There are so many things you can make for yourself if you get into metal work/ hobby machining... my lathe and mill and welder have allowed me to make many many things I would have otherwise not been able to, or had to pay someone else to do for me.

That being said, it is a bit of money to lay out and is only worth it if you make hobby machinig part of your "model airplane" hobby in general such as I did. I say if you have a chance to get a good used lathe and can afford it, go for it! You will be surprised at how many things you can do now for yourself!

To me, model airplanes as a hobby isnt just building and flying planes. It is engine work, making parts for my helicopters, making things like that prop carver that are used to make parts, etc, etc... It is the BEST hobby going, as I am sure you all know!

Model airplanes is a way of life, not just a hobby for me!

Andrew