After testing seven heavy-duty lathes for a Fine Woodworking tool review (FWW #191), woodturner Andy Barnum takes his top two picks for a test drive to demonstrate their unique features and large turning capacities.

Barnum, a woodturning instructor at State University of New York in Purchase, shows off the powerful motors on these lathes, which offer high torque at low speeds — ideal for turning big-diameter or off-balance work. He also demonstrates how the heft, speed control, and outboard turning capabilities make these lathes ideal for just about any turning project.

For more about lathes and turning check out these FineWoodworking.com articles:

• More heavy-duty lathes put to the test
• Turning bowls from green wood
• Adjustable Lathe Jaws
• Build your own treadle lathe
• Gouges for the Lathe