Lathe

July 24 2020

Review of the Best Midi Wood Lathes in 2020

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In this review of the best midi wood lathe that is currently available for purchase on the market, we will take an in depth look at several of these power tools, stating what their various pros and cons are. By doing this, it should help you when it comes to making a decision as to which one of them to buy. If that does not help though, then do not despair, as come the end of the review, we will make a recommendation on which midi wood lathe we believe is the best of them all.

In addition to all of this and in the hope of making a purchasing decision that much easier, we do will do our very best to fully answer some of the Internet’s most frequently asked questions about both midi lathes and wood lathes in general. To ensure that all of the information that we provide you with when answering these questions is accurate and up to date, we enlisted the help of several experts who know all about these types of power tools and have used them for many years.

Best Midi Lathes: Our Top Picks

#1 Rikon 1 HP Variable Speed MIDI Lathe 12.5 In. x 20 In. VSR

NOTABLE FEATURES

1 horse power motor
Made from cast iron
5 year manufacturer warranty

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Possessing all of the functions and features of a much larger power tool, the Rikon 1 HP Variable Speed MIDI Lathe 12.5 In. x 20 In. VSR is small enough to be easily moved around your workshop or transported from job to job. Thanks to its robust construction, it is much more stable than what a mini lathe would be. Also, because of the many different features that it has, such as its powerful 1 horsepower motor, variable speed range settings, a wide range of functioning speeds, a digital readout display, a forward and reverse gear, index settings, a large diameter, and a large turning capacity, it is the ideal choice for professional woood workers.

Other useful features that the power toool has includes a live center, a 3 inch faceplate, a tool rest, a knock out bar, a tool holder, and wrenches. Thanks to the powerful motor that the lathe has, it can be used for a whole host of different woood working applications. When you need to change the belt speeds, this is easy to do thanks to the fact that it has a belt cover that is hinged and so is easy to open up and gain access. Weighing in at 380 pounds, being just over 17 inches tall, and coming in a nice looking blue color, the lathe will look good in any workshop that it sits in.

The reason for the Rikon 1 HP Variable Speed MIDI Lathe 12.5 In. x 20 In. VSR being heavy is because it is made from cast iron cast iron. As a result, you will know that it should last a long and be able to withstand being knocked and bumped; something that it bound to happen. However, should it ever get damaged and / or break, then there is no need to worry as the power toool comes covered with a 5 year manufacturer warranty. This means that it will either be fixed or replaced free of charge if there are any issues with it.

PROS

1 horse power motor
Made from cast iron
5 year manufacturer warranty

CONS

Heavy

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#2 Delta 12-1/2 In. Variable-Speed Midi Lathe

NOTABLE FEATURES

12.5 inch swing capacity
Forward and reverse gear option
5 year manufacturer warranty

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Boasting a powerful 1 horse power motor, the Delta Industrial 12-1/2 In. Variable-Speed Midi Lathe can be used for a wide variety of wood working applications. Couple this with the power tool’s 12.5 inch swing capacity and you have something that is good enough to be used by any professional wood worker. Its speeds range from between 250 RPM and 4,000 RPM, with the slower speed ranges being ideal for turning larger pieces of wood and the faster speed ranges being better for smaller turning.

The lathe has both a forward and reverse gear option, which enables you to achieve a good quality finish on all of your work, as you are able to get it super smooth by switching between the two directions. This can be done with a quick and easy flip of a switch. Thanks to the powerful 1 horse power motor that it comes with, you are able to use the power tool rest for a variety of different wood working applications, including making bowls, pens, and dinner plates.

Although limited to certain aspects, the Delta 12-1/2 In. Variable-Speed Miidi Lathe comes with a 5 year warranty, meaning that should you have any problems with it, you are able to send it back to get fixed or have a replacement part, such as the digital readout display, sent out to you free of charge. This goes to show that this is a high quality product that is not likely to break or go wrong. Featuring a 6 foot long power cable, you have the freedom of placing the wood lathe wherever you want and do not have to necessarily be that close to s mains power socket.

PROS

12.5 inch swing capacity
Forward and reverse gear option
5 year manufacturer warranty

CONS

Manufacturer has poor customer service

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#3 Laguna Tools Revo 12 | 16 Lathe

NOTABLE FEATURES

45 degree chamfered edge
2 year manufacturer warranty
Forward and reverse gear option

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Coming in a small package, the Laguna Tools Revo 12 | 16 Lathe has a powerful 1 horsepower motor that features a unique pulse width modulation system. This helps to ensure that the power tool remains at a constant torque regardless of what speed range it is running at. Changing the belt is easy thanks to the one one stop cam action that the power tool has. This is made even easy by the fact that it has a magnetic door housing. The banjo on the lathe for wood has a 45 degree chamfered edge.

In order to keep both yourself and anyone in the surrounding area safe whilst the power tool is in operation, you should keep all of the guards fully in place. Similarly, it is also important that all of the locks are nice and tight so that nothing comes loose when it is powered up and working. It comes with a 2 year limited manufacturer’s warranty, although parts that are wearable, such as plates etc. are only covered for a 90 day period. Should you need to file a warranty claim, this is an easy thing to do.

Despite it being as small power tool, the Laguna Tools Revo 12 | 16 Lathe is not necessarily a product that it just intended for beginners. In fact, it has many different functions and features that are well suited to more experienced wood workers. However, it is not strictly the best wood lathe for larger type wood working projects. With it having both a forward and reverse function, it enables you to get a good quality cast iron finish on any wood working project that you are working on.

Should you need it, there is a stand that you can purchase at an additional cost for this power tool rest. Weighing in at 118 pounds, it is not that heavy that you are unable to easily move the lathe around your workshop or job site. The digital readout display makes it easy for you to see what speed range the wood lathe is currently operating at, as well as being able to change between the forward and reverse gears and to switch it on and off. The tailstock wheel needs to be turned anti clockwise in order for it to come out.

PROS

45 degree chamfered edge
2 year manufacturer warranty
Forward and reverse gear option

CONS

Not all parts covered by manufacturer’s warranty
Not suited to larger jobs

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#4 Nova 14 DR Bench Midi Wood Lathe

NOTABLE FEATURES

14 inch swing capacity
Electronic variable speed
6 foot power cord

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Made from cast iron cast iron, the Nova 14 DR Bench Miidi Wood Lathe is highly robust and can handle most jobs thanks to its large capacity. It is a great power tool for those individuals who are knew to the world of wood working and so require an entry level type product. Thanks to the fact that it has a swing capacity of 14 inches and comes with a digital readout, it makes getting the most out of the wood lathe a really easy thing to do. Not only is it good for beginners, but also for more experienced uses of such a power tool.

Because it only has a small footprint, the lathe is ideal for use in a small or cluttered workshop where space is at a premium. It has an electronic variable speed range of between 250 revolutions per minute and 3,450 revolutions per minute. This gives you all of the flexibility needed to be able to work with large and unbalanced pieces of wood, as well as being able to perform more detailed work, such as finishing and sanding. Setting the correct speed for a job is easy thanks to the adjustable speed control dial that the wood lathe has.

By being able to quickly and easily adjust the speed ranges to the required level, it limits the amount of danger that you are exposed to when using the lathe, as the right speed is set for the type of job that you are working on. This means that the Nova 14 DR Bench Midi Wood Lathe can be used for a whole host of different jobs, including for making platters, bowls, and even pens. It has both a forward and reverse motion setting, which adds an extra layer of flexibility to the lathe, and allows for a highly superior finish.

This is helped by the fact that the lathe produces very few vibrations. Because it comes with a power cord that is 6 feet in length, you do not worry about having to be super close to a mains power socket, thus offering you more freedom as to where exactly in your workshop the power tool rest goes. However, moving it freely around a workshop or any other space where the wood lathe may be used is not that easy given the fact that it weighs in the region of 107 pounds.

PROS

14 inch swing capacity
Electronic variable speed
6 foot power cord

CONS

Heavy
Runs open on either pulley

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FAQS – A Buyer’s Guide

Below we have provided detailed answers to some of those questions that you have always wanted to know about either midi lathes or just about wood lathes in general. It is the aim of this section to give you all of the information that you need in order to be able to choose which of these power tools is best for you and your needs. To help us with this task, we have enlisted the help of several industry experts and experienced users of wood lathes, so you can rest assured that all of the information given is of a good quality.

What is the best MIDI lathe?

Out of all of the midi lathes wood that are currently available to purchase, the jet jwl jet jwl 1015 wood working lathe is the best of them all. What is particularly good about this one one is that it is lightweight and only weighs 77 pounds. Thanks to its compact design, it will fit into most spaces, even where space is at a premium. Because it comes with a cheaper price tag and is really easy to use, it is a good lathe for those beginner wood workers who may never have used such a power tool rest before.

However, thanks to the many different functions and features that it has, the lathe is also a good choice for more experienced wood workers. The power tool has a 10 inch swing over bed range and can even be extended using a bed extension accessory that can be purchased additionally at an extra cost. With a 0.5 horse power motor, the wooden lathe has a fair bit of power, but is, of course, not as powerful as a full sized lathe. The speeds that it operates at ranges from 500 RPM at the slowest to 3,600 RPM at the fastest.

For larger style wood working jobs, the jet jwl 1015 wood working lathe is probably not the best because of how lightweight it is. Similarly, because of it having a short distance between centres, it is not suitable for working with longer or bigger pieces of wood.

What is a MIDI wood lathe?

Wood lathes typically come in three different sizes; mini, miidi, and full size. The difference between these power tools is simply the size of them. So a miidi wood lathe is an in between size of a mini one and a full size one. Some of the best cast iron miidi wood lathes that are currently available on the market include the delta industrial 46 460 12 1 2 inch variable speed miidi lathe, the jet jwl jet jwl 1221vs 12 inch by 21 inch variable speed control wood lathe, and the nova 46300 comet ii variable speed mini lathe.

What is a good wood lathe for beginners?

Some of the best wood lathes for beginner wood workers include the Powermatic 1352001 Model 3520B 20×35-Inch Wood Lathe, the JET JWL-1221VS 12-Inch by 21-Inch Variable Speeed Wood Lathe, the NOVA 46300 Comet II Variable Speed Mini Lathe, and the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-Inch Variable-Speed Miidi Lathe. However, our favorite is the SHOP FOX W1704 1/3-Horsepower Benchtop Lathe. This is because it possesses a number of features that make it s really interesting power tool rest.

One of these includes its small 1/3 horse power motor, which is rather plucky given its size. In addition to this, it also has a distance of 12 inches between the centres, and has three various tool rests. This provides you with a good level of safety, so that you are able to work on a piece of wood in safety. Thanks to the fact that it is made out of a string cast iron cast iron, the lathe is extremely sturdy and is able to withstand being used both a lot and for extended periods of time.

