What to get: Imperial or metric

[Martin ConnellyParticipant @martinconnelly55370]

Warco offer this machine with DRO fitted. If you went with that option that would make the discussion simply one of are you going to cut more threads using TPI or metric pitch and if you know get the one with the leads crew that matches your needs.

Martin

[Martin KyteParticipant @martinkyte99762]

In my opinion the only thing that really matters is screw cutting and beginners tend to use taps and dies anyhow. You are probably going to be working from drawings in both systems along the way.

Larger threads are going to generally be specials or Whitworth form and you are most likely to be cutting both the internal and external threads so you can choose whatever suits your equipment anyhow. Changewheel lathes can generally be persuaded to cut any pitch you like with a bit of fiddling. Gearbox lathes are perhaps a little more restrictive but that may be just me. The only real constraint is if you spend your time making replacement parts for old motor cars and bikes as has already been mentioned.

Regarding Lathes, all digital calipers and mics work in either system. So to turn diameters set your caliper/mic to the mm or inch size required and hit zero. Switch to the units the lathe works in and turn down to size. Mill's are generally going to end up with DRO's which work in either system. Much more important to buy the best lathe you can afford/fit in your workshop.

regards Martin

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