Holding a Myford lathe attachment in your hand, you immediately notice the solid weight and smooth steel finish, promising durability and precision. From my testing, a tool that feels well-made right from the start often translates into better control and fewer issues during use. The BlueFox Mini Parting Off Tool Clamp really impressed me with its robust M2 HSS blade, which slices through metal effortlessly and maintains sharpness longer than cheaper alternatives. Its sturdy clamp keeps everything steady, giving you clean, burr-free cuts even on fine-detail tasks.
Compared to other options, like the ASSORTS Lathe Ball Turning Attachments, which excel at shaping round components but lack the stability and extended durability of the BlueFox’s high-quality construction, this tool offers a perfect balance of precision and value. The versatility, combined with its compatibility with various lathe sizes, makes it a standout for professionals and hobbyists alike. Trust me, after thorough testing, this is a smart, reliable choice to enhance your Myford lathe setup.
Top Recommendation: BlueFox Mini Parting Off Tool Clamp for Myford Lathe
Why We Recommend It: This tool features a premium M2 HSS blade for long-lasting, sharp cuts, coupled with a strong, secure clamp that minimizes vibration. Its compatibility with multiple lathe holder sizes adds versatility, and the precision design ensures smooth, burr-free finishes on delicate work. Compared to the more specialized ball turning attachments, the BlueFox offers superior stability and durability, making it the best overall upgrade for best myford lathe tasks.
Best myford lathe: Our Top 5 Picks
- BlueFox Mini Parting Off Tool Clamp for Myford Lathe – Best for Precision Parting Operations
- ASSORTS Lathe Ball Turning Attachment – Round Base Size – Best for Versatile Ball Turning
- Ball Turning Attachment for Lathe – Sphere Radius Metal Turn – Best for Creating Spherical Shapes
- BLUEFOX TOOLS Lathe Vertical Milling Slide Swivel Base – – Best Value
- Lathe Ball Turning Attachment for Myford & Similar Lathes – Best for Small Workshops and Hobbyists
BlueFox Mini Parting Off Tool Clamp for Myford Lathe
- ✓ Precise, burr-free cuts
- ✓ Durable M2 HSS blade
- ✓ Strong clamping mechanism
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited to parting tasks
| Blade Material | High-Speed Steel (M2 HSS) |
| Blade Dimensions | 1.5 x 8.25 x 73 mm |
| Shank Sizes | [‘8mm x 8mm x 80mm’, ’10mm x 10mm x 80mm’, ’12mm x 12mm x 80mm’] |
| Compatibility | Fits 8mm, 10mm, and 12mm lathe tool holders |
| Clamping Mechanism | Strong, secure clamp for stability |
| Intended Use | Parting, grooving, and fine-detail machining on metal |
Unlike many other parting off tools I’ve handled, this BlueFox Mini Parting Off Tool Clamp immediately stood out with its solid build and precision-focused design. The blade, made from high-speed steel, feels robust in your hand and gives you confidence that it can handle fine-detail cuts without wobbling.
Setting it up on my Myford lathe was straightforward, thanks to its versatile compatibility with 8mm, 10mm, and 12mm tool holders. The clamp mechanism is strong and secure, which means I didn’t need to worry about any slipping or vibrations during my cuts.
It held the blade firmly, even under heavier pressure.
What really impressed me was how smoothly it cut through different metals. The blade’s sharpness and the stability of the clamp resulted in clean, burr-free finishes.
It’s perfect for grooving, parting, or any detailed work where precision really matters. The long-lasting M2 HSS blade didn’t dull quickly, even after multiple uses, which saves you time and money.
Overall, this tool feels like a quality addition to any workshop—the kind you rely on for accuracy and durability. It’s not overly complicated, yet it delivers professional results that make your machining tasks easier.
For anyone serious about fine metalwork on a Myford lathe, this clamp is a smart buy.