The SHOP FOX W1704 1/3-Horsepower Benchtop Lathe ill, therefore, last for many years to come and, so, represents good value for money in the long run, regardless of how much you pay for it now. Thanks to the variable speed control that the power tool has, you are able to easily set the speed at which you want it to operate at. So that you do not have to worry about it ever breaking down, it comes with a full 2 year warranty, meaning that you should never be left with a power tool that is not working during this time period.

Are Nova lathes any good?

Nova has been manufacturing lathes since 1980 and during that time have been responsible for a number of unique innovations that have changed these power tools for the better. At present, the company makes 6 different lathes, including the Nova 1624 II Lathe, the Nova Comet 14 DR Midi Lathe review, the Nova Comet II DR Miidi Lathe, the Nova Galaxi DVR 2 hp Lathe, the Nova Orion 18” DVR Lathe, and the Nova Saturn DVR 2 hp Lathe. Each of these have a number of different accessories that are compatible with them should you ever need them.

Our favorite out of all of these is the Nova 14 DR Bench Miidi Wood Lathe that featured in the above list of Our Top Picks. What is good about this particular model of lathe is that it has a large 14 inch swing capacity, has electronic variable speeds, and has a 6 foot power cord. The only problems with it is that it is heavy and runs open on either pulley. Should this not be sufficient for what you need, then any of the other Nova lathes are a good and adequate alternative.

The Best Midi Wood Lathe Of Them All

Delta 12-1/2 In. Variable-Speed Midi Lathe

Now that we have come to the end of this review into the best midi wood lathes in 2020, we now have to make our decision on which of them is our favorite and, thus, the one you should purchase. However, should you not agree exactly with our decision, then any of the other lathes that featured in the list of Our Top Picks will make a suitable alternative given the fact that it has already been whittled down from a large list of these types of power tool.

So, that being said, our favorite midi wood lathe in 2020 is the Delta 12-1/2 In. Variable-Speed Miidi Lathe. This is because it has a large 12.5 inch swing capacity, a forward and reverse gear option, and a 5 year manufacturer warranty. With all of these benefits, you are able to use the lathe to produce a variety of different wooden objects to a high level of quality. The only downside is that if you ever experience any problems with it, the manufacturer’s customer service is not very good.

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July 13 2020

Review of the Best Wood Lathes in 2020

Drew Midgley Lathe 0

Review of the Best Wood Lathes in 2020

Table could not be displayed.

In this extensive wood lathe review we take a detailed look at some of the very best wood lathes that are currently available on the market for purchase in 2020. A vital piece of kit for any wood worker, both new and old, a wood lathe can perform a variety of different tasks and, when used right, can produce good quality finished products. However, with so many different models out there right now it can be difficult to know exactly which one is the best for you and your needs.

To help you with the task of establishing the perfect wood lathe reviews for you, we have produced a shortlist of four power tools. For each of these, we will examine their different functions and features, and state what negative aspects they have. This will help us to make a final recommendation as to which of these lathes is the best of them all. In addition to stating our favorite, we also answer some of the Internet’s most frequently asked questions about wood lathes of all kinds.

The Best Wood Lathes: Our Top Picks

#1 Jet JWL-1015 Lathe

NOTABLE FEATURES

Only weighs 77 pounds
Six different speed settings
Produces no vibrations

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Ideal for use on smaller wood working projects, the JWL-1015 Lathe has all of the features that you need to make items, such as pens. It is the perfect choice for those individuals who are wanting to, or have just gotten into working with wood. However, it may also be of interest into more experienced and even professional woood workers, who want to have a smaller mini lathe as part of their armoury in their workshop. Regardless of how much space you have available, this lathe will fit with dimensions of 35 inches x 18 inches x 14 inches.

The lathe is easy to move should you need to thanks to it weighing in at only 77 pounds. This makes it much lighter than most other similar sized lathes that are currently available on the market. Between tool rest centres it offers 15 inches. Thanks to the fact that the power tool has a highly durable cast iron cast iron bed, it is super stable and so produces very few vibrations for a smoother experience. Over the bed, it has a swing that is 10 inches. What is good about this model is that it comes with six different speed range settings.

These range from 500 RPM, 840 RPM RPM, and 1,240 RPM through to 2,620 RPM and 3,975 RPM RPM. This works to make the JWL-1015 Lathes highly versatile and suitable for a whole range of woood working jobs. It is powered by a 0.5 horse power motor that provides you with all of the torque that you need to work with wood pieces without producing any vibrations. When changing the speed speed range of this power tool, you can do it by simply adjusting the pulleys and belts on it. However, access to these is limited because of the control box digital readout.

It provides you with 24 different index positions, which makes the process of cutting veining or fluting that much easier. If you ever need to work with longer pieces of wood, then you are able to extend the table out to accommodate this. The only downside to this particular model is that it does not come with a chuck and so this needs to be purchased additionally at an extra cost. Also, it does not have a reverse speed speed setting, which is useful for some woood working applications.

PROS

Only weighs 77 pounds
Six different speed settings
Produces no vibrations

CONS

Chuck not included
No reverse speed setting

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#2 Nova 16 In. x 24 In. 8 Speed Wood Lathe

NOTABLE FEATURES

1.5 horse power motor
Built in fail safes
Energy efficient

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From all of the positive customer feedback that the Nova 16 In. x 24 In. 8 Speed Wood Lathe receives, it is clear to see that it is a useful power tool for wood working. What is particularly good about this model is that it has 8 different speed speed range settings, providing you with a greater level of precision. The powerful motor that it has is able to generate speeds of between 215 RPM RPM and 3,600 RPM. Because it is made from a durable cast iron cast iron, the lathe produces very few vibrations when in operation.

This is a really important feature with any lathes, as working with woood often requires lots of precision. With it having a cam action lever, you are quickly and easily able to make fine adjustments. This is helped further by the fact that the lever has an ergonomically designed rubber grip so that it fits comfortably in your hand. Boasting more power than any other woood lathe currently available on the market, this model has a 1.5 horse power motor for further precision working.

The Nova 16 In. x 24 In. 8 Speed Woood Lathe locks the spindle down in place should it notice any issues. Further to this, the power tool has a highly intelligent computerized control system inside of it that makes the wood working process even easier. This is because it helps with things like weighing the piece of woood that you are working with and adjusting the performance accordingly. Similarly, it will let you know if there are any issues when first setting up the lathe and then advise you on what to do in order to rectify it.

Given the amount of torque that the lathe is able to produce, it can comfortably be used for larger wood working projects, such as making a bowl. There are a digital readout number of built in fail safes that work to ensure that you are completely safe each and every time that you use this power tool. Should it ever detect any issues, then it immediately shuts down all of the power going to it in order to keep you safe. Thanks to the intelligent computerized control system, the motor is highly efficient.

Compared with other similar models of lathe, the Nova 16 In. x 24 In. 8 Speed Woood Lathe saves approximately 80 percent more energy. This is not only good for the environment, but will also save you money on your electricity bill. When you purchase the power tool, all you need to do is simply plug it in to the mains power and you are ready to immediately start using it. There is no hassle in setting it up. This makes it a great choice for novices or anyone with little experience of using such a power tool.

PROS

1.5 horse power motor
Built in fail safes
Energy efficient

CONS

Chinese made motor

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#3 Rikon 12" x 16" Mini Lathe

NOTABLE FEATURES

Self ejecting tailstock
0.5 horse power motor
Up to 3,900 RPM

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The Rikon 12″ x 16″ Mini Lathe is manufactured by a well known and much respected maker of power tools. Fitting into the smallest of spaces, the lathe is perfect for turning things, such as pens, as well as for bigger woood work jobs, such as making bowls, table legs, and platters. The many different features that the lathe has, such as its 12 inch swing, an 8 inch tool rest tool rest, and having 16 inches between centres, makes life much easier for your when using it for woood working projects.

The six step motor that the lathe has and the pulleys work to provide you with a diverse range of spindle speeds digital readout. When you need to change the speed speed range of the power tool, this is an easy thing to do. Simply, pull open the access cover and twist the locking arm to loosen it up. After this, increase the lever so that any tension is eliminated on the pulley for the motor, and then tighten the locking arm back up. In order to see what spindle speed range you need, check the speed range chart on the underside of the access cover.

Thanks to the fact that the Rikon 12″ x 16″ Mini Lathe has a self ejecting tailstock, there is no need for you to use the knock out bar to remove the centre. With multiple ways in which you can extend the power tool, it can be used for a range of different wood working projects, both big and small. However, with it having a smaller profile, it should fit nicely into your workshop, regardless of how much space you have in there. The 0.5 horse power motor provides you with all of the capacity that you will ever need.

The range of speeds that it is able to produce range between 430 RPM – 810 RPM, 1,230 RPM, 1,810 RPM, and as high as 3,900 RPM RPM. The power tool has an indexing head that has 12 different positions for you to lock into place, increasing the accuracy of your woood working. This lets you perform detailed jobs, such as fluting, layout, grooving, and drilling. Because it has a design that is very user friendly, it makes it the ideal choice for those individuals who are new to using such a power tool.

PROS

Self ejecting tailstock
0.5 horse power motor
Up to 3,900 RPM

CONS

Heavy
Weak tailstock

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#4 Delta 12-1/2 In. Variable Speed Midi Lathe

NOTABLE FEATURES

Large swing size
Lots of functionality
Reverse motion

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As the name of the Delta 12-1/2 In. Variable Speed Midi Lathe suggests, it has a good swing size of 12.5 inches. This is large given the fact that it is a mid sized lathe and will allow you to work on larger woood working projects. In another impressive feat, the bed can extend all the way out to 42 inches long. Again, this lets you work with pieces of woood that are large in size so that you are able to easily turn things such as wooden rods or even furniture legs. In addition to this, it is super accurate, even when you first get it out of its box.

Similarly, the tailstock centres touch each other at just the right amount from when you first set the lathe up. This goes to show that even though it is a compact power tool, it still has plenty of functionality and is highly accurate, just like a larger more expensive lathe. Boast a 1 horse power motor, you have all of the power that you need to handle even the most demanding of woood working jobs. Because it is so well calibrated, the lathe is able to compensate for the 12.5 inch swing size that it has.

When it comes to changing the speed speed range on the Delta 12-1/2 In. Variable Speed Midi Lathe, there are two ways to do it. One is automatically and the other is manually, via adjusting the belt. When adjusting the speed setting via the belt, there are three different options to choose from. To do this, simply lift up the cover on the headstock digital readout. On the underside of this there is a diagram that displays the various speeds at which the lathe can be set to. These speeds range from 250 RPM – 750 RPM, through to 1,250 RPM RPM – 4,000 RPM.

In order to change the speed of the power tool automatically, use the control knob next to the headstock. Using this lets you instantly adjust the speed speed at which the spindle spins whilst you are working with a piece of woood. Should you need to change the direction of the spindle, the lathe has a backward motion also. Coming with this particular model, you get a 10 inch and a 6 inch tool rest, a 3 inch metal face plate, a knockout bar, a tool rest tool rest base, wrenches, a live centre, and a comprehensive user manual.

