Lathe choices....questions from the flat world

[John Keeton]

I have researched many of the prior threads on this topic, and it seems there is a consensus that the HF lathe is a good starter lathe - not without its problems. The Jet 1442 VS seems to be a greatly respected lathe, with some doubters.

As a furniture hobbiest, my needs are simply to be able to expand my capabilities by producing legs, spindles, etc. for use in furniture projects. With that in mind, it seems my choices at the moment are a Jet 1442, one year old, for somewhere around $850, the HF lathe currently at $249, but I can wait for the periodic sale, or the lathe below which is identified as an "Older Version Walker Turner Lathe" that is listed on CL for $300, or best offer. The lathe is represented to run fine. The ad has been up for a month, so I suspect it can be obtained for less.

I would have to drive 1.5 hours to obtain either the Jet or the Walker-Turner.

So, not being under an obsessive compulsion to act (differently from how I usually approach a new tool!), what would you do?

[Paul Atkins]

No question - go for the Walker Turner. If you want to upgrade later, the HF will be worth less and the WT will hold it's value and it looks so much better. Probably weighs a bit more too. I just like old tools too.

[Mark Burge]

John, Welcome to the round side (beware, the vortex will pull hard). If you are really going to contain yourself to furniture and mostly spindle work, I don't think you will need to worry so much about swing as you do about horsepower. Some of your work will likely be long and a bed extension may be a needed item. I have no experience with the particular lathes you reference, but I do have a Jet Mini. Jet is a good brand as you know. But, the HF and the CL find are somewhat unknown quantities. I would make sure I checked them out in person before laying down money. Check the spindle for wobble, the centers to make sure they line up. The Walker-Turner sure looks like a big lathe. Being a Kentuckian by birth, you have made me want to drive home to take a look at it too. Good luck. - Mark

[Bob Vallaster]

What Paul said.

BobV

[Curt Fuller]

I don't have any personal experience with the HF lathes, but have heard considerably more negative than positive. I have no personal experience with the Jet 1442 either but have heard much more positive than negative about it. I'm a fan of old iron and turn on an old Oliver lathe, so I would lean towards the Walker Turner. But make sure it has a standard spindle size and a standard morse taper in both the spindle and tail stock so you can buy accessories easily. I would guess from the photo that it has a Reeves Drive. The Reeves drives on the old lathes are much more heavy duty than most of the newer lathes. Check that to make sure there isn't any play in the pulleys along with the spindle bearings. Also, some of the older lathes are 3 phase 220V which can be good or bad depending if you know how to deal with the electronics.


p.s. You're only kidding yourself if you think you're not going to want to turn a nice big salad bowl or vase once you get a chance to watch the shavings fly. I've seen your flatwork on some of the other forums and I'm betting you're the kind of guy that's going to be more happy with a PM3520B, Oneway, or something in that caliber. You can take it a step at a time or just make the leap.

[John Keeton]

Thanks for all the input guys. I have done some more research on the Walker-Turner, and there seems to be some avid interest in those lathes. Mark and Curt have pointed out things to check, but I am probably do not have enough knowledge about lathes generally to know what I am looking for upon inspection - particularly the Walker-Turner.

And, I am not much of a "tinkerer." Apparently, there are no parts available except from old iron peddlers. I am afraid if I had trouble with it, finding/making parts for it is out of the question.

The new price on the Jet 1442 is somewhere around $1200, plus tax. $850 is probably not bad, but not a steal either.

Curt, I appreciate your comments and I am humbled that you recall my flatwork projects. You make some good points on wanting to do more (the vortex thing as Mark said!) While bowl turning, etc. doesn't have much appeal today, I am sure that could change. However, don't think I could justify the kind of money it would take to get a PM3520B or a Oneway. There may be a day for that, but I think it is a ways off.

I will sit on this for a while and see what else crops up on CL. May think about the Jet 1442 some more.....

[Jim Becker]

John, since your needs are primarily for spindle work, you can't go wrong with any of those choices, more or less. But I'm of the mind that it's often better to invest in something worthy rather than just buy something to get buy. I say that knowing that I actually started out on the HF 340706...but it only worked out for me for about six months. Then, it was on to an upgrade. (the first upgrade...a second came later...LOL) So I would have spent less had I bought the better machine the first time. Given all that, I'd go with the Jet or the WT machine you mention instead of the HF. It's the better deal in the long run.

