New Lathe

[Jim Tobias]

First, let me unequivocally state that I am a Woodworker who turns occasionally when the need arises.
I have a Jet Mini lathe, but am finding I would like to be able to turn larger pieces ( not longer).
I have started looking at the larger Jets and also Nova. I would want as much flexibility as possible as this will in all likelihood, be the last lathe I ever buy.
It sounds like the outboard capability is a nice feature that allows one to occasionally do larger pieces.
What all should I be looking for in a larger lathe?

Thanks for any advice and suggestions,
Jim

[Doug W Swanson]

It all depends on your budget. I have a Powermatic 3520B and I love it. I turn everything from pens to large platters on it. While it may be out of your budget, it's a really nice lathe. For a little less money, there is the Laguna lathes. I haven't turned on one but they look really nice and have some nice features.

Also, I would look for a heavier lathe and something with at least 1.5hp. The heavier lathe will allow you to start with an out of balance blank and the lathe won't bounce all over shop when you turn it on. The higher hp comes in handy for those heavy blanks and should you ever get into coring your bowl blanks.

I could turn outboard on my 3520 but since it already has a 20" capacity I haven't needed to turn outboard yet. That's one of the nice things about a 16" or larger lathe.

Hope this helps!

[John K Jordan]

I agree with Doug - much depends on your budget. It is almost never a bad idea to buy a lathe larger than you now imagine you need! Most "full sized" lathes take up roughly the same floor space so that shouldn't matter much. If you don't have easy access to 220v power that might suggest looking at a 110v lathe.

Mostly turn spindles with occasional bowls? A used Jet 1642 is a respectable lathe, even the 1 hp version. I keep one set up in the shop along with a larger PM 3520b, with another and a couple of Jet minis in a storage building. I mostly use the PM but the 1642 will do almost anything I want. The headstock can be pushed down to the end if you want to turn things larger than 16", but a 16" bowl is a pretty large bowl. The 1642 has a long bed I've used for shovel handles and such - I don't use the full length much but it sure is handy when I do. Some people consider the 1 hp motor too small but I've never stalled mine, even with larger pieces. (Sharp tools, skillful use, no problems.)

There is a bed extender available for the Jet mini to give more length. However, the electronic variable speed and the heavier duty components (and heavier weight) of the larger lathes are all big advantages. The 1hp 1642 runs on 110v power if that's a consideration.

There are many more useful lathes out there that would work. These are just the ones I am the most familiar with.

JKJ

[David Bassett]

You can turn small things on big lathes, but can't turn big things on small lathes. So, bigger is better. But we have to live with our individual constraints, whether space, power, or money. Until recently I had access to a large PowerMatic lathe that was wonderful, even though I usually turn small things. That said, I took a couple classes at our local Woodcraft that uses a (much) older model of the small Rikon lathe. It was very usable within it's size limits and I wouldn't hesitate to look at the Rikon midi-models if budget or space guided me that direction.


... turns occasionally when the need arises....

This is the boat I'm in too. The experts here will (usually) tell you variable speed is a nice but very optional feature. I believe it is for them. But, as an occasional turner, I'd rate it as almost essential. If I could look at a work piece and judge the exact speed I wanted to turn it and could accommodate the increments in speed with technique, belt changes aren't that awful. But being able to start slow to spin a piece while I judge its balance or being able to slightly tweak a speed to get a more comfortable cut is something I use almost constantly. (I can't really explain why dropping 50-100 rpm can so significantly change the quality of cut for me. Maybe it's psychological, but it has a very real effect on my enjoyment and the quality of my results.)

[Jim Tobias]

Thanks for responses so far. As for power supply and space, I'm not restricted by either. I have enough room in my shop and have power supply available. As for $, I don't want to be frivolous, but I like to buy 1 time and be satisfied. Don't want to buy and then regret not stepping up higher on the model scale.

Jim

[Prashun Patel]

"as this will in all likelihood, be the last lathe I ever buy."


Depends what you want to turn.

If you do a lot of bowls, then even more critical than swing (IMHO) is sliding headstock (makes it ergonomic to hollow) and tilting tail stock (it gets heavy to move it out of the way manually).

I like variable speed without (too many) belt changes and speed that goes down below 100 so you can sand easier.

Get as much power as you can. I find that it makes roughing blanks much more enjoyable and less fatiguing.

John Keeton has a good review of the Laguna 18-36 (which I ended up with). It has a lower stance than other lathes which makes it more accessible if you are shorter; it also helps stability.

