Best Wood Lathe

If you’re passionate about crafting, you understand the importance of the right wood lathe. It can elevate your projects, whether it’s table legs, intricate bowls, or even baseball bats.

But with so many options on the market, how do you pick the one that’s right for you? Well, you’re in luck. In this guide, we will delve into the top wood lathes’ features, pros, and cons so you can get back to turning out amazing projects in no time.

top 8 Best Wood Lathe

If you’re a seasoned craftsman or a budding hobbyist, let me introduce you to the JET JWL-1221VS. This wood lathe is a game-changer, offering a range of features to make your woodworking projects a breeze.

Innovative Design: Firstly, hats off to JET for the ratchet-style belt tension system. This patent-pending design makes it easier to change speeds and significantly reduces setup time. Long gone are the days of fumbling around with belts and pulleys; this lathe has you covered.

Optimal Speed Control: Talk about options! With three speed ranges (60-900/110-1,800/220-3,600), this wood lathe allows you to work at your own pace. Whether crafting intricate details or tackling larger projects, you can easily find the perfect speed.

Convenient Controls & Readout: User-friendliness is a priority with this lathe. The easy-to-reach controls and digital readout make it a breeze to use, saving you time and effort. It’s almost like the machine reads your mind, giving you the control you need right when you need it.

Handy Storage: A tool storage caddy on each end of the machine? Yes, please! Keeping your workspace tidy’s always a struggle, but this added feature simplifies your life by offering quick access to your essential tools.

Safety First: The removable yellow On/Off safety key adds an extra layer of protection, ensuring that the machine won’t accidentally start up. Safety in a woodworking shop is paramount, and it’s great that JET has this built in.

Smooth Directional Control: If you’ve used a lathe before, you know how annoying it can be to switch from forward to reverse. With the JET JWL-1221VS, this process is incredibly smooth, helping to create more precise results.

The JET JWL-1221VS wood lathe is a remarkable piece of machinery that offers a great mix of versatility, convenience, and safety. Its thoughtful design and user-friendly features make it a top pick for anyone serious about woodworking. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, this might be the best wood lathe. So, what are you waiting for.

Regarding the best woodworking lathes, the JET JWL-1015 deserves a spotlight. With a focus on versatility, stability, and overall ease of use, this lathe offers woodworkers a great balance of features. From enhanced tensioning to a generous warranty, the JET JWL-1015 gives you much to look forward to.

Six Spindle Speeds: Variety is the spice of life, and this woodworking lathe gives you plenty. Choose from six spindle speeds (500, 840, 1240, 1800, 2630, and 3975) to match the project you’re tackling. Whether you’re looking to make intricate details or larger items, this machine has got you covered.

24-Position Indexing: You know how every masterpiece requires precise attention to detail? The JET JWL-1015 takes care of that with its 24-position indexing feature. This allows you to turn your object to the perfect orientation, ensuring accuracy and finesse.

Enhanced Tensioning System: Nothing more frustrating than a complicated belt-changing process, right? Well, worry no more. The enhanced tensioning system in this lathe provides easier access to belts, allowing for more precision during your woodworking projects.

Increased Rigidity & Improved Gripping: Nobody wants a shaky lathe especially not when you’re in the middle of an important project. The increased width of the bed ways adds extra stability, while the tailstock with a live centre improves gripping. It’s rock solid.

JET’s Red Assurance Guarantee: When a product has a five-year warranty against manufacturing defects, you know it’s a keeper. JET backs up its claim with this generous guarantee, giving you peace of mind in your investment.

If you’re searching for a woodworking lathe that combines versatility, precision, and stability, look no further than the JET JWL-1015. From its varied spindle speeds to its impressive warranty, it checks all the boxes for what makes a lathe great.

While it might not be the most powerful option out there, it’s certainly one of the best woodworking lathes for those looking to take their craft to the next level.

