Before you add a knee tool crank to your Bridgeport or Sharp knee mill, the real question is whether the crank will match your mill's knee interface and make lifting easier-not just whether it looks like a handy tool. In a shop that runs lathes, mills, and drilling machines, that fit question decides everything. Here's a focused look at the Bridgeport/Sharp Milling Machine Knee Tool Crank - Crank It up and what it offers.
Quick Verdict
This purpose-built crank is made from 1045 high-grade carbon steel with a chamfered, black oxide finish and a drilled-out center for lighter weight. It's designed to work with a hand drill and to fit mills using a 9-COG knee interface. If your machine matches that setup, it's a focused, sensible accessory; if you need a universal crank, keep looking.
Who It Suits
This crank suits owners of Bridgeport, Sharp, SuperMax, Comet, Enco, JET, Alliant, ACER, Webb, or Acra mills, and shops that want a US-made tool for knee lift tasks. It's a good fit when you already have a hand drill available and prefer a simple, mechanical approach to moving the knee.
What Stands Out
The construction highlights are the CNC-machined 1045 carbon steel, chamfered edges, black oxide finish, and a center hole drilled to max depth to lighten the tool. The burr-free edge and US-made label are clear pluses for a shop that wants a clean, ready-to-use accessory.
Meaningful Trade-Offs
The main limitation is compatibility: this crank uses a 9-COG interface, so it's not universal. It also needs you to provide a hand drill, since the crank is driven by one. It's a single-purpose tool, not a replacement for a powered knee lift or a full knee assembly.
Bridgeport/Sharp Milling Machine Knee Tool Crank - Crank It up
Listed at USD 25.00, this is the crank this guide evaluates. It's a US-made accessory with a specific fit, so it's best for shops that already know their mill's interface. Choose it if you want a lightweight, affordable mill crank; pass on it if you need universal compatibility.
Bottom Line
At USD 25.00, this Bridgeport/Sharp crank is a fair buy for shops with a compatible mill. It's not a universal accessory, but if your machine is covered, the material and finish are solid. Verify your mill's interface before ordering, and you'll know exactly what you're getting.
