Record CL3-48

[Jake Helmboldt]

I've searched for info on the Record lathes and there isn't much info available. Specifically is the newer CL3-48 (after change in ownership) a decent lathe, or should it be avoided? The only real info I have found is regarding the older ones, but there is one available locally that is 3-4 yrs old. The price seems very good ($700 w/ tools and accessories), but I don't know enough about the lathe to know if that is a worthwhile price (esp compared to other used, comparable lathes).

Any info is appreciated.

JH

[Dennis Peacock]

Jake,

Never seen the lathe you are asking about, but if their lathes are like their vices and handplanes? It should be a very fine machine. :)

[Gene Kennedy]

Here is a link to a PDF file that is a test/review of that lathe from a woodworking magazine in the UK (I think).

http://www.recordpower.co.uk/intricart/product/docs/review/14.pdf

If a "£" is the English equivalent of a "$", that lathe sold for about £600.00 which is about $1,175.22 in todays (this morning) money.

[Bernie Weishapl]

The one thing that would concern me would be the MT #1 and the 3/4 X 16 thread plus the lowest speed is 425 and only 5 speeds. If I were going to spend $700 for a little more you can get the 1624-44 Nova which has 8 speeds with the low being 215. Just a thought.

[Rick Apt]

I have had the the older CL version (blue) for about a year now and love it. It is built like a tank ... and I mean that in the good way.

Not too much of a pain to keep the #1 MT or 3/4 stuff organized from the #2 & 1 X 8 as I like to have machine specific chucks and stuff so I would not let that stop you.

Good Luck.