If you’re an aspiring woodturner looking for an entry-level lathe that also has some pretty neat features, the WEN LA3421 bundled with the PM01 Pen-Turning MT1 Mandrel might be the perfect match for you. This review takes you through the ins and outs of this dynamic duo, so let’s dig in!

Perfect for Small Workpieces: This isn’t a massive, industrial-grade machine, and that’s okay. It’s ideal for turning pens, bowls, cups, chess pieces, and smaller workpieces. With an 8-inch swing over the bed and a 13-inch distance between centres, it provides ample space for your projects.

Soft-Start 3.2-Amp Motor & Variable Speed: The safety and longevity of your motor are taken care of with a soft-start feature. This gradually starts the machine, thereby preventing any sudden jolts or damage. You can easily adjust the variable speed from 750 to 3200 RPM to match your workpiece and technique.

Handy Add-ons: The package includes some useful extras like a 2.3-inch face plate, an MT1 spindle and tailstock taper, and two interchangeable tool rests. It’s like a starter kit that offers value right out of the box.

Versatile Compatibility: The tapered Morse maximizes compatibility with most MT1 wood lathes, but it’s specifically designed to fit the WEN 3420 wood lathe.

Pen Turning Made Easy: With a 1/4-inch diameter shaft running through the centre, this Mandrel allows you to turn pens, pencils, and more with utmost precision. Plus, it includes five slim line spacer bushings for added functionality.

In the woodworking world, the WEN LA3421 and PM01 bundle offers an accessible entry point for newbies or a convenient option for more experienced woodworkers looking for a secondary, smaller lathe.

While it might not have the muscle for bigger projects, it excels in what is designed for small, intricate works of art. So, this combo is a no-brainer for those looking to dip their toes in the waters of woodturning without breaking the bank.

Not everyone has the space or the need for a full-sized lathe when it comes to woodworking and turning. That’s where benchtop lathes like the SHOP FOX W1704 come in handy. This little dynamo packs a punch, offering several features normally found in larger models but in a size that’s perfect for the hobbyist or beginner.

Solid Build for Long-lasting Performance: The SHOP FOX W1704 is built from cast iron, providing a stable and durable frame that promises longevity. This is particularly important when turning, as you don’t want your lathe shaking or vibrating excessively.

Versatility in Speed: The lathe offers infinitely variable speed control, ranging from 700 to 3,200 RPM. This allows you to precisely control your turning speed, whether you’re working with hard or soft wood.

Ample Working Space: With a 12-inch distance between centres and an 8-inch swing over the bed, this lathe is well-suited for small to medium-sized projects like pen turning, bowl shaping, and crafting chess pieces.

Additional Accessories: The package includes two tool rests (4-1/4-inch and 7-inch) and a 5-3/4-inch faceplate for non-spindle turning. These extras help you adapt the machine to various projects right out of the box.

The SHOP FOX W1704 Benchtop Lathe is a great addition to any hobbyist’s workshop. Its sturdy construction, variable speed options, and included accessories make it an excellent choice for small to medium-sized projects.

While it might not have the capabilities for larger or more complicated pieces, it certainly excels in what it’s designed to do. So, if you’re looking to delve into woodturning or simply want a reliable machine for smaller tasks, this might be the lathe.

RIKON Power Tools has heard your call if you’re a pen-turner or a woodworking hobbyist looking for a specialized lathe. The 70-105 Mini Lathe is designed specifically to cater to the needs of pen turners, offering a combination of power, precision, and durability.

Made for the Craft: Designed for Pen Turners: This lathe was developed explicitly at the request of pen turners, ensuring that it meets the unique requirements of this specialized woodworking craft. Its dedicated focus means you’ll find many features tailored to make your pen turn as smooth as possible.

Power and Performance: 1/2 HP Motor: The RIKON mini lathe boasts a 1/2-horsepower motor that provides ample power for various turning needs, from roughing billets to precise finishing touches.

Vibration-Free: Cast Iron Construction: Unlike some lathes made of aluminium, this one is constructed from cast iron, ensuring minimal vibration and greater accuracy during your projects.

