Chester Hobby Store

Very helpful guys. Big showroom of equipment. As of January 2023 when I last visited there are no Covid restrictions.
Jan 24th, 2023

DO NOT BUY I recently purchased a Champion 20VS Mill from Chester. When I purchased this mill, the product page stated that it had 660mm of longitudinal travel. The actual unit that was delivered only has 490mm of travel. I rang the company and they confirmed that what I was seeing was correct for this product. The next day the page was updated and now says 620mm of travel (still very wrong). Every time I have contacted them about this issue I have been told my only option is return the product and they have proven unwilling to update to the correct information. I have also had a look at the Champion 16VS Mill product page and just from the pictures and comparing the values stated for bed length and longitudinal travel on that page, it is clear to me that that product is also listed incorrectly. I wouldn't trust a single value anywhere on this company's website and I would strongly advise against purchasing anything from them. Edit: I have attached photos showing the table at either end of it's travel. The ends of the bed prevent it from moving any further in either direction. The photos on the product page and the stated dimensions of the bed match exactly what I have here. The center mark shows a reading of 247mm on one side and 242mm on the other. 247 + 242 = 489mm Your values are wrong. Update them. In addition, I posted a review on the product page for this mill. After a few days of saying "Your review is awaiting approval", the review has been deleted without an explanation. Clearly this company does not care for fair and accurate reviews.
Sep 10th, 2022

I bought a Chester miller and now need to replace the lead screw nuts due to excessive wear resulting in backlash. I contacted them over 3 months ago and was told that they had some on order and that they would be with them in 10 - 12 days, I am still waiting. No doubt the delay will be blamed on the Chinese situation but these parts arent expensive so why dont they keep some in stock. Time to look for a new miller, sadly I wont be going back to Chester. Following your reply and against my better judgment I contacted your sales office on 4th August and received a response on the same day saying they were looking into it. Sadly nearly a month later I have heard nothing.
Aug 8th, 2022

I was considering buying a cheap mini Lathe from Ebay or Amazon, after doing a bit of research and finding out about the Chester machines I decided on a DB7S Mini Lathe and so glad I did, Service was superb and friendly delivery was fast on a pallet to my garage door. The machine came with an array of tools and everything to get going, after all the checks had been done and a good lube of all the machine I was away and I havent used a Lathe for 40 years, But I had a good teacher so you do not forget. The machine runs effortlessly cutting stainless steel, mild steel, knurling, drilling etc, plenty of oil is the game with these, fantastic machine Highley recommended. Phil D
Jul 29th, 2022

Very helpful, I turned up unannounced and they were happy to take time with me, even unpacked a machine for me to look at. I felt like I got genuine and honest answers to all my questions and queries.
Sep 5th, 2021