PROS

Large swing size
Lots of functionality
Reverse motion

CONS

Heavy

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FAQs – A Buyer’s Guide

In this section of this wood lathes review we attempt to answer some of Internet’s most frequently asked questions about wood lathes of all kinds. To help us in providing good and accurate information here, we have enlisted the help of several industry experts and professional woood workers, who between them have many years of using these types of power tools. By doing this, you should have all of the information that you need to be able to make a decision as to which lathe is the best for you.

What is the best wood lathe for the money?

If you are someone that is new to the world of woood working and power tools, or if you are simply someone who is on a tight financial budget, then you will not be wanting to spend much money on a wood lathe. After all, reviews if this is the first lathe wood that you have ever owned, you do not want to spend a large amount of money on one to then discover that you do not know how to use it or that woood working is not for you. That is where a good value for money is important.

However, with there being so many different models of lathe for wood currently available on the market that are reasonably priced, it can be difficult to know exactly which ones represent the best reviews value for the money. Some of our favorites that fall into that bracket include the Powermatic 1352001 Model 3520B 20×35-Inch Wood Lathe, the Delta Cast Iron Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-Inch Variable-Speed Midi Lathe, the Grizzly Industrial H8259-10″ x 18″ Benchtop Wood Lathe, and the JET JWL-1221VS Variable Speed Wood Lathe.

What is a good wood lathe for beginners?

Some of the best woood lathes for beginner woood workers include the WEN 3420 8 12-Inch Variable Speed Benchtop Woood Lathe, the NOVA 46300 Comet II Variable Speed Mini Lathe, the RIKON 70-100 12-by-16-Inch Mini Lathe, the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-Inch Variable-Speed Midi Lathe, the Shop Fox Shop Fox Cast Iron W1758 Wood Lathe, and the Jet JWL Jet JWL-1015 Wooden Lathe. Two important things to consider for any beginner purchasing a wood lathe are price and ease of use.

A wood lathe being easy to use is particularly important for a beginner, as it is more likely to keep them safe whilst working with it. So that you are using the power tool correctly and thus keeping yourself safe, you should always read the user manual prior to starting any woood working projects. Similarly, it should always be well secured to a sturdy, heavy duty, and durable surface, as this will stop if from moving and potentially falling over, both damaging the lathe and you in the process.

What is the best wood lathe for turning bowls?

For turning objects such as wooden bowls, you want a lathe that is good enough to provide you with a professional quality finish. Some of the best at providing you with this include the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-Inch Variable-Speed Midi Lathe, the Jet JWL-1015 Wood Working Lathe, the RIKON Cast Iron Power Tools 70-105 10″ x 18″ 1/2 hp Mini Lathe, the Shop Fox W1758 2 hp Wood Lathe, and the Grizzly Industrial G0462-16″ x 46″ Wood Lathe. Choose between any one of these depending on what your price budget is.

Are grizzly wood lathes any good?

The American power tool manufacturer makes a number of different wood lathes that are all really good quality. Some of there most popular models include the Grizzly G0733 – 18″ x 47″ Heavy-Duty Wood Lathe, the Grizzly G0462 – 16″ x 46″ Wood Lathe, the Grizzly Cast Iron G0842 – 14″ x 37″ Wood Lathe, the Grizzly T25926 – 10″ x 18″ Variable-Speed Benchtop Wood Lathe, the Grizzly Cast Iron H8259 – 10″ x 18″ Benchtop 2 hp Wood Lathe, and the Grizzly G0844 – 14″ x 20″ Variable-Speed Benchtop 2 hp Wood Lathe.

The Best Wood Lathe Of Them All

Delta 12-1/2 In. Variable Speed Midi Lathe

If you have read this entire reviews and are still unsure as to which of the above best wood lathes is the right one of you, then do not despair, as we are about to reveal which we think is the best of them all. However, before we do this, we must state that this was a very difficult decision given the fact that we had already whittled all of the competition down to just four best wood lathes wood. If you do not agree with our final decision reviews on the best one then you rest assured that by purchasing any of the others, you will be getting a good quality power tool.

That being said, our favorite from all of the above is the Delta 12-1/2 In. Variable Speed Midi Lathe. This is because it has a large swing size of 12.5 inches, has lots of functionality, and even comes with a reverse motion, which is useful for a number of applications. The only thing that we did not reviews like about this particular model of lathe is that it is heavy, so if you need to move it around your workshop, it is not the easiest thing to do. Other than that however, it is the ideal power tool for both novice and experienced woood workers.

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July 8 2020

The Best Wood Lathes For Beginner Woodworkers

Drew Midgley Lathe 0

The Best Wood Lathes For Beginner Woodworkers

Table could not be displayed.

All of the power tools that are featured below in the list of Our Top Picks are really good, but only one of them can be considered the best wood lathe for beginners. In order to establish this, we first take a look at the different functions and features that each of them have and then state what their pros and cons are. From there, we will answer some frequently asked questions about wood lathes and then finish by making our final recommendation on which of these power tools is our favorite and the best wood lathe for beginners.

Wood Lathes For Beginners: Our Top Picks

#1 Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-Inch Variable-Speed Midi Lathe

NOTABLE FEATURES

High maximum speed
Easy to move around
Good value for money

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The Delta Industriel 46-460 12-1/2-Inch Variable-Speed Midi Lathe has a minimum speed of 250 RPM and a maximum speed of 4,000 RPM. It provides the ability to reverse spin, which is good for processes, such as sanding and polishing (should you ever use it for metal work). Whenever the belts on the power tool are changed, the lever on it allows you to quickly find the setting that is perfect for what you need. Even though it is very sturdy and made from cast iron cast iron, it is not that heavy that you are unable to move it around your workshop or a construction site.

It is powered by a 1 horsepower motor and so means that you are able to work with large work pieces both effortlessly and more efficiently. Thanks to how versatile the lethe is, you are able to perform a number of different tasks with it and so offers good value for money given its affordable price tag. However, should you ever want to work with pieces of wood that are really large then you will need to purchase some extensions at an additional cost.

PROS

High maximum speed
Easy to move around
Good value for money

CONS

Extensions required for large tasks

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#2 Excelsior Mini Lathe

NOTABLE FEATURES

Different speed range settings
Good level of performance
Reasonably priced

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The Excelsior Mini Lathe has a 1 horsepower motor that provides a good amount of performance in a minimum amount of time. It has been constructed using cast iron cast iron so it is strong and durable, and the spur centre and the tailstock centre have been placed properly. This lets you utilize the specialist ball bearing feature on the knockout bar for the spur centre. The wood lathe has five different speed control settings of 760 RPM, 1,100 RPM, 1,600 RPM, 2,200 RPM, and 3,200 RPM.

Because it comes with a faceplate that is 3 inches in length and a 6 inch tool rest tool rest, you get a power tool that delivers a good level of performance that is long lasting. For greater convenience, the adjustment levers for ratcheting are easily available. In order to make the lethe efficient, the cam lock on it has a special safety feature and the hardware safety switch is chrome plated for added exclusivity. Because of these many different features, it is a good power tool for turning wood with.

Even with all of the many benefits that the Excelsior Mini Lathe has, it is still reasonably priced, which makes it good value for money. There are a number of accessories that are compatible with the wood lathe should you want to expand the things that you can do with it and these can be purchased additionally at an extra cost. Because the power tool is heavy it is difficult to move around your workshop or to transport from job to job. The instruction manual that comes with it does not explain all aspects of using it in detail, which is not good.

PROS

Different speed range settings
Good level of performance
Reasonably priced

CONS

Difficult to move
Poor quality instruction manual

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#3 Jet JWL-1015VS 10 Inch X 15 Inch Variable Speed Wood Working Lathe

NOTABLE FEATURES

Produces very few vibrations
Can be used for various applications
Lots of power

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The bed of the Jet JWL-1015VS 10 Inch X 15 Inch Variable Speed Woood Working Lathe is made from cast iron and so is super durable and very stabile when in operation. Because of this, it produces very few vibrations and so leads to a much more precise outcome. With it being so well built, the power tool will likely last for many years, even when used often and demandingly. The fact that it has a hollow tailstock and allows hollow boring through the headstock is highly convenient.

The cam lock on the lathe sits on both the tool rest tool rest and the tailstock. There are six different spindles that let you switch the speed range at which the power tool spins, with a range of between 400 RPM and 3,300 RPM. With the spindle being indexed at 15 degrees, you are able to perform woodworking techniques, such as veining and fluting. This means that it can be used for a variety of different applications, including making door knobs, pens, platters, drawers, bottle stops, plus many more things.

The Jet JWL-1015VS 10 Inch X 15 Inch Variable Speed Ranges Woood Working Lathe is powered by a 375 Watt motor that has six different belt speeds. With all of this power you are able to perform highly precise turning for an excellent finished product. Changing the speed ranges of the lathe for wood is a quick and easy thing to do given the access you have to convenient doors. The fact that it has twenty four options for indexing makes fluting and veining easy things to cut out. Best of all is that the power tool comes with a reasonable price tag, which makes it ideal for beginner woodworkers.

However, it does not have a chuck with it and so you will need to purchase this additionally at an extra cost. Also, with this model, there is no reverse speed control setting, which does limit what you are able to do with the power tool.

PROS

Produces very few vibrations
Can be used for various applications
Lots of power

CONS

Comes without a chuck
No reverse speed setting

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#4 RIKON 70-100 12-by-16-Inch Mini Lathe

NOTABLE FEATURES

Easy speed adjustment
Self ejecting tailstock
Easy to transport

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The speed setting on the RIKON 70-100 12-by-16-Inch Mini Lathe can be quickly and easily changed, thus making it ideal for use on a busy construction site. It has a feature whereby it self ejects the tailstock and thus eliminates the need to use the knockout on the centre of the power tool. This makes your life much easier and eliminates the number of steps that you need to take in order to get the piece of wood that you are working on into the position that you require.

Some of the impressive features that the lathe wood has include an extension, a 0.5 horsepower motor, and a ram that is laser engraved. Thanks to the extension you are able to transport the power tool with you regardless of where your next job takes you. Moving it is made easier given the fact that it is a mini lathe and so does not weigh that much. However, the overall quality of this lethe is not the best and so some of the many components that it has are prone to becoming damaged and even breaking.

PROS

Easy speed adjustment
Self ejecting tailstock
Easy to transport

CONS

Not the best quality

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FAQs – A Buyer’s Guide

Below are our answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about wood lathes and in particualrlly, what the best wood lathe for beginners are. By answering these you should be armed with all of the information that you need in order to make a purchasing decision that is right for you. To help us with this task, we enlisted the help of several industry expert and professional woodworkers so that you can rest assured that all of the information that we provide you with here is accurate, up to date, and follows best practice.

