Advice on purchasing a small lathe

Hi David, I would not know what to recomend (as I live in england and the range is completly different). However he also needs to consider the price of a good chuck, as the most expensive lathe in the world with a bad chuck on it is useless. Also it could be folse econnomy to buy a cheaper lathe as I discovered the hard way.

Sorry cant be more help

Callum

-- For wood working podcasts with a twist check out http://thetimberkid.com/

I would recommend checking out a local wood turners club. You can find one here. They usually have wonderful mentoring programs. They will be able to point you in the right direction. They would also know what used equipment is for sale in your area.

If you are looking for new mini or midi lathes , check out the Jet or Rikon.

You will also need some good tools and just as important, a way to keep them sharp.

-- My favorite piece is my last one, my best piece is my next one.

I like the looks of the Rikon.

It looks like its very well constructed, & the price isn’t too bad.

-- -** You are never to old to set another goal or to dream a new dream ****************** Dick, & Barb Cain, Hibbing, MN. http://www.woodcarvingillustrated.com/gallery/member.php?uid=3627&protype=1

My wife and I are planning a similar purchase for our 13yo this christmas. We found a Jet Mini Lathe starter kit that includes everything that you need: lathe, chucks, mandrels, chiesles, starter pack of pen blanks and inserts. If I can find the link I will PM it to ya.

-- Adrian ..... The 11th Commandment...."Thou Shalt Not Buy A Wobble Dado"

Thanks everyone for your input….. sorry I couldn’t get back to you until now! We really appreciate your thoughts. We’ll keep you posted as we go! Thanks again.

-- David, O.C., California

David, I have a Jet variable speed mini lathe. It works great for pens, candleholders, bun feet, or anything not too big in diameter. However, I have turned a few small bowls (6 in to 7 in in diameter) and I find it too easy to stop the turning with my tools. There’s not quite enough torque/power for this kind of turning. If I recall correctly the Jet mini has a 1/3 horsepower motor. If you’re going to turn anything larger than 4 inches or so, I’d consider something with a more powerful motor. But it is a quality lathe and works great for small items.

-- Martin, Kansas

David, I have the Jet mini… it’s done wonderfully for me; I bought it used and it runs like a champ. I have turned out bowls, vases, etc….

Can’t go wrong with this lathe for a starter….

-- Chris

David, I’m not much into turning, yet. But I have bought a Jet mini pen lathe and I love it. Some advice to give, try checking out a Woodcraft store (if there is one your area). They offer classes and advice. If your son is serious about getting into lathe work, I would go for a pricier well made model such as Jet, that you know will last and he will get some use out of.

-- Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didin't do then by the ones you did. - Mark Twain

Like many others I have a small Jet lathe.

-- It's better to have people think you're stupid rather than open your mouth and remove all doubt.