Help with lathe purchase

4/3/05, 10:42 PM #1

Soytnly
Guest

Help with lathe purchase

Soytnly

>Hey all, I'm sure this has been done to death but I'm asking for a little help. First, is there an FAQ here that may assist me in picking a lathe? If not, here's my situation. I've owned an HF copy of the old Sears single tube lathe for many years now and used it sparingly. I don't have much to compare it to, but I have to believe a better lathe would be more of a joy to use. I came into a few exta bucks and am interested in upgrading this lathe. I'd prefer to keep it under $1000 - looks llke there are a few Jet and Delta models around $500+. Any words of wisdom? I'd say my interest is more in bowls but to include some spindle turning. That being said, turning isn't my only wood interest.

Re: Help with lathe purchase

4/4/05, 1:02 AM #2

Steve Lewis
Guest

Re: Help with lathe purchase

Steve Lewis

>The best lathe on the market for under $1000.00 is the Jet 1442 for around $800.00 (Amazon) However, if you can spend a little more, the Jet 1642 (which I own) is worth the extra dollars. The variable speed feature of the 1642 is the big upgrade as well as 2 more inches of swing. Steve Lewis

Re: Help with lathe purchase

4/4/05, 4:29 AM #3

Lou Krupnick
Guest

Re: Help with lathe purchase

Lou Krupnick

>I'm going against the tide & weigh in for the newer Craftsman. One HP, smooth transmission w/great low speed (400rpm), good castings, you can swing a 15" platter or rough block w/ease. Only thing it lacks is a really good base, better to have someone weld one up. Its been well reviewed & worth a look. You'll need the remaining $500 for tools, chucks & sanders, etc.

good luck!!

Re: Help with lathe purchase

4/4/05, 2:11 PM #4

Anthony
Guest

Re: Help with lathe purchase

Anthony

>You may be better off waiting until you get a few extra $$ and put it in a lathe you won't want to replace in a couple of years,like the delta or Jet mentioned in previous posts with veriable speed and some weight to them.I own a PM3520 and couldn't be happier after owning a Delta Iron Bed for less than a year that cost 600.00.I'm sure you will hear from a number of people that had the same thing happen to them.If at all possible,try turning on someones lathe to get a feel for it,sort of like a test drive. Good luck.

Help with lathe purchase

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