Gunsmithing Grizzley Machines

[STI_1911_Guy]

Hello,
I am getting into purchasing a new milling machine and/or eventually a lathe. I have been looking at a few of the grizzley milling machines and lathes. I will just be doing hobby stuff around the house and or friends. Nothing big at all. I was wondering if anybody had any experience with these or any advice on others. Thanks.

 

[Bugholes]

Re: Grizzley Machines

dont know what models youre looking at of course, but I think you would find it to be a good value and a good hobby/ medium duty machine

 

[dmg308]

Re: Grizzley Machines

Been using the 0509g gunsmith lathe for quite awhile and have nothing but good to say(except the piece of shit lamp).Also used one of their mills a bit.....I would pass on the mill.Alot of used Bridgeports out there you'd be much better off.

 

[JSFG]

Re: Grizzley Machines

I've got the predecessor to the model they now call the 9901 9x42 mill. It is well built. I haven't had to replace anything on it and mine is 4 years old now. It is precision enough to do anything you want if you don't get greedy and take too deep of a pass on a final cut. The optional power feed is a must. For half the price of a 30 year old used Bridgeport, it's a pretty good deal. However, if you want super precision, by the most expensive one you can afford.

I use mine to make knives, backpacking gadgets and to modify parts for my guns.

 

[Cheech]

Re: Grizzley Machines

Value is relevant to what a consumer is willing to pay for said item and how that item fills your needs.

I have one of Grizzly's combo mill/lathe machines,G9729. Does everything I need to do for my home smithing work and then some. Not one problem yet. Good equipment. Solid as it's namesake. You can't go wrong with a Grizz.

http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthre...640#Post2248640



Cheers, Cheech

 

[woodsy]

Re: Grizzley Machines

I have a 4003G lathe that’s about 2 years old. I like this machine a lot and have made a pile of chips with it. Added a DRO and find that to be one handy piece of equipment. Haven’t done any serious barrel work with it yet but that’s in the plans and I’m not too concerned about the machine’s capabilities.

The only problem I’ve had is it has leaked oil from the carriage since it was new. It’s a very small leak and I’ll be damned if I can find it. I simply keep an eye on the oil level and add when needed (which isn’t very often).

It bears mentioning that I’m not a machinist (don’t even play one on TV) and know just enough to be dangerous. I can make good parts but it’ll take me a while and they probably wouldn’t pass inspection for installation on the space shuttle.

Would I buy it again? Yep. Now I just need to upgrade to a larger mill. The Lathemaster is working fine but I’d like a little more rigidity. A Bridgeport (or clone) is in my future. Having said that, this little mill has put out some fantastic work.

In my opinion, Grizzly machines are good to go unless you’re looking for top-of-the-line equipment. If you are looking for that kind of equipment your wallet better be deep . . . very deep. I couldn’t justify that kind of expense for a small jobs/hobby shop.

 

[Sean the Nailer]

Re: Grizzley Machines

Just a point to bring out here, for anyone that is concerned about any insurance issues. Grizzly machines are not CSA or UL Listed.

Not saying that electrically they are a problem. Not at all. Just saying that as yet, they are not 'certified' or 'listed' ergo if that matters to you as a business or whatnot, it could be a concern.

Grizzly is a member here, as well as a vendor. Very helpful and knows his stuff. Heck of a craftsman, too.

 

[Smokin99]

Re: Grizzley Machines

I have a 0509G gunsmith lathe liked everything except the 4 jaw chuck so we made another one with finer adjustments and now its perfect!