17″ Benchtop Lathe with DRO

Our 17″ DRO Benchtop lathes includes a digital readout box and specialized handwheels with built-in electronic encoders that replace the standard handwheels (standard handwheels are not included with the DRO option). These DRO handwheels interface with the readout box, which translates handwheel movement into precise digital readings for each axis. Each axis can be zeroed at any time with the push of a button, and the DRO continuously displays spindle RPM whenever the motor is running. The readout is compatible with both inch and metric machines.

This compact DRO lathe is ideal for customers who need a small-format machine capable of producing highly accurate, precision parts. Proudly made in the USA, all our lathes are backed by exceptional customer support. Despite its desktop size, this machine delivers full-size performance – capable of cutting wood, plastic, aluminum, and even steel with excellent rigidity and accuracy.

Using the DRO System

The DRO displays each axis position relative to a zero point you set.

• Inch models show position to 0.0005″ (three and a half decimal places)
• Metric models show position to 0.01 mm

The system supports both ball screw and leadscrew machines. As well as the ability to use Metric DROs on inch machines or inch DROs on metric machines. It features six selectable modes based on machine type (mill or lathe), screw type (leadscrew or ball screw), and preferred display units (inch or metric). For setup instructions, refer to the official DRO Mode Instructions.

You can electronically compensate for backlash by inputting the measured backlash value for each axis. When the direction of handwheel rotation reverses, the DRO subtracts the backlash before updating the position – eliminating common errors and making it easier to track travel distance and direction. The power supply automatically switches between 120V and 240V, making it suitable for use in countries with 220–240V electrical current. A socket adapter may be required outside North America.

Features of the 17″ Benchtop Lathe

• 24″ (610 mm) steel bed giving 17″ (431 mm) between centers
• Maximum diameter over bed: 3.50″ (90 mm)
• Crosslide travel: 2.75″ × 6.00″ (70 mm × 152 mm)
• 90 V DC motor with electronic speed control – continuously variable 70–2,800 RPM (no belt changes required)*
• DRO handwheels on leadscrew and crosslide
• Rocker-style tool post included
• DRO (Digital Readout) – precise, repeatable positioning, improving accuracy over handwheel-only control

* Not included with lathe without motor and speed control

What’s Included

• DRO readout box, DRO-compatible handwheels / encoder setup
• Pulleys, drive belt, faceplate, lathe dog
• Two dead centers
• Three hex keys
• Rocker tool post
• Sharpened high-speed steel cutting tool
• Grounded 3-wire power cord (8 ft)
• Instruction manual