[Bernie Weishapl]

John depending on how long the legs you will turning are I would look at the Rikon Midi. I bought one to do spindles for grandfather clocks. It will do 48" between centers and runs about $420. That is without tax, etc. I have run mine hard and it has held up well. Just a thought.

[Kyle Iwamoto]

You can turn a good sized bowl on a mini..... You can always start with a mini and get that 3520 later. The one good thing about a mini is the size. It don't take up a lot of room. I mounted mine on a 25 buck CL rolling tool chest. Tools in drawers always handy..... Big junk goes in the bottom for ballast. The Rikon, Jet and the new Delta, you can't go wrong.

[Dick Strauss]

John,
I'd buy the WT lathe over the others assuming it is as advertised and given the concerns others have voiced.

You could also go the route of the mini lathe + bed extension to be able to turn a 3-4' spindle. Some of the minis are quite good and others leave something to be desired. The new Delta 46-460 + extension can be had for about $750, can turn up to a 12.5" piece, up to a 42" long, can be reversed, and has true variable speed. I would be tempted to look at this option over the used Jet 1442 given the price and what you want to do.

Welcome to the vortex,
Dick

[John Keeton]

I really appreciate all the input - a hospitable welcome to a "flat foreigner." Many of you have suggested the mini/midi lathes with true VS, as have some other creekers outside this thread. I have looked at several of those online, and they look very attractive, and I think would easily serve my purpose with the advantages of a warranty, and a small footprint.

Spoke with the guy that has the WT lathe, and he had broken some of the cast iron on the door that encloses the motor. To compound the problem, I checked the mileage to get there and it is about a 2.5 hour trip. I don't think I am willing to do that being unsure of what I would actually find when I got there.

I have emailed the owner of the 1442 and told him I would be interested at $650. That is about 1.5 hour trip, and worth the effort at that price assuming it checks out OK.

A local fellow has indicated that he knows of a couple of lathes his uncle wants to sell, so I am in the process of checking out that lead.

I don't have much hope on either of the above, but will give it a few days or so. In the meantime, the local Woodcraft is having a sale event this coming weekend, and I will take that opportunity to check out some of the suggestions on the Rikon, Jet and Delta minis. Thanks again, for the welcome and the helpful information. I have read a bunch of threads, so many of you have been helpful without realizing it.

[Gary Herrmann]

Oh, be careful John. You may find yourself selling planes to buy turning tools...

[Wilbur Pan]

Hi John,

I had a Walker-Turner lathe as my first lathe before I found a Conover lathe for sale that I jumped on. The Walker-Turner is a sweet lathe and would be perfect for someone looking primarily to do spindle work. But there are some issues to consider with this lathe.

First, the spindle thread is 1" x 10 tpi. It's not impossible to find accessories that will fit that thread, but it's not going to be as easy as if you had a lathe with a more standard thread, like 1" x 8 tpi. For my WT lathe, I got lucky in that it came with a bunch of faceplates that fit it already. I also ordered a scroll chuck with a special insert that fit that thread.

Ironically, the Conover lathe that I upgraded to also has a bit of an oddball spindle thread (1-1/2" x 8 tpi), which left me in the same situation as when I had my WT lathe.

Second, Walker-Turner had a habit of using nonstandard bearing sizes in their lathes. In rehabbing my WT lathe when I first got it, I wound up completely disassembling the headstock and spindles, cleaning and repacking the bearings with grease. The good news is, if you wind up having to do that to your lathe, that will be the last time you'll have to do something like that for at least 10 years.

The bad news is, if the bearings are shot, it's going to take some doing to find replacement bearings. Some people who have rehabbed WT lathes have had to find a close standard bearing and do some machining of the spindle to get them to fit. Luckily for me, I didn't have to go that route.

Basically, if that Walker-Turner lathe is in good running order, $300 is not a bad price for it, but it looks like that's not going to be an option for you.

Knowing you, I'd go to the Woodcraft sale and try out their lathes, and go with something new. Even better, find a local turner or woodworking club and take a lesson to see what you like in a lathe before you go shopping for one That will tell you more about what you would want in a lathe than any woodworking forum.

If you want to keep looking for used lathes, and if you want to stay away from the tinkering aspect of buying used equipment, keep an eye out for used Delta lathes. They have standard spindle threads and bearings. But for you, I really would go with something new. I'm a big fan of old iron, but lathes are one area where the newer machines are really better overall than what was offered in the past.

