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Top 15 Best Wood Lathes To Buy in 2024

Whether you’re a carpenter or a DIYer, if you are planning to create some masterpieces from wood, then you have to invest in the best wood lathe. A wood lathe is a machine that performs an arbitrary rotor turning mechanism that initiates processing between the longitudinal axis and the horizontal axis.

From straight columns to curved round structures, these machines can do all. The best thing about these machines is that they always offer you the best level of cutting efficiency, regardless of the type of wood you’re using for your project.

However, choosing the right wood lathe can be challenging. There are countless numbers of wood lathes on the market & their features may vary with brands. So, to help you choose the right product, here I am going to give a list of top 15 wood lathes along with a buying guide.

Benefits Of Wood Lathe

The wood lathe is an essential tool for professional carpenters and can be a creative and engaging activity for people who love crafting. Here are the reasons why you should invest in a wood lathe.

Work Efficient

Wood carving is one of the most laborious tasks to perform, and sometimes it may take many attempts for the perfection of work. The wood lathe is designed to provide efficiency of work with high-end production.

Convenient

Most of the professionals prefer having a wood lathe as it is very easy to use and can be operated by anyone who knows even very few about wood carving. Some wood lathe is also automatic. The operator has to provide it with some instructions, and they work on their own.

Durable

The wood lathes are made up of cast-iron material. Unlike conventional wood carving tools, the wood lathe is much more durable to use. It provides work efficiency and accessibility to its operator. The wood lathe is a one-time investment for its consumer, and you do not have to worry too much about its maintenance.

Saves Time

A wood lathe is a machine that can drastically cut down the time you may require to carve wooden vessels and other tasks. The items you will make using a wood lathe are more evenly carved and finished that can’t be achieved by hand.

Wood Lathe Vs. Metal Lathe

Wood lathes are basically used for carving out wooden workpieces and can serve the purpose of shaping, cutting, and polishing wooden items. On the other hand, metal lathes can perform the same functionality for both metals and wood.

Hence, a metal lathe can be used as a wood lathe, but its vice-versa is not true. Here are a few parameters that will help you understand how wooden lathes differ from metal lathes:

ParametersWood LatheMetal Lathe
PortabilityWooden lathes are light weighted and are available in smaller variants. Thus, they are very portable in nature.Metal lathes are heavy, and thus it is not very easy to transport them from one place to another.
ApplicationWood lathes find their usage in decorative pieces, simple objects, bowls, vases, photo frames, spindles, etc.Metal lathes are primarily used at places where there is a requisite of higher levels of robustness and sturdiness. Thus, they are primarily used in construction sites and heavy projects.
Supporting materialsWooden lathes can work well for wooden materials and plastics.A metal lathe can be used with quite a few elements such as wood, aluminum, copper, steel, brass, etc.
CostTalking about the pricing factor, wooden lathes are comparatively cheaper than its counterparts, owing to its easy availability. It is affordable enough to be used for residential purposes.Metal lathes are a bit expensive in comparison to the wooden ones and are usually preferred for high level and commercial projects.
SpeedWooden lathes can carve out workpieces in a lesser amount of time.Metal lathes can prove to be time-consuming. The RPM of metal lathes is comparatively slower than its wooden counterparts, and thus, a workpiece that is carved using metal lathes can take a longer time for completion.
Making at homeWooden lathes have a simple structure, and you can even consider making at home by bringing in all the necessary articles.Metal lathes cannot be made using DIY as it involves a higher level of implementation and design.

Best Brands Of Wood Lathe

Buying a woodworking machine with utmost attention is very crucial as it decides the ultimate quality of your craftsmanship. Sometimes, it can be difficult to buy just an all-rounder tool. Here comes the list of the best brands for the wood lathe.

Shop Fox

Shop Fox is an authorized distributor of Woodstock International – a wholesale supplier of metalworking and woodworking machinery, machine accessories, and workshop tools. The wide range of the Shop Fox machine includes table saws, planers wood and metal bandsaws, jointers, sharpers, sand duster, wood and metal lathe, etc.

