No matter who you go with or what you get if you are going to buy from one source ask for a package deal, free shipping, through in some things for free. and don't be afraid to hang up, you can always call back later and place the order. Also I'm not sure that you need 7000rpms for a home hobby shop Not knocking a machine that can do this or saying it could not be used, just saying is it that important for a home hobby shop. Also I would like to know where 7000rpm would be used. The last thing I would add here is DROs are nice I have them on my mill. best thing I did for it no more counting turns of the crank. I do not have DRO on my lathe The only place on it where I realy wish I had it is on the carriage. The point here is they can be added latter as can a roto table if needed. Also remember you will soon have a machine shop where you can make alot of your own tools. Things I have made and seen guys make Like roto tables, ball turners, roto broaches, vises, angle plates it can all be made over time. For sure you will need a good selection of end mills, a good set of drill bits, some hss blanks (a grinder if you do not have one) Some cheep brazed lathe tools as you will destroy some of these learning. some mics, calipars, vise, Clamping set, parrallel set, reamers, edge finders, center drills, boring bars, an er collet set or end mill holders, DTI, DI, Squares. these are what I consider must haves. I would also add taps and dies. I'm sure there are some must have that I did not think of and I am sure others will bring them up. Be sureto keep 500 for the few things you realize you missed. Good luck and have fun. When you get set up we will all want to see pics of the shop and your projects.
