Profile: E.J. Basler Co. specializes in precision machined parts. Swiss Lathes (also known as swiss machines, swiss-type turning machines, and sliding headstock machines) were originally designed for long and skinny parts (typically 6:1 length to diameter ratio or larger). The principle behind the swiss machine is that the bar moves to the tool rather than the tool moving to the bar (in the Z direction). This vastly reduces the amount of deflection during precision swiss machining since the cutting action occurs closer to the guide bushing. Chucking-type CNC machining works by rotating the workpiece (bar stock, forging, slug) and moving the cutting tool along the desired cutting path. The high-velocity impact of the tool and workpiece then shears material off the part to form the desired shapes and machined components.