What to Look for When Buying a Used Brown & Sharpe
Every Brown & Sharpe machine tool on the market is used — production ended in the 1990s. But B&S machines were built to exacting standards, and well-maintained examples deliver precision performance decades after manufacture.
On surface grinders, check the spindle, table, and cross feed. Measure spindle runout on the wheel mount — B&S spindles should show minimal runout even on older machines. Listen for bearing noise. Inspect the magnetic chuck for flatness and holding force. Test hydraulic table traverse for smooth speed across the 5–100 FPM range. Verify the automatic cross-feed increments are consistent and repeatable. Check vertical downfeed for smooth, backlash-free movement.
On cylindrical grinders, check wheelhead and table. Verify wheelhead spindle runout, swivel accuracy, and infeed precision. Test hydraulic table traverse for smooth reversal. On universal models, verify swiveling workhead and wheelhead angular accuracy.
On screw machines, evaluate turret, cam system, and spindle. On Ultramatic multi-spindle machines, check each spindle's runout and bearing condition. Verify turret indexing for positive location. Inspect cam followers and cross-slide mechanisms for wear.
Brown & Sharpe Surface Grinder Model Guide
Micromaster Series — The Standard
The Micromaster is B&S's most recognized machine tool. These hydraulic surface grinders feature precision cartridge-type spindles, automatic table traverse, and automatic cross feed with incremental adjustment. Models designated by table size: 612 (6" × 12"), 618 (6" × 18" — most common), 718, 818 (8" × 18"), 824, 1024 (10" × 24"), 1030, and 1224 (12" × 24"). Series II versions added improved downfeed and controls. Some later models offer the VisualGrind CNC option. The 618 Micromaster remains one of the most common surface grinders in American toolrooms.
Techmaster CNC Grinders
The Techmaster is B&S's larger CNC surface grinder for production applications requiring programmable cycles and automatic wheel dressing — higher material removal rates than the manual Micromaster.
Brown & Sharpe Cylindrical & Tool Grinders
B&S produced OD grinders designated by number: No. 1 (10" swing, 20" centers) through No. 5 (16" swing), plus the 1440U universal (14" swing, 40" centers). Available in universal (swiveling wheelhead/workhead) and plain configurations with hydraulic table traverse and automatic infeed. The No. 10 and No. 13 cutter and tool grinders handle resharpening end mills, reamers, drills, and form tools with multiple wheel configurations and indexing fixtures.
Brown & Sharpe Screw Machines
The Ultramatic No. 2 and No. 3 are multi-spindle automatic screw machines for high-volume production of turned parts from bar stock — multiple spindles working simultaneously on different operations. A mainstay of automotive and fastener manufacturing. Single-spindle automatics (No. 00, 0, 1, 2, 2G) with cam-operated tooling, plus wire feed models for smaller-diameter work, remain in service in specialty shops producing precision components and fittings. B&S also produced hand screw machines and an early line of universal milling machines (No. 2, 2A, 2B, 3A, Rangemaster No. 20) that are now sought primarily by collectors.
How to Sell Your Used Brown & Sharpe
Brown & Sharpe machine tools maintain steady resale value driven by the brand's legendary reputation and the robust construction that keeps machines running for decades. Micromaster surface grinders are the most liquid B&S machines on the used market, followed by cylindrical grinders and Ultramatic screw machines.
Resell CNC buys used Brown & Sharpe machines — every type, every model, nationwide.
- Contact us — call (844) 478-8181 or email sales@resellcnc.com.
- Free appraisal within 24 hours — no obligation.
- Accept the offer — we handle rigging, transport, and logistics.
Frequently Asked Questions About Used Brown & Sharpe Machines
Are Brown & Sharpe grinders still reliable?
Yes. B&S Micromaster and cylindrical grinders were built to the highest standards of their era. Well-maintained examples from the 1960s through 1980s deliver precision grinding in thousands of shops. Heavy cast-iron construction and precision spindle bearings age exceptionally well with proper care.
Can I still get parts for Brown & Sharpe machine tools?
Common wear items for Micromaster grinders (spindle bearings, hydraulic components, magnetic chucks) are available through aftermarket suppliers. Screw machine parts are sourced through specialty rebuilders. Manuals, parts lists, and schematics are available from reproduction services.
Is Brown & Sharpe still in business?
The brand continues under Hexagon AB/TESA for precision measurement instruments (micrometers, calipers, CMMs). Machine tool production ended in the 1990s. Every B&S machine tool on the market is used — no new ones are being manufactured.
What Brown & Sharpe models are most common on the used market?
The 618 Micromaster is the most widely available, followed by 818, 1024, and 1224 Micromaster models. No. 1–5 cylindrical grinders and Ultramatic No. 2/3 screw machines are also regularly traded.
What makes Brown & Sharpe grinders different from other brands?
Brown & Sharpe was the company that developed the universal grinding machine in 1876 — they literally invented the category. B&S grinders are known for exceptionally heavy castings, precision-ground spindle assemblies, and smooth hydraulic systems that deliver consistent surface finishes. The Micromaster's reputation for reliability and ease of use made it the default toolroom grinder in American manufacturing for decades.
What should I inspect on a used Brown & Sharpe Micromaster?
Priority items: spindle runout (measure at the wheel mount), hydraulic table traverse smoothness and speed consistency, automatic cross-feed repeatability, vertical downfeed backlash, magnetic chuck condition and holding force, overall casting condition (check for cracks at mounting points), and coolant system function. Request the machine's serial number — B&S serial numbers can help date the machine and identify the exact model specifications.
Does Resell CNC offer financing on used Brown & Sharpe machines?
Yes. Resell CNC offers flexible financing options to help your business acquire the equipment it needs. Contact us at (844) 478-8181 to discuss terms.
How do I sell my used Brown & Sharpe?
Contact Resell CNC at (844) 478-8181 or sales@resellcnc.com. We buy every type and model — nationwide. Free appraisal within 24 hours.