[Newbie] Recommend Lathe For Gunsmithing (chambering/threading)

I'm taking some classes at local community college as a refreasher and to learn something new. In a few months I'll be in the market for a lathe to do my own threading and chambering. I don't have 10k or so to spend on a machine. I've seen that this machine has gotten great review.It is Taiwan machine but alot better than Grizzly. I personally don't know what to really look for when lookin at use lathe

Machine: machinetoolonline.com/PM1340T.html

A number of the members have this machine and are very happy with it's performance and quality. There has been a lot of information written on this model, so do not need to rehash everything. The PM1340GT is also my first lathe, and pretty much learned everything from scratch the last 1-2 years. My original budget was 1/2 of what I spent, and I considered many other lathes. There are many lathes in this size range (like the G4003G) that work similarly and hold tolerance well, so from a feature stand point there is probably not a significant difference. The PM1340GT works very smoothly, and I would say that you are less likely to have issues with it, like motors failing or parts breaking. Many of us have added features/hardware, so you need to figure about an additional 50% of the cost in tooling/chucks etc. (more than a mill). If you have specific question, there are many members that can provide specific details or guidance.

you look for wear on all surfaces/bearing areas, headstock noise etc etc, there is videos on youtube to show you what to look for in a used lathe, id look for an old clausing colchester or something of that nature, maybe a 14x40

Like chevydyl mentioned, wear on the ways and bearing areas is the biggest thing to watch/look for on a used lathe. Also look for signs of the machine being crashed, damage to the chuck and the toolpost/apron area.

As for the PM1340GT lathe, it is very nice piece of equipment. I have been very happy with mine now after owning if for just over a year now.

Mike.

I agree w/ZM and Chev.
Look at the PM or maybe you can get lucky and find a nice used one. Finding that well cared for used smallish lathe suitable for gunsmithing will be tough. Most used lathes I see FS that are under 3k are mostly thrashed, antiques or both. Of course there's always the exceptions but as a general rule ya. I know for sure when I croak there will be some happy HSM dudes lined up at the estate sale wanting my baby Colchester .
For gunsmithing I believe a short length and big dia. thru the spindle is desirable. Geared head with QC box and a foot brake. If I had to go out and buy a lathe today the PM1340 would be on the very short list.
Harrison is another one to consider although they are not very common in the states. Good luck in your endeavor and post updates

I have the Grizzly G4003G. I've had it 2 years and only built one rifle with it so far but I'm very happy with it. Rigid, accurate and not too pricey.

Another thing to consider is spindle length through the headstock. For rifle work, shorter is generally considered better. One of my prime considerations in picking the PM1340GT.