5 Best Mini Metal Lathe: Guide to the Excellence

Whatever your strength is, you will not be able to drill metals with your own. You need the agility and pressure of the best mini metal lathe to get there with ease. But don’t get me wrong thinking that any metal lathe will do it correctly. You have to choose one that is efficient, durable and affordable at the same time.

In fact, the technical characteristic that influences all the others is the speed of rotation of the tower. So, once you have found a mini metal lathe, first check its speed of rotation. This comparison greatly facilitates your task.

Here we are, researching and bringing every possible detail to you to find your right one.

But before that, let’s get to know a little about a mini metal lathe.

What Is A Mini Metal Lathe?

Mini lathes are machines that are used to operate different parts of different materials. They have excellent characteristics that bring them closer to large professional lathes.

Mini lathes are generally designed to perform jobs that are not large but require the highest possible precision. So, it can be said that they are also ideal for occasional work.

These machines can achieve very detailed and professional results. That is why they are also preferred by lovers of both wood and metal details.

The compact size and lightweight make them perfect for your workshop or in any room in the house.

What are the components of a mini metal lathe?

A mini metal lathe contains eternal components and external components. In infinite parts, it has metal steel, alloy steel, carbon steel, cast iron, stainless steel, aluminum, etc. and as external components it has;

• Bed portion
• Headstock assembly portion
• Tailstock assembly portion
• Carriage portion
• Cross slide portion
• Compound portion
• Turret portion

What is the Best Mini Metal Lathe?

Modern brands offer hundreds of various mini lathes. The number of options is outstanding, making the process of finding the best mini lathe time-consuming. We want to help you: use our list of the best mini-lathe on the market to make the right decision.

Here is a comparative table for you to understand at a glance:

Best Mini Metal Lathe Comparison Table

Model	Model no.	Speed Range	Motor	Ideal Material	Tailstock Taper	Threads
WEN 3420T Mini Wood Lathe	3420T	750- 3,200 RPM	2 Amp	Wood	MT1	–
WEN 3421 Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe	3421	750 -3200 RPM	3.2-Amp	Wood	MT1	–
RIKON Power Tools Mini Lathe	70-105	500, 1,175, 1,850, 2,225, 3,200 RPM	3.4 Amp	Wood and Metal	MT2	1″ x 8 TPI
Central Machinery Mini Lathe	–	0-2500 RPM	¾ HP	Metal	MT2	12 to 52 TPI
Erie Tools Bench Top Mini Metal Milling Lathe	–	Up to 2500 RPM	0.53HP	Metal	MT2	12 to 52 TPI

 

 

WEN 3420T Mini Wood Lathe

Technical data

• Motor power: 2 Amp.
• Nominal speed: 750- 3,200 RPM.
• Face Plate: 5-Inch.
• Tool Rest: 4-1/2 and 7-Inch.
• Handle length: 12 inches.
• Packaging dimensions: 26 x 10 x 12 inches.
• Weight: 43 pounds.

The WEN 3420T Mini Wood Lathe is ideal for enthusiastic users or professionals. If you want to get results quickly, this is the best woodturning lathe for you. This mini late ensures the highest possible precision.

It can be said that this machine is probably not one of the most powerful, as its motor generates 2 Amp. But, it is a tool suitable for processing soft materials, as well as different types of wood. This slow start motor works perfectly fine on hardness for long periods.

As for speed, this mini lathe has a rotation ranging from 890 to 2600 per minute. This rotation will allow you to adjust it according to the characteristics of the material to be worked.

It is possible to work with pieces of different length thanks to the adjustable length field. They are securely attached and are very easy to use. So, you can get accurate results at all times.

Pros:

• Great powers.
• Various speed settings available (750/1260/1760/3200 RPM).
• High precision.
• Allows continuous use.
• Easy to use.
• It is silent.
• Building materials are reliable and robust.

Cons:

• Some users comment that sometimes the focus may shift slightly.

WEN 3421 Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe

Technical data

• Motor power: 3.2 Amp.
• Nominal speed: 750- 3,200 RPM.
• Face Plate: 3-Inch.
• Tool Rest: 4-1/2 and 7-Inch.
• Handle length: 12 inches.
• Packaging dimensions: 28 x 13.3 x 7.6 inches.
• Weight: 44.9 pounds.

Are you looking for a resistant and high-performance lathe that can handle various types of wood and hardness? Well, then the WEN 3421 Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe may be the one for you.

What makes it the best metal lathe in its category is its 3.2 Amp power and its rotation speed. The rotation speed goes from 750 to 3200 RPM. So, you can adjust it according to the results you want to achieve.

It is the perfect tool for working small pieces of wood. In fact, it is equipped with an accessory for turning miniatures.

On the other hand, its square support, its front plate and its different spindle tips are suitable for machining larger pieces.

This mini lathe has a lightweight, and its dimensions are compact. Not only can you have it in your laboratory, but you can also take it with you wherever the job requires it.

Pros

• It is silent.
• It is accurate.
• Perfect for working with small pieces or for modeling.
• It is a reliable and robust lathe.
• Easy to use.

Cons:

• Some users believe that the lathe would be even better if the stalls were more substantial.

