Hey guys, everything is all very new, so please bare with me on the stupid questions!

Ok, im looking at getting a mini lathe, and i want to work some stainless (either 303 or 316, from what i know, 303 would be better for machining!)

My dad is going to get annoyed, an engineer of 40years, but as hes away for 2 weeks, i cant get any answers!

So, i have a few....if you dont mind?

a) Spindle bore size - will this dictate the diameter of the work piece, ie. If i wanted to work with a 25mm dia rod, and the spindle bore is only 20mm, will this fit?

b) Will a mini lathe turn stainless?

c) Does tool holder shank size matter?

Hopefully, there not too stupid/nieve!

I look forward to learning a lot whilst here.

Many thanks
Eddy