Wen

Founded by Nick Anton in 1951, Wen is another popular brand that is manufacturing power tools for decades. When it comes to bringing quality and technology, Wen is by far the best choice among buyers. The Research and Development team of Wen assists woodworkers and artisans with a wide range of power tools, including electric soldering gun, electric jigsaw, electric engravers, wet wheel sharpeners, etc.

Rikon

Rikon Power Tools are designed to offer the most modern tools for woodworking. When it comes to searching for the best quality wood cutting tools without splurging much on it, Rikon is going to be the best choice for a buyer. Rikon crafts its tools while understanding the woodworker’s needs and deploying the latest technology.

JET Tools

Owned by the JPW industry, JET tools was established in 1958. From a dealer of the trolley and manual chain hoist to grow exponentially across the continents, JET is synonymous with manufacturing the best quality products with the help of skilled engineers. The world-class supply chain assures quality delivery at the earliest anywhere.

Nova

Established in 1956, Teknatool is a New Zealand based company that is known for inventing the first chuck-based screw system of the world. In 1989, the company entered the North American market with its Nova brand of woodturning equipment. The company launched its first lathe in 1994. Since then, Nova is considered as one of the best brands of woodturning equipment.

Wood Lathe Comparison Chart 2023

Check out the comparison chart of the 15-best wood lathes below that help you choose the right product as per your needs.

Product NameMaterialPowerFaceplate
Shop Fox W1704 Wood Lathe - Best OverallCast-Iron110 V5.75-inch
WEN 3420T Wood Lathe - Best BudgetCast-Iron120 V5-inch
Delta 46-460 Wood Lathe - Best Variable SpeedCast-Iron120 V3-inch
JET JWL-1221VS Wood Lathe - Best ControlCast-Iron115 V3-Inch
Nova 71118 Wood Lathe - Best With Electronic Speed ControlCast-Iron230 V3-inch
RIKON 70-100 Wood Lathe - Best MiniCast-Iron115 V3-inch
Rockler Woodworking and Hardware MC-1018 Wood Lathe - Best for Turning Large BowlsCast-IronNot specified3-inch
RIKON 70-105 Wood Lathe - Best Under $500Cast-Iron120 V3-inch
Jet JWL-1015 Wood Lathe - Best SpindleCast-Iron115 V3-inch
Jet 719115 JWL-1221SP Wood Lathe - Best for Home WorkshopCast-Iron115 V3-inch
Powermatic 3520B Wood Lathe - Best for Small ProjectsCast-Iron220 V13-inch
Shop Fox W1758 Wood Lathe - Best for IndustryCast-Iron110 V6-inch
Nova 71123 Comet II Wood Lathe - Best Heavy-DutyCast-IronNot specifiedNot specified
Shop Fox W1752 Wood Lathe - Best DIYCast-Iron120 V3-inch
Laguna Tools 1836 Wood Lathe - Best for HobbyistCast-Iron220 V3-inch

What Are The Best Wood Lathes?

Have a quick review at the features of the 15-best wood lathes, and pick the one that suits your needs the best.