If you are interested in a Jet 1442, for what you plan on doing I'd get one of the newer mini/midi lathes that have a 12" swing with a bed extension. The speed control mechanism on the Jet 1442 is not the greatest. I'd rather do speed changes with pulleys instead. One other option I'd seriously consider is the Nova 1624 with a bed extension. It's pricier than the Jet 1442 new, but they often go on sale, and it could easily be the last lathe you buy.

One final thought: the lathe is only part of the stuff you'll need for turning, and a good rule of thumb is that ultimately your lathe will make up only 1/3-1/2 of the cost of your total turning arsenal.

Hope that helps!

(And yes, I'm waiting for an ER to call me back tonight, so that's why I'm reading woodworking forums at this hour -- again. ;) )

[John Keeton]

One final thought: the lathe is only part of the stuff you'll need for turning, and a good rule of thumb is that ultimately your lathe will make up only 1/3-1/2 of the cost of your total turning arsenal.;) )Well.....that wasn't what I was waiting to hear:eek:

But, Wilbur, I suspect it is like all this other woodworking stuff - a slope, not a cliff!!:D I will sneak up on this a dollar at a time, and before long that frog will be boiled and none the wiser!

Good comments on the old lathes, and pretty much what I had concluded. I did find where someone is making bearings for the WT for about $75. But, by the time I have the case welded, possibly replace the bearing, spend an entire day getting the lathe, gas costs, etc., it it just out of the picture for me. What I don't want to do with deer season coming up is spend a weekend taking apart a machine I know nothing about in hopes of it working again after reassembly;) And, then there is always the question of what to do with all those extra left over parts after reassembly:rolleyes:

Great comments, Wilbur, and as always, intuitive. Hope the remainder of your early morning was somewhat undisturbed, and that you got some rest! But, more importantly, I know you are an extremely caring person, and I hope your patient fairs well. You spend your life helping young folks in the worst of circumstances - the highest of callings!!

[Neal Addy]

Well.....that wasn't what I was waiting to hear:eek:
I'll ditto Wilbur's comment. The lathe is only part of the picture.

Don't know if you've read this yet but it might give you a few things to think about.

Getting Started in Woodturning (http://www.nealaddy.org/node/39)

It also discusses things to look for in a lathe.

HTH!

[John Keeton]

Neal, thanks a bunch. Great website, great work, photography, and a wealth of info! Your links page, and the specs page are enough to keep me engaged for a good while. Some good hints, too, on the Wolverine setup.

[Mike Spanbauer]

just something to consider John is the new Delta 1hp vs unit. The few that have them have complimented fit / finish / build quality and it'll provide for a portable / "hidable" unit if you've limited shop space.

1hp too, which is equal to many of the smaller spindle lathes you mentioned.

I would personally pass on the 1442 as the reeves drives is problematic with them due to softer steels than the old version (I started w/a PM90 and it had a STOUT reeves drive in it). Wear is an issue depending on the hours you log on it and they are quite a bit louder than the belt change companions as noted by another.

The club idea proposed before though may be a great one as sometimes there are members who are looking to sell a lathe due to an upgrade OR be able to tune you in to a club discount.

mike

[John Keeton]

Thanks for the input, Mike! The seller on the 1442 would not budge, so I am out on that one. I think $850 is max value on a used 1442, and add in the 1.5 hour one way trip and cost, and it is too much.

I plan to visit Woodcraft today and do some hands on, and see what turning clubs may have posted info on their bulletin board. That is an excellent idea, and hopefully I will come away with some education and some leads. Thanks, again!

[John Keeton]

Thought I would post an update as to where I am on this issue. Did the Woodcraft thing, and looked at Delta, Jet and Rikon - all very nice lathes, and with some very nice features. Got the name of the local turners club, and emailed the president inquiring about possible lathes for sale. No reply yet.

But, while out going between tool stores and fabric stores (have to be nice to my lady when I am tool shopping - well, all the time for that matter:D), I went to Harbor Freight to check out the 34706, currently retailing at $249. I really didn't expect much.

However, it is a heavy chunk of iron, and not all that bad! It is on sale at $229, and with the 20% discount coupon, that puts it at $183! Came home, and read every review I could find, including many on SMC, as well as other turning forums. For the money, this plane gets a very good approval rating.

