Store Recommendations for Larger Purchase

Signed-In Members Don't See This Ad
mrhulot

mrhulot

Member
Joined
May 30, 2025
Messages
3
Location
philadelphia
Hi folks,

I'm setting up my home workshop and have already bought things like a drill press, bandsaw, dust collection, and other various "large items". My remaining items are a Jet 1221, some HSS and carbide cutters, and an assortment of blanks. I see that many online stores have some "first time purchase? Get 10% off" deals, but I'm interested to see if anyone has recommendations for where (not necessarily what, though I'll take cutter insights) to purchase these. While I'm hoping to save a buck or two, I'm most interested in purchasing somewhere that isn't me just throwing a (beautifully turned) dart at the wall.

Thanks
 
Signed-In Members Don't See This Ad
If I were you I would shop around your area. Stores like Woodcraft and maybe other stores that sell machinery. This way they are easier to deal with when any problems come up and probably could give you a discount if buying alot of accessories. When you buy though mail order then things can get tricky. Plus being able to play with the toys is always a plus too. Talking to someone who is knowledgeable will help when there too. Just a suggestion. I bought most of my entire shop through a place like that. I bought my lathes at a woodworking show from Crafts Supply USA. They are a very reliable company and stand behind what they sell. They will answer all questions and make recommendations. Good luck
 
I second John's (@jttheclockman) comment on shopping local. If you have a problem with a machine like that, having recourse locally is good.

For the past few years, I have seen our local Woodcraft have days where all Jet is 10% or 15% off. Stop in and talk to them. Find out when that will be.

I have the Jet JWL-1221VS and have been VERY happy with it.
 
I got a Turncrafter Commander 12" from PSI 9 years ago, and it still works great. I had to change a couple of things, but I believe it's due to normal use. PSI is local, no need to go across the river. And they often have starter deals, lathe + HSS tools for example.
 
I think woodcraft is having a 10% off sale on jet soon. I got a flyer in the mail, but I think I tossed it in the recycling, so I'm not sure on the dates - but I bet it coincides with Amazon prime days.
 
I'm going to throw another suggestion out. I'll preface it by saying this method isn't for everyone. Only you can decide if it can and will work for you. What I do when I am contemplating a large purchase in the fun/hobby/non-essential side of daily economics , I search out credit cards with welcome bonuses, miles, points, cash back benefits that help me. With good credit it's pretty easy to get a card that gives a $200 welcome bonus after spending $500. This makes lathes, power tools, hobby toys much more affordable. The catch is you have to pay it off quickly and not pay any interest. many now come with 0% interest for 12 to 18 months. I only carry a 0% balance long enough to get the reward/benefit then the card is paid off. When you add this to a 10% off sale at the tool store, the item gets much cheaper. Now ,if you have bad credit, can't pay your bills on time, or are not disciplined in making the payments/paying it off immediately my plan might not work for you. I certainly do not advocate, nor judge anyone for living outside their means. When I shop for big ticket items ,I usually shop/price check on line at several outlets and try to obtain the best value for my dollar.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom