Clausing Model 1301 Engine Lathe | S/N 131547 | 13" x 36" Capacity | D1-4 | 2000 RPM

1976 Clausing Model 1301 Precision Variable Speed Lathe

13" x 36" Capacity | S/N 131547 | Infinitely Variable Speeds | D1-4 Camlock

"American-Made Toolroom Precision with Professional Gunsmithing Specs"

Available for immediate acquisition is this 1976 Clausing 1301, a standout in the legendary 1300-series family. Manufactured during the "sweet spot" of Clausing’s American production, this S/N 131547 unit features the refined hydraulic variable-speed system and induction-hardened bed ways that have made this model a staple in precision prototyping and high-end gunsmithing shops for decades.

With 36 inches between centers and an infinitely variable speed range, this machine offers the versatility to handle everything from heavy industrial maintenance to delicate chambering and threading operations.

Technical Specifications

• Year of Manufacture: 1976 (Verified by S/N 131547)
• Swing Over Bed: 13.125"
• Swing Over Cross Slide: 7.625"
• Distance Between Centers: 36"
• Spindle Speeds: 45 – 2,000 RPM (Infinitely Variable)
• Spindle Bore: 1.375" (1-3/8") — Ideal for through-headstock barrel work
• Spindle Nose: D1-4 Camlock
• Main Motor: 3 HP / 220V / 3-Phase
• Thread Range (54): 2 to 224 TPI (Inch)
• Tailstock Taper: #3 Morse Taper (MT3)
• Shipping Weight: Approx. 1,550 lbs

Key Features & Performance Advantages

• Infinitely Variable Speed Drive: Unlike fixed-gear lathes, the 1301 allows you to find the perfect, vibration-free RPM for your specific tool and material. This is critical for achieving mirror-like finishes when reaming chambers or cutting high-precision threads.
• Professional Gunsmithing Ready: The 1-3/8" spindle bore accommodates most heavy bull barrels, while the 36" bed length provides ample room for working between centers or utilizing a steady rest for long-tapered barrels.
• D1-4 Camlock Spindle: The industry-standard D1-4 interface ensures high-accuracy chuck mounting and allows for rapid tooling changes between 3-jaw, 4-jaw, and 5C collet setups.
• Flame-Hardened & Ground Ways: The induction-hardened bed ways on this 1976 model are built to maintain factory-level accuracy over decades of use, resisting the wear common in high-volume shops.
• Unitized Gearbox: A fully enclosed, oil-bath lubricated quick-change gearbox offers 54 threads and feeds, providing total control for complex threading applications.

Dealer Note: "The 1976 Clausing 1301 is a machinist's favorite because it combines the 'big machine' rigidity of an engine lathe with the finesse of a toolroom instrument. This unit (S/N 131547) has been inspected across its full 45-2,000 RPM range; the spindle is quiet, and the hydraulic speed selector responds instantly. Whether you are building precision firearms or performing high-tolerance toolroom work, this 1301 is an investment in American iron that is ready to work."