  • Best Overall: Shop Fox W1704 Wood Lathe
    “Variable speed motor, Durable construction, Ideal for pen turning.”
  • Best Budget: WEN 3420T Wood Lathe
    “Easy to use lever clamping system, Adjustable tool rests, Variety of accessories.”
  • Best Variable Speed: Delta 46-460 Wood Lathe
    “High accuracy and precision, Powerful motor, Backed by a 5-year warranty.”
  • Best Control: JET JWL-1221VS Wood Lathe
    “Optimally designed speed ranges, Integrated spring-loaded spindle lock, Conveniently located controls and DRO.”
  • Best With Electronic Speed Control: Nova 71118 Wood Lathe
    “Digital readout, Forward and reverse switch, 3-step pulley system.”
  • Best Mini: RIKON 70-100 Wood Lathe
    “Self-ejecting tailstock, Laser engraved Ram with 2.5-inch travel, A user-friendly and versatile tool.”
  • Best for Turning Large Bowls: Rockler Woodworking and Hardware MC-1018 Wood Lathe
    “Durable construction, Ideal for beginners, Lightweight and versatile.”
  • Best Under $500: RIKON 70-105 Wood Lathe
    “5-Speed range settings, Sturdy and dedicated craft machine, Comes with many accessories.”
  • Best Spindle: Jet JWL-1015 Wood Lathe
    “Six spindle speed options, Wider bed for improved rigidity, User-friendly lathe.”
  • Best for Home Workshop: Jet 719115 JWL-1221SP Wood Lathe
    “24-integrated indexing system, Acme thread in the tailstock, 6-speed step pulley.”
  • Best for Small Projects: Powermatic 3520B Wood Lathe
    “Digital RPM readout, Ideal for a wide range of projects, Powerful motor for high torque.”
  • Best for Industry: Shop Fox W1758 Wood Lathe
    “Heavy-duty construction ensures minimal vibrations, Lever speed adjustments up to 10-speeds, Quick-lock/release levers for tailstock and headstock.”
  • Best Heavy-Duty: Nova 71123 Comet II Wood Lathe
    “Solid cast-iron construction for vibration dampening, Easy to add and remove, Perfect for longer spindle projects.”
  • Best DIY: Shop Fox W1752 Wood Lathe
    “Adjustable tool rest, Quick access speed changes, Rubber feet for machine leveling.”
  • Best for Hobbyist: Laguna Tools 1836 Wood Lathe
    “Ergonomic angled control panel, CAM lock, Easy to use quick release handle.”

Top 15 Best Wood Lathe Reviews in 2023

Now you know what this guide is all about, let us go through a detailed review of the best wood lathe to help you choose the right product.

1. Shop Fox W1704 Wood Lathe

(Best Overall)

Shop Fox W1704 Wood Lathe

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional, a wood lathe would make your work so much easier. If you are looking out for the best wood lathe available in the market, then take a look at this product brought to you by Shop Fox. The motor is designed in a way to fit on any workbench.

The variable speed of the motor delivers speed from 700 and 3,200 RPM. It also flaunts an impressive swing length over the bed, which is 8-inch long. The machine has been constructed using cast iron, which makes it sturdy and durable.

Key Features:

  • Ample distance between centers for easy workability
  • The package comes with two tool rests
  • Comes with 5-3/4-inch faceplate

Pros

  • Works on hard and softwood
  • Lightweight for easy transfer between workstations
  • Minimal vibrations and noise

Cons

  • Screws might grind against the knob

Product Specifications:

Motor Size1/3 HP
Distance Between Centers12-inch
Swing Over Bed8-inch
Product Dimensions/Weight7.1 x 27.9 x 13.7 inches/48.4 pounds
ManufacturerShop Fox

You shouldn’t miss out on this deal if you need a wood lathe with top-grade features. Here’s a video explaining more about its functionality:

Watch video: Shop Fox W1704 Lathe Unboxing and Setup

2. WEN 3420T Wood Lathe

(Best Budget)

WEN 3420T Wood Lathe

Are you on a tight budget this month, and a wood lathe is something you need urgently? If so, then consider this pocket-friendly wood lathe introduced by WEN. The motor’s variable speed can be adjusted with the help of a rotating dial anywhere between 750 and 3200 RPM.

Also, it’s fitted with a faceplate of 5-inch, which helps in turning all the non-spindle work-pieces. In order to support tools and chisels during operation, the system comes with two tool rests. Apart from that, the motor starts very slowly to prevent any damage to the engine and increases safety for the user.

Key Features:

  • Flat wrench
  • Center for Headstock Spur
  • Includes multiple accessories at the budget price point

Pros

  • Fitted with a safety lock
  • Interchangeable tool rests
  • Tailstock center

Cons

  • No holes for mounting

Product Specifications:

Motor Size1/3 HP
Distance Between Centers12-inch
Swing Over Bed8-inch
Product Dimensions/Weight26 x 10 x 12 inches/43 pounds
ManufacturerWEN

Get yourself a good quality wood lathe at reasonable prices. Place your order right away! Check out this video to know more about the product:

Watch video: Unboxing and a Demo of a Wen 8x12 Lathe

3. Delta 46-460 Wood Lathe

(Best Variable Speed)

Delta 46-460 Wood Lathe

Have you been using a wood lathe where you’ve to adjust the speed by changing the position of the belt? Well, it’s time to replace it with a wood lathe having a variable speed motor. Delta’s wood lathe provides you with three-pulley ranges to choose from as per your need.

