Hi Donnie,
Yes, I invested in a basic Sherline lathe. I don't recall the model, but it is the very basic model. That's all I could afford to spend at any one given time, but I've added accessories over time including a milling column that will allow me to remount the head stock and use the lathe's X-Y bed. Pretty neat conversion, but I'm not really "up" on milling. However, I have done a bit of machining on the lathe and learning more as I go.
I looked up the info on the compound slide on Sherline's web site. Looks like there is some kind of riser block you can get so that you can front-mount the cutting tool if you prefer.
I'm just barely getting started using the Sherline, but I really like working with it. I did make some guns for the USS Saginaw. I just order the larger 3-jaw chuck to try cutting rings for the paddle wheels. It will be pushing the capacity of the Sherline, but it will be a real boon if I'm able to do it. I'll know in another couple weeks when I have the new chuck and have a chance to work with it.
Anyway, the compound slide looks interesting. I can see it would make changing angles a lot easier, and being able to keep the head locked in the straight position would be a plus. I'm thinking I'm going to have to turn the cannon masters for the HMS Victory so the guns are accurate. Not sure that I want to try to turn them all. I may turn masters and then make molds from them to do some casting, which I enjoy.
So, what's the next tool in your Sherline bag of tricks that you're going to be pulling out next?
Clare