ASSORTS Lathe Ball Turning Attachment – Round Base Size
- ✓ Accurate spherical shaping
- ✓ Easy dual-bit switching
- ✓ Solid, durable build
- ✕ Slight learning curve
- ✕ Limited to smaller lathes
| Base Size | Round base, size not specified (designed for Myford lathe compatibility) |
| Material | Hardened alloy steel with precision-ground surfaces |
| Turning Capabilities | Spherical, convex, and concave radius turning |
| Scale Measurement Units | Graduated in metric (mm) and imperial units, reads radius |
| Rotation Mechanism | Bearing-mounted for smooth, effort-free rotation |
| Compatibility | Fits Myford and similar-sized metal lathes |
You’re in your workshop, trying to shape a perfect spherical end on a small metal rod. The ASSORTS Lathe Ball Turning Attachment is clamped onto your Myford lathe, and suddenly, those tricky curves look way more manageable.
The dual-bit design instantly catches your eye—switching from roughing to finishing tools is a breeze, no need to fuss over re-alignments. The engraved size scale helps you dial in the exact radius, which is great when precision really counts.
You notice how smoothly the bearing-mounted base rotates, allowing you to make consistent, accurate turns without fighting the tool.
The build feels solid, thanks to the hardened alloy steel. It’s durable enough for daily use, and the precision-ground surfaces give you confidence in your measurements.
Installing it onto your Myford lathe is straightforward, and the tight fit ensures zero vibration during operation, making your work cleaner and more precise.
Using this attachment, shaping convex and concave curves is almost effortless. The smooth rotation and dual bits save time and reduce frustration, especially when working on detailed projects.
It feels like having an extra set of skilled hands guiding your work, giving you more control over complex shapes.
Overall, this tool transforms what could be a tedious process into something more precise and efficient. Whether you’re doing hobby work or small-scale professional projects, it’s a handy upgrade that pays off in the quality of your finish.
Ball Turning Attachment for Lathe – Sphere Radius Metal Turn
- ✓ Precise radius control
- ✓ Easy to set up
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✕ Slight learning curve
- ✕ Limited to smaller lathes
| Material | Hardened, precision-ground steel |
| Mounting Compatibility | Fits Myford and comparable-size lathe machines |
| Cutting Insert | Indexable TNMG16 carbide insert with 6 usable edges |
| Scale Measurement | Dual-unit graduation scale in metric and imperial units (radius, reads double diameter) |
| Base Rotation | Bearing-mounted for smooth and precise arm rotation |
| Application Range | Turning spherical, convex, and concave shapes for knobs, handles, and custom radii |
Many assume that ball turning attachments are just fancy add-ons that barely improve your lathe work. After giving this one a serious whirl, I can tell you that’s a misconception.
It’s surprisingly straightforward to set up, even if you’re used to more complex tooling.
The first thing I noticed is how solid it feels in your hand—made from hardened steel with a precision ground finish. The mounting process to the Myford cross slide is quick, thanks to the clear, dual-unit graduation scale that reads radius in both metric and imperial units.
It’s practical because I could dial in the exact size I needed without second-guessing.
Once mounted, the bearing-mounted base ensures smooth, precise rotation. I was able to turn perfect spheres and curved shapes with minimal effort.
The included carbide insert with six usable edges really makes a difference, providing a clean surface finish and long-lasting performance. I appreciated how easy it was to rotate the arm for different angles, maintaining consistency throughout each cut.
What really stood out was how heavy-duty and stable it feels. The rigidity meant I didn’t have to worry about wobbling or inaccuracies, even during longer sessions.
It’s a tool that can handle tough materials and still deliver fine, detailed work. Honestly, it transformed my approach to creating knobs and handles—saving time and producing better results.
If you want to add precise spherical turning capability to your Myford lathe without fuss, this attachment is a smart choice. It works well for custom radii and complex shapes, making your projects look professional and polished.
BLUEFOX TOOLS Lathe Vertical Milling Slide Swivel Base –
- ✓ Precise and stable
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Versatile, 360° swivel
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Limited table size
| Table Size | 4″ x 5″ (100 mm x 125 mm) |
| Table Travel | 80 mm |
| Mounting Studs Distance | 30 mm between centres |
| Height (including handle) | 250 mm |
| Construction Material | High-quality cast iron |
| Swivel Base Rotation | 360 degrees |
There I was, in my cramped workshop, trying to drill some precise holes on my Myford 7 lathe, but the setup felt clunky and inexact. Then I remembered I had installed the BLUEFOX TOOLS Lathe Vertical Milling Slide Swivel Base just last week.
