The maximum length of the material you can hold. Common hobby sizes range from 15" to 40" .
The maximum diameter of a workpiece that can rotate without hitting the bed. A 10" to 12" swing is standard for most home shops.
Lathe size is primarily defined by two measurements: and Distance Between Centers .
Buying a metal lathe involves balancing the size of the work you intend to do against your available space, power supply, and budget. For most home hobbyists, the decision often starts between a new import "mini lathe" or a vintage American-made machine. 1. Determine Your Needed Capacity