Lathes
How to Choose a Wood Lathe
Wood lathes spin a workpiece so you can shape bowls, spindles, pens, and table legs with turning tools. This collection runs from benchtop and midi lathes, such as the Shop Fox 8 x 13, Jet JWL-1015 and JWL-1221VS, and NOVA COMET, to full-size machines including the Jet JWL-1640EVS and JWL-1840EVS, Laguna REVO 15|24 and 18|36, Powermatic 3520C and 4224B, Shop Fox W1758, and NOVA Galaxi, Orion, Neptune, and Nebula. Jet BD-920W and BDB-929 belt drive bench lathes are also listed.
What to Look For
- Swing and length. The first number is the largest diameter it turns. The second is the distance between centers.
- Speed control. Variable speed and direct drive models change speed without moving belts.
- Size and mounting. Benchtop and midi lathes fit small shops. Floor models add mass that cuts vibration.
- Power. Larger lathes may need 220V. Check the title before you order.
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Lathes FAQ
Midi lathe or full-size lathe?
A midi lathe like the Jet JWL-1221VS or NOVA COMET handles pens, spindles, and small bowls. A full-size lathe with a 16 to 20 inch swing handles large bowls and long work, and its weight keeps it steady.
Wood lathe or metal lathe?
Wood lathes use hand-held tools on a tool rest. Metal lathes use a carriage and cross slide to feed a cutter. Jet belt drive bench lathes such as the BD-920W are metalworking machines.