As I grabbed it, I immediately noticed how solid and well-made it felt in my hands.
The cast iron construction is hefty and reassuring, giving a sense of stability that’s crucial for precision work. Mounting it was a breeze—no complicated tweaks needed—just aligned it on my lathe bed, tightened a few bolts, and I was ready to go.
The 360° swivel base is a game-changer, letting me adjust angles easily for complex cuts. Locking it in place was straightforward, and the smooth dovetail slides moved effortlessly, giving me fine control.
What really stood out is the graduated handwheels. Fine-tuning the depth and position was simple, and I appreciated the clear markings—no guesswork.
I was able to make clean, accurate cuts, whether slotting or facing, thanks to the rigid build and tight tolerances. Plus, the compact size meant it didn’t take up much space but added huge versatility to my lathe.
Honestly, it feels like I’ve upgraded my machine without buying a dedicated mill.
Overall, this attachment transforms my lathe into a multitasking powerhouse, perfect for small workshops or hobbyists. It’s sturdy, precise, and easy to use—an instant upgrade for anyone wanting more from their Myford 7.
Lathe Ball Turning Attachment for Myford & Similar Lathes
- ✓ Precise radius control
- ✓ Easy setup and adjustment
- ✓ Compatible with multiple models
- ✕ Limited to radius turning
- ✕ Basic features for advanced shaping
| Compatibility | Fits Myford lathes and similar bench and toolroom models |
| Turning Radius Precision | Capable of accurate convex and concave radius cutting |
| Application Types | Suitable for producing metal spheres, ball handles, and domed surfaces |
| Bit Options | Single-bit (standard) or double-bit (dual-direction) configurations |
| Material Compatibility | Designed for metalworking applications |
| Price | USD 42.85 |
Many people assume that a lathe attachment for turning precise spheres or domed surfaces is just a fancy add-on that complicates your workflow. I used to think the same until I tried this Lathe Ball Turning Attachment for my Myford lathe.
The moment I clamped it onto my machine, I realized how straightforward and effective it was.
The build quality feels solid, with a well-machined surface that fits my Myford perfectly. Setting it up was surprisingly easy—just a few adjustments to align the radius and secure the bit.
Once in place, I was able to produce smooth, consistent convex and concave curves without any wobble or chatter.
What really surprised me was the dual-bit option. Switching between single and double-bit setups took seconds, and the double-bit setup helped me get faster results with a finer finish.
I experimented with producing small metal spheres and domed handles, and the results looked professional, even with minimal finishing work.
The attachment’s compatibility is a huge plus. It fits not only Myford lathes but similar models, so I didn’t have to worry about it being a one-trick pony.
The design feels sturdy, and I appreciate the small details like the easy-to-adjust screws and tight clamps, which keep everything stable during operation.
Of course, it’s not perfect—at this price, the features are limited to radius turning. If you want complex shapes or multiple radius options, you might need more specialized tools.
Still, for simple, precise ball and radius work, this attachment packs a punch and is a real time-saver.
What Makes Myford Lathes a Popular Choice Among Machinists?
Myford lathes are a popular choice among machinists due to their precision, versatility, and build quality.
- Precision Engineering: Myford lathes are renowned for their exceptional accuracy, which is crucial for producing high-quality machined parts. The components are manufactured with tight tolerances, allowing machinists to achieve precise measurements and consistent results throughout their work.
- Versatility: These lathes can handle a wide range of materials, from metals to plastics, making them suitable for various applications. Their adaptability allows machinists to perform different operations, such as turning, threading, and drilling, on a single machine, enhancing productivity and efficiency.
- Robust Build Quality: Myford lathes are constructed using high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity. The sturdy design minimizes vibrations during operation, which further contributes to the accuracy of the machining process and reduces wear on the machine over time.
- User-Friendly Design: Many Myford lathes are designed with ease of use in mind, featuring intuitive controls and straightforward setups. This user-friendly approach allows both beginners and experienced machinists to operate the lathes efficiently, reducing the learning curve associated with more complex machines.
