When it comes to woodworking, knowing the wood lathes is absolutely crucial. With thousands of product options out there in the market, it is easy to get overwhelmed and frustrated.
But don’t worry
We’ve already done the research for you so you don’t need to stress out. We have compiled a comprehensive buying guide to help you make the most feasible decision. Here we discuss the pros and cons of each device to help you understand how each product will benefit you in a better way. Whether you’re a woodworking professional or a beginner, one of these wood lathes will perfectly fit your workflow.
Important Things to know before buying:
What is a wood lathe machine?
A wood lathe is a sought-after gadget that is used to manipulate wood into different forms and shapes. It is considered an essential tool for woodworking by professionals and enthusiasts. Whether you want to create furniture, wooden ornaments or simply a wooden bowl, this is the tool that will get the job done.
Is woodturning dangerous?
The short answer is no, woodturning is not dangerous. If you act responsibly, there’s nothing to worry about. Still, woodturning produces some hazardous material like wood dust, which may cause breathing problems for some individuals. Although such issues rarely occur, it is still advised to wear a clinical mask and safety glasses while working. One should also use safety gloves to avoid injuring their hands, especially if you’re a beginner.
Purpose of Wood Lathe?
A wood lathe is a different lathe that is specially made for things that are made of wood only. So, it means they are used to sand, cut, face, turn, deform, or drill workpieces made of wood. They work like other kinds of lathes by exposing a rotating workpiece to a tool that cuts stationary. But, wood lathes are specifically used to work on wood only. They cannot be used on pieces made of hard materials such as steel or metal.
Let’s dive in
Best Wood Lathes 2023:
So here are our picks for the top Wood lathes you can buy:
Wood lathes are more convenient and portable than metal lathes. The speed at which the workpieces are rotated is controlled by an ordinary pulley system. They don’t build as much power as metal lathes do. But, wood lathes are really proficient at cutting wooden workpieces.
A very powerful motor in spite of being single horsepower.
Comes with variable speed control.
Has a solid iron cast structure that is built to last.
Offers optional bed extension for up to 60 inches.
This tool has a 5-year long warranty for backup.
The RPM display of this lathe is easy to read, so you can monitor the RPM speed conveniently.
The clamping system of the tool rests makes sure it’s locked securely.
This lathe is certified by CSA so you don’t have to worry if it’s authentic or not.
Pros
Cons
✅ Optional bed extension
❌ Lowest rpm is 400
✅ Powerful motor
✅ Variable speed control
✅ Highly versatile
How does JET JWL-1440VSK compare with other wood lathes?
Jet JWL-1440VSK full profile
The JET JWL-1440VSK is one of the best wood lathes available currently. The first thing that you might check in this lathe is its sliding headstock. It rotates the whole 360 degrees and can be locked in 7 specific angles. It contains multiple speed settings from 400 to 3000 RPM providing convenience to its users. The optimal extension bed of this lathe can be linked in 3 positions and extends to the center distance to around 60 inches.
In-Depth Details
This powerful lathe by Jet will easily turn large bowls as well as thick and long pieces of wood. If you decide to buy this great piece of machinery, do not fear pushing its 1 hp motor to the limit. It takes a lot to halt the motor. A LOT.
One of the best-reviewed products by Jet, this is easily one of the most acclaimed woodturning tools in the market right now. And Jet’s exceptional after-sale services adds further value to this already great machine. You will rarely find a bad review of this product on Amazon, not even a four-star one. All the reviews are five stars. Period. This is because Jet has paid an extra emphasis on build quality featuring a cast-iron structure that will last you for years to come.
Jet JWL-1440VSK operation
Being a variable speed lathe it has a range of 400 to 3000 rpm. It has a 141/2-inch swing over the bed and 40 inch between its center which enables it to handle wood projects of all sizes. Unlike many other lathes, it further includes a sliding and pivoting headstock which enhances its versatility and ease of use. With a professional assembly and an exceptional build quality, this product by Jet is worth its price tag!
