apprentice812 vs hf812

[Dale Lynch]

Hi folks,

My wife has gotten me an Apprentice 812 mini lathe for christmas.Apprentice™ 812 VS Mini Lathe - Woodturners Catalog - Woodworking tools and supplies specializing in woodturning.

Harbor freight sells a lathe just like it.Benchtop Wood Lathe - 8" x 12"

I am wondering what the differences are between these two lathes are besides a paint job and $80.00.

CSUSA says the lathe is exclusive to them so I wonder what makes it so.Do any of you have any experience with these lathes?

 

[Fibonacci]

The things that jump out at me are:

1. Customer service: If you have a problem with a CSUSA product, they will make it right. If you have a problemwith a HF product, no one cares.

2. Headstock threads: The CSUSA one has a 1-8 thread. The HF one has a 3/4-16 thread.

 

[nava1uni]

It will be easier to get chucks, etc with the 1X8 tpi.

 

[cwolfs69]

It will be easier to get chucks, etc with the 1X8 tpi.

ditto on the 1"-8 threads. the 3/4"-16 are a real nightmare to find atatchments for.

 

[Dale Lynch]

Got the chuck covered. Wife decided I can't have a new lathe without a new chuck.

Does anyone know if there is a difference in quality of motor or bearings?

 

[PenMan1]

I am almost certain that both of these lathes are made by the same company that makes the small Grizzly wood lathes.

If it only cost me $80 (when you factor CSUSA's $20 shipping vs HF shipping, it may be even less) to get 1x8 (standard) head screw and the ability to deal with CSUSA instead of HF, that's a bargain! CSUSAs 5 year warranty is real, in my experience, HF warranty is meaningless.

The 3/4 x 16 WILL also limit you in head accessories.

Most times with precision tools, the cheapest price is rarely the best value.

Respectfully submitted.