It has a swing capacity of 12-1/2-Inch, which makes it the best wood lathe available in the market. Not just that, the Reversing and Forward system ensures superior finish. In addition to that, the belt tensioning mechanism ensures quick and easy speed change.

Key Features:

  • Provides longer tool life and maximum power transfer
  • Indexing ping for headstock lock
  • Extension bed for increased bed length

Pros

  • Cast iron for a strong and durable design
  • 5-year manufacturer warranty
  • Corded-electric variant for glitch-free work

Cons

  • Most of the tool rest might not fit

Product Specifications:

Motor Size1 HP
Distance Between Centers16.5-inch
Swing Over Bed12.5-inch
Product Dimensions/Weight36 x 11 x 17.75 inches/97 pounds
ManufacturerDelta

With several amazing features, this wood lathe by Delta can carry out heavy-duty tasks with utmost sincerity and ease. Here’s a video giving out important information regarding the product:

Watch video: Delta Midi Lathe 46-460 - Review

4. JET JWL-1221VS Wood Lathe

(Best Control)

JET JWL-1221VS Wood Lathe

A wood lathe should provide greater control to the user so that he/she can get the desired outcome. Considering the importance of control, Jet brings you a conveniently located DRO speed control for even woodwork. The variable speed ranges between 60-3600 RPM, which makes it ideal to suit various users’ requirements.

Not just that, the device comes with an integrated spindle lock that is spring-loaded. To ensure versatility, it comes with an added 24 indexing system. While designing the product, the manufacturers have ensured that the dual movement system is smooth and streamlined.

Key Features:

  • Comes with a belt tension mechanism in a ratchet-style
  • The spindle lock is spring-loaded
  • Tailstock has acme thread

Pros

  • Convenient
  • Sturdy
  • Quill comes with inches and mm readings

Cons

  • Heavy design

Product Specifications:

Motor Size1 HP
Distance Between Centers20.5-inch
Swing Over Bed12.5-inch
Product Dimensions/Weight32.82 x 14.56 x 21.25 inches/136.4 pounds
ManufacturerJET

Whether you’re a pro or just a beginner, greater control over wood lathe allows you to carve our exactly what you want. See this video that explains its working:

Watch video: Jet 1221VS Wood Lathe Unboxing

5. Nova 71118 Wood Lathe

(Best With Electronic Speed Control)

Nova 71118 Wood Lathe

Are you tired of dealing with the manual speed control on your wood lathe? If so, then you mustn’t miss out on this wood lathe by Nova, which comes with electronic speed control. The motor speed ranges from 250 to 4,000 RPM. The comet stand provided with the wood lathe comes with durable v-style legs that enable spacious room under its midi lathe to ensure easy maneuvering.

The best part is, it offers a digital readout. One only needs to dial-in the suitable speed for the material, condition, and job. Since the system is fitted with the Forward and Reverse button, it gets additional flexibility and ensures a superior finish.

Key Features:

  • Comes with a three-step pulley mechanism
  • Includes 2MT strong spindles
  • Designed to emit minimal noise mid-operation

Pros

  • Expandable beds
  • Cast-Iron construction
  • Pulley system (3-Step)

Cons

  • QC issues

Product Specifications:

Motor Size¾ HP
Distance Between Centers16.5-inch
Swing Over Bed12-inch
Product Dimensions/Weight8.9 x 17.8 x 32.9 inches/82 pounds
ManufacturerNova

Now get your DIY tasks accomplished in no time with this wood lathe to you by Nova. Here’s a video that explains its usage:

Watch video: Infinity Cutting Tools - Nova Comet II Midi Lathe

6. RIKON 70-100 Wood Lathe

(Best Mini)

RIKON 70-100 Wood Lathe

Big surprises come in small packages! Yeah, this phrase suits the wood lathe by RIKON very well. While being extremely compact and small, it allows you to handle large projects effectively. Even though it’s compact, it’s capable of handling projects of great capacity.