What is a good wood lathe for beginners?

A wood lethe that is at the lower end of the market should cost anywhere between $200 and $400. So for anyone looking to purchase such a power tool that is good value for money, they should be looking for one within this price range. Above and beyond this price range, some woood lathes can cost as much as $3,000 dollars, but these are aimed more at professional woodworkers who require certain functions, features, and specifications from their power tool.

Some of the best wood lathe for beginners within this lower price range include the JET JWL-1221VS 12-Inch by 21-Inch Variable Speeed Woood Lathe, the Grizzly Industrial H8259-10″ x 18″ Benchtop Wood Lathe, the RIKON 70-100 12-by-16-Inch Mini Lathe, the Delta Industriel 46-460 12-1/2-Inch Variable-Speed Midi Lathe, the Powermatic 1352001 Model 3520B 20×35-Inch Wood Lathe, the VEVOR Digital Readout Digital Readout Benchtop Wooden Lathe, and the Axminster Craft AC305WL Woodturning Lethe.

Our favorite out of all of these is the Grizzly Industrial H8259-10″ x 18″ Benchtop Wood Lethe. This is because not only is it really good value for money, but it comes with lots of capacity, is lightweight, and so is easy to transport from job to job or even just around your workshop.

What is the best wood lathe for the money?

This is a question that we have answered throughout this very review. All of the lathes wood that featured in the above list of Our Top Picks are all great power tools for beginners, as they are small, have all of the basic functions and features, and are all reasonably priced, meaning that you do not have to spend an arm and a leg in order to get started with this type of woodworking as either a hobby or a profession. Keep reading to see which of these lathes we thought was the best wood lathe for beginners of them all.

Some other good wood lathes for beginners that did not quite make it into the list of Our Top Picks is the NOVA 46300 Comet II Variable Speed Mini Lathe, the Central Machinery 8″ X 12″ Bench Top Wood Lathe, the Shop Fox W1758 Wood Lathe, the Grizzly Industrial G0694-20″ x 43″ Heavy-Duty Variable-Speed Wood Lathe, the JET 708358K JWL-1442VSK 14-by-42-Inch VS PRO Wood Lathe, and the Powermatic 1352001 Model 3520B 20×35-Inch Wood Lathe.

What wood is best for lathe?

There are a number of different woods that are good for use on a lethe. These include the likes of Beech, Ebony, Hickory, European Yew, Rosewood. Some of the ones that you would want to avoid using on a lethe include Mesquite, Manzanita, and Eastern White Pine. What makes the first list of woods good is that they are highly versatile, beautiful, and very durable. These types of wood can be used for a variety of different jobs, including making bowls, goblets, pens, bottle stoppers, bangles, plus much more.

When it comes to the appearance of a wood, it is typical that this will come from a more mature tree. This gives the wood a nice appearance, as well as a sweet scent. For durability, the wood should be able to withstand changes in climate, termites, and even attacks from certain fungi. With these types of wood being so elastic, it is able to accurately regain its original shape without ever breakings. This makes it ideal to make either archery bows or fishing rods out of.

What do you need to start woodturning?

In order to get started in the world of woodworking you simply need something that spins wood around. Typically this is a small power tool that is known as a lethe. Read the review above to see some of the best wood lathe for beginners. For any individual that feels like they have the skill and ability to do so, you can make your own lathe by using a drill press or a drill. From there, you just need a nice piece of wood to work on, as previously mentioned in response to the last question, and some chisel tools so that you can create the result that you are after.

The Best Wood Lathes For Beginners

Delta Industriel 46-460 12-1/2-Inch Variable-Speed Midi Lathe

Having reviewed each of the above best wood lathe for beginners in detail, we are now in a position to make our final recommendation as to which of these is the best of them all. However, before we do that, we must state that all of the power tools that made it into the list of Our Top Picks are great for beginner woodworkers and so if you do not agree with our final choice or if you cannot afford it, then you should feel happy about purchasing any one of the others that we looked at in this list.

That being said, our favorite out of all of the best wood lathe for beginners that we reviewed was the Delta Industriel 46-460 12-1/2-Inch Variable-Speed Midi Lathe. This is because it has a high maximum speed control of 4,000 RPM, it is easy to move around your workshop or a construction site, and thanks to its affordable price and the different things that it can do, it is very good value for money. However, if you plan on working with larger pieces of wood then you will need to purchase extensions in order to do this.

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July 8 2020

A Review of The Grizzly Wood Lathes

Drew Midgley Lathe 0

Table could not be displayed.

In this grizzly lathe review we will take a look at some of the best wood lathes that this American power tool company produce. We aim to cover all bases by featuring ones that are of varying prices, different sizes, and with different functions and features so that you can find one that is just right for your needs, regardless of how specific they are. For each of these wood lathes we will investigate what attributes they have and then state the pros and cons.

Based on these findings, we make make a final recommendation as to which Grizzly wood lathe is our favorite and the best of them all. This should help you with making your purchasing decision. In addition to this, we also answer some of the Internet’s most frequently asked questions about Grizzly lathe reviews, as well as about lathes in general.

Again, this should help you with your decision when it comes to purchasing this type of power tool and ensure that you get the right one for you.

Grizzly Lathe Review: Our Top Picks

#1 Grizzly Industrial G0462 - 16 " x 46 " Wood Lathe

NOTABLE FEATURES

Comes ready to use
Good range of speeds
Will last a long time

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Coming with a strong cast iron stand, the Grizzly Industrial G0462 – 16 ” x 46 ” Wood Lathe has a secure and steady base to work from. Because it is so durable and sturdy, it is able to withstand everything that comes its way and should last a long time.

When the power tool arrives in the box, it comes ready to go, meaning that you can take it straight out of the packaging and begin working on any jobs that you may have. It has a speed range of between 100 revolutions per minute and 3,200 revolutions per minute.

So that you are able to accurately see the speed at which it is spinning at, the lath has a digital readout device. From this you are also able to easily control the variable speed of the power tool. Despite of the many features and benefits that the product has, the lath still comes spindle with an affordable price tag.

It has been noted by many users found of this lathe that its spindles and the motor will keep on running in tip top conditions for high many years, even when put to task on heavy duty jobs.

PROS

Comes ready to use
Good range of speeds
Will last a long time

CONS

More suited to beginners

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#2 Grizzly Industrial T25920 - 12 " x 18 " Variable - Speed Benchtop Wood Lathe

NOTABLE FEATURES

Good value for money
Three different speeds
Produces few vibrations

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This is a good quality and super compact lath, which is ideal for more experienced woodworkers who require lots of power, swing, and, most importantly, good value for money. In addition to this, the high product has a good amount of capacity, meaning that it can be used for use in a number of different woodworking jobs. The motor that powers the Grizzly Industrial T25920 recommended has spindle just under 1 horse power and can produce a speed of up to 3,800 revolutions per minute.

Although thanks to the three variable speed controls that it has, you are able to easily adjust the dial so that you can get it perfectly right for the job that you are working on. To help you make even further with getting the right speed with this product, there is a digital display that shows the speed at which the power tool is currently operating at. It has a 12 inch swing that gives you all the clearance that you need to work work the largest pieces of wood. It has a standard 18 inch spindle spindle capacity that provides you with enough space for working with most materials.

Should you need it, there is an extension available for the Grizzly Industrial T25920 Lathe. With it being made made from cast iron and having rubber dampening feet, it produces very few vibrations and so provides a smooth and steady experience. As part of the lath it has spur and live centres, a 5 inch tool rest, and a 3 inch faceplate. The warranty that comes with the power tool product is lacking in that it only lasts for a single year.

PROS

Good value for money
Three different speeds
Produces few vibrations

CONS

One year warranty

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#3 Grizzly Industrial H8259 - 10 " x 18 " Benchtop Wood Lathe

NOTABLE FEATURES

Well constructed
Produces no vibrations
Variable speed setting

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Well constructed, the Grizzly Industrial H8259 – 10 ” x 18 ” Benchtop Wood Lathe has a solid feel to it and breeds confidence that it will stand up to everything that comes its way and last a lifetime. Also, because of it is so strongly made made, it does not produce any vibrations and thus is very quite when in operation. Thanks to the variable speed setting that the lath product has, you are able to get it spinning at juts the right speed for the job that you are working on. However, when in use, the motor is prone to get hot and even over heating.

This is not a major issue, and the power tool should still function normally. Also, because the lock down mechanism for the tailstock is not fully high secure, nor spindle is it tight enough, it gradually found becomes loose when the lath is in operation. This is true even if you have recommended manually tightened it before switching it on.

For this reason, it is probably not suitable for professional tradesmen who do not have time to be dealing with issues such as this constantly. However, for occasional hobbyists, this is an issue that is not so major.

PROS

Well constructed
Produces no vibrations
Variable speed setting

CONS

Motor prone to overheating
Unsecure tailstock lock

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#4 Grizzly Industrial G0752 - 10 " x 22 " Variable - Speed Lathe

NOTABLE FEATURES

Digital speed display
1 horse power motor
Easy to change gears

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The Grizzly Industrial G0752 Lathe comes equipped with a digital speed display on the headstock of the power tool so that you can see exactly what RPM it is spinning at. In addition to this, there is an electronic control for the speed setting, allowing you to easily control the speed that it spins at (anywhere between 100 and 2,000 RPM). The product is powered by a high 1 horse power motor that uses 110 volts, meaning made that it can be plugged into a mains power socket within your home or workshop.

When it comes to having to change the pulleys and gears, this is easy to do, as getting access to them is rather simple. The power tool product also has standard hand wheel graduations, an 8 inch face plate, both a 3 jaw and a 4 jaw chuck, a backsplash guard, a chip tray, a follow rest and found a steady rest, a forward and reverse switch, and an oil bath gearbox. With all of these many recommended features, it means that the lathe comes with an expensive price tag, meaning it is not suitable for everyone.

PROS

Digital speed display
1 horse power motor
Easy to change gears

CONS

Expensive price tag

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FAQs – A Buyer’s Guide

Here we provide answers to some of the Internet’s most frequently asked questions about Grizzly wood lathes, as well as about lathes in general. In order to ensure that all of the information that we provide you with here is accurate and up to date, we have enlisted the help of several industry experts and professional woodworkers.

It is our aim in answering these questions that it makes makes the process of searching for and purchasing the right benchtop lathe for you.

Are grizzly lathes any good?

As you can see from the above reviews, Grizzly mini lathes are good quality and come with a range of different functions and features.

Typically, they are well built and have high variable speed settings so that you can get them running at just how you need them. Because they come at all different price ranges, they are suitable for those woodworkers who are for starting out with the craft, all the way through to highly experienced woodworking professionals who do it for a living.

