Gunsmithing Opinion on Sheldon Lathes

[chipdog4]

Might be going to look at a lathe.

From the vague description, its a Sheldon about 5 feet overall length (I'd assume 36" between centers). Comes with 3 and 4 jaw chucks.

I'd like to use it to get more experience running a lathe (really enjoyed the limited time I've used one), maybe some barrel threading down the road.

Anyone care to throw out a rough $ figure on what it could be worth?

 

[CS223]

Re: Opinion on Sheldon Lathes

You might also want to put up a post on Practicalmachinist.com.

 

[hero's machine]

Re: Opinion on Sheldon Lathes

Sheldon made good machines a long time ago. It could be a gold mine or a shaft.....need more info. If you are not sure what to look for, ask a friend who does or machine sales shop. Tooling is key. Check voltage. A 440 3phase machine might cost you more than you want just to get spinning......more info.

 

[eddieharren]

Re: Opinion on Sheldon Lathes

They were and are very nice machines for rifle work. Many of the past generation gunsmiths held them in high praise.

 

[chipdog4]

Re: Opinion on Sheldon Lathes

Went and saw it with my brother.

It had a 56" bed length and a cabinet base
Had a 7" 3 jaw, 8" 4 jaw, and a 5" or 6" 3 jaw that looked new.
It came with lots of tools, I'd guess it to be around $3,000 worth. Bunch of micrometers, calipers, depth and bore gauges, indicators. All were brand name.

The lathe was extremely clean, some paint chips were missing. It was missing a motor when he bought it and now has a 220V motor.
One gear had a tooth missing.
Felt fairly tight, yet.

Looks like the first picture here, even down to the light, which works yet.
http://www.machinemanuals.net/web_pages/sheldon10_13Lathes1.htm

Made an offer, so we'll see.