This mini lathe comes with an effective 6-step motor with exquisite spindle pulleys that help deliver top-notch speeds while being used. Also, the open flap feature allows you a scope to carve out a creative design with the project.

Key Features:

  • Detailed work is ensured by indexing head
  • Runs fairly quiet
  • Comes with an adjustable spindle speed

Pros

  • Tailstock is self-ejecting
  • Durable and versatile
  • Comes with user-friendly accessories

Cons

  • Weak tailstock

Product Specifications:

Motor Size½ HP
Distance Between Centers16-inch
Swing Over Bed12-inch
Product Dimensions/Weight33.75 x 18 x 11.5 inches/88.5 pounds
ManufacturerRikon

If you need a mini wood lathe that can fit into any corner of your workshop perfectly, then RIKON mini wood lathe is an ideal option. Check out the video to get a visual representation of the product:

Watch video: New Wood Lathe - Rikon 70-100 Review

7. Rockler Woodworking and Hardware MC-1018 Wood Lathe

(Best for Turning Large Bowls)

Rockler Woodworking and Hardware MC-1018 Wood Lathe

Though you can complete several projects without a wood lathe, intricate works like turning bowls need a wood lathe. Rockler’s wood lathe allows turning bowls of up to 10-inch diameter. Apart from that, the device has a large work table, which makes it ideal for small tables, chair legs, and other decorative turnings.

Also, it allows the user to choose between five different speeds as per their requirement. For convenient access to the belt, it’s fitted with a small cabinet-door style. The exterior is constructed from cast-iron, which provides minimal vibration, allowing the user a stable environment to work.

Key Features:

  • The knockout bar allows heavy-duty usage
  • Hardware is plated with chrome
  • Speed range is between 760 to 3200 RPM

Pros

  • Non-slip feet
  • Durable
  • Detachable safety switch

Cons

  • Weak motor

Product Specifications:

Motor Size½ HP
Distance Between Centers38.5-inch
Swing Over Bed10-inch
Product Dimensions/WeightNot Specified/101.8 pounds
ManufacturerRockler Woodworking and Hardware

Whether you’re just a beginner or a professional, you can easily handle this wood lathe for finishing up your project. Here’s a video explaining how it works:

Watch video: Rockler's Excelsior 5-Speed Mini Lathe

8. RIKON 70-105 Wood Lathe

(Best Under $500)

RIKON 70-105 Wood Lathe

If you are looking out for wood lathes under $500 that houses all the features you need, then you must try out this product brought to you by RIKON. It has been fitted with a strong motor, which delivers ample energy to cater to all your turning needs. Apart from this, it comes with auto-ejecting tailstock.

Change the speed easily as per your convenience with its tuning dial. Moreover, to avoid vibrating during work, the machine is created using cast iron. Some of the accessories that are included in the package are a tool rest, live center, wrenches, and a knock-out bar.

Key Features:

  • Allows five different speed range
  • Tailstock ejects on its own
  • Speed ranges between 500 and 3200 RPM

Pros

  • The faceplate is of nylon
  • Multiple extensions can be added
  • Non-slip feet

Cons

  • The tailstock wheel might be bent, but it doesn’t affect its working

Product Specifications:

Motor Size½ HP
Distance Between Centers18-inch
Swing Over Bed10-inch
Product Dimensions/Weight35.5 x 10.5 x 14.75 inches/74 pounds
ManufacturerRikon

With this amazing wood lathe by Rikon, you can either handle big projects as well as small ones. Check out the video to get more valuable information:

Watch video: Rikon 70-105 Mini Pen Lathe Unboxing

9. Jet JWL-1015 Wood Lathe

(Best Spindle)

Jet JWL-1015 Wood Lathe

When it comes to woodturning, inappropriate spindle speed is the greatest enemy. With Jet JWL-1015, you get access to a woodworking lathe that features six different spindle speeds that range from 500 RPM to somewhere about 3975 RPM.

Each of these speeds is created to achieve a specific task. Adjust the speed to carve something that is modern yet effortless. The cast-iron body ensures that your investment lasts you for a long time. Apart from this, the lathe comes with a bed measuring about 5.1 inches for ample workspace.