Unless I have a complete change of heart, I think I am going back tomorrow for the HF, get the cheap set of chisels, and all the other whatnots I might need. If this "round" thing doesn't work out, or if I do get sucked in to the vortex and want to upgrade, then I figure I can get $125 or so out of the 34706, and not have gotten hurt that bad.

Am I being totally out of reason on this?

[Wilbur Pan]

But, while out going between tool stores and fabric stores (have to be nice to my lady when I am tool shopping - well, all the time for that matter:D), I went to Harbor Freight to check out the 34706, currently retailing at $249. I really didn't expect much.

However, it is a heavy chunk of iron, and not all that bad! It is on sale at $229, and with the 20% discount coupon, that puts it at $183! Came home, and read every review I could find, including many on SMC, as well as other turning forums. For the money, this plane gets a very good approval rating.

Well, at least we know where your heart really is at in terms of woodworking tools. ;)

As to the HF lathe, I looked at the HF website, and there are some issues with that particular lathe that I would be concerned with.

First, it looks like the base is made of riveted or bolted sheet metal. This is pretty inadequate for a lathe. Whenever you start off turning, your turning blank is going to be off balance, which means vibration, which is the enemy of good results with your turnings. I'm concerned that this base is not going to be sturdy enough. Quality lathes have a very heavy duty base, which helps dampen vibration. My bet is that you'll wind up having to build or modify the base on this lathe.

Second, the speed range (600-2400 RPM) is pretty limited. 600 RPM is on the high side for an out of balance blank that you are roughing down, and if you are interested in spindle work, you'll probably want to go higher than 2400 RPM at some point. As a point of comparison, the Delta 12" mini lathe has a speed range of 250-4000 RPM.

I'd also check out how you change speeds on this lathe. The HF website lists 10 possible speeds, and I'm not sure how all those speeds are achieved. Personally, I'm not a big fan of the Reeves drive method of speed changes, which is what it looks like this lathe has.

This lathe is 33 1/2" between centers. Most lathes in this class are 36" between centers or longer. Will this make a difference for spindle turning for furniture? Well, if the piece you need to turn is 34" long, you've got no recourse with the HF lathe.

Finally, there has to be some reason why the HF lathe is so inexpensive. My bet is that they skimped on the bearings and the castings. Bearings are to a lathe what the blade is to a plane -- they're indispensable to its function and efforts to get by with a lesser quality bearing/plane blade is a quick road to dissatisfaction. The casting is important not just for accuracy of machining but also for the weight. Cheaper castings are thinner, and weigh less, and a light lathe is an unstable lathe.

Many times it's useful to start with a cheaper tool and work your way up, but lathes are the one area that's an exception to this rule. I'd recommend again that instead of the HF lathe, seriously consider a new mini lathe with a bed extension, or if you really want to stay with a small budget, be patient and go the used route with a well known model of lathe.

By starting with the HF lathe and then upgrading, you're destined to lose at least $80 -- if you can actually sell the HF lathe for what you think you can. I would say that at this point you're much better off taking that $80 and investing it in a lesson or two with a local woodturner. That's the first thing that I did when I got started in woodturning -- I took a lesson from a local guy. It was completely worth it. You can also get their input on lathes. People who teach woodturning have nice equipment, and they can show you first hand what it is that makes a quality lathe that's hard to describe or appreciate over the internet. You didn't mention if you actually tried turning anything on the lathes at your local Woodcraft, but this is something that is best seen on a lathe in actual use.

To come full circle, maybe I can put this in hand plane terms. You're looking at a lathe that is at the same level as an Anant -- before they tried to beef up their quality and QC efforts. You might get lucky and get a good one, or you might get one that is going to take some work, and selling it later on might be a bit of an issue. Or you can find an old used Delta lathe, which is like finding a good condition Stanley plane.

But knowing you, I just know that you're going to eventually get a lathe at the level of a Veritas plane. And in this case, I'd just go for that. Rehabbing and upgrading lathes isn't anywhere as much fun as it is for planes.

And for my last hand plane analogy: try to imagine telling someone over the internet what it is about a LV plane that makes it worth having to someone who has never used a good quality plane. That's why I think it's so important to try out woodturning before settling on a lathe.

And if it doesn't work out, you'll have a much easier time selling a Jet or Delta mini lathe than you will the HF lathe.

P.S. Don't skimp out on the scroll chuck, either, although you don't really need one for spindle turning.

