I know this topic has been discussed many times but it is now my turn to get my first "real" lathe. I have been turning on a HF model with fairly good success. I now want to step up my game. recommendations are greatly appreciated!
Which HF model? What is there at a new lathe will offer? I started off with the #37406 until it died. Got a Rikon 70-050VS which is now discontinued. Should have gotten another HF- longer bed.
If you don't want to change belts, I like the 1015evs (when it does on sale for 15% off) or the 1221EVS with reverse, but that is another several hundred dollars. You have plenty of options.
What do you want to be able to turn? Only pens and other small items or are you anticipating doing other items such as bowls?
The Jet 1015VS will do everything you need for pens and even small bowls. If you want to go a little bigger there's the Jet 1221VS. It is larger, significantly heavier and has a 1HP motor. It handles bowls much better.