Specifications
The distance between its centers is 40 inches.
The speed of the JET JWL-1440VSK lathe is 400-3000
The power output this wood lathe contains is 1 horsepower.
Exceptional build quality that reduces vibrations and maximizes stability.
The tool rest extension makes outboard turning a lot easier.
This Lathe has a Digital readout for spindle RPM.
The headstock rotation angles of this lathe are 0°, 60°, 90°, 120°, and 180°.
It has been constructed sturdy which will help it last more than most of the other wood lathes.
The pricing of this lathe is really reasonable with a lot of great features.
Pros
Cons
✅ Quick lock/release levers for headstock and tailstock.
❌ Lowest rpm is 600.
✅ Includes 6" faceplate, cup live center and spur center.
✅ Variable speed control.
✅ Great value for money.
How does Grizzly Industrial G0462 compare with other wood lathes?
Grizzly Industrial G0462 top view
The Grizzly Industrial G0462 lathe is used for small projects. It is the perfect tool for someone who is just a beginner but wants to excel at the art of woodworking. Professionals have reported an equal appreciation for this device as well. The five different speed levels this lathe has are appreciable. The motor this lathe contains is great enough for small projects.
In-Depth Details
A highly durable wood lathe that is ready to tackle any wood project you throw at it. This product by Grizzly is perhaps the best value one can get in a budget buy. Yes! This is easily a budget buy when you consider its top-of-the-line quality and exceptional reliability.
As its name suggests, this is an industrial-grade machine that is designed for performing well under heavy loads. In spite of being targeted towards professionals, this product is easy to use and beginner-friendly. So its name shouldn’t intimidate you even if you’re just starting out. Grizzly has long enjoyed a reputation for manufacturing well-built products for commercial use, so buying this product may be seen as a long-term investment.
Grizzly Industrial G0462 wide work area
Don’t expect to be bothered by frequent maintenance issues or parts replacements. With an over the bed swing of 16 inches and a 46-inch distance between centers, it is capable of handling large wooden materials effectively. The vibrations and noise this lathe contains are so little which can be ignored. It also has one of the best robot vacuum cleaners ever.
Features like the digital readout and variable speed control further enhance the user experience and ease of use. Furthermore, Grizzly offers an exceptional customer support service along with a 1-year warranty for all of its products. So if you take your woodwork seriously, this is exactly what you should be looking for!
Specifications
The distance between its centers is 18 inches.
The speed of this wood lathe is 826, 1,205, 1,713, 2,422, and 3,337
The power output this wood lathe contains is 1/2 horsepower.
Unique belt tensioning system enables quick changes in belt speed.
Its electronic automatic speed control knob gives you absolute control over speed.
The Large 12½ inch capacity of its swing is the largest capacity out of all the lathes in this price range.
The electronic speed with 3 pulley speed ranges lets you reach the required speed on your project without changing the position of its belt.
The reversing and forwarding feature of this lathe lets you get a fine finishing.
The warranty of this lathe is 5 years long so you have a backup plan until it expires.
Pros
Cons
✅ Includes forward and backward motion switch.
❌Slow customer service.
✅ Compact and easy to use.
✅ Budget buy.
✅ Offers a bed extension for up to 42 inches.
How does Delta Industrial 46-460 compare with other wood lathes?
Delta Industrial 46-460 full view
The Delta Industrial 46-460 wood lath contains a 1 horsepower motor that helps it deliver a speed of 1725 RPM which is adjustable too. The three different pulleys can let you change the speed. The 12½ inch swing just makes this lathe perfect for small projects. This lathe weighs around 97 pounds and has a belt system too for adjusting everything conveniently.
In-Depth Details
This compact lathe by Delta is a solid offering that will give you a bang for your buck! With a cast-iron structure that is built to last, it’s 1. hp motor is powerful enough for turning tough materials with ease.