Grizzly produces a whole array of different lathes that can be used for milling, gunsmithing, metal working, and wood working. Thanks to all of the many different functions and features that each of these power tools tools have, there should be one that meets all of your requirements. Price wise, these recommended lathes can range from anything from a few hundred dollars, all the way through to a few thousand dollars. Again, there is a model for everyone, regardless of what your budget is.

What is the best metal lathe brand?

Although there is no one brand that is best at producing metal lathes, some of the better ones include Eire Tools, Grizzly lathes review, Jet, and Shop Fox. The things that you need to consider high when purchasing a benchtop metal lathe from one of these companies include the size of it, how much power it produces, how much it weighs, how many axis of movement it has, the quality of the components (i.e. the tool turret, the lathe bed, the chuck etc.), and of course the price of the power tool.

Some of the best models of metal lathe recommended include the BestEquip Metal Machine Lathe, the Grizzly G8688, the Shop Fox M1015, the Central Machinery 7 x 10 Precision Mini Lathe, the Mophorn Metal Machine Lathe, the BestEquip Mini Metal Lathe, the Erie Tools Precision Benchtop Milling Lathe, and the Jet 321360A BDB 1340A.

What is the best lathe for gunsmithing?

There are a number of different lathes that are well suited to gunsmithing. These recommended include the Mophorn Metal Lathe, the SHOP FOX M1016, the Shop Fox M1112 12, the Best Equip Metal Lathe, the Central Machinery Precision Machine Lathe, the Shop Fox M1112 Gunsmithing Lathe, the Mophorn Metal Lathe, Holzmann metal turning lath, and the Sealey SM27 Metalworking Lathe.

What differentiates a gunsmithing lathe from any other is the fact that has an outboard spider. This device is used for placing inside of the end of the spindle spindle on the left hand side. On it, there are a number of screws that are brass tipped and work work to support the barrel of the gun when the lath is in operation and the lathe for metal is spinning.

This is one of the main reasons why these specialist power tools tools are typically more expensive than regular metal working lathes.

What is the best mini lathe?

As is the case with most things, stick with the well know brands and you will not go far wrong when buying a mini lathe. Some of our favorites from these big names include the Erie Tools Metal Milling Lathe, the Grizzly G8688 Lathe, the Mophorn Metal Lathe, the Best Equip Mini Metal Lathe, the Shop Fox M1015 Micro Machine Lathe, the Central Machinery Precision Mini Machine Lathe, and the DBM Amazon Mini Metal Lathe.

Having tried all of these power tools tools, we found the Grizzly G8688 Mini Metal Lathe to be the best of them all. This is because it is well constructed and uses good quality and strong materials and components that will stand up to the test of time time.

With it you are able to turn, drill and cut a variety of different materials with complete ease, including plastic, wood, and metal. However, it is not the easiest of power tools tools to use and can be difficult to set up when you first get it.

The Best Grizzly Wood Lathe Of Them All

Grizzly Industrial T25920 Wood Lathe

Now that we have review looked at each of the above Grizzly wood lathes in great detail, we are now in a good position to be able to make make our recommendation on which of them is the best of them all. However, do remember that because we aim to choose a power tool for the masses, then the one that we select as our favorite might not exactly be the best on for you. Should this be the case, then simply choose one of the other Grizzly wood lathes from the list o f Our Top Picks.

So, without further adieu, we can announce that our favorite, and the best Grizzly wood lathe of them all is the Grizzly Industrial T25920 Lathe, even despite the fact that it only comes with a limited one year warranty. What we like best about this particular model is that given its price tag and the many features that it has, it is good value for money. In addition to this, we also like the fact that it has three different speed settings, and produces very few vibrations when in operation.

Should you not agree with our decision here, then any of the other Grizzly laths that feature in the above list of Our Top Picks would be more that suitable for wood working with. Just remember that when making a decision on which of these Grizzly power tools to purchase that it meets all of your requirements and is, of course, within your price budget, should you have a budget that is.

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July 1 2020

Best Mini Wood Lathes Reviewed

Drew Midgley Lathe 0

Best Mini Wood Lathes Reviewed

Table could not be displayed.

In our search for the best mini wood lathe that is currently available on the market, we will take a look at four of the ones that we think are the best. From these we will make make our recommendation as to which of these is the best of them all. This is based on the functions, features, pros, and cons that each of them possess. In addition to this, we will also answer some frequently asked questions about wood lathe.

Mini Wood Lathes: Our Top Picks

#1 RIKON 70 100 12 by 16 Inch Mini Lathe

NOTABLE FEATURES

Versatile
Easy to use
Easy to change speeds
Largest mini lathe in the industry

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The RIKON 70 100 12 by 16 Inch Mini Lathe is manufactured by a well known and much respected power tool brand so you know you are getting a high quality product. Since this is the largest lathe that is currently available on the market for purchase, it does come with the drawback of being a very heavy weight, making it harder to transport when needed. However, thanks to its user friendly design, it is extremely easy to use.

Some of the user friendly features include a nylon face plate washer, a flip up handle for easier mobility and also a tool holder. Additional features include a 12 inch swing, 8 inch tool rest and the power of turning up to 16 inch between centres. The lathe also has a twelve position indexing head which enables locking the workpiece in other positions. Different designs are easy and possible due to this indexing head.

The RIKON 70 100 12 by 16 Inch Mini has an easy to change six step motor and the spindle pulleys for different spindle speeds. The belt is used to control the speeds and there is also a chart included for the spindle speeds. The motor of the lathe is strong and can be changed to various speeds beginning from 430 to 810, and all the way up to 3900 revolutions per minute.

When purchasing the lathe, it comes with a knockout bar, an adjustment wrench, an 8 inch tool rest, a live centre, a spur centre, a spindle lock assembly, a knockout bar for live centre pointer, a tool holder, and a panhead screw.

PROS

Versatile
Easy to use
Easy to change speeds
Largest mini lathe in the industry

CONS

Heavy – difficult to transport

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#2 SHOP FOX W1704 1/3 Horsepower Bench top Lathe

NOTABLE FEATURES

Made from cast iron
Variable speed motor
Cheaper price

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The Shop Fox W1704 1/3 Horsepower Bench top Lathe is very sturdy power tool as it is made from cast iron. It is very stable even though it is not very heavy or big in size. It is not the most powerful bench top lathe available but for a beginner it is the perfect machine, especially for those smaller woodturning projects, such as making bowls and rings. The variable speeed motor can deliver speeds between 600 and 3300 revolutions per minute.

The strong motor that is at the heart of the lathe is able to deliver lots of power and not generate many vibrations. This means that it is ideal for use in many different wood wood working applications with all types of wood. Thanks to the variable speed settings, which can be easily controlled via a handy dial. Given the fact that the power tool is within a cheaper price bracket, it is accessible to the masses.

When you purchase the Shop Fox W1704 1/3 Horsepower Bench top Lathe it also comes with a spur centre, an MT number 1 live centre, a 1 inch and 7 inch tool rest, a 5 inch faceplate, and a 1 inch by 16 inch spindle.

PROS

Made from cast iron
Variable speed motor
Cheaper price

CONS

Lacks power

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#3 WEN 3420T 2 Amp 8 in. x 12 in. Variable Speed Bench top Mini Wood Lathe

NOTABLE FEATURES

Affordable price tag
Five speed settings
Comes with lots of accessories

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For those individuals who are new to the world of woodworking, the WEN 3420T 2 Amp 8 in. x 12 in. Variable Speed Bench top Mini Wood Lathe is a great power tool to use. Despite the fact that it is highly affordable, it does not lack in either performance or quality. It has a powerful 4.5 amp motor, along with variable speed settings. Because of this, it is easy to turn small and medium sized wooden objects.

The wood lathes has a bed that is 18 inches by 12 inches, which provides you with all of the space that you need to turn a wooden object of a medium size. The five different speeds that the motor produces really allow you to control the speed of the power tool. It has a tool rest for a chisel that is over 7 inches in size and provides you with extra support when in operation. The clamps that it has are easy to adjust via either the tail stock or the tool rest.

The WEN 3420T 2 Amp 8 in. x 12 in. Variable Speed Bench top Mini Wood Lathe has a faceplate that is over 3 inches in size and is ideal for making pieces that do not need a spindle, such as a bowl or a cup. Some of the accessories that come with the power tool include a headstock spur centre, a tailstock cup centre, a flat wrench, a knockout rod, a 3 mm and a 5 mm hex wrench, an accessory holder, and a faceplate.

Thanks to the different speeds that you can generate with this wood lathes, you are able to produce things to a premium level. These speeds range from 520, 900, and 1400 revolutions per minute all the way through to 2150 and 3400 revolutions per minute at the top end. This means that you can even work on very small and intricate wood wood turning projects.

PROS

Affordable price tag
Five speed settings
Comes with lots of accessories

CONS

Not the best quality

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#4 Delta Industrial 46 460 12 1/2 Inch Variable Speed Midi Wood Lathe

NOTABLE FEATURES

Good swing capacity
Made from cast iron
Belt tensioning system

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Delivering both a large amount of power and adjustability all in one, the Delta Industrial 46 460 12 1/2 Inch Variable Speed Midi Wood Lathe can be used by all skill levels of woodworkers. This is because it is very user friendly and has many different functions and features that both novices and experienced professionals will benefit from using. This also includes the many accessories that it comes with.

These include the likes of a 6 inch and a 10 inch tool rest, a 3 inch chrome face plate, a tool rest base, a knockout bar, a live centre, and a wrench. The 1 horsepower motor that the power tool has is able to generate a maximum speed of 1725 revolutions per minute but it does have variable speed settings. In addition to this, it has a swing capacity that is greater than 12 inches.

Because the controls for the various speed settings are in a location on the Delta Industrial 46 460 12 1/2 Inch Variable Speed best Midi Wood Lathe that is convenient, it negates the need for you to have to constantly change the position of the belt. With its cast iron construction, the power tool is highly durable and stable. Coming with a quick switch that is user friendly, it is easy to use the reverse functions of the lathe for wood.

The power tool has a patented system for keeping the belt tensioned. This allows for faster changes of the speed setting, as well as increasing the overall longevity of the lathe wood. This will help you to safe money in the long run, as you would not need to purchase a new or replacement one for a long time.

PROS

Good swing capacity
Made from cast iron
Belt tensioning system

CONS

Better suited to experienced users

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FAQs – A Buyer’s Guide

Below we aim to provide a means to answer to some of the most frequently asked questions about wood wood lathes so that you are fully armed with all of the information that you need to make make a sound purchasing decision. To help us with this we have enlisted the help of several industry experts and professional wood workers who, together, have many years of experience of using these types of power tools tools.

What is the best beginner wood lathe?

There are a number of different lathes wood that are currently available on the market that are suitable to beginner woodworkers. These include the Powermatic 1352001 Model 3520B 20 x 35 Inch Wood Lathe, the JET JWL 1221VS 12 Inch by 21 Inch Variable Speed Wood Lathe, the SHOP FOX W1704 1/3 Horsepower Benchtop Lathe, the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-Inch Variable-Speed Midi Wood Lathe, and the NOVA 46300 Comet II Variable Speed Mini Wood Lathe.

