Your list of must have shop equipment

[Sieg]

Originally Posted by gerno

Things I am considering to purchase

*Large 220v ~80 gallon compressor
*Build some nice solid steel tables
Tubing bender - most likely JD2 but open to suggestions
Tubing notcher - not sure what brand
*Plasma cutter
*Belt/Disc sander
*TIG - I have no idea how to use it but really want to learn....
*Some kind of crane system in the shop to keep from getting more hernia's
Lathe - thinking 6"x 3ft or so
Mill - either small bench top or used large one
Stomp Shear - used 3 ft or so
Decent bead roller
*Metal Bandsaw
Dimple dies
Smaller metal break
Lift - Possibly, debating if it will take too much room
Smaller CNC Plasma table - thinking could also use to make some side $$
???????

* = must haves IMO

I just acquired a 34" x 110" 3/8" plate work table on casters and it is a real luxury.

A 1x42 belt/disc combo sander for small stuff is priceless and one of my most used tools. I'd really like to have a 12" disc also.

A horizontal mitering bandsaw is another tool I use frequently, more than the 9" cold saw and one can't replace the other.

Plasma cutter is a must IMO, doesn't get used a lot but it's a little tool that does big things and is just fun to use.

Regarding a hoist - maybe a larger fold up cherry-picker would suffice?

What about a small painting area? That's one thing I don't have that I need frequently!

Fair warning - You're going to run out of space fast. Draw a floor plan and start doing an equipment layout with reasonable clearance allowances and a good free work space and prioritize from there.