Hello all from ware

[Mike 90Participant @mike90]

Hi all my names mike and I have been a modeller for a number of years, mostly plastic kits of the military kind, but have now got the mini lathe bug, so have got myself a Chester DB7 mini lathe, I only got it a couple of days ago and have not had time to really use it yet, but it seems to be well made, and I’m looking forward to my first project which will probably to replace the small handles, so could someone tell me where to get short lengths of Ali, and brass bar stock, so I can make a start.

[Mike 90Participant @mike90]

[David George 1Participant @davidgeorge1]

Hi Michael welcome to the forum. Have a look at M-machine metal supliers they have a catalog to download and will cut any size with a fairly quick delivery, also call them to talk about what you need they are very helpful. Don't forget about the Christmas delays and shut down.

David

[Brian HParticipant @brianh50089]

Welcome to this excellent forum Michael. As David says, M-Machine is a good supplier as is MacMetals.

Try to avoid the unknown metals that well meaning people try to give you. They MAY be ok but they may also be difficult to work with.

Try to stick to a steel known as EN1A at least to start with. This is a free cutting steel that gives a good finish.

The EN series of steels were made obsolete many years ago but are still recognised by stockists and others because it is easier to remember than BS 970 230M07 which is the 'new' designation for it.

Aluminium can have similar problems as some aluminiums can be very soft and difficult to work with.

If you stick with one of the model engineers suppliers, as least to start with, you won't go far wrong.

All the best with your new hobby and keep asking questions on here.

Brian

[John HaineParticipant @johnhaine32865]

Another useful supplier of bits and bobs is Noggin End – they will be at the London show in January, worth a visit for inspiration, materials and tools.

[Neil WyattModerator @neilwyatt]

Hi Mike,

Welcome to the forum.

Try the links at the right, including the 'shopping partners'. We also have several suppliers who advertise in the magazines.

Neil

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