[sanddrag]

Originally Posted by MICHAELABICK

We will probably get the space for a full size lathe, but I would also love recommendations for table top ones in case we don't get the space.

For years now, I've been recommending the Harbor Freight 44859 "8x12" lathe as a good benchtop model for those on a budget. I've had mine since 2006 and I have it on top of one of their 13-drawer tool chests which are also fantastic. The lathe actually measures 8x14 in size (according to how lathes are properly measured) and weighs a good 200 lbs or slightly more. I'd stay away from the 7x series import lathes. They're just too small. The 44859 has been a good unit with great precision and really no problems to note. It's a durable belt drive, with steel gears for the lead screw. It lacks a quick change gearbox, but how often are we doing thread cutting anyhow. If had it sitting right next to our refurbished 1961 Logan 11x24 which has been retrofitted with a VFD and QCTP, I'd probably most often still elect to use the Harbor Freight lathe just because it's a newer tighter machine that holds good tolerance and isn't worn out like our old Logan is. The HF lathe costs a lot more now than it did in 2006, but, everything does, and you can still try to get it with a 20% off coupon (one of my reasons for purchasing when I did). There may be a few things you'll need to do that exceed the size, rigidity, horsepower, etc of this lathe, but it can do quite a lot, even being on the smaller side. As a matter of note, the LatheMaster 8x14 is essentially the same machine with different paint.