Draper Variable Speed Metal Work Lathe, 250W

The Draper LATHE-300 is a precision-built 250W metal working lathe designed for the home workshop machinist. Capable of cutting metric gears and producing both right and left hand threads, it offers a level of capability well beyond basic hobby lathes, making it a compelling choice for anyone serious about metal turning, model engineering, or general workshop machining. With variable speed control, a reversible drive, powered cross slide, and a self-centring three jaw chuck supplied as standard, the LATHE-300 arrives as a complete, ready-to-use machining solution backed by an extensive range of compatible accessories.

Key Features

Versatility and precision are the defining qualities of the LATHE-300. The variable speed drive covers two ranges — 100 to 1,100 RPM on the low setting and 100 to 2,500 RPM on the high setting — giving you the control needed to match spindle speed precisely to the material and operation in hand. Whether you're taking fine finishing cuts on small diameter work at high speed or turning larger stock and cutting threads at lower RPM, the LATHE-300 adapts accordingly.

The powered cutting facility enables both right and left hand thread cutting, and the machine is capable of cutting metric gears — functionality that puts it firmly in the capable, versatile category rather than the entry-level hobbyist bracket. The reversible drive adds further flexibility, particularly useful when backing out of threaded cuts.

The 300mm centre turning capacity and 180mm diameter turning capacity provide a useful working envelope for a home workshop lathe, while the 65mm cross slide travel and 20mm spindle bore handle a practical range of workpiece sizes. The self-centring three jaw chuck with 80mm capacity is supplied as standard, and the chuck guard is fitted as standard with a no-volt switch that prevents the machine from being started accidentally while the guard is in place — an important safety feature on any rotating machinery. The machine is supplied with an approved plug and is supported by an extensive range of optional accessories to expand its capability further.

Specifications

Who Is This Lathe For?

The LATHE-300 is aimed at home workshop machinists, model engineers, and serious hobbyists who need a capable, precise metal working lathe without stepping up to full industrial machinery. The metric gear cutting capability and powered thread cutting make it suitable for anyone working on mechanical projects, clock and instrument parts, custom fixings, or restoration work where accurate threading and tight tolerances matter. At 42kg it's a substantial, stable machine appropriate for permanent installation in a home workshop or garage.

Why Choose the Draper LATHE-300?

The LATHE-300 stands out in the home workshop lathe category through its combination of variable speed range, powered thread cutting in both directions, and metric gear capability — features that on many comparable machines are either absent or available only as paid extras. The two-range speed system gives genuinely useful control across a wide variety of materials and operations, from aluminium and brass at higher speeds through to steel at lower RPM. The inclusion of a self-centring three jaw chuck, chuck guard, and approved plug means you can begin machining immediately, and the extensive accessories range means the lathe can grow with your skills and projects over time. For a home machinist looking for a serious, precise, and well-specified lathe at a realistic price point, the LATHE-300 is a strong contender.