CNC lathe recommendation

Hi All,

I run a small machine shop presently all with manual machines. With CNC prices coming down significantly, I dont think I can afford not to move towards them despite my specialised area of work. We have our own product line, so we're not a competing general machine shop.

I would like some advice on what older lathes you might recommend. I am an experienced machinist but not on CNC, though have been around them a little and spent some time on CNC simulators learning.

My present lathe work consists mostly of work up to 250mm (10") dia and alot around the 2" mark and less.

The bigger work is mostly in plastic and needs to be between centres.

What machines would you recommend I look at?

Swing (ideally) 10"
Between Centres - 400 min (tailstock required)
Through headstock - >50mm

I've been looking at the Okuma LC20 but I believe that's insufficient in the swing.


Thanks for your advice.

Regards, Iain.