I’ve got a clone of that (from SPG) – I haven’t noticed scratching or pitting on mine. Casting issue?

Most common reason for this happening is trapped grit being released from the table .

On a not much used section of the table put a good quantity of oil and then wipe it off again with multiple passes of clean rag . Examine rag carefully and see if there is grit on it .

You've had best advice – contact supplier – but it is always useful to be able to describe the problem in detail .

Michael Williams .

I'm not sure that's true now. Markup on machines is generally modest – the market is hugely competitive. The business model for most of the trade suppliers is to attract customers with a good deal on machines and keep them as future customers through good service. A lot of customers making regular small purchases and the occasional bigger one is what every business wants.

This has driven greatly improved quality and reliability of imported hobby machines over the last 20 years or more.

Neil

Far Eastern vs old British is a well trodden debate on the forum. There's much to be said on both sides. Dare I suggest though that Peter's point of view isn't entirely gospel. He:

• Resurrects a 5 year old post, never a convincing platform
• Starts by claiming "It is a well known fact…", when actually it's "a well known opinion"
• Uses the term "third world", which has lost it's original meaning
• Assumes lack of quality explains cheapness rather than considering the possibility that selling price also reflect economies of scale, cheap labour costs, tax advantages, competition, and a competent understanding of the market. Possibly there are state subsidies as well.
• Plays the 'false economy in the long run' card. Maybe, maybe not. In professional engineering circles 'the long run' isn't a respectable argument. Particularly when old kit has to compete with someone who has invested in the latest and best available. Better to choose after defining what's meant by 'Fit for Purpose' and 'Value for Money'. What that means to me might be very different to what it means to you: it's unwise to generalise.

One way beginners make a start in the hobby is by searching the internet. I feel it's not helpful for them to read posts casting unnecessary doubt on their most straightforward entry method, ie buying a new hobby machine. The implication that only western lathes are worth having is very misleading. Yes you will be pleased if you pick up a good one. But there are plenty of worn out crocks too. Experienced buyers know what to look for; I'd suggest a beginner is better off de-risking his purchase by buying new. Not because the quality of the machine is better; it's because new purchases benefit from consumer protection law.

Above all I think it's more important to make a start than worrying about where and when your first lathe was manufactured. After a couple of years experience, it's much easier to make informed decisions about what you really want. By all means change your mind. My Chinese kit isn't as refined as I would like but it does all I need of it, at the right price, and I've not regretted buying it. As to longevity, I expect it will see me out.

Dave