Dore Westbury mk2 alternative

I have been looking to buy a dore Westbury mk2. It's not too big or heavy and will be fine for the light work I need it for. I am still waiting for one to come up. Is there an equivalent vertical mill in terms of flexibility and size that would be worth considering as an alternative?

Why are you looking for a DW Mk2 specifically? I take it you do not wish to entertain any of the far eastern offerings ? There are numerous small machines about Tom senior, centec,Myford, Amolco stand alone or the lathe mounted version. Good luck, Noel.

Open to suggestions. It's the small weight with the flexibility I am looking for. Far east imports are not ruled out. Centec 2a with vertical head is the max weight. I did have access to a mk2 so know.its capabilities While it can't take a heavy cut for the table size and column height verses it's weight it was a winner for me. The ability to shift it about in a confined space workshop is key

There's a Centec 2A horizontal on ebay and also a vertical head from Heritage lathes on ebay right now

Can you be specific about your weight and size restrictions? 10 years since I saw a Dore Westbury, didn't pay it much attention because I'm suspicious of round columns, and my memory is terrible! Vaguely remember it being on the small side but probably too heavy to lift on my own - could be wrong. I've no idea how heavy a Centec 2a with a vertical head is. Also, what's the special flexibility needed that other small mills can't do?

Popular machines in their day but they stopped making Dore Westburys about 25 years ago. I guess most purchasers back then thought Far Eastern mills were better value for money?

If a Dore Westbury doesn't come up, there are various ways of moving stuff in a small workshop that might allow a heavier machine to be substituted: stands with castors, slides, overhead hoists etc. Might be worth opening up options by asking that question as well.

Dave

There is a Mk I for sale on the sales page for the Forum at £650 which seems to be the going rate

Brian

I’ve no idea of the capacity and capabilities of the DW.

My smaller mill is a Raglan which I am very pleased to own and use. Myford Boy (‘engine builder’ on here) has made loads of youtube videos where the Raglan is seen in use.

How about a Hobbymat milling machine? About the same price, size and weight (probably) of a Dore Westbury.