Mini-Lathes

Brent –
While I’m still an amateur at turning, I can’t help but recommend the larger lathe – while variable speed would be nice, especially for slow-boring of holes through cylinders for things like lamps, it doesn’t offset the larger capacity of the bigger lathe. I started turning bowls last year with my Delta Midi lathe – biggest frustration at this point is the lack of larger diamater capability. Also, if you plan to do any spindle work, the bigger lathe will be much better suited – although hopefully both of them are capable of adding a bed extension.

Hope that helps – Jim

-- Jim

If you have the cash go larger. I have a 10×14 which I love dearly, but would love to have the extra diameter, and length on the work pieces. One thing that you have to take into account on length is that a jaw chuck will take up an extra 1” or more from your overall. Making that 10×14 a 10×12.5.

Get the bigger of the 2. Or go with a full size lathe if you can afford it.

-- David, Charlotte NC (http://beechcreeknaturals.etsy.com)