Needing a new lathe!

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djwood1

djwood1

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Mar 28, 2009
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Bloomfield, IN
Wasn't sure where to post this, so sorry if this is the wrong place!

I need to purchase a new full size lathe and wanted to pose the question here to see what folks think. Is there one that stands out more than others? I don't want to spend thousands of dollars, but I want a good one, maybe $1,000-1,500. I am wanting to try some bowl turning, so what HP? Variable speed is a must.

Thanks for any advice!
 
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I don't have one...I've not turned on one but here is a review:
http://www.penturners.org/forum/showthread.php?t=42750&highlight=HF+lathe+review
Do a good turn daily!
Don

djwood1 said:
Wasn't sure where to post this, so sorry if this is the wrong place!

I need to purchase a new full size lathe and wanted to pose the question here to see what folks think. Is there one that stands out more than others? I don't want to spend thousands of dollars, but I want a good one, maybe $1,000-1,500. I am wanting to try some bowl turning, so what HP? Variable speed is a must.

Thanks for any advice!
Click to expand...
 
The Jet 1642 may fall into that range, especially since they are on sale later this month.

I have one, upgraded from a 1014i, and it is great. You will likely be happy with either the 1.5 HP or the 2 HP. I did end up getting the 2 HP.

I have yet to meet anyone with one of these that is not happy with it.
 
that is a hard $$ area to shoot for & get a klarger capacity motor ...the new Delta Midi is 599.00 and it has 12" swing ..many bowls can be turned with that swing..the Nova 16-24 falls in your range..(I have the older model 3000 and it's a good lathe) any of the delta, jet 12-14 inchers fall in your range...I have the Jet 1642 and it is a honey, but out of your money range..If you can pony up the $ it is worth it..I have the 1 1/2 hsp and it runs on a reg 110 circuit....enjoy your new lathe, whatever you decide
 
Thanks everyone for the advice!

Chuck, it does look nice and no problem with the 220V. I'll let you know which one I get us!:smile:
 
dalecamino said:
Dave , I think you should get US this one ! :biggrin::biggrin::biggrin: I'm impressed with the features . I'm sure you have 220 in that Shop-mahal of yours . :rolleyes::biggrin: Thanks Frank !
Click to expand...

I am extremly happy with mine. Yes, you must consider the cost of bringing in 220 if you don't have it. I got lucky and a friend did my wiring free, all I paid for was the wire and connections.
 
Not sure this lathe Rikon Model 70-450, has hit online vendors yet but worth a look anyway.

http://www.rikontools.com/productpage_70-450.html

Am not a big fan of rotating headstock, but lathe has enough other good features.

Already have a Jet 1642 so not in the market for a new lathe. But might be worth a look see if your in the market.

Also tools-plus.com has powermatic 3520B on sale for around $,2549.
 
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Wildman said:
Not sure this lathe Rikon Model 70-450, has hit online vendors yet but worth a look anyway.

http://www.rikontool.com/productpage_70-450html

Think it will sell for arounf $2400.

Am not a big fan of rotating headstock, but lathe has enough other good features.

Already have a Jet 1642 so not in the market for a new lathe. But might be worth a look see if your in the market.

Also tools-plus.com has powermatic 3520B on sale for around $,2549.
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I really like having a rotating headstock. It allows for outboard turning. Yes, a special rest is needed. But, mostly, I'll use it to just bring the work at about a 45 degree angle making it easier to do bowls or hollowing without bending over or reaching. Much easier and definitely kinder on the back.
 
Have no problem with rotating head stock on this lathe, looks like it has a nice tool rest for that purpose. Just do not know if it comes with lathe or is an additional cost.

Like the 20" swing, 18" swing over tools rest, and 37' working distance between centers.

Think could get by without outboard turning.
 
I spoke with three people at Laguna about their lathes. Two could not tell me whether 14/43 or 16/43 had EVS. Third man explained those were entry-level lathes.

You open the access door, lift the lever to slide belt over pulley to adjust speeds. Turning a bowl blank at 600RPMS, might be a turn-off to some people.

He tried to sell me their 18/47 lathe, which is EVS.

Prices are competitive just not sure about customer service.

http://www.lagunatools.com/lathes
 
Wildman said:
I spoke with three people at Laguna about their lathes. Two could not tell me whether 14/43 or 16/43 had EVS. Third man explained those were entry-level lathes.

You open the access door, lift the lever to slide belt over pulley to adjust speeds. Turning a bowl blank at 600RPMS, might be a turn-off to some people.

He tried to sell me their 18/47 lathe, which is EVS.

Prices are competitive just not sure about customer service.

http://www.lagunatools.com/lathes
Click to expand...

One of the members here is a laguna tools rep. I believe it is Paul Martineau if I'm not mistaken. From everything I've seen their customer service is top notch.

The lathe posted has a reeves drive if I'm not mistaken, which is a type of variable speed. If you scroll over the additional pictures you will see the variable speed lever on the front control panel.
 
Went back to photo section for both 14 & 16/43 lathes. Sure looks like they have reeves drive control levers to me too! Wonder why none of the folks spoke too at Laguna would or could tell me that?

I have not bought anything from Laguna tools; only know what have read from message boards. Quality & customer service on their China made stuff is either good or just lousy.

I like their 18/47 lathe, just not in the market for a new lathe.
 
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