Versatile Speed: 5-Speed Range: With its 5-speed range, you can effortlessly switch between different stages of your project, whether it’s boring barrel holes, roughing out, shaping, or finishing.

What’s Included: Besides the lathe itself, the package includes a live centre, tool rest, knockout bar, and wrenches basically everything you need to get started.

The RIKON Power Tools 70-105 Mini Lathe is a top pick for those dedicated to pen turning. Its robust construction, reliable motor, and versatile speed options make it a great investment for anyone serious about this craft.

While it may not be the best fit for larger projects, it does exceedingly well for what it’s designed to do. With a 5-year warranty and all essential accessories included, this lathe offers excellent value for the price.

Looking for a lathe that packs both power and functionality, Meet the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe. It’s the all-rounder you’ve been searching for in the woodturning world. If you’re looking for a lathe that can comfortably handle small and large projects, this one deserves your attention.

The Heart of the Machine: 1-HP Motor: The Delta 46-460 is built around a powerful 1-HP motor, capable of producing up to 1,725 RPM. This ensures you have all the speed and torque necessary to shape even the most difficult pieces.

Spacious and Versatile: Large Swing Capacity: With a 12-1/2-inch swing capacity, this lathe offers ample room for your turning projects, making it one of the most spacious lathes in its class.

Electronic Variable Speed: Complete Control: This lathe features electronic variable speed controls and three-pulley speed ranges. This flexibility allows you to fine-tune the speed according to the specific needs of your project without the hassle of changing belt positions.

Achieve the Perfect Finish: Forward and Reversing Function: The forward and reversing function is a game-changer for achieving a high-quality finish. Sanding with the grain in reverse mode makes the wood fibres flat, resulting in a smoother surface.

Efficient and Durable: Patented Belt Tensioning System: A patented belt tensioning system ensures easy speed changes while optimizing belt tension for maximum power transfer and tool life.

The Delta Industrial 46-460 MIDI Lathe is an excellent investment for both amateur and seasoned woodworkers. Its powerful motor, large swing capacity, and variable speed control make it a versatile addition to any workshop.

Though it’s slightly heavy and might require additional purchases to realize its full potential, these are minor quibbles for a machine that offers so much. With a 5-year warranty backing it up, this lathe promises top-notch performance and peace of mind.

Precision and control are two attributes most hobbyists and professionals seek in a lathe. The Proxxon Fine Lathe FD 150/E aims to be a top contender in this niche market, targeting those who require high precision and versatility in a more compact form.

Whether you’re into making small-scale models intricate pieces or require high precision, the Proxxon FD 150/E promises to be a reliable companion. Let’s take a closer look.

A High-Performance Engine: 2-Stage Belt Drive: One of the standout features is its 2-stage belt drive combined with electronic control, which enables incredibly high spindle speeds of up to 5,000 rpm. This range allows for a variety of applications.

Versatility At Its Best: The F.D. 150/E offers various applications like facing, longitudinal turning, unwinding, ball turning, cutting, and drilling. This makes it a go-to choice for those who dabble in multiple types of projects.

Focused on Precision: High Pulling Power: This machine offers high pulling power at lower speeds, making it suitable for larger workpieces. Even the smallest parts can be cut quickly, ensuring clean, precise outcomes.

Safety First: D.C. Special Motor: The quiet D.C. special motor comes with an emergency stop function and restart protection, giving you peace of mind while working on your projects.

What’s In The Box: The package includes a Proxxon fine lathe FD150/E equipped with a 3-jaw chuck, tailstock, support, and steel holder.

The Proxxon Fine Lathe FD 150/E offers a compelling package for those seeking a specialized, high-precision lathe. It is versatile and engineered to offer high performance and safety, making it ideal for detailed and intricate work.

While it has some limitations in terms of material and unclear battery requirements, these seem to be minor issues when you consider its overall capabilities. The Proxxon FD 150/E is a fine choice for anyone considering precision lathe work.