[Reed Gray]

Well, there are far more choices than there were years ago. Seems to be 3 size ranges, 12 and under which are kind of the mini lathes, great for small projects, and small bowls. Mid sized lathes are in the 16 to 18 inch range, which are great for most smaller bowl turnings, if you want to get into bowls, having 2 hp is a necessity to me, but not at the hobby level. Then there are the big lathes, 2 or 3 hp and in the 20 to 25 inch range. High end quality made for use and abuse are the Robust (made in USA and probably the best height adjustment set up), Oneway (Canada), Powermatic (2 models, 20 and 24 inch made in China and one of the most popular), and Vicmarc (Australia). I prefer the sliding headstock myself, so that leaves the Robust and PM. The Vicmarc is the only one that does the pivoting head stock the right way, and I am considering adding it to my arsenal. Laguna and Grizzly are also serious new comers in the lathe business, and Grizzly seems to have over come some quality issues. The Nova is pretty popular, but I never really cared for them. Best to check them out in person if possible. If there is a club any where near, then you can probably get some play time on most of the models. Other than that, if you can come out to the AAW Symposium in Portland, OR this summer, that would be the best place to see them all at once. The vendor area is dangerous for your pocket book....

robo hippy

[David Bassett]

[...lots of bowl lathe recommendations...]

Since you are a "Woodworker who turns occasionally when the need arises.", you may want to consider spindle capabilities. What specifically you'd want depends on your work. Chisel handles can easily be turned with 12" to 14" between centers. (6" for the handle and 6" to 8" for a drill & chuck to bore a tang hole.) If you want to do an 18" lathe gouge handle, or chair spindles, or.... E.g. if you want to turn stair balusters, well you'll want one of the real biggies.

[Brice Rogers]

I think that there are two ways to figure out what to buy: (1) what you plan to turn (and it seems like you are flexible or haven't really nailed that down or (2) what is the dollar amount that you want to spend?

If you said $10K you'd get one group of answers and range of candidates - - similarly if you said $1700 you'd get a second group of candidates.

Why don't you mention what range you are thinking of. If price is no object go for a Oneway or Robust. If you have a range in mind let us know and we can give you better advice.

[Jim Tobias]

Thanks for all the advice.
Brice .. I am probably looking at a lathe in the $1750 to $3500 range.

Jim

[Roger Chandler]

https://cdn0.grizzly.com/pics/jpeg288/g/g0766-837b217fc589131eaaa6e320f9014b42.jpghttps://cdn0.grizzly.com/pics/jpeg288/g/g0800-495a1e3dac82792b164080286be0c723.jpgI have both of these in my shop, and they are in the range you mention....well, the G0800 is a few hundred more, but either of these will perform as well as any Powermatic. [Btw, I like PM lathes, and have turned on numerous of them!]

The G0800 is a BEAST of a machine, for the money, and has power/performance, with it's advanced premium induction motor/inverter combination, and heavy weight and other premium features. I have turned on both a Robust American Beauty, and a Serious SL2542, which are premium lathes. To me, the G0800 feels like turning on those units........I consider it a high end lathe with premium features and build, at a super value. It is Grizzly's clone of the Harvey Turbo 60, made for them by Harvey Industries. [same manufacturer of the Powermatic lathes]

Laguna has a clone made by them as well, which is the Revo 2436, which only has two bearings in the headstock for the spindle, and both are smaller than the 3 in the Grizzly G0800. All three spindle bearings in the G0800 are bigger in diameter than a baseball. It is really heavy duty.

The Laguna Revo models do offer the tailstock pendant which is very nice, and they have steel bed ways vs. the heavy alloy cast on the G0800.

For me the extra heavy build was more important than the ergonomic feature like the tailstock pendant. That might not be the approach some would take, as ergonomics are important, but in every other way the ergonomics of the G0800 are like the Revo 2436. Most turners would likely not even notice any difference in the bearings, and that might only come into play if one turns as a production turner with a steady diet of very heavy wood.

Just giving information, not trying to sell anyone on anything here, but I did a LOT of research, was saving for a Robust American Beauty, and the G0800 really got my attention. Have owned 5 lathes, turned on dozens of different ones, and numerous models. I am an experienced turner, and dive deeply in the build of the machines, and I've had the G0800 a couple months now, and have absolutely ZERO regrets getting either of my large lathes, the G0766 [had it for about 2 1/2 years] and now the G0800.

[Brice Rogers]

If I had $1700 to spend, I'd buy the G0766. It's specs (3 HP motor) and capacity (22 x 34") is what is supplied by lathes costing perhaps $7 or 800 more.