Its large center-to-center distance makes it ideal for people working with long materials. Plus the manufacturers have carefully placed all the knobs and switches you need in a way that’s easy to find. Definitely among the best wood lathes for commercial use. This is perhaps the most amazing mid-sized wood lathe present in the market. It packs enough power to perform all sorts of heavy-duty tasks
So whether you’re a beginner, a hobbyist, or a seasoned professional, this can be the right product for your needs! This is unarguably one of the best products you can get your hands on. Period.
Specifications
The distance between its centers is 20 inches.
The speed of the Delta Industrial 46-460 wood lathe is 1725 RPM.
The power output this wood lathe contains is 1 horsepower.
Significant turning capacity of 12-1/2” swing and 20” between centers.
Has lifetime lubrication of spindle ball bearings.
Offers a 24 position index head that is highly efficient for designing and finishing purposes.
This wood lathe contains a digital RPM readout so you can conveniently keep a check on the speed.
It comes with an acme thread on the tailstock quill.
The features of this lathe make it the perfect tool for small to medium projects.
The manual this lathe has is easy-to-follow so its installation and usage will be easy too.
The LED display of this lathe makes the monitoring of speed convenient.
Pros
Cons
✅ Forward and Backward drive switch
❌Changing speed requires moving the belt.
✅ Exceptional build quality with 5 year warranty.
❌Has a loud sound.
✅ Great stock holding capacity.
✅ Digital rpm readout.
✅ Beginner friendly.
How does RIKON Power Tools 70-220VSR compare with other wood lathes?
RIKON 70-220VSR turning bowls
The RIKON Power Tools 70-220VSR has a 1 hp motor. The swing capacity of this lathe is 12.5 while its distance between centers is 10 inches. This wood lathe has a 24 position sliding headstock which gives you accuracy for different designs. Compared to other options ranked higher, this is perhaps the one that provides the greatest value for money.
In-Depth Details
Packed with a powerful 1. hp motor it has the power to turn projects of all levels. With a 12.5″ swing and 20″ capacity in between centers, this is a great contender for heavy woodturning without any interruption. It also features a 24 position index head that increases accuracy, which is all you need for making precise patterns and delicate designs. It also has an rpm range of 250-3,8250 making it quite versatile in regards to functionality and use.
This is the type of machine that boosts creativity and grants artistic freedom. Woodworking is an art after all!
Specifications
RIKON 70-220VSR full view
The distance between its centers is 20 inches.
This RIKON wood lathe has a speed varying from 250-3850 RPM.
The power output this wood lathe contains is 1 horsepower.
How does Laguna Tools Revo MLAREVO 1836 compare with other wood lathes?
Woodturning on Laguna REVO 1836
The Laguna Tools Revo MLAREVO 1836 is the best heavy-duty lathe ever. Obviously, spending around 3000 bucks on a wood lathe is not really a joke. It contains a powerful 220V and 2 hp motor. The swing capacity of this lathe is 32 inches while the spindle capacity is 41.5 inches. The speed of this lathe varies from 50 to 1,300 RPM or 135 to 3,500 RPM.
In-Depth Details
This high-value offering by Laguna is a sophisticated system with perhaps one of the best build quality and attention to detail than most products on this list. It offers smooth transitions from low to high speed with plenty of torque, which is partly due to its three-phase power system.
Laguna REVO 1836 full frontal view
It offers a speed range of 50-3500 rpm, where the speed can be infinitely controlled in between this range with the help of an intuitive dial control. With its body made from anodized aluminum, it features a user-friendly control panel with a digital rpm readout.
Consists of a spring-loaded spindle lock which has the highest outbound swing of 32-inches, there is nothing this lathe cannot achieve. In spite of being on the expensive side of the spectrum, we believe this to be the ultimate top wood lathe that offers high value for each penny spent.
Specifications
The distance between its centers is 41.5 inches.
The speed of this wood lathe varies from 50 to 1,300 RPM or 135 to 3,500 RPM.
The power output this wood lathe contains is 2 HP.
