Hey folks, as a seasoned woodworker, I’ve seen my fair share of wood lathes, good and bad. And trust me, there’s nothin’ scarier than a wobbly, cheap lathe that threatens to ruin your masterpiece, or worse, cause an injury. To save you from such nightmares, I’ve spent countless hours researching the top wood lathes on Amazon, and I’m about to spill the beans on these babies. So, buckle up and let’s dive right in to meet your best wood lathe!
Contents
- 1 The Battle of Wood Lathes: Your Quick Comparison Table
- 2 1. Jet JWL-1221VS – Best Wood Lathe Overall
- 3 2. Delta Industrial 46-460 – Best for Mid-Size Projects
- 4 3. Powermatic 3520C – Best Wood Lathe for Professionals
- 5 4. WEN 3421 – Best Wood Lathe for Beginners
- 6 5. Laguna Revo 1836 – Best for Versatility
- 7 Woodturner’s Wisdom: How to Choose Your Best Wood Lathe
The Battle of Wood Lathes: Your Quick Comparison Table
But before we dive into the nitty-gritty of each model, let’s do a quick once-over of our lineup. Below, you’ll find a handy comparison table to give you a bird’s-eye view of what each lathe brings to the table. It’s like a menu of best wood lathes, each with its own special flavor.
Oh, and before I forget! In case you find yourself wondering about the nuts and bolts of these beauties or itching to dig deeper into what exactly a wood lathe is, I’ve got just the thing for ya. So feel free to take a little detour before going down the rabbit hole of lathe comparisons. And once you’ve filled up on the basics, you can jump right back in here to continue our wood lathe showdown.
Product | Best For | Motor Power | Swing Over Bed | Distance Between Centers | Price Range | ||
 | Overall | 1 HP | 12.5" | 21" | $$$ | ||
 | Mid-Size Projects | 1 HP | 12.5" | 16.5" | $$ | ||
 | Professionals | 2 HP | 20" | 35" | $$$$$ | ||
 | Beginners | 3.2 Amp | 8" | 12" | $ | ||
 | Versatility | 2 HP | 18" | 36" | $$$$ |
1. Jet JWL-1221VS – Best Wood Lathe Overall
This lathe is like the Swiss Army knife of woodturning – a real precision machine. Let’s take a close look at some of its classy features.
Quality Fiesta: What Makes It Tick
Speed
First off, one of the crown jewels of this lathe is its variable speed control. The Jet JWL really shines in the control department compared to the other lathes on this list. While all of our contenders have variable speeds, the Jet’s range (60-3600 RPM) is particularly impressive. You’ll have complete control over your projects, whether you’re working on a tiny pen or a massive vase. And to top it all off, the digital RPM readout ensures you know exactly how fast you’re spinning.
Capacity
Now, let’s talk about the Jet JWL’s heart and soul: its 1 HP motor. This beauty packs enough punch to handle a wide range of projects, from delicate spindle work to robust bowl turning.
What’s more, the Jet JWL also boasts a solid 12.5″ swing over bed and a 21″ distance between centers. This means you can tackle a wide variety of projects, both large and small. The lathe’s overall build quality is top-notch, making it a reliable companion for your woodturning adventures.Ratchet System
The Jet JWL-1221VS is a real crowd-pleaser: its ratchet-style belt tension system makes it a breeze to adjust the belt and change speeds. Here’s how it works:
- Firstly, you simply lift a spring-loaded tensioning lever, move the belt to the desired pulley position, and release the lever.
- Secondly, the ratchet mechanism locks the belt in place, ensuring the proper tension is maintained. That’s it!
Such a nifty little feature also reduces the risk of belt slippage, providing a more reliable and consistent performance. In other words, you’ll experience fewer interruptions while working on your projects, keeping you in the zone. One thing to keep in mind, though: While the ratchet-style belt tension system is a fantastic addition to Jet JWL, it’s always a good idea to double-check the tension after making adjustments. This ensures your belt is properly seated and ready for action.
The Bumps On The Road To Perfection
But let’s face it – no wood lathe is perfect, and the Jet JWL-1221VS has a couple of quirks. The tailstock doesn’t always line up perfectly with the headstock, which can be a bit frustrating. And the banjo, well, it’s got a mind of its own sometimes, loosening up when you least expect it. However, with a bit of patience and some elbow grease, you can overcome these minor hiccups.