If I wanted to spend $3500 I'd consider the G0800. If I had $4500 I'd go for the PM 3520C.

I own a G0766 and it does everything that I need. I'm quite pleased.

[Marshall Harrison]

Don't shoot me for this but....

How would a used ShopSmith Mark 5 do as a lathe? It has variable speed and enough horsepower. There's one not too far from me that they are asking $750 but seem open to an OBO offer.

[Clint Bach]

I have a Shopsmith and it can be used as a lathe. It makes a terrible lathe. It's underpowered, doesn't have low enough speeds, the tailstock is a joke, and the tube system that supports the tool rest is way too flexible. The spindle on mine only had one whimpy bearing. It's ok for small things...

I like the Shopsmith but not as a lathe.

c

[Bill Boehme]

.... as this will in all likelihood, be the last lathe I ever buy.....

This has been the famous last words of many a woodturner. :D


..... As for $, I don't want to be frivolous, but I like to buy 1 time and be satisfied. Don't want to buy and then regret not stepping up higher on the model scale....

I don't think that any lathe is frivolous, but only you can say how much you want to spend. After having buyers remorse on a previous lathe, I went for the top and bought a Robust American Beauty. For me it was the perfect decision (especially because my wife encouraged me to get it), but that doesn't mean it is the right lathe for everybody's needs. It would be way outside your stated price range.


Don't shoot me for this but....

Get a rope. :D

[Marshall Harrison]

Thanks Clint. For $600 - $700 it seemed like a good deal if it would work as a lathe. Or it could be set up for some other dedicated use so that I wouldn't have to keep reconfiguring my main tools. Maybe later down the road I'll add one.

Bill, is that you Texans response to all problems? :D


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o1JOFhfoAD4

[Mark Greenbaum]

Don't shoot me for this but....

How would a used ShopSmith Mark 5 do as a lathe? It has variable speed and enough horsepower. There's one not too far from me that they are asking $750 but seem open to an OBO offer.
I too have a Shopsmith, that started me out on this cycle of woodturning. I mainly keep it for the drill press, bandsaw, and inadequate table saw. After turning a couple of off balanced bowls, and chasing the Shoppie down the driveway, I only turned once a month at our local club work shops. I saved up, did research, and based on the regarded opinion of Roger, I purchased the Grizzly G0766 before any of them had been seen in the USA. I was the guy who wrote to Papa Grizzly to have the banjo size corrected (before I even received mine). I really enjoy my G0766, and it's my first and probably last lathe. I've turned spindles on the Shoppie, but not since I got the G0766. BTW I upgraded the power unit on Shoppie from a single bearing 1955 Greenie to a 1989 double bearing, which was a great improvement. Get a real lathe unless you need a variety of tools and limited space.

Regarding the $500-700 - find a nice used Delta Midi lathe and you'll be much happier at woodturning.

[Prashun Patel]

".. I am probably looking at a lathe in the $1750 to $3500 range. "

I considered the Powermatic 3520C and Laguna 24-36 in that price range. I am sure there are others.

I would have probably considered the PM3520c more seriously if there were more reviews for it.

You really should consider what other accessories you might want. If you don't know, then I would conservatively reserve about $500 of your budget for this. Some lathes - like the 18-36 vsn of the Laguna offer aftermarket upgrades like a gap bed or swing away attachment, so you can upgrade the features and capacity if you get the itch later, but don't reasonably foresee needing these on day 1. This was a big factor in my decision to go 'middle of the road'.

[Jim Tobias]

Thanks again to everyone for feedback. I had to make a quick run to Kllingspor Woodworking Shop yesterday and while I was there I looked at the Lathes they had on the floor.
They had a Powermatic 3220, Jet 1640 and the Laguna 18/36. Of the 3, I liked the size and feel of the Laguna. But that is just standing next to it in the store. I have heard that the height of the Laguna makes it more comfortable? I'm 5' 10" in height so I don't know if the height of the Laguna is a plus or minus.
The Powermatic seemed too massive for the turning I will do on it.... again, I'm more of a woodworker who uses a lathe occasionally than a "Turner". I'm probably leaning toward the Laguna at this point but wondered what might be the advantages of the Laguna 24-36 vs the Laguna 18-36? I know the difference in swing but wondered what features are inportant to those who might own one of these two?
Also, do you have the mobile base attachment? I definitely want to be able to move this around when not in use. I even have my Jet Mini on wheels.

