Anybody got one of these?

I just sold some parts I had laying around and the money is burning a hole in my pocket.I've been looking at one of these Smithy Granite 3 in one machines for years and now might be the time.Does anybody have one or know if they're any good? I don't have a lot of room in my shop but so if it's capable of doing simple machine work and threading it might make sense .

 

No, I've eyeballed them in the back of Popular Mechanics though. You might poke around on this site for info http://www.chaski.org/homemachinist...t&sd=d&sr=posts&st=0&ch=300&t=0&submit=Search

 

I've been using a Granite 1220 LTD for about ten years now and although its not my 7 1/2 HP 20/40 Hendy I used to have, it does almost everything I need although a lot slower as it doesn't have the grunt to cut big slices. But then I'm retired now and all I have is time so I can take many more cuts to get the job done. .................... Or you can pick up a used South bend and maybe a mill for about the same price as a new Smitty if you keep your eyes out......

 

I.m forced to use one of these at work, and being a machinist, this one poor excuse for a tool. I am limited for space at work so this is what the company bought at the time. It will do most jobs ok but none really well. The cross slides will not tighten up no matter how much adj. you try, and the traverse will work better but there is too much taper for decent turning.
Forget about any kind of mill work other then cutting a 1/4" slot in aluminum. As said before it doesn't have the grunt or the speeds necessary for good work. Save your money and buy older used tool room equipment.

 

I have one in my shop and find it capable for my machining ability. Most of the negitive comments come from experienced machinest. I think it is a good starter machine, look for a used one, close to home to avoid shipping. Before you purchase a machine, consider what you may be doing with it and the cost of the tooling, it aint cheap. Consider finding a machinest with a small shop in the back yard to do your work.

 

Good info.........Thanks Guys