Has the lowest speed range of 60 rpm which adds to its versatility.
Offers a total of 24 indexing options which is quite impressive.
A unique ratchet belt tension system enhances the quality of finished projects.
Comes with many additional accessories like tool rest and faceplates.
Its weight and dimensions minimize noise and vibrations which also makes it easy to handle.
Pros
Cons
✅ Great build quality
❌ Requires a strong stand
✅ Forward and reverse drive switch with smooth transitions
❌ Little difficult for beginners
✅ Convenient accessibility of controls.
✅ Variable speed control with digital rpm readout
✅ Comes with a 5 year warranty
How does JET JWL-1221VS compare with other wood lathes?
woodworking on JET JWL-1221VS
The first thing to notice about the JET JWL-1221VS wood lathe is its weight. It weighs 121 lbs so it is one of the hugest bench-top lathes ever. You should definitely get a nice and sturdy bench for your machine before getting it. The variable speed range of this lathe can be as low as 60 RPM to 3600 RPM which is the maximum speed.
In-Depth Details
Another entry by Jet is not unusual as this brand is a market leader. This is one of those machines which offers a bang for your buck. It can be seen as an all-rounder that offers you great control over your project unlike anything else.
JET JWL-1221VS work bed
Featuring a variable speed range of 60-3600 rpm, a digital rpm readout, and a forward/backward drive option, all with the mission of granting you absolute control and precision over your material. This lathe has all the qualities needed for effective woodturning. It is also relatively cheaper than other machines with similar specs. With a swing of 12-1/2” and a distance of 20-1/2” in between its centers, this is a highly acclaimed bestseller that is worth investing in!
Specifications
The distance between its centers is 21 inches.
The speed of the JET JWL-1221VS wood lathe ranges from 200 to 3600 RPM.
The power output this wood lathe contains is 1 horsepower.
This wood lathe is relatively cheaper than other lathes with the same features.
The 2 belt positions of this lathe increase and enhance its power.
This lathe comes with chrome handles to increase the convenience of the turner.
It has an 18-inch distance between its centers making it easy to use.
The cast-iron base of this lathe can be expanded up to 42 inches for turning up.
This lathe has a 12-inch swing capacity making it great for multiple projects.
It has a digital readout for monitoring the speed accurately.
Pros
Cons
✅ Budget buy
❌ Lowest rpm is 500
✅ Digital rpm readout
❌ Doesn't include a reverse switch
✅ 3 year warranty
❌ Not fit for big wood pieces
✅ Good build quality
✅ Powerful motor
✅ Includes free accessories
How does PSI Woodworking KWL-1218VS compare with other wood lathes?
The PSI Woodworking KWL-1218VS has a great performance. It has a digital readout to monitor the speed conveniently and precisely. What makes this lathe unique is its double belt positions varying from 500 to 1850 and 1950 to 3800 RPM. Comparing it with other options it’s perhaps the cheapest lathe with these many features.
In-Depth Details
A decent offering by PSI, this lathe has a 12-inch swing over the bed and an 18-inch distance in between its center. With a speed range of 500-3800 rpm powered by a 1 hp motor, this machine also offers an optional bed extension for up to 42 inches. Apart from all the conventional features, it additionally brings along a lot of accessories for free e.g. a knockout road, four hex wrenches, rubber feet set, safety glasses, and a Philip screwdriver, etc.
Overall a good product, but you’ll have to remove the belt cover each time to change the speed variation which can be a bit frustrating.
Specifications
PSI kwl-1218vs digital readout display
The distance between its centers is 18 inches.
The speed of the PSI Woodworking KWL-1218VS wood lathe is 500 to 1850 and 1950 to 3800 RPM.
The power output this wood lathe contains is 3/4 horsepower.
This lathe is easy to use so beginners can use it as well.
This tool has a 2-year long warranty for backup.
It has been constructed with cast iron that is durable too.
