If you’re a woodworker, buying a lathe is one of the most inspiring tools you can own. I put together one or two tips in these wood lathe reviews which will help you in selecting which lathe to buy and what mistakes to avoid.
What size lathe do you need?
As you have probably already determined, you have 2 selections, a mini lathe or a full size lathe.
Well, what’s the difference? The answer to that question besides a few hundred clams is truly what you intend to cut most. Everybody are pretty ambitious when we wish to make a case for buying a new tool.
We say: I need the bigger tool to cut all those table legs and enormous bowls I am going to make! When in fact, pens, little round boxes, small bowls and knick knacks are 99% of what we end up cutting.
Think thru what you’ll actually be turning and get the lathe for that purpose.
Mini lathes are great to learn and can still be utilized a lifetime. Their only limitation is size of cut.
Full-size lathes can cut anything except are larger and sometime harder to use.
OK, now that I’ve made it even tougher for you
What features are most vital?
I believe a low vibration lathe is the most important feature. If the lathe you purchase has over the top vibration, you will not get smooth, quality cuts and after a bit you will get frustrated, stop using it and realized you’ve picked up a useless tool. This is actually the largest difference between quality lathes and more cost-effective low end lathes.
The way the lathe is mounted (and yes it’s a bit necessary to attach it to something robust) makes a significant difference in the vibration. If feasible, use the manufactures stand because it’s built to be used with that specific tool. Realize part of the stand design includes soaking up vibration.
If you have got a sturdy workbench that’s really, I mean really sturdy and does not rock back and forth at all, that would work, also
But as well as soaking up vibration, I like the tool stand because it is also built to be at the right height for turning for most individuals. The correct height by the way is that you’re turning with your forearms parallel or slightly above parallel to the floor.
Most table tops are a little low for me. When I first started, I used a workbench and had to bend to turn. Next day, my back hurt.
But a stand can always be added later on. All you need to grasp for now are the differences.
Variable speed is also very important. My first lathe had only 1 speed. I hated it. It’s dangerous, too. Ensure you can easily adjust the rate and the controls are in easy reach. I am convinced most mistakes on lathe projects are because the controls were tough to adjust and the turner ignored the need to change speeds and mis-cut the wood.
A revolving tailstock is also really nice feature to have. Unless you’re turning bowls 100 percent of the time and you won’t, you will be happy you have this feature. If you find a lathe you like and this is not included, make it your first accessory.
What accessories are truly required?
As with all tools, there are a gazillion accessories available. For me, I’m of the opinion a good light is the most important. Some saws have lights that bolt on to the back of the lathe. Not bad, but I wish to get a $20 flexible arm light from an office supply store that clamps on to the workbench. With a compact light I’m able to move it to use with other tools, when necessary.
There appear to be as many chucks and accessories for holding the wood as there are ways to cut. This is a rather giant topic , but for now use, the lathe, get an understanding of what you want to turn and then buy chucks for that purpose.
Which model is best for you?
I am hoping these lathe reviews have been beneficial. Best wishes, now go make something!
Mark Adams is a woodworker and part-time furniture maker. He write about woodworking tools including the Jet Wood Lathe and the Delta Wood Lathe