General 25-200 lathe

[beep119]

Hello all,
Just got a really good deal on the General 25-200 lathe. Anyone have this lathe?
Do you like it?
And just wondering about the live centre it says it comes with, is it any good?
Or should I just order now a 60degree live centre so I have it when the lathe comes in.

 

[Charlie_W]

Beep,
For pen turning you will need the 60 degree live center to better fit the recess in the end of your mandrel. The 60 degree live center will also be needed if you get some turn between centers bushings or use a shaft style buffing system for the lathe. This will also keep your live center for wood from becoming damaged on the point.

Safe turning!

 

[beep119]

thanks for the info charlie.
Now does anyone have this lathe?
Did I make the right choice in a lathe?
Anyone have experiences with it?

 

[farmer]

Lathe

thanks for the info charlie.
Now does anyone have this lathe?
Did I make the right choice in a lathe?
Anyone have experiences with it?

Hi
It really depends on what other equipment you have and what you want to make .
with lots of equipment means more options on how to make things.

Then it depends on what your budget is and how much room you have to set up to make what you want....

I have a couple 3 of these , two lathes I pieced together and one I bought as a complete kit.
Large bore headstock

 

[Peter Mcc]

thanks for the info charlie.
Now does anyone have this lathe?
Did I make the right choice in a lathe?
Anyone have experiences with it?

I have had mine for about 2 years now. I have no real complaints.

cheers
Peter

 

[jaywood1207]

I've had mine for about 10 yrs and although it has been designated as a back up and buffer lathe since acquiring my Oneway I still like it and have no issues with it. It will not be great for bowls and other large items but for pens and razors and other small items it is perfect.

 

[beep119]

Well, got a call from the store this afternoon...said they don't have the lathe in stock and won't be getting anymore!
Damn!...was getting this lathe for $650 Canadian. Regular $1100.
Now back to the drawing board. I'm not paying over $1000 because that's what I promised my wife.
So now I'm looking at the Rikon 70-220 vsr.....anyone have this one?
Anyone have this lathe that can comment on if it's worth getting?
Thank you