The spindle capacity of this lathe is 13 inches and its swing capacity is 8 inches which makes it perfect for turning small projects.
Pros
Cons
✅ Electronic speed adjustment
❌ lowest rpm is 500
✅ Two spindle motor
❌ poor customer support
✅ Digital rpm readout
❌ not the best design
✅ Affordable
✅ Good build quality
How does Shop fox W1836 compare with other wood lathes?
Woodworker operating Shop Fox W1836
If you are looking for the most lightweight and portable wood lathe that can be kept on a desk too, you should definitely buy Shop Fox W1836. It has a speed ranging from 500-1800 RPM & 1000-3800 RPM. The power of its motor is ¾ hp. This machine is great at turning rings, small bowls, and pens. Compared to its competition, it’s quite a decent offering as you’d find lathes with the same features for double its price.
In-Depth Details
Another entry on our list is this fairly priced machine by Shop Fox. Certainly not the best lathe on the market but nonetheless an affordable option that won’t break your bank. This solid offering is a reliable machine.
Packing all the conventional features of many top-notch lathes, this machine has a sizeable fan base that considers it worth buying.
It has an over-the-bed swing of 12 inches and a 38-inch distance in between its centers. This enables it to handle fairly large wooden pieces. Consisting of two-speed ranges of 500-1800 rpm & 1000-3800 rpm, it is powered by a 3/4 hp motor with variable speed control. If you want a lathe for large projects but can’t pay the extra price, this just might work for you.
Specifications
The distance between its centers is 46 inches.
The speed of the Shop Fox W1836 wood lathe is 500-1800 RPM & 1000-3800 RPM.
The power output this wood lathe contains is 3/4 horsepower.
In spite of being small has a good swing capacity.
Includes almost all features found in larger lathes.
This lathe contains a powerful motor of ¾ hp.
It comes with two turning actions that are forward and reverse.
The three-step pulley system of this lathe offers various speed ranges.
The warranty of this lathe is 1 year long so you have a backup plan until it expires.
Pros
Cons
✅ Strong motor for beginner projects
❌Not ideal for large scale projects
✅ A budget buy
❌Some customers report belt slippage issues
✅ Variable speed control
✅ Forward and backward drive switch
✅ 3 pulley system increases torque
How does NOVA 46300 Comet II compare with other wood lathes?
NOVA 46300 Comet II on a work table
This NOVA 46300 Comet II has some unique features to offer that make it different from others. This lathe has a great speed range of 250-400 RPM. It is built with cast iron and has a self-ejecting tailstock which allows you to save some of your time. Compared to other low-cost options, this is an offering by a reliable market leader that’s been in business.
In-Depth Details
If you’re a beginner who’s just starting out or you simply don’t require a full fledge lathe system for enormous wood projects, then this product by Nova will certainly strike your interest. This might be the best wood lathe out there for your budget.
NOVA 46300 Comet II work bed
With a 12” swing over the bed and 16.5” distance in between its centers, this machine offers a significant turning capacity which is more than enough for most wood projects. Unless you’re a professional who intends to work on very large-scale projects, this machine will never fall short of delivering the best quality. With a speed range of 250 – 4,000 RPM, this product will easily cater to the majority of your woodturning needs. Moreover, it includes most of the top-notch features like digital rpm readout, variable speed control, forward and backward drive switch, and much more for a relatively low price.
Specifications
The distance between its centers is 16.5 inches.
The speed of the NOVA 46300 Comet II wood lathe is 250-4000 RPM.
The power output this wood lathe contains is 3/4 horsepower.
Has a self-ejecting tailstock & 12-position indexing head for accuracy.
The tailstock of this tailstock is self-ejecting so it saves some of your time.
The speed-changing system of this lathe is easy to access.
This lathe has an option to add various extensions.
The quality of this machine is great as compared to its affordable price.
It has a 12 position changing headstock for precise work.
It has a 2 years long warranty so you have a backup plan until it expires.
The capacity of the swing of this lathe is 12 inches long.
