lathe

Signed-In Members Don't See This Ad
O

oldtowncanoe

Member
Joined
May 30, 2009
Messages
26
Location
belfast, ny
I know that this has been asked many times before but have to i have to ask it once more. I am looking into getting a new lathe soon and would like to have your input. I would like to get a jet but would like to know what you all think. I will be making pens, bowls, and things like that. So once again what would you get.
 
Signed-In Members Don't See This Ad
I have both a Jet Mini and a larger Grizzly and am happy with both. There is more to it than just the brand. Size (lathe capacity) and features ( variable speed etc) can play a big role in the decision as well depending on what you plan to make (what size bowls) and what your budget is.
 
i like the VS option and i dont plan on making anything huge the biggest thing that i may make would be a med size bowl. I really dont want to spend much more than 1200 but will spend 1500 and no more than that.
 
Last edited:
I have the Jet 12-36 that I bought about 10 years ago from WoodCraft and been more that happy with it. It also has the swivel head for turning bowls larger that 12". Is it the best, no probably not, but it's a good lathe and has good features for the money.
 
If you have that much money that you can spend, I would definitely get the nova...I think it is the best bang for the buck out there, nice size capacity, VS and in your price range...I dont have one, I have a delta like Norms...Exact one actually, it works great, has a VS motor and 14 inch capacity. I also have a mini rikon...It works great too...best for pens and the like, not bowls....I assume that you have a mini already? I would say at least 16 for making bowls.

Grub
 
Do you have all of the accessories and chucks that you think you need already. If so, I'd blow it all on a Nova like others have said, but keep in mind you may want to set some aside for a few accessories (or other tools that you might not have yet).
 
I'm not sure what lathe you have now, or what accessories you have.

I have never used a Nova, and am partial to my Jet 1642; which you might be able to find on sale at the higher end of your range. I also have the basic Jet Mini.

Based on your desired turnings, the new Delta Midi may very well be a good option. I have used one and they are really nice - VS, solid construction, Reverse, etc. I am actually considering upgrading my mini to the midi because there is so much more you can do with it. You could get one of those and have plenty left over for nice accessories like chucks/jaws and a few Thompson tools.


Oh, I think Toolnut currently has a good deal on the Deltas right now, too.

Good luck.
 
If I had $2000+ to spend I might get a NovaXP... If I had $600 I'd get one of the new Delta's.
I bought a used Jet 1014 to have as a second lathe and I love it! One of the nice things about it (for me) is it's portable.
 
I have the Jet 1442 and love it...if you look around you might be able to pick up a 1642 VS used for what you want to spend. If you go with the Jet I have base plans if you need them...
 
I just got the new Delta VS Midi and l love it. It purrs. It is a real quality machine. I actually think $500+ (on sale) is reasonable for what I got.

Carmen
 
I have the Nova DVRXP - it is a little more than your budget but you can turn almost anything on it. I love the speed control and presets. I also have the outrigger attachment which I've used for turning larger bowls and platters. I started with the Jet Midi and it is a great lathe but when I decided to upgrade I wanted to buy something that would have endless possibilties. To me that meant the Powermatic or the NOVA. I went with the Nova because it was a little cheaper and gave me the flexibility of building my own stand. Good luck with which ever lathe you purchase.
 
With me getting my 2nd lathe sticking with the Jet name but a small jump up to a Midi VS.

I am not going to recommend any brands or sizes sometimes that is more personal choice than anything else.

I will say VARIABLE SPEED IS AN AMAZING MAGIC DIAL THAT HAS ME HOOK FOR LIFE!!! Wouldn't buy any brand without from now on.! I believe it has even made a difference in the total outcome of my work too.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom