i think the lathe prob weighs in around 50-60lbs. That shipping weight is due to the fact they enclose the lathe in plywood and the little bit of extras they give you with the lathe. It will be heavier but not that much more.
The other thing to consider is how much you will use it. If it will only be a few times then the micro may be better. If you can work within its limitations I am sure that will get the job done. Just not sure on what the frustration factor is like on one of those... Also I dont own a taig so I cant really comment on those ones...
Good luck and let us know what you get.
Dan |