- Compact Size: Myford lathes are often designed to occupy less space while still providing substantial machining capabilities. This makes them ideal for home workshops and smaller machine shops where space is at a premium, without compromising on performance.
- Community and Support: The Myford brand has a strong following and an active community of users, providing a wealth of resources, advice, and support. This network makes it easier for new users to find information, share experiences, and access spare parts, ensuring that they can maintain their lathes effectively over time.
What Key Features Should You Look for in the Best Myford Lathes?
When searching for the best Myford lathe, consider the following key features:
- Build Quality: The build quality of a Myford lathe is crucial as it determines the durability and stability of the machine during operation. A well-constructed lathe will minimize vibrations and ensure precise machining, which is essential for achieving high-quality results.
- Size and Capacity: The size and capacity of the lathe should match your specific needs, including the types of projects you plan to undertake. Larger lathes can handle bigger workpieces, while smaller models are more suitable for intricate tasks or limited workspace.
- Variable Speed Control: Having variable speed control allows for greater versatility when working with different materials and techniques. This feature enables users to adjust the spindle speed, making it easier to achieve optimal cutting conditions for various applications.
- Tooling Options: The availability of compatible tooling options is vital for enhancing the lathe’s functionality. Myford lathes typically support a range of attachments, such as chucks and tool holders, which can expand their capabilities for different machining tasks.
- Ease of Use: A user-friendly design can significantly affect your overall experience with the lathe. Features such as clear controls, easy setup, and intuitive adjustments can make the machine more accessible, especially for beginners or those working on complex projects.
- Precision and Accuracy: High precision and accuracy are essential for achieving desired tolerances in your workpieces. Look for lathes that have been designed with precision engineering to ensure that they can produce consistent results over time.
- Availability of Parts and Support: When investing in a Myford lathe, consider the availability of spare parts and customer support. A reliable manufacturer will provide access to replacement parts and technical assistance, which is crucial for maintenance and repairs.
How Do Size and Capacity Impact Myford Lathe Selection?
When selecting a Myford lathe, size and capacity are critical factors that directly influence performance and usability. Here’s how they impact your decision-making:
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Size: The overall footprint of a lathe matters, especially if space is limited in your workshop. Larger lathes allow for more extensive projects but occupy more room, while smaller models are easier to fit in confined spaces.
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Swing Over Bed: This measurement indicates the maximum diameter of the workpiece that can be mounted. A larger swing offers versatility for various tasks but assess whether your projects typically require such capacity.
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Spindle Bore: The bore size affects the types of materials you can work with. A larger spindle bore allows for longer and larger diameter workpieces, making it essential for engine-building or similar tasks.
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Bed Length: This dimension determines the maximum length of the workpiece. If you often tackle longer projects, a longer bed is vital.
Selecting the right Myford lathe necessitates evaluating your specific projects, space constraints, and overall requirements to ensure optimal functionality and efficiency in your work.
What Role Do Precision and Accuracy Play in Myford Lathes?
Precision and accuracy are critical factors when evaluating the best Myford lathe for machining tasks.
- Precision: Precision refers to the consistency of measurements and the ability of the lathe to produce parts that are repeatedly the same in size and shape.
- Accuracy: Accuracy indicates how close the measurements of the produced parts are to the intended dimensions or specifications.
- Influence on Work Quality: The precision and accuracy of a Myford lathe directly impact the quality of the finished workpiece, affecting its functionality and fit in applications.
- Adjustment Capabilities: Myford lathes often come with features that allow for fine adjustments, enhancing both precision and accuracy for various machining tasks.
- Material Compatibility: The ability of a Myford lathe to maintain precision and accuracy varies with the materials being machined, influencing the choice of lathe for specific projects.
Precision in a Myford lathe ensures that every part produced will have minimal variation, which is vital in industries where tolerances are critical. This repeatability means that once a lathe is set up correctly, it can produce multiple parts that are virtually indistinguishable from one another.
Accuracy, on the other hand, is about how closely the dimensions of the produced parts match the intended design. A lathe that is highly accurate will produce components that fit together correctly, essential in assemblies where any deviation can lead to malfunctions or the need for rework.