Positives And Negatives
PROS:
- Fantastic speed range
- Precise variable speed control
- Smooth speed transitions
- Easy-to-read digital RPM readout
- Powerful motor
- Sturdy construction
- Large swing
- Innovative belt tension system
- Suitable for various project sizes
- Ideal for detailed work
CONS:
- Tailstock alignment issues
- Banjo tends to loosen up easily
- Indexing system could be better
- A bit pricey for some budgets
My Final Wrap-Up On This Wood Lathe
In conclusion, JWL-1221VS is a fantastic choice for woodturners who crave control and precision. With its powerful motor, variable speed range, and solid construction, this carpenter lathe will have you turning out masterpiece after masterpiece. Just remember to keep an eye on that tailstock and banjo, and you’ll be good to go.
2. Delta Industrial 46-460 – Best for Mid-Size Projects
Well, folks, it’s time to dive into the Delta Industrial 46-460, a wood work lathe that’s like a big ol’ bear hug for woodturners who crave power. This mighty machine has muscle to spare, so let’s take a gander at what makes this powerhouse stand out from the crowd.
Quality Fiesta: What Makes It Tick
Capacity
Under the hood of Delta, you’ll find a beefy 1 HP motor that’s ready to tackle even the most demanding projects. And with a 12.5″ swing over bed and a 16.5″ distance between centers, you’ll have plenty of room to turn your wildest woodturning dreams into reality.
Speed
One of Delta’s the standout features is its variable speed range. Boasting a range of 250-4000 RPM, this lathe provides you with the flexibility to fine-tune your work to perfection. Whether you’re roughing out a chunk of hardwood or delicately sanding a fragile piece, the Delta Industrial 46-460 has you covered.
Ratchet System
One of the nifty features of Delta is its patented belt-tensioning system. While the Jet JWL-1221VS has a ratchet-style belt tension system, the Delta 46-460 takes it a step further. This little gem feature makes it a cinch to change speeds and set the proper belt tension. Plus, it helps extend the life of the motor, pulleys, and belt by maintaining the correct tension.
Forward and Reverse
With the flick of a switch, you can change the direction of rotation and sand or apply finishes in the opposite direction. Hence, this can help reduce the appearance of tool marks and grain tear-out, resulting in a smoother and more professional-looking finish.
Construction
Delta also features a robust cast-iron construction, giving it the stability and durability you need when tackling heavy-duty projects. Obviously, it’s like having your own personal Hercules in the workshop, providing a strong and stable foundation for your woodturning endeavors.
Modular Design
While some of the other wood working lathes might offer optional accessories, Delta is explicitly designed to be compatible with a wide variety of add-ons. It comes with a 3″ faceplate, a 6″ and 10″ tool rest, a live center, and a knockout bar – everything you need to get started on your next masterpiece.
And with the optional bed extension, you can increase the distance between centers up to 42″! To be sure, this adaptability means the lathe can grow and evolve with your woodturning needs.
The Bumps On The Road To Perfection
Now, as much as I’d love to say that this lathe is perfect, it does have a few kinks. Like some issues with the belt slipping, which can be a real pain in the you-know-what. Another downside is that the tool rest isn’t the sturdiest. So you might find yourself wrestling it into position from time to time.
Also Delta can be a bit noisy, especially at higher speeds. This might not be a deal-breaker for everyone, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re sensitive to noise. Besides, when it comes to customer support, Delta could stand to step up their game a bit. Occasionally you may experience slow response times or difficulty getting replacement parts.
Positives And Negatives
PROS:
- Sturdy construction
- Powerful motor
- Compact size
- Large swing capacity
- Wide speed range
- Quick, easy speed changes
- Reversible function
- Patented belt tensioning system
- Smooth operation and minimal vibration
- Excellent control
CONS:
- Lackluster customer support
- Tool rest could be sturdier
- Occasional belt slippage
- Noisy
My Final Wrap-Up On This Wood Lathe
In a nutshell, the Delta Industrial 46-460 is the best wood lathe for woodturners in search of raw power and sturdy construction. Its powerful motor, ample workspace, and wide speed range make it a force to be reckoned with in the woodspinning world.
3. Powermatic 3520C – Best Wood Lathe for Professionals
Meanwhile, let me tell y’all about this incredible piece of machinery I’ve been using lately, the Powermatic 3520C. I’ve been turning wood for quite some time now, and let me tell you, this baby makes you feel like you’re in woodturning heaven! So, buckle up, folks, as we dive into what makes this lathe a must-have for any serious woodturner.
