Would this be a bad start for a lathe?

[Rick Cicciarelli]

I know Grizzly lathes don't have the best reputation but this just came up:

Grizzly wood lathe, model G5979. 12" X 35.5", 1/2 horsepower motor for $250 OBO.

It comes with a stand as well. Would this be a bad way to start off (fighting the machine), or would it suffice until I can save up for something bigger and better?

[David Christopher]

Rick, its not a bad lathe..I had one for 5 or 6 years. if you have a bandsaw to cut your blanks so they wont be so out of balance it will do fine...if you plan to do larger stuff and without a bandsaw I would pass

[Steve Mawson]

Agree with David, unless you plan on a lot of spindle work. Then should do fine if bearings etc. are tight.