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Which Lathe?

1K views 10 replies 10 participants last post by  OSU55 
#1 · (Edited by Moderator)
I am in the mood to start turning. Nothing big, but want the most bang and longevity. I have pretty much narrowed my options to a 12" mini lathe. I like the PSI and the grizzly versions. They are about $100 different. What are your opinions. Really just going to start with pens but can see making bowls in the future.
 
#3 ·
Buy a variable speed, you'll thank me. I've owned a Comet II and now a Delta Midi, the Delta is better on many levels. I've also owned 3 vintage lathes. Buy the Delta and it will last you awhile. Buy a cheaper lathe and in a year you'll be looking to upgrade.
 
#4 · (Edited by Moderator)
I'd get one that has an affordable bed extension.

I have an old Record mini lathe. I've owned larger
lathes but turn so rarely I haven't been able to
justify keeping them around due to the workshop
space they occupy.

If you at all have the room for an old Delta 12"
lathe or something like that, the toolrests are
easier to adjust and stuff like that on more full-sized
lathes. Little factors like that make for more time
turning, less fussing with the machine.
 
#5 ·
I just don't get why folks want to get the small lathes. I have extreme space limitations and still would not go without a long bed. I got a 36" They will still do precision work with the proper colette and variable speed. And I can do whole table legs without stacking smaller sections (a lot of work, by the way). If you're expecting to do anything more than pens I would opt for a long bed.
 
#6 ·
The Delta midi lathe 46-250 has long been "the" choice of midi lathe, the only issue is getting over the potential parts availability. It isn t the cheapest midi but it is better than the vast majority of alternatives.
- AHuxley
+10
I have the 46-460 and love it! 12-1/2" swing gives me room to grow from spindle to bowls without having to replace the lathe. Nuff' said…
 
#7 ·
Most bang for the $ - HF 34706. Review here. Along with PSI Barracuda model scroll chucks and their Benjamin's Best or Hurricane turning tools. Don't forget you'll need a sharpening system. If you have nothing, a wolverine or similar jig and an 8" slow speed grinder. Chucks aren't necessary but make it faster, easier, more fun.
 
#10 · (Edited by Moderator)
I totally agree with this recommendation.
I would like to know which Barracuda chuck would be the best mult-ipurpose, general use, choice for a person wanting to spend on only one chuck?

Most bang for the $ - HF 34706. Review here. Along with PSI Barracuda model scroll chucks and their Benjamin s Best or Hurricane turning tools. Don t forget you ll need a sharpening system. If you have nothing, a wolverine or similar jig and an 8" slow speed grinder. Chucks aren t necessary but make it faster, easier, more fun.

- OSU55
 
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