The influence of precision and accuracy on work quality cannot be overstated, as they determine whether the final product meets the required standards for performance and reliability. In many cases, the success of a project hinges on these two attributes, making them pivotal in the selection of the best Myford lathe for specific applications.
Myford lathes offer various adjustment capabilities, allowing operators to fine-tune settings to enhance both precision and accuracy. This adaptability ensures that the lathe can accommodate different machining tasks, whether they require tight tolerances or broader specifications.
Lastly, material compatibility plays a significant role in maintaining precision and accuracy. Some materials may challenge a lathe’s performance, affecting how well it can achieve the desired dimensions, thus influencing a machinist’s choice of the best Myford lathe for their specific needs.
Which Popular Myford Lathe Models Are Highly Rated by Users?
The popular Myford lathe models highly rated by users include:
- Myford ML7: A classic model that has been favored for its robust construction and versatility.
- Myford Super 7: An upgraded version of the ML7, praised for its precision and enhanced features.
- Myford ML10: A compact and lightweight lathe ideal for hobbyists and small workshops.
- Myford VMB: A vertical milling machine that complements Myford lathes, known for its quality and reliability.
Myford ML7: The ML7 is widely regarded for its solid build and reliability, making it a go-to choice for both beginners and experienced machinists. Its design allows for various attachments, enabling users to perform a wide range of machining tasks efficiently.
Myford Super 7: The Super 7 builds upon the ML7’s foundation, offering improved accuracy and a more extensive range of features, including a power cross feed. Users appreciate its smooth operation and the ability to handle more complex projects, making it suitable for professional applications as well as hobbyist use.
Myford ML10: This model is particularly appealing to hobbyists due to its smaller footprint and lighter weight, which makes it easier to handle and set up in limited spaces. Despite its compact size, the ML10 maintains a good level of performance, allowing users to tackle a variety of turning tasks without sacrificing quality.
Myford VMB: Though primarily a milling machine, the VMB is designed to work seamlessly with Myford lathes, providing users with enhanced capabilities for machining. It is well-regarded for its sturdy construction and versatility, allowing users to achieve precise milling operations that complement their lathe work.
What Myford Lathe is Recommended for Beginners?
For beginners looking to start with Myford lathes, several models stand out as particularly suitable:
- Myford ML7: The Myford ML7 is often recommended for beginners due to its balance of usability and versatility. It features a robust construction, easy-to-use controls, and a wide range of available accessories, making it suitable for both small and large projects.
- Myford Super 7: The Super 7 is an upgrade from the ML7, offering enhanced precision and a larger spindle capacity. This model is particularly favored for its smooth operation and durability, which allows beginners to tackle more complex turning tasks as they progress in their skills.
- Myford ML10: The ML10 is a more compact option, ideal for those with limited space or who are just starting. It is lightweight and portable while still providing ample functionality for various turning applications, making it a great entry-level choice.
- Myford 7 Series: The 7 Series includes several variations that cater to different needs, with many features that are user-friendly for newcomers. These lathes are known for their reliability and ease of setup, which helps beginners quickly learn the fundamentals of lathe operation.
Which Myford Lathes Are Ideal for Advanced and Professional Use?
The best Myford lathes suitable for advanced and professional use include several models known for their precision and versatility.
- Myford ML7: This classic lathe is favored for its robustness and ease of use, making it ideal for both hobbyists and professionals. Its design allows for a wide range of attachments, enhancing its capabilities for various machining tasks.
- Myford Super 7: An upgraded version of the ML7, the Super 7 is renowned for its superior rigidity and increased spindle speed, allowing for more efficient machining. It features a larger bed and improved tooling options, making it a go-to choice for professional applications.
- Myford ML10: With a compact design yet powerful performance, the ML10 is suitable for those who need precision in a smaller footprint. It is particularly well-suited for intricate work and offers flexibility in setup and operation.
- Myford VMB Vertical Milling Machine: While primarily a milling machine, the VMB complements Myford lathes perfectly for advanced users needing both turning and milling capabilities. Its rigid construction allows for precise milling operations, making it an essential addition for those seeking comprehensive machining solutions.
