsplash guard and chip tray.
• The company also offers threading dial indicators.

7. Erie 7x14 BenchTop Mini Metal Lathe

Next on our list is a powerful metal lathe offered by Erie. The machine encompasses chuck key, lathe, five-piece carbide tipped cutter kit, owner’s manual drill, 11 feed rate gears, internal and external chuck jaws, etc. The valuable features of this mini metal lathe allow you to cut, drill, and turn metal, plastic parts, and wood with efficiency and precision.

Moreover, Erie tools variable speed 7 inches x 14 inches benchtop that creates accurate parts. Moreover, you can adjust the variable speed from 12 to 2500 RPM in both directions, facilitating better left-handed threads. Thread indicator assists the users to turn the screw thread from 12 to 52 TPI with imperial or metric pitches.

Additionally, the multi-jaw check encompasses a workpiece in place, whereas the optional auto feed can be modified to cater to the needs of various projects. The 5/16-inch capacity tool post allows you to mount a maximum of four cutting tools at once. The package comes with adapters, a carbide-tipped cutter kit, slides, and the entire set of plastic change gears.

Features of the product:

• The product includes a five-piece carbide-tipped cutter kit, chuck key, lathe, internal and external jaws, owners’ manual, and 11 feed rate gears.
• It comes with variable with adjustable variable speed between 50 and 2500 RPM
• The machine helps turn screw threads between 12 and 52 TPI.

8. CJC 110V Mini Metal Lathe

CJC brings a versatile mini metal lathe that allows you to perform different tasks drilling, turning, boring, threading, etc. You can use this machine on soft metals, plastic, wood, etc.; when it comes to strength, this CJC mini metal lathe will not disappoint you. It is designed using high-quality aluminum alloy, which is non-deformable and durable to use.

Moreover, you will also find a three-jaw chuck clamping with a diameter of 13mm and a reverse claw of 45 mm. Although the lathe is small in size, it is backed by a powerful motor of 2W, which offer a high speed of 20000 r/min and a low speed of 10000 r/min.

Features of the product:

• The mini lathe is designed for drilling, turning, drilling, threading, and boring.
• The late can be used for wood, soft metal, and plastic.
• The machine is designed using top-grade aluminum alloy for durability and efficiency.
• The lathe includes a three-jaw chuck clamping diameter.
• It is powered by a 24W motor.

What To Look For While Buying Metal Lathe?

Investing in a lathe that caters to your particular requirements should not be too complicated. Here are some factors that you need to consider when buying a metal lathe:

Workstation Size 

Metal lathes, due to their heavy construction, are not easy to move around. Even the cheapest model comes with considerable weight. This implies that it will not be easy to move the lather around in the workplace.

Therefore, you need to consider the space in your workstation and the surrounding environment. Big machines need proper space as insufficient space can result in overheating, subsequently damaging or impacting the performance of the machine.

Distance Between Centers And Swing Over Distance 

Swing Over Distance (SOD) is an imperative factor to consider when choosing a metal lathe. This is because it determines the maximum diameter of the workpiece that the lathe can handle. On the other hand, the distance between the center is referred to as the greatest length of the material that the machine can handle.

Ease Of Use 

Metal lathes have a lot of features that are aimed at increasing the machine’s efficiency. Although some features and designs may be suitable for experts, as beginners, you should avoid using lathe featuring ultra-complex designs. Consider a machine that boasts straightforward and user-friendly designs.

Additional Features or Accessories

Based on the purpose of the machine lathe, you should check the kind of accessories or features a metal lathe comes with. For example, certain heavy-duty lathes feature a stand that helps in holding the machine in place.

It also acts as a smart storage space to keep tools. Advanced metal lathes feature advanced speed ranges and additional lever control. 

Experience 

A good quality lathe features all the right security measures. However, it is recommended to start with the small machine as a more advanced model can be complicated for you.

A small metal lathe would be easy to use and will not be heavy on your pocket as well. Start with a small machine, and you can upgrade it as you enhance your skills.

The Quality Of Customer Service 

Whether you are using a lathe for industrial or home use, it is a heavy-duty machine that needs proper and timely maintenance. You do not want to invest in a product with no spares or a brand that does not have various service centers throughout the country.

Therefore, you should check the brand presence; you may need to contact the manufacturer time and again. You should also check the responsiveness of the company towards your complaint prior to making any purchase.

Budget 

Metal lathes are available in different price ranges; therefore, it is important that you determine your budget beforehand. If you are looking for affordable options, then garage models would be ideas as they come with features suitable for domestic or home usage.

On the other hand, industrial lathes come with a high price tag because of the advanced features as well as fabricating abilities.

What Size Metal Lathe Should I Buy?

The size of the best metal lathe for beginners entirely depends on the project that you are taking up. For craftsmen working on smaller pieces and hobbyists, a 3-inches x 15 inches metal lathe can do the tasks very well.

You can also opt for a 6-inches x 30-inches lathe if you are looking for a heavier machine. However, consider the weight of the lathe as even the smallest model of this machine can be quite heavy.

What Is A Good Starter Metal Lathe?

There cannot be a specific answer to this question as the option would vary based on the needs and experience of the buyers. Instead, you can focus on selecting the right brand for your product. There are many reliable brands out there which makes metal lathe that caters to beginners. These brands include –

• KKmoon
• BestEquip
• Eastwood
• Mophorn
• Jet

What Can A Metal Lathe Do?

It is a machining tool that is used essentially for shaping the metal. It operates by rotating the workpiece around a staining cutting tool. The primary use is to remove unnecessary parts of the workpiece, offering the desired shape of the workpiece. There are different kinds of metal lathes that cater to various needs.

Final Thoughts 

There you have it, we have reviewed the top metal lathes that offer distinctive characteristics. Whatever model you select, ensure to consider the price range. If you are taking up large-scale projects, then you should consider industrial metal lathes.

On the other, if you are a beginner, then you need more experience to handle heavy-duty equipment. Small metal lathes operate better if you are looking for a convenient machine that occupies little space.