In Brief: Shop Fox M1112 Lathe Review
The Shop Fox M1112 Gunsmithing Lathe is a heavy-duty, industrial-grade lathe. Its 12-amp motor delivers 200-volts of power and a whopping nine different variable speed settings for the utmost in precision and accuracy. Its cast-iron construction means that it will hold up to regular wear and tear easily and last for a long, long time.
The Shop Fox line is a series of lathes that is produced by Woodstock International Inc.
Woodstock has been in business since 1989, producing a wide array of woodworking and metalworking machinery, workshop tools, and machine accessories.
For the last two years, Woodstock International Inc. has been on the list of the 500 fastest growing American companies, signalling their importance to the industry.
Their line of lathes – and the 3,000 different tools that they deliver to the North American market – have come to signify their fast and efficient services.
With hundreds of centrally located warehouses throughout North America, they continue to grow those efficient services.
Key Specifications of the Shop Fox M1112
The most notable thing about the Shop Fox M1112 Gunsmithing Lathe is its construction. The stand and body are constructed of durable cast iron while the gear cover, gears and high-precision bearings are made from cast aluminum.
All of this combines to create a durable, long-lasting piece of machinery.
The Shop Fox M1112 Gunsmithing Lathe also features up to 9 variable speeds for the optimal amount of accuracy and precision.
Starting from 70 RPM and working all the way up to 1400 RPM, this unit has more than enough selectable options for experienced metalworkers.
Lastly, this lathe also delivers in precision thanks to the spindle bearings and camlock spindle.
Combined with the quick-changed gearbox and extra-fine feed rate, even the finest of precision work can be completed on the Shop Fox M1112 Gunsmithing Lathe.
Read the long list of Shop Fox M1112 specs here :
| Specification | |
|---|---|
| Model Number/ Name | M1112 |
| Ideal For | Metal |
| Volts | 220 |
| Current (amps) | 12 |
| Speed (rpm) | 1400 |
| Distance between centers (in) | 36 |
| Spindle thread (in) | 1.57 |
| Overall dimensions | 61 x 26 x 54.5 |
| Weight (lbs) | 1213 |
| Other Features | Control Panel w/switch protection |
Top Features to Look For
The Shop Fox M1112 Gunsmithing Lathe is an industrial quality lathe that can deliver the most accurate of lathe operations.
The following features don’t even mention the ultra-durable cast iron construction throughout for optimal longevity.
“Bulls Eye” Gearhead
The Shop Fox M1112 Gunsmithing Lathe delivers the utmost in accuracy and precision thanks to the spindle bearings, outboard spindle supports, camlock spindle, and quick-change gearbox.
The feed rate is even capable of an ultra-fine 0.0011” per revolution for incredibly fine detail.
Variable Speeds
Users of the Shop Fox M1112 Gunsmithing Lathe can choose between 9 different variable speeds: 70 RPM, 200 RPM, 220 RPM, 270 RPM, 360 RPM, 600 RPM, 800 RPM, 1000 RPM, and 1400 RPM for the utmost in control and accuracy.
Accessories
If the Shop Fox M1112 Gunsmithing Lathe weren’t enough, it comes with a variety of cool additions and accessories that take it over the top.
The coolant system, halogen work light, quick-change tool post, and ball bearing follow and steady rests are all included with the lathe as well.
Power and Performance
While there are certainly more powerful units on the market, the 12-amp motor more than brings the power. But it is the control that makes the Shop Fox M1112 Gunsmithing Lathe stand out.
With the variable speeds and the various camlocks, users can create workpieces with even the finest of measurements.
Ease of Use
The Shop Fox M1112 Gunsmithing Lathe, despite all of its bells and whistles, is quite easy to use.
The variety of features allow the user to gain improved precision and attention to detail like never before all without the assistance of another person.
Creating finely detailed workpieces is what the Shop Fox M1112 Gunsmithing Lathe is all about.
Ease of Maintenance, Repairs, and Warranty
The Shop Fox M1112 Gunsmithing Lathe is easy to maintain for a few reasons.
The durable cast iron casing prevents warping or corrosion and the build-in lubricant system means that cutting pieces don’t wear down as the otherwise normally would.
It is advised that users use an air hose or vacuum to remove excess debris and material clippings when they are done to avoid build ups.
Warranty
Woodstock International, the company that produces the Shop Fox M1112 Gunsmithing Lathe, typically offers a 90-day warranty from the date of the original purchase for all of their lathes.
Depending on where you purchase the lathe from, there may be additional protection plans available.
The warranty is in place to protect against any components that may become damaged from materials and workmanship over the life of that warranty.
For more answers, check out Woodstock’s warranty page.
Price of the Shop Fox M1112
This is not something that you will generally find in amateur workshops and the price point reflects that.
Given all of the features and additional components included in the purchase, this is the kind of lathe that you find in industrial workshops.
Users weren’t thrilled with the price but feel that the durable construction, ultra-fine feed rate, and litany of extras will make it worth the price over time.
Pros and cons of the Shop Fox M1112
Here are some of the pros and cons of the Shop Fox M1112 Gunsmithing Lathe :
Pros
- Ultra-Fine Feed Rate
- Cast Iron Construction
- Adjustable Speeds
- Plenty of Add-ons
Cons
- Price point
- Size
Who Should Buy the Shop Fox M1112 ?
The Shop Fox M1112 Gunsmithing Lathe is recommended for industrial workshops and other professional settings.
Its heavy-duty cast iron construction will allow for it to be in production for a long time to come, making the price point worth it in the long run.
Our Recommendation
For ultra-fine, precision lathe operations, it is hard to beat the Shop Fox M1112 Gunsmithing Lathe. The sturdy chuck, fine feed rate, and all of the add-ons make it one of the most complete lathes out there.
Last update on 2024-04-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
