Thanks guys for all the tips/advice & well wishes…I do appreciate it.
Looking back, I suppose I shouldn’t have made my original post in a joking manner as I know damn well it’s no laughing matter….poor taste of words on my part. I think I was just happy & relieved to come out of it relatively unscathed. Normally, I am quite cautious & aware of my surroundings, but one momentary lapse of attention &, as you can see, things can go downhill FAST.
It all happened in the blink of an eye, yet in slow motion at the same time. The instant I felt my hair getting snagged, I knew I was in a really bad way, so quickly planted my hands on bench & ripped my head away before it wound too close to my scalp.
I honestly believe my only saving grace in this situation was the fact that I only have a 1/2hp, 7x12 mini lathe. No excuse to be complacent with, I know, but had it been any larger w/more horsepower, I’m sure the outcome would have been different…& not in a good way.
I originally wasn’t even going to post about my mishap (more embarrassing now than anything), but then thought that if even 1 person (think “newbie”) saw this thread & realizes what can happen if you don’t pay attention, then it will be well worth any flak or ridicule I may receive (not that I have).
Mini lathes/mills are basically regarded as the “Tonka Toys” of machining due to their size/lack of rigidity, but make no mistake - they can & WILL bite you given the opportunity.