Just picked up a RF45 to replace my older 3ph cast iron machine that i have had to move on. But it doesnt come with a stand, so looking around at various stands to plonk it on.

To some degree a stand is just a stand, but there are a few things i want. Want something that has some storage ability for bits and collets etc. Plus it will be going in a row with the lathe, so needs to have front access. Also needs to have a decent swarf/coolant tray, which some just seem to be an afterthought.

I was originally looking at the M135A stand from H&F M135A - MDS-H Mill Drill Stand | Hare & Forbes Machineryhouse but it seems to have just side access storage, and even then it looks like a complete afterthought.

The other two i was looking at seem to be basically the same thing, the M653 from H&F M653 - ST-28V Mill Drill Stand | Hare & Forbes Machineryhouse and the METEX stand https://redfoxmachinery.com.au/produ...nd-for-sale-2/

But the dimensions between the two seem to be all squiffy. The M653 gives a 900mm height, which would seem to be far too tall for a mill. The METEX on the other hand is 650mm, which seems reasonable, but perhaps it is designed for a smaller mill.

Im in no position to go and check them out, so wondering if anyone has experience with using either on a RF45 or clone?


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