Quality Fiesta: What Makes It Tick
Capacity
Shortly, this beast of a machine has a powerful 2HP motor that’ll keep it chugging along even with the most stubborn of woods. And with a 20″ swing over bed and a 35″ distance between centers, you’ll be able to tackle projects both big and small.
Construction
The Powermatic 3520C has a solid, cast iron build and a sliding headstock. You might be wondering, “What’s the big deal with that?” Well, with this feature, you can easily move the headstock along the bed, letting you work on projects of all shapes and sizes. And trust me, my friends, once you’ve experienced the convenience of a sliding headstock, there’s no going back!
Comfort
Powermatic comes with 4-inch riser blocks, which give you some extra room to work on taller projects, and trust me, they can be a real lifesaver. It’s like having a lathe with adjustable stilts, and who wouldn’t want that?
Safety
The remote on/off switch with a magnetic back adds an extra layer of safety to your woodturning sessions. So you can slap it right onto the lathe or any nearby metal surface. And no more fumbling around looking for the on/off control in case of any emergencies – it’s right there at your fingertips.
Digital RPM Readout
Keep an eye on your speed with the built-in digital RPM readout. It helps you maintain precise control over your work, ensuring that you’re always at the perfect speed which, by the way, varies from 15 to 3200 RPM here.
Tailstock Quill
One of the things I absolutely love about this wood lathe is its tailstock. This baby’s got a self-ejecting quill with laser-etched measurements, making it a piece of cake to dial in the perfect depth for your drilling needs. Without doubt, it’s designed to make your life easier by eliminating the need for a knockout bar, saving you time and effort.
Tool Rest
Now, speaking of the unsung hero of any wood lathe machine, the Powermatic 3520C comes with a beefy 14-inch tool rest. It locks down tightly, allowing you to focus on the task at hand without worrying about any unwanted movement. And guess what? It’s got a smooth banjo to boot, which makes adjusting the tool rest a breeze.
Spindle Lock
I’ve seen my fair share of clumsy spindle locks but the Powermatic’s built-in, spring-loaded spindle lock makes life super easy! With a simple flip of a switch, you can lock the spindle in place, making it easy to change chucks, faceplates, or workpieces without breaking a sweat.
The Bumps On The Road To Perfection
But, as they say, nothing’s perfect, right? One of the things that can be a pain in the you-know-what is the weight of this beast. Weighing in at around 726 lbs, it’s a bit of a heavyweight champion. While this means it’s stable as a rock, moving it around your workshop can be a workout in itself. So, if you plan on getting this baby, make sure you find the perfect spot for it before setting it up.
Also some folks have mentioned that the Powermatic 3520C can be a tad bit challenging to assemble. So you might have to wrestle with it a bit to get everything in place, but once you’ve got it up and running, it’s smooth sailing from there, my friends.
Lastly, let’s talk about the price tag which is a real downside here. The Powermatic isn’t exactly the cheapest option on the market. Though when it comes to quality, you get what you pay for, amigos.
Positives And Negatives
PROS:
- Powerful motor
- High performance
- Durable construction
- Large swing capacity
- Great precision
- Electronic variable speed
- Wide speed range
- Flexibility in project sizes
- Comfort in operating
- Safety
CONS:
- Expensive
- Confusing assembly instructions
- Weight
My Final Wrap-Up On This Wood Lathe
So, to sum it up, the Powermatic 3520C is a fantastic wood lathe for serious woodturners who want a sturdy, reliable, and powerful machine. It’s designed with the woodturner in mind, so no wonder it’s turning heads (and wood) all over the woodworking world. Just keep in mind, friends, that you might be ready to invest some to get the best professional wood lathe to your workshop.
4. WEN 3421 – Best Wood Lathe for Beginners
Another wood lathe to chat about with y’all is the WEN 3421. It’s a great little machine for those just dipping their toes into the woodturning pond. So, let’s see what this puppy has to offer.
Quality Fiesta: What Makes It Tick
Capacity
The WEN 3421 is designed with small projects and tight spaces in mind, making it an excellent choice for beginner woodturners or those who have limited workshop space. With a 3.2-Amp motor, 8-inch swing over bed and a 12-inch distance between centers, it’s perfect for crafting items like pens, bottle stoppers, ornaments, and small bowls.