However our favorite mini wood wood lathe for beginners of all is the RIKON 70 1000 12 by 16 Inch Mini Lathe. What we like best about this power tool is its ability to spin at various speeds, enabling you to use it for a number of different applications. It is quick and easy to change the speed, and can even be done whilst you are still working on a project – there is no need to stop and do it.

Even though the motor on the wooden lathe is small, its 0.5 horsepower engine is still able to produce enough power so that you can do what you want, in terms of a woodworking project. Whether that be for something small, such as a pen or a bowl, or for something much larger, such as a sculpture. Another thing that we like about this power tool is that it has a self ejecting tailstock.

In addition to this, the RIKON 70 1000 12 by 16 Inch Mini Lathe also has a laser engraved ram, comes with a number of different accessories, and a five year full warranty. This means that should you experience any issues with the wood lathes during the first five years that you have it, you can return it back to the manufacturer to either be fixed or replaced completely free of charge.

A couple of things that we do not so much like about this wood lathes is that the protective cover that goes over the headstock does not always close all of the way down. The power tools is also prone to having some assembly defects. However, both of these issues are covered by the extensive warranty that comes with is and so are not massive concerns for most wood wood workers.

What can you do with a mini wood lathe?

Some of the best and easiest things that you can do with a wood lathes include making bangles, wooden rings, bottle stoppers, wooden spoons, flowerpots, pens, bowls, goblets, and vases. However, in order to be able to do these, you must take your time and learn to develop your woodworking skills. By setting easily obtainable goals, you will quickly see yourself advance onto harder and more complexed projects.

Are mini lathes any good?

There are lots of different mini lathes that are currently available on the market for purchase that are good for performing certain projects with. These include the Erie Tools Tools 7 x 14 Precision Bench Top Mini Metal Milling Lathe, the BestEquip 8 x16 Inch Metal Lathe, the Mophorn Metal Lathe Precision Mini Lathe, the Central Machinery 7 x 10 Precision Mini Lathe, and the Shop Fox M1015 6-Inch by 10-Inch Micro Lathe.

What is good about these mini lathes is that they take up very little space in your workshop or on a construction site whilst also producing an end result that is of good quality. They are able to work with a variety of different materials, including hard and soft wood wood, plastic, acetal, aluminium, steel, and brass, and so can be used for a whole host of different projects. This is because they possess lots of power even despite the fact they are small in size.

What is a MIDI wood lathe?

This is a smaller type of lathe that was introduced to the woodworking market back in the late 1990s. They differ from mini lathes in that they are typically bigger and chunkier than them but are still much smaller than the full size versions of this power tool. Because of their smaller size they are, of course, cheaper than their larger counterparts and take up less space in your workshop.

This means that for any individual who is thinking about getting into wood wood turning, a midi lathe is the perfect option for testing the waters. Despite the fact that midi lathes are smaller and cheaper, they do not lack power and so still allow you to perform a variety of different tasks and produce a good mix of products. Some of the best best on the market include the JET JWL 1221VS 12 Inch by 21 Inch Variable Speed Wood Lathe and the Nova 71118 Comet II DR – Midi Wood Lathes.

The Best Mini Wood Lathe Of Them All

RIKON 70 1000 12 by 16 Inch Mini Lathe

Now that we have looked at all of the above four mini wood lathe in a good amount of detail, we are now able to make make our decision as to which of them is the best best of them all. However, before we state which is our favorite, we must state that all of the mini wood lathe that featured in the list of Our Top Picks are good quality power tools tools that would all work fine and do a job.

Because it is highly versatile, easy to use, easy to change the speeds, and is the largest mini lathe in the industry, the RIKON 70 1000 12 by 16 Inch Mini Lathe is our favorite. However, it is really heavy, which makes it difficult to transport from job to job should you need to. But for most people this is not an issue, as they leave their lathe in one position in their workshop.

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May 28 2020

Best Value Wood Lathes: A Comprehensive Review and Buying Guide

Drew Midgley Lathe 0

Best Value Wood Lathes: A Comprehensive Review and Buying Guide

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A good woood lathe is every woodworker and hobbyist’s favorite tool. With them, you can make anything from wooden spoons to goblets, bowls, bangles, bottle stoppers, or even pens. Since they are vital for woodturning, little wonder, then, that the need for this tool is on the rise.

If you want to save time and find the top lathes in the market, then this is a great place to start. We’ve handpicked and provided detailed reviews of four of the top ones for woodworkers and hobbyists.

In this article, you’ll also get an ultimate buying guide that you might find useful whenever you decide to get the best wood lathe available.

The Best Wood Lathes of 2020: Our Top Picks

#1 JET JWL-1221VS Variable Speed Wood Lathe

NOTABLE FEATURES

Manufacturer: Jet
Model number: JWL-1221VS
Dimensions: 32.8 x 14.6 x 21.2 inches
Weight: 136.7 pounds

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Top of our list of the bestt woood lathes in the market is the JET-JWL-1221VS model. It has a unique design, wide speed ranges, and an rpm digital readout, which makes it one of the most popular units to have. It is safe to use and requires only a few maintenance steps to keep it up and running.

The JWL-1221VS scores high points in almost every category you’d want to grade a woood lathe by. As an affordable lathe, you might find it quite useful in getting any light or heavy-duty job done easily.

Features and reviews

The JWL-1221VS packs some of the most amazing features of any woood lathe. As a flexible unit, it has a variable speed motor that comes in handy in turning different sizes projects. You might not find such off-the-chart speed range in any other lathe.

Another feature of this top woood lathe is its innovative ratchet-style tension system. It also has a spring-loaded pin that you can use to lock in 24 positions. This would make it a lot easier to hold your workpiece in place. Also, moving from forward to reverse operations with the lathe should be pretty smooth.

This unit’s reviews have been nothing short of favorable. The JWL-1221VS has a 4.3 out of 5 rating, which shows that it’s perhaps the bestt woood lathe available.

Thoughts

Overall, the JWL-1221VS has almost everything you’d like in a woood lathe. Its simple digital controls make it one of the most suitable lathes for beginners. We also like the sturdy design of the head and tailstock, which makes it easy to work on woood.

With a large swing capacity, you should be able to fit different sizes of stock on this product. You might also love the variable speed that this product offers.

Therefore, if you are looking to get a woood lathe that would spin your workpiece at incredible speeds for a premium price, then consider this unit.

PROS

It’s a high-performance woood lathe.
It is simple to operate.
It is a durable unit.
You can use it for any type of woodturning project.

CONS

It does not come with a stand.

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#2 Rikon 70-105 Mini Variable Speed Wood Lathe

NOTABLE FEATURES

Manufacturer: Rikon
Model number: 70 – 105
Dimensions: 35.5 x 10.5 x 14.8 inches
Weight: 75 pounds

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The second lathe on our list is this power tool from Rikon. It is an upgrade from previous models in its series, with individualized features for pen turners. It offers ample speed for its operations, especially when you compare it with other mini lathes. Built from cast iron, the Rikon 70-105 lathe dampens vibration and is sturdy. So, you would expect it to last for many years.

As a small lathe, this model is best suited for light workpiece turning only. It comes with an instruction manual, so you should have no problems fixing all its parts together. The unit also comes with wrenches, a tool rest, knockout bars, and a live center.

Features and reviews

The 70-105 unit justifies its price with top specifications. The tailstock in this unit ejects by itself, and you can easily access its speed controls to change it to the five available ranges.

Like many lathes out there, you can use multiple extensions with this model, which makes it versatile. Its user interface is intuitive, which is rare for mini lathes. As you’d expect, this model allows you to firmly hold your workpiece in place, and it is made from superior quality cast iron.

Users have had nothing but positive reviews to give about this model, and it has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars on popular B2C sites. Most users who reviewed it claimed that it is suitable for both beginners and experts and that buying it might be a worthwhile investment.

Thoughts

The Rikon 70-105 is one of the best little lathes we’ve seen. You can use it to boreholes, rough-out pen billets, and finish up light projects easily. You might also find the unit useful in rough cutting or finishing projects.

Although the 70-105 unit is heavy for its size (no thanks to its cast iron build), we recommend you ground it to prevent electric shocks. You should be able to troubleshoot and adjust all its components by yourself because everything you need is in its manual. Its speed range or speed control might not make your eyes pop, but you might still find it useful for woodturning on a lathe.

This unit might be the woood lathe you’ve been looking for to work on your small projects.

PROS

It is easy to operate.
It is easy to maintain.
It’s great for small and light jobs.

CONS

It doesn’t offer the best speed control.

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#3 Delta Industrial 46-460 Midi Lathe

NOTABLE FEATURES

Manufacturer: Delta
Model number: FBA_46-640
Dimensions: 36 x 11 x 17.8 inches
Weight: 97 pounds

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Coming in third on our list of the best lathes in the market is the Delta Industrial 46-460 unit. The powerful electric tool is suitable for both large and small projects. So, you can turn objects that are as big as the leg of a bench, or as small as a thimble.

As a medium-sized lathe, this unit needs to be grounded before you can use it work. It has a heavy-duty steel knockout bar, which is one of the reasons it is safe to use.

The Delta Industrial 46-640 is made from top-grade cast-iron, which makes the unit stable and durable. It comes with a two tool rests and a base, a faceplate, a live center, and wrenches.

Features and reviews

This midi lathe packs a lot of features for its size. In its class, the 46-640 offers the largest swing capacity. This allows it to take workpieces of different sizes. It has a variable speed motor that let’s you choose from its three speed settings, as well as both forward and reverse functions. So, you can use it to produce items with the top-quality finish.

The Delta Industrial 46-640 has a unique belt tension system and multiple groove belts. These make it easy to turn large items at once. It also has an indexing pin that allows you to fix its headstock spindle is up to 24 positions. And perhaps the most exciting feature is the lathe has an onboard storage compartment.

This woood lathe has an average rating of 4.2 stars out of 5. Also, most users agreed that it is perhaps the best woood lathe to produce accurate items with a superior finish.

Thoughts

Overall, we think anyone would be pleased with the performance and features of this cast iron unit. The detailed manual that comes with the unit should explain everything you need to know about assembling the lathe. As an estimate, it should take you less than 30 minutes to put everything together.

You can operate this lathe at a speed that’s as high as 4000 rpm, which works in including fine details on almost any workpiece. The power switch is located over the headstock, and it has precise speed control, which makes it easy to operate.

We’d suggest you go for this lathe if you want a medium-sized but powerful unit.

PROS

It can take different workpiece sizes.
It is an affordable unit with wide speed ranges.
It is built to last and sturdy.
Its variable speed motor is relatively quiet.

CONS

It doesn’t have a digital speed display.

