mini lathe - Woodworking Talk

owlelope · 06-26-2009, 09:57 PM

My wife has given her blessing to me buying a new mini lathe. I have seen them priced from $ 150 and up. I want something that is portable that I can take with me when we go different places for a period of time. I want something that will do a good job turning pens, turning bowls and has adapters to do it, and is able to handle a chuck to drill with. I consider any advise and experience that the forum can share with me.

Owlelope in Ohio

toolman Steve · 06-26-2009, 10:28 PM

Owlelope.
I have jet mini . Icon not say enough good things about it. I have turned many pens and some small bowls , It has a 1"x 8 head which is one of the most common sizes .I have not bought a chuck for bowls yet but I hear they will work well. this is only my opinion .good luck with your choice.

john lucas · 06-26-2009, 11:48 PM

It depends a little on how much you want to spend. The Jet mini 1014 has proven itself as a good performer.
The new version which is 12" swing costs more and weights more but it also has more power.
The 12" Rikon mini is pretty equivalent to the Jet.
The Grizzly 12" variable speed seems to be a decent lathe. it's still to new to have a track record but I know 2 people who have one and the both are quite satisfied.
Delta has a new 12 1/2" mini that is superb. It's brand new on the market and is a little more expensive but has a 1hp variable frequency drive motor. It is an excellent lathe. It has just barely hit the market but is getting some rave revues.
The 12" lathes all weight between 90 and 100 lbs. Not a lightweight lathe but good and solid. The 12" versions weight closer to 70lbs or so and are a little more portable.

The woodsman · 06-27-2009, 01:05 AM

I have the Ricon and couldn't be happier with it,I think they are about 300.00 right now.I have turned many bowls up to 11" final size.I'v even cored bowls with the Kel McNaughton on it.I also have the Nova 1624-44.

HLW · 06-27-2009, 09:20 AM

Owlelope:

I once owned A Jet mini and it was a very good lathe and I replaced it with the larger Nova. However, if I were going to buy another mini today I would certainly consider the Rikon because the Jet has increased in price and they are about the same size,both having a 12" swing and both can be portable.
If you have a Woodcraft store near you they have the Rikon on sale until June 30th for $259.99. If not, I would pick up the phone and order this one ! That's a very good price for a good quality lathe. Hope this helps.