Machine Shop

Come and check out HackPGH’s Machine Shop

HackPGH’s Machine Shop is a community resource for metalworking enthusiasts and professionals alike! Our fully equipped shop provides everything you need to bring your metal fabrication projects to life, from precision machining and drilling to cutting, grinding, and finishing.

Whether you’re a seasoned artisan looking to refine your craft, a hobbyist eager to learn new skills, or an inventor needing to prototype your latest creation, our diverse range of tools – including mills, lathes, drill presses, grinders, and metal-cutting saws – are accessible and ready for your next build.

We’re committed to fostering a vibrant making community right here in Pittsburgh, offering an inspiring environment where creativity in metal knows no bounds.

Equipment

Equipment availability and procedures can change. Confirm current shop status and posted requirements before beginning a project.

South Bend Heavy 10 Lathe (1957)

Status: Restored, active, and in use

Catalog number: CL8187AB
Motor: 1 HP

View full specifications

Table: 42 in.
Swing over bed: 10 3/4 in.
Swing over cross-slide: 6 3/8 in.
Spindle speeds: Eight speeds ranging from 55 to 2,200 RPM

Features: Quick-change tooling includes turning, facing, boring, parting, and knurling tool holders.

Use requirements: Adults 18+ only. A buddy and training or a safety checkoff are required before independent use.

Safety: Always replace the cover after using the lathe.

View How to Run a Lathe

Bridgeport Series 1 J-Head Milling Machine (1964)

Status: Restored, active, and in use

Model: 73981
Spindle motor: 1 HP

View full specifications

Table: 9 in. x 42 in.
Spindle speeds: Eight speeds ranging from 80 to 2,720 RPM

Use requirements: Adults 18+ only. A buddy and training or a safety checkoff are required before independent use.

View 1964 Bridgeport manual

Grizzly 20 in. Drill Press

Status: New in 2024; active and in use

Model: T33904
Motor: 1.25 HP

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Swing: 20 in.
Features: LED work light and laser guide
Accessories: 6 in. drill-press vise with slotted base

Use requirements: Adults 18+ only. A buddy and training or a safety checkoff are required before independent use.

Safety: Secure work in the vise. Never hold a workpiece by hand, grab a moving spindle, or remove sharp chips with bare hands; use a brush or needle-nose pliers.

View Grizzly T33904 manual

Grizzly Variable-Speed Horizontal Metal-Cutting Bandsaw

Status: New in 2025; active and in use

Model: G0926
Motor: 3/4 HP

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Cutting capacity: 4 in. rectangular; 4.5 in. round
Blade length: 64.5 in.
Blade speed: Variable from 85 to 195 FPM

Features: Suitable for quick cuts of metal stock. Includes a vise with movable and fixed jaws, adjustable work stop, automatic blade shutoff, and a portable platform with casters.

Use requirements: Adults 18+ only. A buddy and training or a safety checkoff are required before independent use.

View Grizzly G0926 manual

DeWALT 2 in. Magnetic Drill Press

Status: New in 2024; active and in use

Model: DWE1622K
Motor: 10 amp with two speed settings

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Drill travel: 4 3/8 in.
Accessories: 1/2 in. keyed chuck and 3/4 in. Weldon shank
Features: Overload protection, quick-change chuck, and magnetic cooling tank

Use requirements: Adults 18+ only. A buddy and training or a safety checkoff are required before independent use.

View DeWALT DWE1622K manual

Baldor 7 in. Bench Grinder

Status: Active; estimated 1982 manufacture date

Model: 7308
Motor: 0.5 HP

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Speed: 1,500-1,800 RPM
Power: Three-phase; uses an adapter
Uses: Heavy grinding and sharpening small tools

Use requirements: Adults 18+ only. A buddy and training or a safety checkoff are required before independent use.

View Baldor 7308 information packet

Training & Safety

Before using the equipment

Machine Shop equipment is for members ages 18 and older. A buddy is required, and members must be trained or complete a safety checkoff before using the equipment independently.

Request training

Members can request free ad hoc training or a safety checkoff in the #training or #metalworking_megachannel Slack channels. Include the exact equipment and your general availability. HackPGH’s trainers are volunteers, so scheduling may take time.

The Machine Shop is a supportive, collaborative place to learn metalworking, share knowledge, and work alongside other Pittsburgh makers. Check current equipment status and posted safety requirements before beginning a project.