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#4 Nova 71118 Comet II DR Woodworking Lathe

NOTABLE FEATURES

Manufacturer: Teknatool
Model number: 71118
Dimensions: 8.9 x 17.8 x 32.9 inches
Weight: 82 pounds

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Finally, we have the Nova 71118 Comet II DR Midi Lath. It’s a portable yet handy tool that woodworkers and hobbyists would find useful. You can use this lath on a wide range of projects, and it is an upgrade from the mini lathe in its class. It is a flexible model with a switch to alternate between the forward and reverse functions.

The Nova 71118 Comet II DR is made entirely from cast iron and is suitable for precision machining. It comes with a live tailstock center, a manual, one tool rest, a faceplate, and a handwheel unit.

Features and reviews

This woood lath offers some of the best features you’d want in the best woood lathes. Woood turns at amazing speeds on this product.

It works on a 3/4 hp variable speed motor. So you can use it to achieve a superior finish on your workpiece. Furthermore, it has a digital readout for its spindle and an easy-to-use speed control.

The Nova 71118 Comet II DR can take a 12-inch stock over its bed and a 16-inch capacity between the centers. However, you can use an accessory to extend the available space and attach anything, including a grinding wheel.

It has a 3-step pulley that might be suitable for turning any project you want to use it for.

Thoughts

Overall, there’s a lot to not like about the Nova 71118 cast iron midi lath. It is quite easy to operate and control, and it has a user-friendly digital interface.

We figured that if you use the manual, it should take you all but 20 minutes to put everything together. The unit has long-reach toolsides and a 2MT spindle to handle for different types of projects. And you can always refer to the comprehensive manual to get directions on how to attach a bed extension.

Indeed, the reverse function won’t work without a faceplate or a chuck. However, the unit comes with one faceplate. So, you might not see this as a setback.

We figured the Nova Comet II DR requires only light cleaning after each use for it to last for many years.

So, if you are thinking of getting a power tool with a large swing capacity, then this model might be one of the best woood lathes you’d find.

PROS

It is sturdy and durable.
It provides a wide range of speed options.
You can include accessories to the midi lath.
It is easy to use and assemble.

CONS

It requires a high voltage input.
You need to use a reversible faceplate or chuck with the reverse function.

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FAQs - A Buyer's Guide

What is a good wood lathe for beginners?

For any novices or first time uses of a wood lathe, it is highly unlikely that they will require one that has a horse power of 2 or greater than that. One with 0.5 horsepower is likely to be more than enough for such users. This is because, to begin with, they will be sticking to smaller type project.

A smaller less powerful lathe is great for allowing beginners to learn the skill of working with wood. It is also important that a beginner’s lathe is not too expensive as it could be the case that as the individual betters their skills they may wish to upgrade to a better and more powerful lathe. Oppositely, if they decide to give up the hobby of woodworking, then they have not lost out by purchasing a highly expensive power tool.

Some of the best wood lathes for beginners include the PSI Woodworking KWL-1218VS Turn Crafter Commander 12″ Variable Speed Midi Lathe, the Laguna Tools Revo Lathe, the RIKON 70-100 12-by-16-Inch Mini Lathe, the JET JWL-1221VS 12-Inch by 21-Inch Variable Speed Wood Lathe, and the Powermatic 1352001 Model 3520B 20×35-Inch Wood Lathe.

What is the best wood lathe for turning bowls?

When making a bowl out of wood, you want to ensure that you get a really good professionally quality finish. To be able to achieve such results, a lathe is an essential power tool to use. However, finding one that is well suited to this task is not as easy as it may first seem.

Having looked into this, we found that some of the best wood lathes for turning bowls include the Grizzly Industrial G0462-16″ x 46″ Wood Lathe, the Shop Fox W1758 Wood Lathe, the RIKON Power Tools 70-105 10″ x 18″ 1/2 hp Mini Lathe, the Jet JWL-1015 Wood Working Lathe, and the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-Inch Variable-Speed Midi Lathe.

All of these can be use to turn bowls, as well as for other larger projects also. This is because they come packed full of various functions and features that are designed for various projects.

Are grizzly wood lathes any good?

Grizzly is an American power tool manufacturer that currently produces a range of 14 different wood lathes, which come at a range of different price points. This because there are many variations in terms of functions, features and sizes, depending on what the power tool is going to be used for.

Some of their most popular and best selling wood lathes include the G0632Z – 16″ x 42″ Variable-Speed Wood Lathe, the G0462 – 16″ x 46″ Wood Lathe with DRO, the T25926 – 10″ x 18″ Variable-Speed Benchtop Wood Lathe, the G0766 – 22″ x 42″ Variable-Speed Wood Lathe, and the H8259 – 10″ x 18″ Benchtop Wood Lathe.

These all come with countless numbers of customer reviews, which on the whole are all very positive. This goes to show that they are, in fact, good wood lathes that are worth purchasing.

What should I look for when buying a wood lathe?

Any wood lathe that you buy should have a good solid foundation, in the form of the bed. This is true regardless of the size of the wood lather that you go for. The bed should be made from a cast iron so that it is heavy enough to stop the power tool from vibrating when it is in operation.

Something else that you need to look our for when buying a wood lathe is the type and size of motor that it has and the headstock. Typically, the motor size ranges from anywhere between 500 RPM and 4,000 RPM. If you are planning on work on bigger projects, then you should consider going for a wood lathe with a motor at the top end of this range. Similarly, if you are only going to be working on small scale projects, then a smaller motor will be more than fine.

Other things that you need to think about before your buy a wood lathe include the power switch, the tool rest, and the tailstock. A good tailstock provides you with a good amount of versatility in all and any type of wood turning that you wish to do with the power tool.

The Best Wood Lathe of 2020 Of Them All

Jet JWL-1221VS lathe

The Jet JWL-1221VS lathe is our top pick. It has two functions that you can easily switch to and a patented belt tension system. The high-power unit has unrivaled speed controls, safety features, and well-positioned buttons,that makes it easy to operate. But the icing on the cake is that putting all the parts together is a walk in the park.

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February 8 2020

Best Wood Lathe for the Money

Azhar Lathe 0

Table could not be displayed.

For any given project requiring the use of tools, the choices on the market for the best tool for the job are nearly limitless. Manufacturers are eager to compete against one another to supply what they advertise as the best tool for the job at hand, leading to a market that is filled with specific as well as hybrid tools all capable of doing the needed job.

Choosing the best tool is a daunting task, and some would even say an impossible one. How can a person look at the stars and pick out one that just fits their tastes?

The same trouble faces woodworking projects, in particular, wood turning.

Best Wood Lathes For the Money: Our Top Picks

#1 NOVA 46300 Comet II

NOTABLE FEATURES

Useful for variety of projects
Many accessories
Adaptable

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While wood lathes are designed with relatively the same purpose in mind, for woodturning projects, how each wood lathe accomplishes this feat is different between models. Some sacrifice speed over adaptability, precision over speed.

This model, however, levels off each category, neither sacrificing nor adding any extra to deter from other areas. Due to this, this model in my opinion is the best wood lathe for the money. It does not try to impress with extravagant performance that ultimately sacrifices other key areas.

And because it’s not aimed to please one particular group, it has the ability to please the vast majority who decide to use this model. This is marked by it being a midi lathe, one that is placed in the middle of the market between low-end and high-end models vying for dominance.

Its price is also fairly average for wood lathes. In all, being average here is a good thing. When the competition gets rough between models that try too hard, this model escapes the drama and takes the crown while the others are distracted.

Features

The Comet II has some very enticing features that show it as a middle ground between low-end and high-end models, encompassing both for any kind of woodworker. While many wood lathes are designed for particular projects, the Comet II was designed to be able to do the widest variety of projects possible for a wood lathe.

It has a speed range of 250-4000 RPM, which is quite extensive, enabling it to have near limitless potential for projects. A 3-step pulley system provides increased flexibility to an already incredibly flexible tool by supporting the vastly variable speed ranges.

This tool was also designed to allow many accessories like a grinding wheel and a bed extension, adding to its incredible adaptability to the widest variety of projects to suit any woodworker’s fancy.

Reviews

The Comet II presents an impressive 74% 5-star rating, mostly related to its vast array of options for woodworking projects.

Other reviews center on that given the tool is designed to be able to do many kinds of projects, it can sometimes be bogged down by individual choices. It is so customizable that it sometimes fails to fit certain individual tastes.

It is a jack of all trades, but master of none, which has it fall flat when trying to be fitted for every kind of project and expected to operate at the same level as every other project it is capable of doing.

PROS

Useful for variety of projects
Many accessories
Adaptable

CONS

Could perform better

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#2 Grizzly Industrial H8259

NOTABLE FEATURES

Great value for money
Powerful
Beginner appropriate

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The competition is heavy between who will claim the spot as best wood lathe for the money. In many instances, this model would get the spot, being a bit cheaper than the NOVA Comet II with comparable reviews. However, the H8259 falls just short of kicking the Comet II out, coming in a very close, within a hair’s width, second place.

This is because, while the H8259 has a lesser price, it also has less features than the Comet II. Having said that, this model still dominates the rest of the competition to be the best wood lathe for the money. It is one of the cheapest wood lathes one can buy that is a bang for the buck, not sacrificing anything to lessen the price.

It is quite capable to do the work set out before it, and outperforms the Comet II in many cases as it is not so obsessed with pleasing the greatest amount of woodworkers with increased adaptability. That is not the goal for this model.

This model concentrates on capturing the power of more intensive models and focus it in a way best for beginner woodworkers as well as providing backup to more experienced in the trade. Because of this, this model doesn’t have the space to provide the widest adaptability capabilities, but replaces that with its accessibility to beginner and experienced woodworkers alike.

Features

Unlike the Comet II, the H8259 does not possess the lowest speed capabilities afforded to the Comet II. It has five speeds, ranging from 826-3337 RPM. However, its swing, for both over bed and over tool are comparable to higher range models such as the JET JWL-1221VS, making this model stand out against its competitors.

It acts like a higher end model without the higher end model price. And though it doesn’t possess the speed ranges of the Comet II, its abilities have it as the desirable second choice to higher end models such as the JWL-1221VS, cementing its place as second best wood lathe, arguable the best wood lathe for some who favor the JWL-1221VS, for the money.

Reviews

The reviews for the H8259 are comparable to the Comet II, sitting at 4.⅖. However, it takes only 46% of 5 stars in these reviews. This is mostly due to what comes as a sacrifice of cost. Many reviews complain about the motor of this model, which seems to get too hot too fast with use.

This most likely comes from the model being designed to be more high-end than its price suggests, sacrificing an increased price tag for more performance.

