8x12 or 8x14 lathes

[dow]

Does anybody here have either the Harbor Freight 8x12 or the Lathemaster 8x14 lathe? Everything I've read says that they're a lot better lathe than the 7x or 9x lathes, but I'd like to hear from someone here who has one if possible.

Thanks,
Dow

 

[Autonoz]

I have the 7X10 and while it does most of what I want, it would be easier with a longer bed. I think I am going to get the bed extension as the the lathe works fine. By the way mine is the HF. Good luck.

 

[bitshird]

You find any piece piece of equipment that stands up better than my 9 x 20 at a similar price let me know, all I turn on it is Stainless Steel, Hour after Hour!!! But the Lathemasters are supposed to be higher quality than the HF and I'd sure go for the extra 2 inches.

 

[frank123]

When comparing two similar quality and type lathes, heavier is better than lighter and longer is better than shorter.

More horsepower is better than less horsepower, but as yet I have been unable to figure out what -if any- standards the Chinese use to rate their small motor HP.

 

[okiebugg]

7X

Does anybody here have either the Harbor Freight 8x12 or the Lathemaster 8x14 lathe? Everything I've read says that they're a lot better lathe than the 7x or 9x lathes, but I'd like to hear from someone here who has one if possible.

Thanks,
Dow

I have a HF 7X and am very happy with it. It does have limitations, but nothing I cannot work around.