Replies

1. 
   sailalex | Jun 08, 2003 02:41pm | #1

   One reason is accuracy. I bought a HF drill press and after about 6 months light use the spindle is loose and moves about 1/64" left to right. Haven't spent a lot of time trying to fix it but for accurate cuts it is no good.

    I buy a lot of stuff from HF and find very good deals but would not buy a power tool , like a lathe, that requires extreme accuracy to be value.

2. 
   10fingers | Jun 08, 2003 09:25pm | #2

   Hello Tooldoc,

   I bought a HF lathe a couple of years ago.   It is like the one Sears used to sell with 12" X 36"  capability.  I added a NOVA headstock and a Dayton variable/reversable 3/4 DC motor ($5.00 estate sale) to it.  I have used it for pens, pencils, and small bowls.   I have been quite happy with it when I consider what little money I have put out.

   Chuck

3. 
   YesMaam27577 | Jun 09, 2003 11:50pm | #3

   I haven't seen the HF lathe, so maybe I'm way off -- the following is based on what I know of other tools that I've seen from HF.........

   Horbor Freight vs. Jet.

   Sounds similar to another comparison: 1972 Ford Pinto, vs. a new Lexus.

   Vast projects should not be founded on half vast ideas.
1. 
   ToolDoc | Jun 10, 2003 06:55am | #4

   Maybe you should take a peek at the HF Lathe before you pass judgement??

1. 
   watkinsjd | Jun 10, 2003 10:28pm | #5

   The HF catalog I just received has the lathe that is the equivilent to the Jet for $270, not $179.

   I own the HF lathe and sell the Jet at WW so I am familiar with both.  The main physical differences I can see are in the switch position and the cross bracing on the base.  The Jet has a couple of extra braces and they are a little thicker.  Don't know if that makes a whit of difference.

   The thing that could make a difference is Jet's 2 year warranty and the service you get from a local supplier.

1. 
   ToolDoc | Jun 11, 2003 07:31am | #6

   Yup its on sale for $179.99 the price you said is there reg catalog price...