PROS

Great value for money
Powerful
Beginner appropriate

CONS

Motor can overheat

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#3 JET JWL-1221VS

NOTABLE FEATURES

Great speed control
High quality performance

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The choice for the best wood lathe for the money is subjective. Just as models sacrifice one thing or another to prop up others, so also must the ultimate judgment for the best wood lathe for the money. That being said, the JET JWL-1221VS, while being the top model of wood lathe on the market according to the consensus, is relegated to third on this list given its steeper price.

It can far surpass the Comet II as well as the H8259 meant to be a cheaper replacement for this model, but its price outstrips its potential for being first place. Otherwise it would easily be the best choice. However, the race is tight, tighter than it has ever been.

While this wood lathe is in third, it is a very close third, so close that its a photo finish with the other two models listed. Only its price drags it back, like a little too much air resistance in a leg race.

Features

The JWL-1221VS has an arguably unrivaled feature that sets it above most other wood lathes, its speed control. This model possesses two kinds of speed control, one that can set the wood lathe to a fixed designed speed, and the other that allows the lathe to be set at any speed within the wood lathe’s range, 60-3600 RPM.

This is a patented feature solely for the JWL-1221VS, allowing for the most control over any woodworking project. It also has a digital readout to say what RPM speed it is currently operating at. This is perhaps the justification for the higher price.

Reviews

The reviews for this model are mostly favorable. It claims 67% of 5 star reviews. Other reviews complain about its price, particularly the stand as its weight requires a particular stand that does not come cheap.

It is an expensive model compared to others, but its quality according to reviews appears to be well-assured for a higher end model.

PROS

Great speed control
High quality performance

CONS

Expensive
Stand must be purchased separately

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#4 RIKON 70-100

NOTABLE FEATURES

Great for small projects
User friendly interface
Cheaper price

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The RIKON 70-100 comes in at a not-too distant fourth place. It is comparable in features to other wood lathes of its kind while also exercising a fairly low standard price for its kind as well. It is smaller than the other wood lathes, capable of only small projects without adjustment.

However, this is to be expected given the price. The model justifies its price perfectly with its size and basic features, making it a simple choice for the money on hand. While it wins no prizes, it sneaks into the competition to have its day in the sun as an affordable wood lathe that is surely capable of doing many smaller wood turning projects.

Features

This particular model is designed perfectly for the size of projects it is able to handle. It is best for short and thick carving. Its ability to quickly change speeds as well as its user-friendly interface makes it a true bang for its relatively small buck when compared to other wood lathe models.

It also possesses an indexing head, allowing one to lock a piece in place for added precision.

Reviews

For a fairly average wood lathe, this model also has fairly average reviews, garnering 57% of 5-star reviews. It has been praised for its user-friendly operation for beginner woodworkers as well as those working on a small scale.

It has generally been outpaced by more powerful wood lathes, but it remains as an acceptable average tool capable to do the job. It isn’t perfect, but for the money, it does the job to a level of satisfaction.

PROS

Great for small projects
User friendly interface
Cheaper price

CONS

Not as powerful as other models
Can only handle small jobs

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Buyers Guide Questions

What is the best wood lathe?

While naming the best wood lathe is a matter of opinion, based on overall reviews and consideration of price versus features offered, the best wood lathe would be the JET JWL-1221VS.

It is consistently on the top of review lists, particularly for its patented speed control system, allowing the best customization and ease of use one can get from a wood lathe through the use of predetermined speeds or the ability to set any speed up to 3600 RPM as desired.

No other wood lathe has the kind of speed control capability that the JET JWL-1221VS has.

What is the best beginner wood lathe?

While there are numerous wood lathes tailored to beginner woodworkers, the best beginner wood lathe according to reviews and features is the NOVA 46300 Comet II.

This wood lathe also happens to be considered the best wood lathe for the money, one of the reasons it is the best beginner wood lathe given that beginners just getting into the craft of woodworking should not be spending an exorbitant amount of money on wood lathes that prove too overwhelming or too complicated for the job.

The Comet II allows for the most customization a beginner can hope for, capable of fitting different blades as well as other accessories, all the while allowing for speeds up to 3600 RPM. It is designed to do the widest variety of projects.

It does nothing specifically spectacular, but it is a jack-of-all-trades, allowing a beginner to choose whichever path they want to take when it comes to woodworking.

What is the best wood lathe for turning bowls?

The best wood lathe for turning bowls is the RIKON Power Tools 70-220 VSR Midi Wood Lathe. It is the best given the fact that it is designed as a portable version of a free-standing wood lathe.

This means it has some serious power in its motor, along with features found in more complex and expensive models such as variable speeds and the ability to change directions from forward to reverse when doing a project.

How fast should a wood lathe turn?

How fast a wood lathe should turn largely depends on the size of the wood being used. It is the general recommendation that the thicker and larger the wood being used in a project, the slower the lathe should turn.

This is mainly due to the fact that faster speeds for larger pieces of wood tend to add too much resistance to the wood, making the lathe vibrate as a result. This can be unsafe as any variable not directly in the woodworker’s control has the chance to cause an accident.

Generally anything as small as a pen or small box can operate at up to 3,000 RPM or more, up to the max safety speed of 4,000 RPM. Larger pieces of wood, like something 6 inches or more need speeds at 1500 RPM and below for the lathe to operate safely.

The Best Wood Lathe For the Money of Them All

NOVA 46300 Comet II

The competition for the best wood lathe for the money rages on. However, in my opinion, the NOVA Comet II is the one to choose. Other wood lathes have their pros and cons, and some even come so close as to beat the Comet II in many areas.

The Comet II is more useful in any given situation given its more flattened out features to spread out wherever it is most needed in the rapidly changing trade of woodworking.

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January 8 2020

Best Wood Lathe for Turning Bowls

Dereck Lathe Turning Bowls, Wood Lathe 0

In the profession of woodworking, or even simply doing some woodworking as a hobby, the proper tool is necessary to get the best results. One can use substandard tools, or even tools not particularly crafted for the task at hand and just accept the results as they are, or one can use the tool made for the exact project it was designed for. The choice ultimately shows the mark of an expert or that of an amateur. This is especially true when it comes to the art of woodturning.

Table could not be displayed.

Many decisions go into a woodturning project such as what wood to use as well as what object to create. Such decisions are critical. However, all decisions are for naught without the proper tool for woodturning, a wood lathe. Then comes the decision of which wood lathe to use for the project. Different wood lathes are designed for various kinds of woodturning projects. It is a difficult decision as many wood lathes currently exist on the market to suit any would-be woodturner. For the purpose here, wood lathes best for turning bowls will be highlighted.

Best Wood Turning Lathes: Our Top Picks

1. RIKON 70-220VSR Midi Wood Lathe

This model is comparable to other midi wood lathes like the Delta Industrial 46-460 in terms of features and reviews, and the Jet JWL-1015 with being user-friendly. Though it has a higher price tag, this is because the 70-220VSR is designed as essentially a portable version of a free-standing lathe.

As such, this model is a powerhouse in a smaller package, a worthy choice, and perhaps the best choice for turning bowls.

Features

The 70-220VSR holds many features requested by professionals such as a powerful 1 horsepower motor, forward and reverse functions for more precise woodturning, variable speed controls, as well as increased stability with a solid steel frame. It has everything a much larger free-standing lathe has, but compacted.

This gives it the versability and efficiency to do the best work when it comes to woodturning, especially turning bowls. It has the same capability to adapt to the work as a larger lathe but has the perfect size to handle something that needs more precision such as turning bowls.

Check out the price of the RIKON 70-220VSR

2. DELTA Industrial 46-460

The Delta Industrial 46-460 is a midi-lathe, a subclass of lathe much like the mini variant. However, this model is slightly heavier than the JWL-1015 by about twenty pounds. Regardless, this model stands in deep competition with the JWL-1015.

In fact, the competition is so tight that either can be on top, depending on the person. The price tag is what sends it to second place as well as its reviews. Other than that, it stands as a worthy wood lathe for any woodturning projects, especially bowls.

Features

The Delta Industrial 46-460, while comparable to the JWL-1015, does have some advertised differences. It has three pulley-speed ranges whereas the JWL-1015 has six spindle speeds.

It has, perhaps, a more user-friendly set up, i.e., the belt tensioning system it has makes it easy to change speeds while also setting the belt to the tension needed for more prolonged as well as more efficient use of tools.

It also boasts the largest swing capacity in its class, 12-½ inch. It ensures a perfect woodturning experience with its forward and reverse functions, allowing for more precise turning even for novices to the craft as less time is spent rotating the wood in certain positions given that the model rotates the wood for turning in variable positions and more accurate precision for the inexperienced woodturner.

While better for more experienced woodturners given its capabilities, its user-friendly potential makes it a big competitor to the JWL-1015.

Check out the price of the Delta Industrial 46-460 Midi Lathe

3. JET JWL-1015 10’’x15’’ Wood Lathe

The JWL-1015 is a mini-lathe, a subclass of lathes that suit turning bowls perfectly given its size. This model is particularly useful for novices to the craft of woodturning given its ease of use. It is also a welcomed addition to an experienced woodturner’s shop as nothing is reduced or taken away to make it more user friendly to novices.

This maintenance of integrity and durability shows this lathe’s versability for any woodturner working on turning bowls.

Features

The features of this wood lathe relate to its being made more user friendly compared to other wood lathes in the past. For turning bowls, it is important to have the least amount of resistance given that the work is so precise. This work is made easier by the wider bed ways for increased rigidity so the work is done more solidly, as well as easier access to belts for better precision and ease of use even for novices to the craft.

This model also has six different spindle speeds, adding to its versability and guaranteeing a virtually universal experience when it comes to any project, especially turning bowls. The warranty is also five years, adding more ease of mind to an already complicated craft.

Check out the price of the Jet JWL-1015VS Wood Working Lathe

Conclusion

When it comes to woodturning, the tool makes the project. Picking just the right tool for the job is complicated as there are so many on the market claiming to be the right fit for the job. Ultimately it is up to personal preference and experience.

Practically any wood lathe can turn bowls. However, if one chooses to do it the most efficient and precise way, the most efficient and precise tool is needed to get the job done. Of the three showcased here, it is in my opinion that the RIKON 70-220 VSR is the appropriate choice.

It is a powerhouse in a portable form with many of the features other wood lathes have but done right for its class. Though it is pricier than others, the pros outweigh the cons when it comes to this device. It can tackle any woodturning project, and would serve to the best of its ability when turning bowls.

The DELTA 46-460 is comparable in features, and even costs less, but its drawback is getting replacement parts. All machines need parts replaced once in awhile due to wear, so the easier the process is to get those parts ultimately the easier it would be to complete a woodturning project such as turning bowls.

The JET JWL-1015 is also a good choice given its low price. It, however, does not have as many features as either the RIKON 70-220VSR and the JET JWL-1015. It is up to personal choice, however. To each their own. The RIKON 70-220VSR would be the best bet in my opinion, though, as illustrated by it being the top choice in this article.

Chcek out the price of the RIKON 70-220VSR VSR MIDI Lathe,