RIKON Power Tools Mini Lathe

Technical data:

• Motor power: 1/2 HP.
• Voltage: 120V.
• Swing: 10″.
• Distance between Centers: 18”.
• Tool rest: 6”.
• Packaging dimensions: 35.5 x 10.5 x 14.75 inches.
• Weight: 74 pounds
• Spindle speed range: 500, 1,175, 1,850, 2,225, 3,200 RPM.

Now we present a mini lathe for metal with excellent characteristics that match the size of large lathes and milling machines. This best small metal lathe is from the prestigious brand of RIKON Power Tools.

This mini lathe has been designed and processed to obtain complete processes and finishes in pieces of different materials. It works mainly on metal and other materials such as wood, jade, aluminum or plastic. Being a multifunctional machine, you will lobe this mini metal lathe.

It has an excellent power of 1/2 HP and an adjustable speed with five range from 500, 1,175, 1,850, 2,225 to 3,200 RPM. Thus you can control the speed according to the material and the size of the piece to be treated.

It includes a ladder to provide greater precision in the work to be done. Moreover, the precise tapered roller bearings can be adjusted with positive and reverse rotation. In short, you can work with greater versatility.

Working with this mini metal lathe is an effortless operation. Both amateurs who want the best and professionals who require a robust and precise machine can work with this.

Pros:

• A sturdy machine that allows obtaining precise results.
• Made with cast iron making it durable.
• No vibration.
• Easy to use

Cons:

• The price is quite high compared to other mini metal lathes with similar characteristics.

Central Machinery Mini Lathe

Technical data:

• Motor power: ¾ HP.
• Shaft speed: 0-2500 RPM.
• AC Volts: 120.
• Distance between Centers: 10”.
• Automatic feed: Present.
• Weight: 87.05 lb.

The mini metal lathe that we present now is of the Central Machinery brand. So, it is a robust machine that offers the best results at a very affordable price.

This mini lathe has been designed to work mainly in metal; however, it is also possible to workpieces of wood and jade.

It is perfect for jobs that require high precision and where beautiful and perfect finishes are needed. It can be used by DIY enthusiasts looking for small details, and by the most demanding and experienced professionals.

It has a generous power of ¾ HP. The best thing is that it has variable speeds that can be adjusted from 0 to 2500 RPM. This feature surely allows you to work on pieces of different thickness and hardness.

The diameter of the drill holder reaches an absolute measurement giving it greater versatility.

This machine provides truly accurate results because it includes an adjustable tapered roller.

This mini lathe can be kept in your laboratory, and in a short time, you will be able to achieve professional results.

Pros:

• It is a multifunction lathe that allows you to work on different materials.
• He does high precision work.
• Excellent price.
• Has an automatic feed.

Cons:

• The toggle switch is on the right size, which can be a bit uncomfortable for left-handers.

Erie Tools Bench Top Mini Metal Milling Lathe

Technical data:

• Motor power: 0.53HP.
• Voltage: 120V.
• Swing: 7″.
• Distance between Centers: 14”.
• Spindle Bore: 0.79 in.
• Packaging dimensions: 35.5 x 10.5 x 14.75 inches.
• Weight: 74 pounds
• Spindle speed range: 50 to 2500 RPM.

We end our list of the best mini lathe with this Erie Tools Bench Top Mini Metal Milling Lathe.

The Erie Tools has set up a mini metal lathe that makes it easier for all metal craftsmen. Designed to work on steel and metal in general, this device speaks for its performance.

It can penetrate all metal plates, regardless of their thickness. Besides, you can also mill with the cutters integrated into its configuration. Metal processing technicians know the importance of such equipment.

Whether you are an amateur or a professional in the field, we recommend that you equip yourself with this device to perform quality work on your metal plates.

Besides, the manufacturer has thought about ensuring your safety with the Digital Readout or indicators. Also, the protection of the chuck with safety contact allows you to work in the most excellent safety.

With a powerful 550 watt motor, it has an extensive speed range, which oscillates between 0 and 2500 revolutions per drive. Admittedly, it is a bit heavy and expensive. But it is a little understandable because it offers features that are not found in other towers.

Pros:

• Large axis of rotation
• Beautiful design
• Allows precise and fast work
• Mighty motor
• Digital display
• Easy to manipulate

Cons:

• The features don’t seem to be appropriate for beginners.

Types of Lathe Machine

Depending on the type of process and the resources that the workshop has, it is possible to find at least five different types of lathes:

1. Parallel lathe

It is an evolved model from the older versions. Basically, different configuration parameters were added to the old ones. But today it is used in workshops for beginners or to carry out particular tasks.

2. CNC lathe

This uses a computerized numerical control system, which allows higher precision. Thus you can avoid the traditional mistakes made by operators. It is used for large series of simple parts.

3. Revolver Lathe

It is a particular machine that allows you to perform multiple tasks on the same part. For example, processes can be carried out inside the part, such as drilling or boring, while outside, it can be cylindrical and cut.

4. Copying Lathe

They are beneficial machines to reproduce replicas of pieces that are not very large. This one is suitable for those who do not require excessive precision. It is used most of all in marble and woodwork, so an efficient system is required to evacuate the chip.

