Space is a premium in my small shop. I need a lathe for small furniture part turnings (columns 3″ or less in diameter, cabriole leg pads, rosettes, finials, etc.). I am considering the 1/2 HP Jet mini lathe with the extension bed mounted on an 1 1/2″ MDF base and clamped to my 400lb workbench when in use. Then when not in use I will hoist the lathe and base, with a pully system, to the ceiling above my bench . I am interested in any feedback as to whether you think this lathe will be powerfull enough to met my needs.
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Replies
Wear a strong hardhat. Wow 100 lbs. hanging over my head?
Do you turn off and/or unplug your tablesaw when changing blades?
Sounds really scary
I do :-) (unplug my saw when I change my blade)
Mike
Hey scadaboy,
I really appreciate yoour concern for my saftey but my request was for a comment on the power of a mini lathe to turn small fruniture parts. Do you have something other than a smart #### comment? :-)
I have the Jet midi lathe with the bed extension. I only notice power problems when I get to something around 4" in diameter. Gotta go slow at that size. Smaller stuff is a slam dunk.
Regards
Thanks for the input.
Having a lathe of any size is addictive. After you use one the number of things that you will want to turn and that others in your family will want you to turn for them will multiply like rabbits. Don't underspend and buy a cheap one. I have a Bonnie Klein mini-lathe. (I also have two big brothers for porch columns and mid size work) They are highly rated compared to any others. There is no need to get your 400 pound workbench involved since there is no vibration. I have a small portable platform that I built for mine to hold the 1/2 h.p. motor that sits under the lathe. I can put it away when not in use quite easily. You can make pens, jewellery, small bowls, flower vases etc. anything up to 5 inches in diameter and about 12 inches long. Check and see if there is a woodturner group in your area and they will help you with your selection. Often the local group can find one for you that a member is no longer using. All the best in your search.
Ron
The sword of damocles comes to mind. Make sure you hit the joist.
Regards,
Ken
"Do as you would be done by." C.S. Lewis
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