Stereo Microscope and Mount for the Sherline Lathe

A stereo microscope is shown mounted to a Model 4000 Sherline lathe. The stereo microscope allows very close inspection of the part while it is being cut with variable magnification from 5x to 100x. It can be purchased separately for use on any existing Sherline lathe or it can be ordered along with the purchase of a new lathe. (Click on photo for larger image.)

The purpose of the microscope and mount

There are a number of circumstances that might make extremely close inspection of the cutting of a part on the lathe important. First of all, this mount can be of use to those whose failing eyesight makes it difficult for them to work on parts. It is also useful for those with normal eyesight who work on extremely small parts. In addition, those who are tasked with working on very high value parts where a mistake can be costly will want to have the best possible view of what they are doing to assure a perfect cut the first time and every time. Added to the value of the purchase of this accessory is the fact that the microscope itself comes as a complete unit with its own base in addition to the lathe mount base, so it can be used apart from the lathe for other inspection purposes in the shop or lab.

The high quality Russian-made optics of this scope rival that of much more expensive European-built scopes, and it's sturdy yet precise construction is a perfect compliment to the precision of your Sherline machine. The image through the stereo eyepieces is bright and sharp from edge to edge. In addition, Sherline has enhanced some of the features of the scope by redesigning the universal joint of the light and adding a filter kit to protect the lens from chips and coolant. As is always the case, clear, illustrated instructions for assembly and use are provided in addition to those that come with the scope itself.
The microscope is shown here with the stand and armrests that come with it. When used as a stand-alone inspection scope, the light source can be mounted in the base with a glass slide under the stage and a reflecting mirror for lighting an object from below as shown here or the metal stage can be used and the light relocated to the pivoting mount on the head to light the subject from the top. Two pairs of eyepieces (8x and 14x magnification) are provided along with a bulb and two spares. The third 8x eyepiece contains a measuring scale. An alternate measuring grid lens is provided in the small white case. An instruction book comes with the scope and Sherline provides a supplement with additional setup information along with the lathe base. A vinyl dust cover (not shown) is also included. (Click on photo to view a larger image.)
Description of the Mount

The base of the mount is easily attached to the lathe crosslide table with two T-nuts and screws. No drilling is necessary. The microscope head is slid down the steel post on the mount and adjusted for height using the locking ring and thumbscrew that come with the microscope. It is then focused on the tip of the cutting tool. An eyepiece adjustment is provided to accommodate the distance between your eyes. The power of magnification can be adjusted from about 5x to over 100x, but we recommend you start with the lowest power first in order to maintain a larger field of view. You can increase the power at any time with the turn of a knob if you need an extra-close look.

Because the mount moves with the table, the microscope remains focused on the tool as the cut is made. The light source is attached to the microscope head, so it remains with it when it is transferred to the lathe. It is mounted on a universal type joint that allows it to be focused right on the part and tool tip, enhancing your vision even further. We have also developed a lens filter kit that is included with the lathe to help protect the microscope lens from chips and coolant.

The mount can be purchased separately if you already own the microscope, having purchased it for your mill. (A mount is also available for the mill as P/N 2127.) Normally the microscope and mount will be purchased together. If you are also purchasing a new Sherline lathe at the same time as the microscope and mount, there is a $25.00 discount available on the lathe. Simply add the letter "M" to the model lathe you choose. For example; if you are purchasing a Model 4400 lathe along with a 2125 microscope and lathe mount, you would designate a model 4400M lathe when ordering.