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Adrian,
Been turning for over 25 years, almost on a daily basis. Have tried many different lathes from mini's to full 4 foot steel bed lathes (my current one). Brent is absolutely right -- the bigger the lathe the easier it is to turn items, including small items. The bigger the lathe, the less vibration, chattering, flexing between centers, etc.
I turn items on a 2000 lb. 4 foot steel-bed lathe (Delta) that is computer speed controlled. I turn everything from chess pieces to pool cues on it without any problems. The mini-lathes may be good for pens, but you will struggle with 3 inch diameter by 12 inch long turnings on these small lathes.
Bottom line is buy the biggest lathe you can afford, space allowing...
Jim
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