Even though the weight of the machine is light, it is just as sturdy and firm to create a secure work environment.

Key Features:

  • Tensioning mechanism allows easy access to the belt
  • Wide bed delivers more rigidity
  • Comes with 24 position indexing

Pros

  • User-friendly
  • Stable workability
  • Cast iron construction provides strength

Cons

  • One cannot change the speed while the system is running

Product Specifications:

Motor Size½ HP
Distance Between Centers15.5-inch
Swing Over Bed10-inch
Product Dimensions/Weight35 x 18.1 x 14.56 inches/77 pounds
ManufacturerJet

Unleash your creativity and turn your ideas into reality with the help of this amazing wood lathe by Jet. Check out the video if you have any doubts about the product:

Watch video: Jet JWL-1015 Variable Speed Lathe | Unboxing and Review

10. Jet 719115 JWL-1221SP Wood Lathe

(Best for Home Workshop)

Jet 719115 JWL-1221SP Wood Lathe

Are you planning to get a wood lathe for your home workshop? Considering such needs, Jet has launched a wood lathe that can fit into any corner of your house. The machine comes with a 6-speed pulley lathe that provides variable speed during work.

Changing the position of the belt takes less than 10 seconds. Apart from that, it also offers a sturdy tool rest and smooth sliding. Powermatic. So, turn all your projects into reality by working from the comfort of your home with this wood lathe by Jet. The device also brings 24 integrated positions for indexing to help with your creative designing skills.

Key Features:

  • The tailstock comes with acme thread
  • Includes caddie and tools
  • Comes with six-step speed pulley

Pros

  • Great price
  • One-directional drive mechanism
  • Durable

Cons

  • You might face inconvenience while putting bolts

Product Specifications:

Motor Size¾ HP
Distance Between Centers20.5-inch
Swing Over Bed12.5-inch
Product Dimensions/Weight35.8 x 14.6 x 21.25 inches/121.2 pounds
ManufacturerJet

11. Powermatic 3520B Wood Lathe

(Best for Small Projects)

Powermatic 3520B Wood Lathe

If you’re intended to finish off only small projects, there’s no point in investing in a huge and expensive wood lathe that probably won’t fit into a small space. Keeping the needs of customers in mind, Powermatic brings you a wood lathe that specializes in handling small projects. It flaunts an impressive tailstock that houses an inbuilt option for storage requirements.

The solid design flaunts an efficacy to handle unsteady vibrations and make work seamless. The package includes accessories such as a wrench, spindle lock, guard, faceplate, tool rest, and knockout rod. Not just that, the system provides an RPM digital readout to the user.

Key Features:

  • Cast iron constructions make it stable by reducing vibration
  • Dust assembly option for a clean workspace
  • The headstock is cleverly designed to provide easy adjustment

Pros

  • Versatile
  • Ideal for small projects
  • 1-year warranty

Cons

  • Doesn’t come preassembled

Product Specifications:

Motor Size2 HP
Distance Between Centers34.5-inch
Swing Over Bed20-inch
Product Dimensions/Weight55 x 27 x 31 inches/672 pounds
ManufacturerPowermatic

When you have got Powermatic’s wood lathe in hand, you can tackle any project with utmost care and ease. Watch the video if you’ve still got doubts:

Watch video: Powermatic Lathe 3520B Review

12. Shop Fox W1758 Wood Lathe

(Best for Industry)

Shop Fox W1758 Wood Lathe

For industrial use, a wood lathe needs to be rugged and must be capable of working in rigorous environments. And if you’re looking for a sturdy wood lathe, then look no further than the Shop Fox W1758 wood lathe. It is fabricated using cast iron & the machine provides greater stability and very low vibration.

The best part is, it offers ten-speed ranges to choose from as per your need. Also, the package includes a live center, tool rest with swivel arm, 6-inch faceplate, and a spur center. Created from premium quality cast iron, this weighty device eliminates any unnecessary vibration.