[John Keeton]

Ahhhhh... my Freudian slip gave 'way my hand!! Wilbur, all good points, and masterfully made!

I should say here that many years ago, I owned an old craftsman lathe - the one that you saw everywhere. Seems it was about a 30" bed?? I seem to remember that I bought it for $50, including the tools. Turned a dozen pieces on it, all very crude, nonetheless functional, as I had no instruction. That was before the era of instructional DVDs.:D

After that first couple of weeks, it sat in the corner of my shop for 10 years or so. Along with the years of accumulated sawdust, it eventually was sold or given away - I don't recall which.

Ultimately, at a yard sale, I came upon another one - identical - and acquired it. Never used it as I had sold the chisels and just never got around to buying more. Gave it away about 5 years ago.

I tell this story to illuminate my level of desire for this lathe. It differs from the plane analogy in that I really enjoy the "lure" of the planes, and I enjoy using them, and getting them sharp.

I am in the home of woodturners here, and must respect their haven. I hesitate to make this next statement, as I may not be permitted to return:o However, when I pick up a beautifully turned bowl, I can certainly admire the form, the grain of the wood, and the effort that went into it. But, it stirs no desire in me to do the same. I know I speak sacrilege as I stand on holy ground here, and I apologize in advance;)

With a plane, and/or a planed surface, it is different. When I see a plane, I have the urge to fondle it, use it, tweak it, and I really, really, like that glassy surface.

The lathe is simply a tool to produce the legs I need for the furniture I build. It is the end result that I am after. That completed piece - that mix of efforts that I love doing, and some that I hate. I love doing the dovetails, I hate doing the finish. I love the designing, I hate stock preparation....

If I had a next door neighbor that turned, and to whom I could contract out legs/spindles, I would not buy a lathe. Additionally, the styles of the legs for the furniture I enjoy building, are quite simple, and would not seem to require much more than 'ol Roy Underhill's springpole lathe. However, there is that element of being able to say at the end - I made ALL of that - thus where I am now.

Now, all of this may change. Lord knows, it has with many things - including the planes. But, given that I have had a couple of bites at this apple before, I doubt it.

Apparently, the HF lathe is identical to the Jet JWL-1236, as the part numbers are the same, and all parts interchange. I understand that it may be produced with inferior standards. But, at the least, the design has some mileage on it.

Notwithstanding your sage advice, and believe me, I do appreciate it and acknowledge that it is the wise thing to do, I believe I will still do the HF thing.

At this point, I would rather risk the entire $200 investment as opposed to making an investment of $1,000, or much more, that I may also regret. In all my searching, I have seen where two or three of the HF lathes have sold, and they sell quickly in the $150 range. I think I can get out of this easily if the urge either dies, or the flames of passion enthrall me. If not, I have lost little.

[Neal Addy]

To summarize Wilbur's post, "You get what you pay for."

[Tom Godley]

John - I was in your position a couple of years ago when I returned to the hobby of woodworking. I had enjoyed working on the lathe as a kid, but had not touched one in over 25 years. After spending a lot of time on the internet - and getting more confused - I stumbled upon a local turner who gave classes. It was only after I had signed up that I began to understand the significance of David Ellsworth!

Taking my first class not only changed my view of the possible -- it quickly educated me on what I did not need to purchase! Within a few hours of using different lathes at different heights at different speeds with tools from various places you begin to see what naturally fits. I left the class with my first hollow-form having never heard the term prior to signing up.

I would recommend that you try to find and take a class before you start your quest for hardware. I bet you will save the price of the class in wasted equipment. Last fall a friend of mine expressed interest in getting a lathe - I suggested he take a class with me but he declined because of the cost. He is now on his third lathe from craigslist and has twice as many old tools. He actually found a similar Jet that you are looking at - and complains about the 1hp motor size, head design and motor interference issues.

Now with all the above said -- I have taken quite a few day classes through two different local clubs where the very talented turners use all kinds of old lathes for particular uses and turn out amazing pieces. But every one of them seems to end up also owning one of the often mentioned better lathes on this forum. Some also own a mini lathe - The latest Jet VS being the currently recommended unit - for small projects or as a dedicated pen or ornament setup. Getting a mini unit may be the most logical starting point if going the new route and the capacity is enough - but you will still end up spending quite a bit. I have seen some great used equipment in various shops - I have never been lucky in finding them!

