Gunsmith lathe HAAS TL-2 or TL-1

[antunRC]

I'm interested in getting your opinion and advice. If you were considering purchasing a new lathe, specifically the TL-1 or TL-2 models, I'd like to know which options you would consider mandatory and which ones you would deem as good to have or unnecessary.

https://www.haascnc.com/content/haascnc/en/build-and-price/choose-options.TL-2.html

For example there is an option for the spindle 1800RPM (more moment less speed) or 3000RPM (less moment more speed), spindle mount A2-5 or A2-6.
Thanks!

 

[GT Accuracy]

I have the TL 1...it's all you'll ever need. However, if you do have the 3 phase power, and want to have a tool setter probe, the ST-10 has the same headstock width. So you could get a 12 tool turret with tool setter probe. Depends on how many barrels you're doing I guess.

3000 RPM is nice but if you're only doing barrel work, you'll never be much above 1500 anyway...unless you want to invest in spindle liners

A2-5 is plenty.

Don't get expanded memory, thumb drives are cheap

I don't use my tailstock at all....waist of money for me there

Rigid tapping is a must

high pressure coolant isnt needed

Gang tooling vs tool post is up to your setup. I run a toolpost

Don't get their chuck - get a premium 6 jaw or TBAS if you're going that route

 

[DaveTooley]

I've run a TL-1 since 2009. 8,000 barrels chambered and increasing.
low pressure coolant
I run a tool post. Once you learn the trick it repeats within a few tenths.
Tailstock is an $1800 boat anchor for me
What's its primary use?

 

[gme]

I have two TL1's one with a toolpost and one with a toolchanger, for barrel work the toolpost is all you need, I think it's great little machine, except for the tailstock (useless), do the reaming in the carriage