Key Features:

  • The speed ranges from 600 to 2400 RPM
  • Fitted with adjustable tool rest
  • Tachometer for exact speed detection

Pros

  • Quick-release/lock levers for Headstock and Tailstock
  • Sturdy and durable
  • Outboard turning option

Cons

  • Doesn’t come with a reversed direction option

Product Specifications:

Motor Size2 HP
Distance Between Centers46-inch
Swing Over Bed16-inch
Product Dimensions/Weight76.5 x 19 x 48.75 inches/338 pounds
ManufacturerShop Fox

This powerful and fully-featured wood lathe by Shop Fox will stand up to your expectations even in the toughest working environments. Check out this video to know more about this product:

Watch video: Shop Fox W1758 Wood Lathe Reviews

13. Nova 71123 Comet II Wood Lathe

(Best Heavy-Duty)

Nova 71123 Comet II Wood Lathe

Do you handle major wood lathe projects that require heavy-duty usage? With Nova 71123 Comet II, you get access to a power-packed device that brings in an RPM range of 250 going all the way to 4000. The thing that makes this device ideal for your projects is the fact that it houses a digital readout option to check the speed.

With a bed extension of 23.4-inches, the machine offers greater woodturning capacity. Not just that, the bed extension is also made from cast iron to reduce vibration and provide a more stable surface to work.

Key Features:

  • Accessories can be easily added and removed
  • Easy maneuvering with adjustable tubular stand
  • Fitted with a three-step pulley system

Pros

  • Possesses reverse and forward switches
  • Rigid and strong
  • Noiseless motor

Cons

  • Slow speed

Product Specifications:

Motor SizeNot Specified
Distance Between Centers42-inch
Swing Over Bed25.5-inch
Product Dimensions/Weight7 x 6.5 x 23 inches/24 pounds
ManufacturerTeknatool

All your heavy-duty tasks can now be smoothly done by using this sturdy wood lathe by Nova. Here’s a video to get you more information:

Watch video: Infinity Cutting Tools - Nova Comet II Midi Lathe

14. Shop Fox W1752 Wood Lathe

(Best DIY)

Shop Fox W1752 Wood Lathe

If you need a wood lathe for a DIY project, it should be user-friendly. With Shop Fox W1752, you get access to an easy to use a machine that can craft out different shapes on your wood. Fitted with a powerful and ultra-modern designed motor, the machine delivers maximum stability and power for effective woodturning.

The non-slip rubber feet ensure the machine doesn’t lose stability in between the woodturning and also reduces vibration. Apart from that, the machine also allows quick change of speed. Other included accessories are a faceplate of 3-inch, spur center, and a live center.

Key Features:

  • Constructed using cast-iron
  • The paddle acts as a safety switch
  • Comes with an adjustable tool rest

Pros

  • Speed ranges between 480 to 4023 RPM
  • 2-year warranty
  • Comes with 6-speed ranges

Cons

  • None

Product Specifications:

Motor Size½ HP
Distance Between Centers15.5-inch
Swing Over Bed10-inch
Product Dimensions/Weight37 x 8 x 15 inches/99 pounds
ManufacturerShop Fox

So, the next time you’re planning to do a creative DIY project, remember that you can blindly rely on the working of this wood lathe by Shop Fox. Check out the video for more features:

Watch video: Shop Fox W1752 1/3 HP Benchtop Lathe Review

15. Laguna Tools 1836 Wood Lathe

(Best for Hobbyist)

Laguna Tools 1836 Wood Lathe

Hobbyists who hold interest in carving out different structures from wood need a special wood lathe to turn their imagination into reality. The device works on a unique VFD or Variable Frequency Drive methodology that converts the single-phase power to the motor for industrial-grade workability.

On any lathe, it is critical to ensure stability. It has been ensured with Laguna’s wood lathe, where there is steady woodwork with ample torque. The wood lathe’s power delivery methodology also senses any unwanted resistance and compensates the same by changing the required RPM.

