I've decided to upgrade the 40 year old lathe and have settled on a few items that I must have such as: 12-15" swing, one piece cast bed (2400 pounds or more), 30-40" bed, 1.5" spindle bore or greater, 3-5 HP motor, etc. I've looked at a bunch of models that seem to fit but I need advice on spindle types. Is their an advantage or disadvantage to an "A" or "D" spindles on a manual machine. I will be alternating 3/4 jaw work w/ collet work. So....if you had a choice would you prefer an "A" or "D" type spindle and why??. Is one type easier to change out and or more repeatable as far as accuracy is concerned.

Also....If you were starting from scratch which collet type would you prefer on a manual lathe and why..5c, 2j, 3j, 16c...????.......would you go for a lever closer, sojgren handwheel, draw tube, or adjust tru collet chuck.

Keep in mind I'm a hobbiest looking for a one lathe fits all. Most work revolves around gunsmithing type work (smaller precision work). I've got lots of time and am not looking to take .100" depth of cuts.

Looking forward to your opinions..............Krems