The Mini-Lathe (Crowood Metalworking Guides) Hardcover – March 8, 2016

If you are thinking of buying one of the several flavors of Mini-Lathes (7X10 to 7X16), or already own one, this is a must have book!I am not a professional machinist, nor would I claim to be a highly skilled one, just a hobbyist. I have, however, rebuilt two 12 inch Atlas lathes, and spent a fair share of time using them. I recently had to sell my last Atlas, and as part of the deal, picked up the new owners old Harbor Freight 7X10 mini-lathe.When I started with my Atlas lathes I bought several good books on using and maintaining a “Full Size” lathe, including the Atlas and Southbend manuals, and used much of what I learned. This book is the equivalent for the mini-lathes.This book is filled with chapters on the construction of various vintages of these lathes, discussions of how to adjust them for better precision, and work piece finish, and easy modifications to improve their range and usefulness. The book is also fair in pointing out the strengths and weaknesses of a mini-lathe.The book explains how to use the lathe for those who have never used one, as well as several projects that you can use to improve the lathe and your skills at the same time.I would recommend the book to those who have been using this type of lathe for a while, if only for the adjustment tips, examples of after-market accessories available, and the projects. Many of the adjustments are the same as for a larger lathe, but there are also many specific to these types.

I found this book to be very informative. It helped me make the decisions I needed to.

Planning on getting a small lathe and have not been near one for about 40 years ago from when I took some high school and college classes. This book gives a good introduction on how to set one up, problems, and suggestions on how and where to start. I found it easy to understand and the pictures brought clarity to the subject matter. I now have a good idea on what to expect and some direction on how to get started.

This book is a good introduction to hobby lathes, the author gives a lot of good info and there are some good projects to practice on. Probably the best book of this type.

Before you buy a lathe. Know what you need for what you want to do. Not everyone can just plunk down a few thousand to get a fully automatic lathe. Learning what functions your style lathe is capable of helps you make a better purchase.

Good reference guide for a newbie, but lacks the details that I really needed.

Covers the basic for lathe and a lot of the terms you need know. Recommended for those interested in metal work and machine work.

What a well rounded book. It covers just about everything including modifications to your mini-lathe.