How feasible...

[DeusExMachina]

I recently ordered an HF 8x14 (its on backorder and won't be here until mid-may, fyi for anyone else wanting to order one)... I'll be getting a 4 jaw chuck and an array of tools soon...

My first project is going to be an air gun, very similar to a paint ball gun just different ammo that me and some friends are casting..

What I'm trying to figure out is how practical would it be to bore out a 0.75" diameter hole 3.75" deep in a 1" x 2" block of aluminum (this'll become the upper receiver)... Not only that but I'd then have to flip it over and bore out another 0.75" diameter hole, 0.75" deep, then a 0.5" hole through the rest of the remaining stock.

The stock will probably measure 1"x2"x6" and will all be hanging off the end of a 4" 4-jaw chuck... I'm a little worried about how rigid this arrangement is going to be...

This is the boring bar I decided to get just for reference.

[Eurisko]

That 3/8 boring bar sticking out 4 inches may be a problem, too

If that setup doesn't work, here are two alternatives...

1) remove the lathe tool post from the cross slide and mount the workpiece to the cross slide. Use the lathe chuck to hold the cutting tools, just like a mill.

2) buy a cheap drill press, drill and ream the bore.

Have fun with the new lathe.

Be sure to post some pics of your air gun project.

[TroyO]

Hmm, the boring bar might not be needed, or at least will only be needed to clean stuff up a bit.

Mount the block on the 4 jaw chuck, then center it to your drill point and feed drill bits from a chuck in the tailstock.

Once you are close, touch up in light passes with the boring bar, or use a reamer.

Anyway, with the right tooling I think the lathe is definitley capable of it. I've been pleased as punch with mine for the most part.

I have found some of the bolts/gear chage shafts etc. to be a bit "soft" but really those are parts I can make with about $5 of decent stock and a couple hours putzing time. (Now that I have the lathe, LOL)

I would be interested in hearing how well that boring bar works... I have the regular set of crappy carbide brazed ones.