Just for those who are contemplating setting out in this type of hobby.
Even at the hobbyist level equipment with all the tooling, setup, electronics, diy tools stock, measurement tools, chuck etc..... I would have to chamber 35 barrels to break even. Believe me, I have looked into this over and over again. I am so interested in taking the leap, but financially, it's not a smart move over having your barrels done for you. Even for pinker rifles and project guns.
I have decided the first step I'll take are a couple classes at the community college level to learn the basics of measurement and basic lathe skills. For not much money, I think I would be able to make better choices after I have that under my belt. And it will still be useful skills to have if I decide not to get a lathe.
All that being said, it still never stops me from drooling over these lathe threads that come up now and again