Pros
Cons
✅ Powerful 1/2 HP DC Motor
❌ Heavy weight
✅ User friendly and versatile
❌ Weak tail stock
✅ Electronic Variable Speed
❌ Some parts don't fit perfectly
✅ Cast iron structure
How does RIKON 70-100 compare with other wood lathes?
Rikon 70-100 work bed
The most critical part of woodturning with a wood lathe is the speed. You need various speeds for different projects. With the RIKON 70-11 lathe, you can quickly and conveniently change the speed level. The indexing headstock of this wood lathe can be changed to 12 different positions that let you get accuracy in work.
In-Depth Details
One of the most powerful mini-lathes in its segment, this machine by Rikon offers work quality that rivals some of the best products in the market. And it does so at quite an affordable price.
Rikon 70-100 in workshop
A variable speed lathe with a 1/2 hp motor, also consists of a 3 pulley system that produces increased torque. With a 12 inch over the bed swing and 16 inches in between centers, it has a decent swing capacity. Furthermore, it offers multiple bed extension options that add to its versatility. Other features like quick speed changes, dual-purpose spindle lock, and adjustable spindle speeds add more value to this great machine.
Specifications
The distance between its centers is 18 inches.
The speed of the RIKON 70-100 wood lathe is 500 to 3800 RPM.
The power output this wood lathe contains is 550 watts.
This Mophorn Wood Lathe contains a great swing capacity.
This Lathe has a Digital readout for monitoring speed RPM.
There are various belt positions in this wood lathe.
The motor of this lathe is 550 Watt powerful.
This lathe is built with sturdy cast iron.
It contains rubber feet for stable operation.
Pros
Cons
✅ Digital rpm readout
❌ Not fit for large projects
✅ Variable speed control
❌ Lowest rpm is 500
✅ Budget buy
❌ Some customers report speed control issues
✅ Value for money
✅ User friendly
How does MOPHORN Wood Lathe compare with other wood lathes?
Mophorn lathe’s interchangeable tool rest
The MOPHORN Wood Lathe has top-notch features which make sure you have a great experience. It has multiple speed ranges varying from 500 to 3800 RPM. The package of this wood lathe contains a lathe, a manual, and a toolset. The manual makes the installation and usage of this lathe convenient, especially for beginners.
In-Depth Details
A versatile wood lathe with a 10 inch over the bed swing and 8 inches in between centers, might be a good one for beginner use.
Even though it might not compare well with all the high-end products on this list, it still deserves a mention because of its affordable price range and the quality it offers. With a 550w motor and a 500-3800 rpm speed range, it offers reasonable power that is enough for moderate projects. It also includes most mainstream features like digital rpm readout, a top drive, and a 3-inch faceplate that come with most top market wood lathes. Considering its price, this might appeal to individuals who are just starting out their wood journey.
Specifications
The distance between its centers is 18 inches.
The speed of the Mophorn Wood Lathe is 500 to 3800 RPM.
The power output this wood lathe contains is 550 watts.
The belt positions of this lathe are easy to change.
It contains rubber feet to reduce vibrations and movement during its operation.
This wood lathe has an adjustable speed ranging from 500 to 2500 RPM.
This lathe contains a 4.5 AMP motor that starts slowly to avoid the damage of the motor and increase safety.
It comes with a digital display to monitor speed precisely.
Pros
Cons
✅ Digital rpm readout
❌ Speed changing requires moving the belt
✅ Forward and reverse drive switch
❌ Some customers complain motor issues
✅ Easy handling
❌ Lowest rpm is 500
✅ Good for beginners
How does WEN 34027 compare with other wood lathes?
Woodworker operating WEN 34027
You can now fill your house with a lot of wooden table legs, pens, and bowls with the WEN 34027. It has different speeds ranging from 500 to 2500 RPM and a 4.5 AMP powerful motor. The digital RPM display of this lathe makes the monitoring of the speed convenient. Comparing this option to other lathes it’s really a great one as it isn’t much available in this price segment.
