I've been considering trying to teach myself some basic machining so that I can eventually learn to build rifles as a "retirement". I've got an opportunity to buy a Smithy 1220 3-in-1 lathe from my sister's father-in-law for a song. I know the opinion on these is usually that they're junk for quality gunsmithing work, but is this unit servicable to learn some basic threading and chambering work? According to him, the machine is a 1200 updated to a 1220 with several upgrades to make it more precise (he builds prototypes of medical equipment). Any opinions or recommendations are appreciated.