5. Automatic Lathe

They are lathes whose operation is based on a series of electronic regulators and hydraulic calipers. These regulators allow large production series to be carried out. However, the configuration of this equipment is quite expensive. So, despite being an automated job, it requires adequate personnel to configure it.

History about Lathe Machine

The lathe machine is one of the first machines invented dating back to the year 1000 and with certainty to 850 a. C.

In 1250, the flexible pole and pedal winch was born. It represented a significant advance over the one operated by a bow since it allowed the operator’s hands to be free.

A belt drive system was introduced in the early 15th century, allowing the lathe to be used in continuous rotation.

Around 1480 the pedal was combined with a stem and a connecting rod. With the application of this mechanism, the continuous-drive lathe was born.

In the 1780s, the French inventor Jacques de Vaucanson built an industrial lathe with a sliding tool holder advanced by hand screw. By 1797 the British inventor Henry Maudslay and the American inventor David Wilkinson improved this lathe. They connected the sliding tool holder to the ‘spindle,’ which is the part of the lathe that spins the workpiece.

All these changes made the lathe machines what they are today.

How to Buy the Best Mini Lathe?

First of all, it is necessary to establish the use you will make of your mini-lathe.

If you work with a variety of materials and pieces, we recommend that you choose mini metal lathes such as those shown here. They work with materials such as wood, jade, plastic, aluminum and more.

If, on the other hand, wood is your passion, you don’t have much to think about. Mini wood lathes are much cheaper than metal lathes.

In terms of power, make sure it is a powerful mini-lathe with a wide speed range. These elements allow you to work with pieces of different hardness.

On the other hand, don’t forget that this is a tool that will be subject to many hours of work. So, it must be of excellent quality in terms of the materials that make it up.

Other aspects not to be overlooked are the size and weight. It is more compact and lighter, but it will be possible to place it in any available space and move it quickly.

You have also noticed that the prices vary between them. As we mentioned earlier, mini metal lathes are much more expensive than mini wood lathes. So, you have to establish very well the use that you will give to optimize your investment.

The best thing is that the choice of the lathe suits your pocket, but don’t forget that it is not good to sacrifice quality and performance. We advise you to pay for a machine that facilitates the work and makes you feel proud of the results.

FAQs

1. What mini metal lathe should you buy?

Mini metal lathes are not simple machines; on the contrary, they are quite complicated. The first advice you should receive is that you should only buy it if you require it. Now, if that is the case, you can choose mini metal lathes based on your level of experience.

There are many models of lathes for amateurs, which do not have such a complex operation. If you are starting, this is your best option.

But if you already have experience with lathes and are part of your trade, then you have to buy a professional lathe. For example, if you are a carpenter, you should buy a wood lathe.

2. What is a mini lathe for metal?

It is a machine with significant power to be able to workpieces of different types and thicknesses of metals. These machines use a lubrication system, which helps them to remain in excellent condition during operation.

With a mini metal lathe, the metal parts can be cut, rolled, grooved or screwed. Also, many models are suitable for processing wood, jade, aluminum and other materials.

3. What is a mini wood lathe?

It is a very light and compact tool for the processing of different types of wood. The more powerful the machine, the thicker the parts of the wood.

These machines are characterized by their high precision while taking care of the piece of wood worked.

4. What are the Different uses of mini-lathes?

Mini lathes have a wide variety of uses. According to their technical specifications, they can be used for carpentry, home and industrial DIY.

Among the most common operations to do with a mini lathe for both metal and wood there are:

• Grooving
• Threading
• Turning
• Machining
• Cutting

How much power should my mini metal lathe have?

A metalworker uses a mini metal lathe for increasing his working speed also. The mini metal lathe has a specific power range, which may vary to the companies to companies.

A mini metal lathe’s power depends on its turning, facing, grooving, cutting, thread off, and drilling, boring, reaming and tapping power.

An idle mini metal lathe should convey the ample power for a 7″ X 12″ metal lathe. It signified to have 7 inches swing power of 12 inches capacity.

And the variable speed should have 5/16″ capacity. 2-12 inches cross slide travel speed. It has a 3-4 H/P motor of 4amp.

The longitudinal feed rate is idle to have .0039to .00787 inches. Speed of it has usually 70, 200, 220, 270, 360,600, 1000, 1400 rpm.

How durable is a mini metal lathe?

A durable period is an essential matter of concern to consider any mini metal lathe is the best mini metal lathe. Usually, it is equipment that is quite long time based durable.

Different mini metal lathe provider companies offer different periods of stable period. Before anyone buys in any mini metal lathe, check the long-lasting period mentioned on the packet. Choose the high one.

If a metal worker is careful and knows the proper use, a mini metal lathe can last for a lifetime indeed. Choose to buy from any renowned company. It will ensure a mini metal lathe’s lasting period.

Final Verdict

Take a look at the list of best mini metal lathe available in the market. We want to provide you with the best up-to-date data, and therefore we make sure to keep our website and information up to date. You can consider our information suitable, as it has been recognized in the market for more than a decade. Read about us for more information.