Roger -- I understand where you're coming from. I'm aware of two brands of lathes that are made on this continent. I don't believe either offers a lathe of the size we've been discussing in the $4,000 price range. When I bought my PM 3520C last summer, it cost just under $4,000 (taking into account the $250 in CSUSA store credit that came with the purchase). I'd priced a Robust American Beauty, optioned as I'd like it. It would have cost more than $9k, with shipping. There's no doubt the Robust would have been a better lathe than the PM I purchased instead. And there is no doubt I'd like to support a fellow countryman with my purchase. I just wasn't willing to pay that much more for the extra quality and the privilege of supporting a fellow American. Others may be willing to pay such a premium, but few are able to afford it.
David Walser
Mesa, Arizona