The Powermatic 3520C is more than just a wood lathe; it’s an evolution in woodworking tools, being the fourth generation of its lineage. As a successor to already capable previous models, it brings in several enhanced features aimed at both the beginner and the seasoned artisan.

This lathe seems to address every conceivable need and preference one might have in woodworking. Here’s a deep dive into what makes it special.

An Evolution in Wood Lathes: The 3520C has preserved all the best features of its predecessors: electronic variable speed control, a digital RPM readout, sliding headstock, and a self-ejecting, laser-etched quill.

Customizable Control Box: The control box is not just another switchboard but a magnetic-backed, movable hub of operations. This allows you to place it in a position that is most convenient for you.

Adjustable Riser Blocks for Comfort: If you’ve struggled with the height of your lathe, the adjustable riser blocks on this unit offer up to six inches of height adjustment for a more comfortable experience.

Robust Build and Powerful Motor: This lathe is a beast, weighing in at 726 lbs. (814 lbs. with the bed extension). It is powered by a robust 2-horsepower motor capable of maintaining speeds as low as 15 RPM.

Enhanced Ergonomics and Operation: The ergonomic spindle lock design, digital indexing readout, and Anti-rotation tailstock key contribute to the smoother, more precise operation.

If you’re in the market for a wood lathe that pushes boundaries in performance, customization, and user comfort, the Powermatic 3520C seems like a dream come true. While it is a significant investment and might be overkill for a beginner, its robust features make it a worthy addition to any serious woodworker’s arsenal. With a 5-year warranty backing its capabilities, this lathe is highly recommended for those looking to elevate their woodworking experience.

Buying Guide

So, you’re in the market for the best wood lathe. Well, you’re in luck because we’ll dive into everything you need to know to pick the perfect machinery to make your woodworking dreams come true.

What’s Your Purpose?: Before considering specific models, consider what you intend to create with your new lathe. Are you focused on small projects like pens and bowls, or are you looking to turn large furniture pieces? Knowing your primary goal helps narrow down the options considerably.

Budget and Space: The best wood lathe for you might not be the most expensive one. Look for a machine that fits your budget but doesn’t skimp on essential features. Also, consider the space you’ve got available. Some lathes are compact wonders, while others demand a lot more room.

Motor Power: The strength of the motor should align with the projects you wish to undertake. For small tasks, a motor with less than one horsepower could suffice. But for larger projects, look for at least a 2-horsepower motor.

Speed Control: A variable speed control is almost a must-have these days. It allows you to adjust the speed to suit various project requirements.

Build Quality: You don’t want a lathe that feels flimsy. Check what materials are used in the construction. Cast iron is usually a good bet for stability and durability.

User-Friendly Features: When shopping for a lathe, keep an eye out for features that simplify your work. We’re talking about quick-adjustment levers, self-ejecting tailstocks, and yes, digital readouts for the detail-oriented among you.

Reviews and Recommendations: You don’t have to go it alone. See what other woodworkers are saying about the lathes you’re considering. Customer reviews and expert recommendations can be incredibly helpful.

Warranty and Customer Service: A long warranty period is usually a good quality indicator. Also, look at customer reviews related to the manufacturer’s customer service. You’ll want solid support if things don’t go as planned.

Extra Accessories: Some lathes come with a range of useful accessories or have optional ones available for purchase. While not a make-or-break factor, it’s a bonus if the lathe can be easily upgraded or adapted.

Don’t Forget the Safety Gear!: While shopping for the best wood lathe, don’t forget about safety. Make sure you have safety goggles, ear protection, and appropriate clothing. Safety first.

Conclusion

Armed with this guide, you’re ready to find the best wood lathe that perfectly suits your needs and skill level.

Whether you’re just dipping your toes into the world of woodturning or you’re an experienced craftsman looking for an upgrade, remember that the best wood lathe for you is the one that matches your projects, budget, and workspace.

FAQ’s