Critical parameters of gunsmith lathe?

[6.5x47lapua]

Guys,

I'm just a beginner with zero experince in gunsmithing.

I'm trying to understand how to choose the right one for top acuurate chambering abd barrel work..

Its clear, that it should be some ~16" x 40" with support screws for outboard part of the spindle.

What are other critical parameters to make a TOP accurate gunsmithing?

- Spindel center runout? (0,0003" or less?)
- Difference in center height spindel-tailstock?
- Parallelism of center line of tailstock spindel to longit. motion?

Can a "regular" lathe be upgraded to top class machine for precision barrel work? Some super precision bearings? gearbox? or tunned spindel?

I understand of course, that 99% of success is a man behinde the machine...

My logic is to invest in hardware "theoretically" allowing making top accurate rifle.


Thanks,

 

[Kenny474]

I am no expert gunsmith, but I have been an apprentice machinist for a bit now.
First, it would be better to buy a quality machine up front. You will spend a ton trying to upgrade inferior equipment.
Headstock length is a concern, as the barrel should go through and be supported on the back side.
Make sure whatever you buy will cut the threads necessary for your application.

Most any "tool room" lathe that is big enough in size will be more accurate and cut better than a lesser machine.

It also depends on budget and what you expect from the lathe. Every machine has it's limitations. The more precise the lathe, the better it will perform in most cases.
From what I have seen, machines with a bushing headstock will cut smoother than those with bearings, though you must maintain them as with anything else.

I have heard people have good results from the Grizzly machines, and they are priced reasonably for a beginner/hobby smith. Once you start to get into the bigger names like South Bend or Hardinge, the prices start to rise dramatically.

I would think if you are doing this as a hobby that a Grizzly will do just fine. It will probably cut far better than your ability.
I would have a look at this:
http://www.grizzly.com/products/14-X-40-Gunsmith-s-Gearhead-Lathe/G0709

If you don't feel that is enough, they also have tool room lathes that will be more precise, and will cost less than most competitors.

 

[therifler]

Some of the best guns in comp. are machined on a Grizz. take a look at their gunsmith models . the owner is a world record holder in F-Class . and has designed a machine just for gunsmiths . The Rifler

 

[Kenny474]

Some of the best guns in comp. are machined on a Grizz. take a look at their gunsmith models . the owner is a world record holder in F-Class . and has designed a machine just for gunsmiths . The Rifler

I would say that right there is all the info needed.

 

[6.5x47lapua]

Thanks for answering.

As I understood, dialing the barrel is extremely important for chambering.

PTG and Gordy Gritters say 0,0001" is necessary.

How its possible if machine's spindel tolerance (center runout, if I
understood correctly) is 0,0003"? For example on Grizzly professional
gunsmith lathe.

Guys, is there some top gunsmith's conspiracy or something....?????

I'm in Europe and unfortunately we do not have such a wide selection of ready-to-go lathes for gunsmithing.

So, my only way is to understand which lathe parameters to pay attantion and buy the machine, which is "theoretically" not limiting accuracy.

Russ