In-Depth Details
Another lathe that makes it to this list is this product by Wen. A mid-size wood lathe, this product has been a popular one among beginners and enthusiasts, who want top-of-the-line features without spending a huge price tag.
All your needs will be met if you choose to invest in this product. Wen has long been in the game and is revered by many as a leading brand. It has enjoyed success among woodworkers the world over.
With an over-the-bed swing and a distance in between centers, it has a decent swing capacity that can handle a range of materials with versatility. It comes with a digital rpm readout and variable speed control. The speed range is 500-2500 rpm powered by a 4.5 amp motor, this lathe is certainly not on the expensive end of the spectrum. Which is exactly the reason for its appeal to many. Also, this wood lathe is cheap as compared to other lathes.
But keep in mind this machine is not fit for heavy use. Many customers have reported electrical issues where the motor stops working. Others also complain that its build quality is not meant for bearing a heavy workload.
But if you only want to pursue woodwork as a hobby, you won’t be disappointed by this fairly priced gadget. Instead, its versatility might surprise you!
Specifications
The tool rest length of this lathe is around 8 inches long.
The speed of the WEN 34027 wood lathe is 500 to 2500 RPM.
Learn more with this ultimate guide to a wood lathe.
Buying Guide
Here are some of the most important aspects to consider before buying a wood lathe machine.
Lathe Size
There are three main sizes in lathes. You will have to choose from mini ones, medium ones, and full-sized ones. A mini-lathe is great for less use and small work.
It’s perfect for those who are not doing some high-power projects. They’re the best if you are willing to buy a small and portable lathe. But, if you have a larger project to do or you won’t be moving around your lathe a lot then you can get the large one.
Price
Even though you don’t want to make a decision solely based on the pricing of the lathes. But, it should always be considered before getting a lathe. Fortunately, there are a lot of great economical options that are pretty flexible when it comes to the kind of project you have.
If you really want the best one available then it will cost more. But, if you’re fine with having fewer features or abilities of a lathe, you can save some dollars while getting one.
Speed
How would you know if the wood lathe you’ve chosen for yourself has the best speed range? There is a general thumb rule that is related to the thickness of the stock. If the answer of multiplying the width of the stock with its RPM is between 6k to 9k, that machine is the perfect one for you.
So, the perfect speed relies on the width of the stock that you’ll be using on the machine.
Space Available
Always make sure to be cautious about the space you have at your work area. You don’t want to choose the best one for yourself just to know that it won’t fit into your work area. So, make sure to look into your spacing and measure it. Then you can easily ignore the ones that won’t fit into your workspace.
Here are a few questions you might have before making your purchase. So let’s get the basics out of the way.
What is the best wood lathe for turning bowls?
These are our picks for the best wood lathes for turning bowls:
Jet JWL-1440VSK
Delta Industrial 46-460
Grizzly Industrial G0462
Be sure to check out our detailed guide to wood sanders.
What is the best beginner wood lathe?
Here are our top picks for the best beginner wood lathes:
Delta Industrial 46-460 Midi
Grizzly Industrial G0462
RIKON Power Tools 70-220VSR Midi
Should I buy a wood lathe?
A wood lathe is an essential tool for professional woodworkers as well as hobbyists. If you’re already a professional or plan on pursuing woodturning seriously, then investing in a wood lathe will surely pay off.
How much is a wood lathe worth?
An entry-level mini wood lathe can cost from $200 to $400. A midi or mid-range lathe may cost between $400 to $800, whereas a full-size lathe may start somewhere from $1000 all the way up to $5000. The price is highly dependant on features like swing capacity and builds quality etc.
Doug is a master woodworker with over 15 years of experience in the craft. Doug's passion for woodworking began at a young age, watching his father build furniture and learning from him the skills and techniques that have made him the expert he is today.
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned woodworker, Doug's blog is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their skills and knowledge in the craft.
