I started building custom guns about 10 yrs ago and started out with a 1945 model SouthBend 13". Its all original except for the paint. I've decided its time to take the plunge and upgrade. Upgrade may not be the correct term, maybe i should say i'm ready to have a lathe that isn't as worn. The only thing I don't like about the old Southbend as far as options is the spindle bore and odd ball spindle thread. I do all barrel work between centers and a steadyrest because of this. The ways, or apron, have a deep spot in front of the chuck as do the tail stock ways. Wear in the tailstock shaft is also an area needing attention. I got a quote from Texas Machine Tool International which came in at $13K. This didn't include parts or shipping. This also didn't include upgrading the small through-hole spindle to a newer D1-4. I'm guessing an additional minimum of $3k for shipping and spindle upgrade. I told myself before checking into rebuilding if it was less than $10k id do it. Coming up with the extra $6k or more isn't go fly. I hate to admit it but i've seriously been thinking about the Grizzly O509G. I've ran a Jet 16x40 ZX and on many occasions for my real job and must admit that its a pretty smooth, very heavy and seemingly accurate lathe. Granted its a step up from the Grizzly in mass, but its still coming from the same plant. I think my old SouthBend has an overall "smoother" feel than that big Jet. Machinery dealers are far and few between here in southern AZ and I'm not sure I want another used lathe anyway. I've found several newer Nardini's on Ebay in the $6k-$10K range but again, i've got a used lathe now, I really don't want another. Does anybody have the Grizzly 0509G that can give me some insite? If you had a budget of $10k what would you do with it?

If I replaced my lathe "today" I would have o509g and convert to single phase. I have a 2hp vfd which isn't enough. 3 hp single phase would be fine

http://www.grizzly.com/product...s-Metal-Lathe/G0509G

Definitely buy the new one.

My Grizzly lathe is the 12x36, but I'm very happy with it. A good friend bought the larger one and is also very happy with it. I liked the South Bend's they had at Trinidad, but I prefer the lack of wear, the easy availability of tooling, the larger hole through the headstock, and the customer support on the Grizzly.

I am putting my nardini MS1440 up for sale it is very nice & well kept it has a taper attachment (brand new I added it) steady & follow rest, change gears import aloris style tool post with holders, most of the tooling you need including Jacobs chuck live centers etc. I have a buck set tru 6 jaw on it that will probably go with it. I would be willing to travel a good distance to deliver or meet someone.