[John Keeton]

Well, against the sage advice of those better schooled in this than I, today I brought home the HF lathe, chisels, and face shield. Went to Woodcraft, and brought home the slow speed grinder, Wolverine jigs, and diamond wheel dresser. Total cost about $440, with tax, of which about $193 was the grinder setup, which I will use for many other things.

Sometime this weekend, I hope to unpack this stuff and I will report back with either tears of disappointment, or oblivious shouts of mediocrity!:D That is one of the great things about this. At this point, I wouldn't know quality if it hit me in the face!

Neal, I know you and Wilbur are correct - I am getting a cheap piece of Chinese iron - that is what I paid for. But, there is some likelihood that this lathe will see very little use. So, best to learn to sharpen, learn about spinny things, and see where this goes.

Tom, while at Woodcraft, I watched a fellow put the finishing touches on a very nice "hollow form" and, as I had experienced in the past - it didn't do much for me. However, I am a bit excited about going to the barn, and seeing if I can find a piece of wood to try my hand at a shaker leg!

I will update this thread after my first experience with this el cheapo lathe.

[Steve Schlumpf]

John - glad to see you get a great deal on your lathe! Looking forward to seeing some of your first turnings!

Just in case you haven't seen these things before, here are a couple of on-line videos that show some of the common tools and cuts that we use. Have fun with it!

http://www.turningtools.co.uk/videos/videos.html
http://www.ehow.com/video_4944009_woodturning-tools-bowl-gouge-vs.html

Hope that helps! Be sure to ask any and all questions!

[John Keeton]

Hey Steve, thanks!! I had not seen these links - although I have been drifting around youtube looking at some turning videos. I have marked these sites for definite viewing.

[Ken Fitzgerald]

John,

Get a copy of Alan Lacer's video....The Skew Chisel - The Dark Side ..The Sweet Side.

For spindle work like turning furniture legs, the skew chisel is the the cat's meow!

While most folks will tell you it's the hardest tool to learn to use, once you master it, it is truly an incredible tool for spindle work.

Take a look at this thread: http://www.sawmillcreek.org/showthread.php?p=584469#post584469

I turned the spindles for the wheel on Dave's sailboat using one tool....a 3/4" regular grind Robert Larson skew.

Bernie Weishapl will back up what I'm about to say. When doing spindle work with a skew, the resulting cut can be so smooth and yet detailed that any sanding will degrade the finish....any sanding will degrade the finish.

I spent 2 or 3 weekends just turning 2x2s into cylinders...then beads and coves......then cylinders...and repeat the process.

There are a few rules to using a skew:

1. Sharp..sharp....sharp....I grind and diamond hone. Then I can just hone for a long time.

2. Ride the bevel....Ride the bevel......Ride the bevel......Ride the bevel...

3. Commit...plan your cut.....visualize it...then start it and follow through...commit...any hesitation can and usually will result in a catch....or skating....

Once you learn to use a skew......any spindle work becomes faster and better......I don't even use a roughing gouge when doing spindle work...I rough out using........you guessed it....a skew.....

Good luck John!

[JerHall]

This highly regarded new lathe with 1 hp, 42" between centers, variable speed and reverse is well built, base lathe $600, don't know what extension is. I think a 5 year warrantee. Specs here: http://www.deltaportercable.com/Products/ProductDetail.aspx?ProductID=19220

Also some good threads on this forum with satisfied users. Do a search.

You will always be able to sell this for your investment. It is very well built, and to a high standard from what I saw of a friends recent purchase. He is very happy and got it as his second "vacation" lathe.

Really worth considering for a ready to go solution with no surprises and lots of support in the woodturning community.

[John Keeton]

Ken, that is some impressive work on those spokes!! Very precise, consistent, and apparently a very smooth finish from the pics. I will search out the Lacer video - Thanks!!

When you say "I grind and diamond hone. Then I can just hone for a long time" I assume you mean for touchups on the diamond hone??

Jerry, thanks for the link on the Delta. I am going to crank up this HF I bought, and see how that goes before considering upgrades. But that Delta looks like a very nice unit, and I believe someone else mentioned looking at the new 1 hp. Delta. Must be a good machine.

[Ken Fitzgerald]

John,

That's correct. I can touch up with a diamond hone. The hone that Lacer uses in his video is sold by Craft Supplies USA for about $24-28 IIRC. I've had one and been using it for several years.

