Project Information
A few weeks ago I built my full size bungee lathe based on 2×4s and a couple of pipe clamps. I had two competing ideas in my head when I chose to build the larger one. The other idea kept nagging at me. So even though I didn't need a mini-lathe, I couldn't put the idea out of my head…. I had to build it.
So the benchtop mini-lathe was born. Using a 12" handscrew (as the head and tail stock), a couple of bolts (as the dead centers), a 12" barn spike (as the tool rest) and a pair of F-clamps (to keep it in place). The treadle and bungee setup are the same one I used in my full size bungee lathe
It works as well as the first bungee lathe, but is faster to set up and takes up less space. The only drawback is that it is limited to ~ 7.5" length and a little over 5" swing.
It can be made with either a fixed tool rest w/adjustable centers, OR fixed centers w/adjustable tool rest.
And best of all. When it is not being used as a lathe, the handscrew clamp goes right back into active duty as a clamp.
As always you can find the full build details and more images about the bungee handscrew mini-lathe on my website.
So the benchtop mini-lathe was born. Using a 12" handscrew (as the head and tail stock), a couple of bolts (as the dead centers), a 12" barn spike (as the tool rest) and a pair of F-clamps (to keep it in place). The treadle and bungee setup are the same one I used in my full size bungee lathe
It works as well as the first bungee lathe, but is faster to set up and takes up less space. The only drawback is that it is limited to ~ 7.5" length and a little over 5" swing.
It can be made with either a fixed tool rest w/adjustable centers, OR fixed centers w/adjustable tool rest.
And best of all. When it is not being used as a lathe, the handscrew clamp goes right back into active duty as a clamp.
As always you can find the full build details and more images about the bungee handscrew mini-lathe on my website.