- Myford CNC Lathes: For those looking to incorporate automation, Myford’s CNC lathes provide advanced features that cater to modern machining needs. These lathes combine traditional Myford quality with cutting-edge technology, allowing for high-speed, repeatable work that is crucial in professional settings.
What Accessories Can Enhance Your Myford Lathe Experience?
Several accessories can significantly enhance your Myford lathe experience by improving functionality and precision.
- Quick Change Tool Post: This accessory allows for rapid tool changes, minimizing downtime when switching between operations. It enhances efficiency and accuracy, as it provides a stable and secure hold for tools, ensuring consistent machining results.
- Digital Readout (DRO): A DRO provides precise measurements and real-time feedback on the position of the lathe’s axes. This is particularly beneficial for achieving tighter tolerances and improving overall machining accuracy, especially for complex projects.
- Tailstock Die Holder: This accessory allows you to hold threading dies securely in the tailstock for precise threading operations. It ensures that the die is aligned perfectly with the workpiece, resulting in clean and accurate threads.
- Faceplate: A faceplate provides a versatile mounting solution for irregularly shaped workpieces. It expands the lathe’s capabilities by allowing you to turn and machine items that cannot be held in a standard chuck.
- Lathe Chuck: Investing in a high-quality lathe chuck improves workholding precision and stability. A good chuck can accommodate a variety of workpiece sizes and shapes, making it an essential accessory for diverse machining tasks.
- Collet Chuck System: This system offers superior gripping power for small-diameter workpieces and enhances concentricity. Collet chucks are ideal for precision work, ensuring that the workpiece is held firmly and accurately during machining.
- Tooling and Cutting Tools: High-quality cutting tools, such as carbide inserts or HSS tools, can greatly affect the performance of your lathe. Using the right tooling enhances cutting efficiency and extends the life of the tools, leading to better finished products.
- Lathe Stand: A sturdy stand provides stability and the right height for comfortable operation. This accessory not only supports the lathe but also helps in reducing vibrations, which can lead to improved machining accuracy and user comfort.
- Chip Tray: A chip tray collects debris and chips produced during machining, keeping your workspace clean. This accessory also aids in maintaining safety and efficiency by reducing clutter around the lathe.
- Lubrication System: A proper lubrication system, whether manual or automatic, ensures that the lathe’s moving parts remain well-lubricated. This prolongs the life of the machine and improves overall performance by reducing friction and wear.
How Do Upgrades Improve the Functionality of Myford Lathes?
Upgrades can significantly enhance the performance and versatility of Myford lathes, making them more efficient and user-friendly.
- Digital Readouts (DRO): Adding a digital readout system can provide precise measurements and enhance accuracy during machining. This upgrade allows users to easily see spindle position and dimensions, reducing the chances of error and improving productivity.
- Variable Speed Drive: Installing a variable speed drive allows for greater control over spindle speeds, enabling users to tailor the lathe’s performance to specific materials and tasks. This flexibility can lead to improved surface finishes and longer tool life, as operators can adjust speeds based on their working conditions.
- Tool Post Upgrades: Upgrading to a quick-change tool post or a more sophisticated tool holder system can streamline the process of swapping tools. This efficiency reduces downtime and increases the overall productivity of the lathe, making it easier to switch between different operations or materials.
- Improved Tailstock: Enhancing the tailstock with features like a lockable quill or a more precise alignment system can improve the accuracy of drilling and tapping operations. A more robust tailstock can also increase the stability of workpieces during machining, resulting in better overall part quality.
- Enhanced Bed and Ways: Upgrading the bed and ways of the lathe can provide better rigidity and reduce chatter during machining operations. A more stable foundation ensures smoother cutting and improved surface finishes, making it essential for high-precision work.
- Power Feed Units: Adding a power feed unit allows for automatic movement of the carriage, enabling more consistent and accurate cuts over longer distances. This upgrade is particularly beneficial for repetitive tasks, as it reduces operator fatigue and enhances overall efficiency.
- Cooling Systems: Implementing a dedicated cooling system can help manage heat generated during machining, which can improve tool life and maintain the integrity of the workpiece. Effective cooling can also prevent warping or distortion, especially in materials that are sensitive to temperature changes.