Lathe vs Mill

[Jim Stabe]

That would be correct. I've seen them on TV, and in some online videos, but that's pretty much all I know about those tools.

Ultimate objective? I'd say a machine that can cut holes of various size, and also shape a peice that is not always cylindrical*sp?* or circular such as an exhaust flange. I often end up making stuff with a dremel type tool.

I'll also take the advise of looking into courses. I'm pretty sure the city must have something going on.

Not sure where you live but look into high school night classes, trade schools, junior colleges for classes you can take. I wouldn't even consider buying a machine tool of any kind without some experience running one and actually building parts that you are going to use (same for welders, sheetmetal forming tools, etc).

Without the hands on experience building what you want to build, you don't really know the features you need or want on a machine. You will also gain the experience on how to shop for an used machine - how to evaluate the condition, what tooling is available and how expensive is it. The instructors will likely be seasoned machinists that can provide great advise and you learn what questions you need to ask as you gain experience building things.

If you are asking the question "what is the difference between a lathe and a mill?" you are not ready to be buying either one unless you have a lot more disposable income than I do.