Now, I’ll be straight with you, my friends – if you’re looking to churn out massive bowls or extra-long table legs, the WEN 3421 might not be your best bet. You’ll want to look into some larger lathe with a beefier motor.Size
As I’ve already mentioned above, WEN is a compact little beast. With dimensions of approximately 28 x 13 x 12 inches, this lathe won’t take up too much real estate in your workshop, leaving you plenty of space for other tools and equipment.
Lightweight Design
Weighing in at just 45 pounds, this little guy is easy to move around your workshop or pack up for a weekend at your buddy’s place. It’s like having a portable party for woodturners!
Speed
A variable speed control lets you adjust the speed of your lathe from 750 to 3200 RPM. Moreover, the control is also super easy to use, with a simple knob that lets you switch between speeds in a jiffy.
Tapers
The WEN 3421 features a Morse taper #1 spindle and tailstock taper. While it may not be as common as the MT2 taper, there are still plenty of compatible accessories available to expand your woodturning capabilities.
Tailstock
It comes equipped with a live center, which reduces friction between the workpiece and the tailstock. This helps prevent any unwanted wobble or vibration, ensuring a smoother turning experience. Ain’t that a treat?
Budget
One of the most appealing aspects of WEN is its price tag. It’s the best wood lathe option for beginners looking to get started in woodturning without breaking the bank.
The Bumps On The Road To Perfection
Now, as much as I’m a fan of this little guy, there are a few things that could be better. For example, it’s not ideal for large turnings and its limited power motor might struggle a bit when working with harder woods or larger pieces. But let’s be real, my friends – this lathe was designed for smaller projects, so it’s not a deal-breaker if you keep that in mind.
Furthermore, there is also another quirk when it comes to accessory compatibility. The #1 Morse Taper on the tailstock does complicate things a bit. This means you might have a bit of a challenge finding certain accessories, like live centers, drill chucks, or other tailstock attachments that fit just right.
Positives And Negatives
PROS:
- Compact size
- Easy to use
- Lightweight
- Portable
- Easy to assemble
- Easy maintenance
- Variable speed control
- Budget-friendly
- Ideal for beginners
CONS:
- Smaller capacity
- Lacks sturdiness
- Wobbly tool rest
- Frequent adjustments needed
- Vibrations on larger workpieces
- Limited accessory compatibility
My Final Wrap-Up On This Wood Lathe
So, there you have it! While it may not be the most powerful or feature-rich lathe out there, it’s still a great choice for its price and purpose. With this in mind, if you’re just starting your woodturning journey or need a compact wood work lathe for smaller tasks, give the WEN 3421 a whirl.
5. Laguna Revo 1836 – Best for Versatility
Well, my woodturning friends, we’ve made it to the last wood lathe in this article, and boy, do I have a treat for you! Feast your eyes on the Laguna Revo 1836, a powerhouse of a wood lathe that’s packed with features to make your woodturning experience a true delight. With a perfect blend of power, precision, and versatility, this lathe is designed to cater to the needs of both beginners and seasoned woodturners alike.
So, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of what makes this fantastic wood spinning machine tick, and wrap up this wood lathe journey on a high note.
Quality Fiesta: What Makes It Tick
Construction
One thing I absolutely love about the Laguna Revo 1836 is its sturdy construction. The cast iron legs and bed not only look like they mean business, but they also provide stability and reduce vibrations. And let’s face it, my friends, nobody likes a shaky lathe when they’re turning!
Ergonomics
This fine piece of machinery comes with adjustable feet, letting you set the perfect height to suit your fancy. You can raise or lower the lathe to just the right spot, making sure you’re comfy while turning that beautiful wood. Plus, the controls are conveniently located, so you won’t be stretching and reaching to adjust the speed or direction.
Now, when it comes to setting up the height, you’ll want the spindle center to be around elbow height when your arms are hanging by your sides. This sweet spot helps you keep a comfortable posture and reduces fatigue, so you can keep turning and burning without any aches or pains.Capacity
The Revo 1836 is equipped with a robust 2 HP motor that delivers the muscle you need for a wide variety of woodturning projects. Moreover, it boasts a generous 18-inch swing over bed, giving you ample room to turn larger workpieces like bowls, platters, and even hefty table legs. And with a 36-inch distance between centers, you’ll have no problem tackling longer spindle work, such as baseball bats, pepper mills, or lamps.
Versatility
On the whole, Laguna Revo is the epitome of versatility, making it a fantastic choice for woodturners with a diverse range of projects in mind. To illustrate, let me give you the lowdown on some of these fantastic options:
- 12″ Swingaway Extension*: This nifty add-on lets you move the cast-iron tailstock out of the way with ease, giving you unobstructed access to your workpiece. Thus, no more fussing with tailstock adjustments, my friends!