[Jim Becker]

But, Wilbur, I suspect it is like all this other woodworking stuff - a slope, not a cliff!!

Neither...it's a VORTEX... ;)

[Chris Haas]

hate to totally throw a wrench into this discussion, but if your primarily looking for spindle work. whats wrong with a used pm 90. those are always poping up on craigslist or ebay. a solid machine and parts are available although, probably not needed. also, it will hold its value. just my 2 cents. good luck though and stay away from HF.

[John Keeton]

As promised, here is the update regarding my leap in to this round world. Got the HF set up yesterday, and slid the tailstock over to see how the alignment was - NOT GOOD - about 1/4" out! Removed the headstock to examine the possible cause and found the iron body casting for the headstock was broken, and displaced. NO WONDER it wouldn't line up.

This would be where everyone that has previously posted here can jump up and say - TOLD YOU SO!!:o

Called HF, and told them about the defect. No problem, just bring it back. I told them I had everything assembled, and the bed of the lathe on the base - could I just bring in the headstock and trade out for another one. After a couple of minutes, and speaking to the manager, they agreed. Another trip to HF, but all worked out well.

Set the new headstock on the lathe, and alignment was perfect!

This is the lathe -
127312
This is my new slow speed grinder and Wolverine jig setup -
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And.... this is the first attempt at making a square piece of pine in to a round one with "humps and dips" and stuff (I'll learn the names as I go:D)
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All in all, having fun, and after some practice, watching a couple dozen more YouTube videos, and hopefully the Alan Lacer DVD, I think I will be able to turn a set of legs. Wilbur may be coming through on the Lacer DVD - though I had to acknowledge that I would publicly eat crow when I move up to a better lathe, and credit him with the "I told you so" !!!

[Ken Fitzgerald]

Not too bad John! Keep practicing those beads and coves.

A book you might consider "Woodturning - A Foundation Course" by Keith Rowley. It's written for the beginner. It is very well written and illustrated and is more focused on how to use each tool properly and IMHO has more projects that are spindle projects....stools....chairs.....etc. I've got several other turning books but this one in my GOTO ...sit it by the lathe reference.

He shows in detail how to make some of the fancier cuts you will use when transitioning from the square form to the round form on table legs. The technical term for them eludes me right now.

Lacer demonstrates those same cuts on his video IIRC.

I'd highly recommend this book.

[John Keeton]

...beads and coves....Those were the words I was looking for! Thanks Ken, and I will look for Rowley's book - sounds like that would be very helpful.

Working on transfering all my junk to a new computer this afternoon, so I don't know how much more shop time I will get. This PC is about 6 years old, and starting to hiccup on me. Thought I better get a newer one before I have major issues!

[David Christopher]

John, looks like you have got a nice setup and a good start at turning spindles

[Curt Fuller]

Looks like you're off and running John. It seems like a lot of people (myself included) grab a piece of pine or fir to try turning for the first time. I actually find softwoods to be much harder to guage your success on. Even after several years of turning I find pine to be a challenge and usually need to sand more than I like. You might want to try a piece of inexpensive poplar, alder, or something in the hardwood catagory. You'll be surprised how much easier it is to make it look good.

Then, because you mentioned turning table legs, the real challenge comes in making two or more of the same thing.

Have fun and be careful!

[John Keeton]

Curt, you are certainly correct on the hardwoods, and that is why I decided to use the pine. The same thing happens with using chisels. If you can get good crossgrain cuts in pine, then walnut is a breeze. So, thought I would try to refine my skills a bit in pine in hopes of being able to get a smooth finish. Then, I will switch over to some hardwood and go from there.

Already been thinking about the "duplication" thing - and that will be the challenge without doubt;) Need to do quite a bit of practice before I go there!

David, not sure how nice the setup is, but it will at least get me started. After getting the headstock problem resolved, I am actually pretty impressed with this chunk of Chinese iron.

[Thom Sturgill]

John, just a thought. I got into turning about a year and a half ago to make spindles for a pair of shaker tables. Too much fun!!!

Norm Abrams did a couple of shows on spindle turning for furniture making and the issues about duplicating the cuts for multiple legs. He describes his skill level as a turner as just 'adequate' for the job. Since his show is about furniture making, not wood turning, he does not get too technical about the turning but does have some good tips about layout and measuring for consistency.