1953-1958
The Greenie Era
The first MARK V machines establish the ShopSmith idea: a compact, multi-function workshop built around a green cast-iron platform, Gilmer drive system, single-bearing spindle, and 3/4 HP motor.
Our Story
Your Lifetime Workshop Partner.
Dream It. Build It. Share It! Since 1947, ShopSmith has built multi-function woodworking machines that grow with the maker — from first projects to master craftsmanship.
70+
Years in Business
Founded 1947. Built in America every year since.
500k+
Machines Sold
Half a million home workshops built on a ShopSmith.
200k+
Community Members
Active owners sharing projects and support.
1
Location: Dayton, OH
Everything designed, assembled and serviced here.
Our Mission
Built to Last a Lifetime
Magna America launched the first MARK V in 1953 with a simple idea: one machine that does the work of many, takes up the space of one, and lasts a lifetime. That idea has never changed.
Every machine is designed to be upgraded, not replaced. A MARK V built in 1965 can be brought to current MARK 7 standards today. We support machines older than the people calling us for help.
Seven Decades
The Company Timeline
1959-1961
The Goldies and Poly-V Transition
The anniversary tan-and-gold machines kept the Gilmer drive, single-bearing spindle, and 3/4 HP motor while introducing the Poly-V drive system for better belt durability and reduced maintenance.
1962-1964
Gray Crinkle Texture
Gray crinkle machines carried the Poly-V system forward and added a stronger 1-1/8 HP motor, giving the MARK V more capability without changing its compact workshop promise.
1964
Production Pause
Magna America Corporation relocated and MARK V production went out of production, temporarily interrupting the platform while leaving a committed owner base behind.
1972
The Company Forms
ShopSmith USA, LLC. formed and brought the MARK V back with a smoother gray splatter finish and a renewed commitment to American-made support and service.
1984
Two-Bearing Quill
Starting with serial number 190000, ShopSmith upgraded to the two-bearing quill for greater spindle stability, less runout, and a cleaner upgrade path for older Poly-V MARK Vs.
1985
MARK V 510
The MARK V 510 introduced a larger 17-1/2 x 22 inch main table, floating extension tables, connecting tubes, telescoping legs, a larger fence, and updated saw guards.
1991
Conventional Headstock C
The Model C conventional headstock added a red safety key switch and a larger rear service opening, making operation and maintenance more accessible.
1999
MARK V 520 Pro Fence
The MARK V 520 introduced the Pro Fence System with interchangeable stainless steel scales and twin locking levers for more accurate, confident fence control.
2010
MARK 7 PowerPro
The MARK 7 arrived with the PowerPro smart motor, more power, dual-voltage capability, reversible operation, touchpad controls, quieter performance, and double-tilt capability.
2021
MARK 520S and MARK 4
ShopSmith introduced the MARK 520S and compact MARK 4, adding flexible work-package purchasing and a shorter 55 inch machine for shops with tighter space.
2023
PowerPro Gen 2 Headstock
The PowerPro Gen 2 headstock brought computer-driven control, added power, pin-point accuracy, touchscreen ease of use, and performance upgrades for MARK systems and accessories.
Legacy Owners
Upgrade Your Legacy Machine
If you have a vintage MARK V — even a Greenie from 1953 — you can upgrade it to modern MARK 7 standards. We stock the parts, provide the support and guarantee the result.