Mini Lathe Versions

3-in-1 Combination Machines

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3-in-1 Multipurpose Lathe/Mill/Drills

Harbor Freight ITEM 5980-2VGA

Note that this model uses belts and pulleys to change speeds and appears to lack power feed and thread cutting capability.

Several vendors sell multipurpose Lathe/Mill/Drill 3-in-1 machines.  At first glance, these seem intriguing since the multiple machines share common parts, leading to cost efficiencies.  In practice, these machines are always a compromise and less convenient than individual machines. At the low end of the price range, the quality is often substandard.

Even so, I have heard feedback from some owners of larger, more expensive 3-in-1 machines such as those sold by Grizzly and Smithy (see review), who are very satisfied with them. One model that I have heard good reports on is the Shoptask, which you can see at Bill Cotton's web site. But I would stay away from the cheap (under $800), low-end models unless you are limited by both funds and work space.

Years ago, I owned a high-quality Austrian 3-in-1 Emco Maximat.  The quality was fine, but I found it very frustrating to change between modes due to the set up time when switching between operations. With separate machines you can just move the workpiece to the machine you need without having to remove the lathe toolpost, install the milling vise, etc.  Additionally, the range of table movement for milling was very limited compared to a dedicated milling machine.

Mini-Lathe    Mini-Mill    Bandsaw   Grinder  Anodizing   Links   Safety     Premium Content

Mini-lathe:  Accessories    Capabilities    Chucks    Dial Indicators     Features    Glossary     Introduction  Modifications   Operation    Product Reviews     Setup    Sieg Factory    Tool Grinding    Tuning     Versions