Replies

1. 
   Kent | Oct 18, 2005 01:52pm | #1

   Given your brand constraints, that's probably the best choice.

1. 
   MikeMD | Oct 18, 2005 10:58pm | #2

   what otherbrands do you like?  I'm not restricted to those listed.  I just don't feel justified in spending 2-3k on a oneway or comperable brand.

2. 
   arkriver | Oct 18, 2005 11:04pm | #3

   I think your real decision lies in deciding what you want to turn/build. Then you can fit the lathe to the work. The Jet you see recommended is for small stuff. If you think you will build long table legs or large diameter bowls you need a larger lathe.

3. 
   mgumaer | Oct 18, 2005 11:49pm | #4

   I think that's a fine choice to get started with.  I started with the same lathe (actually, it's still kicking around my shop).  You have to remember that when starting to turn most of the investment will likely be in the form of tools, chucks, etc.  Obviously, with a small lathe, you're going to be limited with both the length and diameter of your work.

   Good luck and have fun.

    

   Matt

4. 
   PlaneWood | Oct 19, 2005 04:00am | #5

   I purchased the Delta midi lathe several years ago.  I have used it every day and have no complaints.

   I like the position of the on/of switch being on the top left.  I also like the belt changing door being on the front.  The back of the housing is flat cast iron in line with the bed and that is a great place to mount jigs that might be used.  That's where I mounted a home made duplicator attachment.  The Delta Midi lathe paid for itselt in the first month I had it.  I did have to work on the on/off switch once but that was just to clean it.  I have not had to replace any parts.  I used the bed extension only just a few times making table legs and a few other odds and ends.

   See my business below for what I use it for.

    

   PlaneWood by Mike_in_Katy (maker of fine sawdust!)
   PlaneWood

5. 
   firemann | Oct 19, 2005 04:18am | #6

   delta makes a floor model that is under $1,000. I have seen some of the Gulf Coast Woodturners use this one and were very satisfied. I don't know  model no. but it's the one with the steel bed weilded to the cast iron frame w/ varible speed. I have been turning for 15 years or so now and have a delta 12" and a jet mini table top.

1. 
   MikeMD | Oct 19, 2005 05:14pm | #7

   delta definitely makes some larger models that are mid price - my only concern is I recently purchased some delta products and have not been real impressed with quality. Also delta's reviews recently have been terrible (see Amazon reviews).  I really like quality built machines.  I realize that some things are cost prohibitive - such as a Oneway and others.  3-5k for a tool just isn't realistic to a hobbiest like me.  But say a General Int for 1200 vs a Delta for 7-8 hundred.  I think the General line even the international series is better made than most brands such as Delta, Jet etc.  Yet, I'm not experienced enough to know that maybe the Jet line which is more resonably priced may be as good or better than the General line in a particular tool.  And before all of you chime in about General vs Gen Int I know they are very different and obviously priced as such.  Ok I'm done rambling for now

6. 
   WillGeorge | Oct 19, 2005 08:54pm | #8

   Hell,, Geeee I got a small wood lathe and my metal lathes.. That little Big Box wood thing do OK for it's size.. 100 US AND YES YA have to push it to get it started but works OK for learning..

   I think the tools were exrat and cost me 20 dollars!.

   MY metal lathe just throws up if I put wood in it!