- 20″ Bed Extension*: Talk about flexibility! This versatile extension can be mounted in four different locations, including right on the front of the bed for unbeatable access to your workpiece. Need more space for long spindles? No problem – just use it as a bed extension. And if outboard turning is your thing, just mount it low on the leg, and you’re good to go.
- Outboard Turning Kit*: It comes with an ergonomic cast-iron tailstock base and a toolrest extension that’ll make your turning sessions a breeze. And don’t forget the sliding headstock – this baby glides smoothly on the steel bed, and when positioned at the end, you’ll have a whopping 32 inches of outboard turning capacity!
Safety
The Revo 1836 features a well-placed emergency stop button, which is located on the lathe’s control panel. It’s easily accessible, allowing you to shut down the lathe quickly and efficiently in case things go sideways. We all know accidents can happen, and it’s great to have that extra peace of mind.
Mobility
The Revo 1836 offers an optional wheel system* that’s perfect for those of us who need to rearrange our workspaces from time to time. These heavy-duty wheels are designed to handle the weight of the lathe while providing smooth and easy movement. In other words, with the wheel system in place, you can effortlessly scoot your Revo from one spot to another, making the most of your workshop’s space.
Just remember, the following extras don’t come with the lathe itself:
- 12″ Swing-Away Extension
- 20″ Steel Extension
- 3″ Riser Kit
- Headstock Guard
- Deluxe Wheel System
- Halogen Flood Light
Friendly reminder: These add-ons are sold separately, folks! That is, they won’t be included with your Laguna Revo 1836 purchase, so make sure to double-check what you need before you hit that “buy” button.
The Bumps On The Road To Perfection
Now, even the best of machines have their flaws, and the Laguna Revo 1836 is no exception. One thing that’s come up is the weight of the lathe – this bad boy is pretty hefty! But, you know what they say, “With great power comes great responsibility” – or in this case, a little extra weight. Don’t let that discourage you, though. A heavy lathe means better stability and less vibration, which is a huge plus in my book. Just make sure you’ve got a sturdy spot for this behemoth in your workshop.
Price is another potential quirk. And I won’t beat around the bush here, folks: the Laguna Revo 1836 isn’t exactly easy on the wallet. It’s definitely an investment and might be a bit too steep for some budgets, especially if you’re just starting out or trying to keep your woodworking expenses in check.
Positives And Negatives
PROS:
- Powerful motor
- Large capacity
- Variable speed
- Digital readout
- Stability
- Precision
- Sturdy construction
- Smooth operation
- Versatility
CONS:
- Pricey
- Heavy weight
- Takes up space
- Accessories not included
My Final Wrap-Up On This Wood Lathe
And there you have it, folks! Summing up, this baby is a real workhorse, perfect for woodturners who mean business. And while Laguna Revo does have a couple of drawbacks, its pros far outweigh the cons. So if you’re looking for a powerful, versatile, and user-friendly wood lathe, this machine could be your new partner in crime.
Woodturner’s Wisdom: How to Choose Your Best Wood Lathe
So if you’re on the hunt for a new lathe, my woodturning buddies, here are the top things to look for when picking out the perfect lathe for your workshop:
- Budget: Set a price range, folks, and stick to it. In fact, there’s no need to break the bank for a lathe if you don’t have to!
- Motor power: Make sure your lathe’s got enough oomph to handle your projects with ease.
- Size and capacity: Consider your workspace and the types of projects you’ll be tackling – bigger isn’t always better!
- Speed control: Look for a lathe with variable speed control to help you get that perfect finish every time.
- Stability: A good, sturdy lathe will minimize vibrations, making your turning experience smooth as butter.
- User-friendliness: Beginners, opt for a lathe that’s easy to set up and use. No need to dive headfirst into the deep end in the long run!
- Add-ons: Make a list of the extras you’ll need, like chucks, tool rests, or a bed extension. Keep in mind, though, they might cost extra!
- Reviews: Do your homework, guys! In other words, read up on other woodturners’ experiences to get a feel for what to expect.
And don’t forget, folks, the perfect lathe is out there waiting for you. So that keep these key points in mind, trust your gut, and you’ll find the right lathe to bring your woodturning dreams to life. Happy hunting and happy turning!
About the Author
