Customer Reviews
Useful resource for the beginner - By: SmartyBoy, 15 Jul 2008 
Despite being written some 60 years ago, this book is still largely relevant today - although care must be taken over the imperial dimensions & advice on the non ISO thread forms. This book contains 17 chapters covering everything from choice of lathe & tools through to how to machine complex parts such as crankshafts etc, with the author going into a good level of detail rather than skimming over important aspects.
Stands the test of time - By: T. S. Ward, 06 Jul 2008 Other reviewers have covered the salient benefits of the book. Personallly, I would have liked the photographs to be of greater clarity. A little bit of bias of mine now: one can always tell when an author has practised what he or she preaches. It is a book that I shalll refer to many times.
A practical introduction to lathe & workshop practice - By: John C Emmerson, 09 Jan 2003 
Although the first edition was written in 1948 & the photographs & illustrations are very dated by modern standards, the content is excellent for anyone wanting a practical introduction to the use of the lathe for hobby engineering.
It is written in a very clear informative style & covers topics from basic tool grinding & lathe operation to techniques dealing with projects that could be considered outside the capacity of the smalll lathe.
Being written in 1948 (last edition 1964), the projects & examples included in the book have dimensions & screw threads that use pre-metric, imperial standards. However, basic principles do not change & I found the book to be an excellent introduction & provider of practical advice for the hobby engineer.
Highly recommended for novice and ýold handý alike. - By: , 11 Sep 2000 Mr. Sparey's book is a superb compilation of useful information with regard to the centre lathe. It is packed with instructional information & useful tips: from what to look for when buying a lathe, to advanced applications such as milling, metal-spinning, & spring manufacture.
The fact that the book has been reprinted 11 times is a certain indicator of the high regard shown by the engineering fraternity.
I consider this publication to be a first-class addition to my library.
This book is a great introduction to the joys of lathe work! - By: apbriggs@hotmail.com, 30 Mar 2000 First published in 1948, encompasses just about every task the amateur/model engineer is going to use their lathe for. Lots of pictures & a few drawings too.