Key Features:

  • Tailstock and headstock lock handles are fitted at the back
  • Digital format RPM readout
  • Brightly colored buttons for easy recognition

Pros

  • Unique design
  • Aluminum control panel
  • Sufficient storage on-board for accessories

Cons

  • Quite expensive

Product Specifications:

Motor Size2 HP
Distance Between Centers41.5-inch
Swing Over Bed32-inch
Product Dimensions/Weight40 x 36 x 50 inches/452 pounds
ManufacturerLaguna Tools

Unleash your creativity with Laguna’s 1836 wood lathe. Watch the video to know how it’s used:

Watch video: REVO 1836 Lathe Setup - Unboxing The Lathe

Things To Consider When Buying The Best Wood Lathe

Wooden lathes can be used for creating different items and workpieces. But there is a difference between merely getting a wood lathe and getting one that can fit your requisite frame. So here are a few things that you need to check out while purchasing a wooden lathe:

Lathe Size

When buying a wood lathe, you have to consider two specific capacity measures – the distance between the two centers and the swing. The first parameter helps you to find the maximum length of stock you can turn on the lathe, whereas the spindle determines the highest diameter you can turn on the lathe. So, depending on your project, check the wood lathe size.

Tailstock

A tailstock is basically a pin that is located opposite the headstock and can rotate evenly to hold the spindle towards the center. The tailstock pin should be such that it can securely lock in its desired position, offering higher levels of versatility to the user to allow all types of woodturning.

Strong Base

A solid and sturdy base is a mandatory requirement of a wood lathe, especially if you wish to produce high quality turned wooden workpieces.

When the workpiece is spun on the motor, it produces vibrations that can cause hindrance in the effective turning of the wood and prove out to be risky. Hence, the bed should ideally be heavy in nature so that the vibrations are considerably reduced down to a lower level while the

Motor

The motor power of a wood lathe should ideally lie in the range of 1/8 HP and 3 HP. If you have to carve out bigger workpieces, then a wood lathe with a large motor can help turn wood effectively, whereas motors with lesser power can go well for small-sized projects.

You can also get to buy wooden lathe variants that allow the user to gain control over the speed of the motors. So, consider the power and RPM that suits your type of project.

Tool Rests

Tool rests can be considered as a safety component that allows the tool to rest over it. Thus, they must allow you the freedom to adjust to different positions as per the need of the hour to direct the device towards the wood workpiece.

The tool rest should be securely mounted and locked to that particular position and shouldn’t be loose at any cost. So, consider eyeing on the tool rests that can fit securely to its place. You can also consider buying them in different sizes to expect versatility while cutting spindles and bowls.

FAQs

A Wood lathe is an essential tool for any woodworking project, but many questions may come across your mind while buying a wood lathe. Here I have listed a few of them for you to get assistance.

Can a wood lathe be used for metal?

You can turn a metal lathe to wood, but a wood lathe can never be used for as a metal lathe. The tools for a wood lathe cannot bear the workload for carving metal, and it can ruin your machine if you are going to use a wood lathe for metal carving.

How to use wood lathe tools?

Using a wood lathe can be dangerous for a beginner. However, use protective gear and make sure to hold your tools firmly to avoid any injury while carving wood. Take good care while handling a roughing gouge as it is an essential part while starting to carve. Check out the video to know how to use the wood lathe:

How to sharpen the wood lathe tools?

Sharpening your tool is essential for having an efficient result. To begin the process, first of all, mark the cutting edge of your tools so that you get an idea of what to do and what not. Lay the tool down on a flat table along with the machine and rotate the grinder’s wheel slowly to get the correct angle before turning it on.

Is it challenging to turn wood through lathe?

Woodturning can be hard for beginners, but it is not that hard to use a wood lathe. Just get some experience, and you can turn the wood quickly through your lathe.

How long does Wood need to dry before turning?

It is vital to choose a dry wood before going to turn it. Usually, wood needs to be dried for almost one year before it is put on a wood lathe for carving. Putting a wet or partially dry wood on a lathe can ruin the wood and your tools as well.

The Bottom Line

I hope that this article has helped you to choose the best wood lathe that can meet your needs efficiently. However, I liked Shop Fox W1704 Wood Lathe the most.

This wood lathe features a 1/3 HP, variable-speed motor that delivers spindle speed between 700-3200 RPM. What makes this wood lathe different from other products is its faceplate, which threads onto the headstock spindle for non-spindle turnings. If you have any queries, feel free to ask. I’ll love to answer your queries. All the best!

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