Deciding between a 25-pack of Norton tool post grinding wheels at $89.99 and a Precision Matthews PM-1130V bench lathe at $5,299.99 might seem odd at first. One is a consumable accessory, the other is a complete machine. Yet both belong in the same metalworking conversation: if you are building out your lathe setup, your choice depends on what is already in your shop.
Quick Verdict
If you already own a metal lathe and need a ready supply of tool post grinding wheels, the Norton 25-pack is the practical, low-cost addition. If you need a full bench lathe with an installed 2-axis DRO, variable speed, and a 6-inch chuck, the Precision Matthews PM-1130V is the purchase that actually gets you cutting metal.
| Product | Listed Price | Price Bar | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Norton Tool Post Grinding Wheels (25-Pack) | USD 89.99 | Consumable wheels; new old stock; open box; made in USA per listing | |
| Precision Matthews PM-1130V Lathe with 2-Axis DRO | USD 5,299.99 | Complete bench lathe; 6\" chuck; 30\" between centers; 75-2000 RPM; 120V power |
Where Each Product Wins
Norton Grinding Wheels win on price and simplicity. The $89.99 listed price covers a 25-pack, giving you a stock of wheels for tool post grinding tasks. They are listed as new old stock in an open box, with a US country of origin. This is a straightforward consumable purchase for a shop that already has the right tool post grinder and lathe.
Precision Matthews PM-1130V wins on capability. This is a full metal lathe with a 1.5 HP main motor, AC inverter drive, power cross feed, and a D1-4 camlock spindle mount. The 2-axis DRO is already installed, and the variable spindle speeds range from 75 to 2000 RPM in two ranges. It also cuts both inch and metric threads, including left-hand threads. If you need a machine rather than accessories, this is the one.
Product Notes
25 NEW OLD STOCK NORTON METAL LATHE TOOL POST GRINDING WHEELS 1-1/2X1\"X1/4
Choose this listing when you need a batch of grinding wheels for an existing lathe setup. The 25-pack costs USD 89.99, which makes each wheel show up at a relatively low per-piece price. The wheels are new old stock and come in an open box, with the listed country of origin being the United States. This is a parts-and-consumables buy, not a machine purchase. The obvious limitation is that these are only wheels: without a compatible tool post grinder and lathe, they won't do anything on their own. The listing also states no warranties are given or implied. If you are already set up for tool post grinding, this gives you a supply to work through.
PRECISION MATTHEWS PM-1130V BENCH TOP METAL LATHE WITH 2 AX DRO! FREE SHIP
Choose this when you need a complete bench top metal lathe that can handle real turning, facing, and threading work. The listed price is USD 5,299.99, and you get a machine with a 6-inch chuck, 30 inches between centers, and a 1.5 HP motor running on standard 120V power. The 2-axis DRO is already installed, and the variable speed drive spans 75 to 2000 RPM, with a low range for torque and a high range for speed. It also has power cross feed and can cut left-hand threads. The main limitation is the price tag: this is a major investment compared to a 25-pack of wheels. If you don't yet need a full lathe, this is far more machine than a consumable purchase.
Final Choice by Use Case
If your shop already has a lathe and you are low on tool post grinding wheels, the Norton 25-pack is the straightforward buy at $89.99. If you are starting fresh or upgrading from a smaller machine and need a full metal lathe with DRO, the Precision Matthews PM-1130V at $5,299.99 is the purchase that makes more sense. Match the purchase to what your shop is missing, and the decision becomes clear.