Jim

[John Keeton]

Jim, I am 5’7” and my Laguna is sitting all the way down on the levelers allowing only for adjustments to level the lathe. I would think you would need another 1” to 1.5” in spindle height. That wouldn’t be an issue with the OEM feet and the roller base will accommodate that extra height. Personally, for the money I would buy the 1836 and the bed extension over the 2436. With the bed extension on the 1836, there would be about $800 difference in the two lathes. I don’t know
many folks that turn vessels over 18” in diameter and with the bed extension one can turn up to 32” on a platter or shallow bowl and have tailstock support.

I have really enjoyed the Laguna and I think you would be pleased with it.

[Prashun Patel]

I am 5’ 10” and also have the 18-36 all the way down. I find it a tad short and am considering lifting it 2-3”.

[Mark Maestas]

I also have the Grizzly G0766. I don't think you can find a lathe with similar specs unless you want to spend quite a bit more. It is $1795. Right now, by using the coupon code TOTH10, you can get it for $1462.50. It's an outstanding value IMO. The coupon code is from Kyle Toth's YouTube channel. He has the Grizzly G0799. You can see him set it up and use it in his videos. And you can use the code for discounts on 12 different Grizzly lathes. I'm not sure how long the code will still be valid.

[Alex Zeller]

I also have the Grizzly G0766. I don't think you can find a lathe with similar specs unless you want to spend quite a bit more. It is $1795. Right now, by using the coupon code TOTH10, you can get it for $1462.50. It's an outstanding value IMO. The coupon code is from Kyle Toth's YouTube channel. He has the Grizzly G0799. You can see him set it up and use it in his videos. And you can use the code for discounts on 12 different Grizzly lathes. I'm not sure how long the code will still be valid.

The problem with Grizzly right now is they can't get any lathes in to replenish their depleted stock. It could be months before they start shipping. I'm willing to wait for mine simply because the price is too good to pass up. Others may not be willing.

[Mark Maestas]

That's true. You can call Grizzly and find out when they expect their next shipment of anything that is out of stock. When I ordered my lathe, it was listed as out of stock on the website. They expected the next shipment within 3 weeks and I received it in that time frame. I also asked about a table saw that was out of stock. They expected a shipment in about 4 weeks, but that shipment was already sold out. So, if you are interested, call and find out when the next shipment is due. And place your order so that you are on the list to get one. I agree that it's inconvenient to wait. On the other hand, it's a good sign that the demand is high enough that they are selling out.

[Jim Tobias]

I have another question as I was thinking about the mobile base.......does anyone move their lathe outside to turn? The little Jet Mini I have now makes a huge dust/sawdust/etc. mess whenever I use it. I was thinking that I would store the new lathe(due to size) near the double door. Then I started thinking how simple it might be to roll it outside (good weather, of course) and make the mess outside of the shop.
Trust me, I'm not a "clean freak" when it comes to my shop, but routers and lathes even with dust collection leave a dust coating on everything when I use them inside.

Jim

[Prashun Patel]

That sounds fun except for two things:

Is it level outside?

The chips and shavings can get so voluminous, I would find it easier to sweep a smooth floor that to deal with it on a driveway or yard.

[John K Jordan]

...store the new lathe(due to size) near the double door. ... roll it outside (good weather, of course) and make the mess outside of the shop.



That sounds fun except for two things:
Is it level outside? ...I would find it easier to sweep a smooth floor that to deal with it on a driveway or yard.

In good weather some people routinely roll other woodworking equipment outside when space is tight in the shop so why not move the lathe. You might need to make a suitable extension 220v cord. And another for power for lights and electrified accessories.

Do you have a smooth path from the inside concrete to an outside concreted area? Even a small threshold could make moving the lathe less enjoyable.

I wouldn't worry if the working spot is level as much as I would that it is flat. A lathe will work fine on a slight slope as long as it doesn't vibrate too much and walk down the slope!

If the spot is not flat (all in one plane) one leg could be higher or lower than the plane of the other three, the bed can twist (cast iron is flexible), and the headstock and tailstock can be significantly out of alignment. If your spot is NOT flat and you only use the lathe outside, you could adjust one leg to align the lathe then mark the positions of the legs on the concrete and always put the lathe in the same spot.

BTW, you check the alignment by sliding the tailstock all the way up to the headstock with point centers in each. If they are not well aligned crank up or down on one leg to twist the bed back into alignment.

If you want to turn large, heavy blanks, better than a mobile base might be a method to jack up and move the lathe then set it down so when turning it will be resting solidly on the feet instead of the casters. There can be more vibration when resting on casters. Also, unless you are tall a mobile base might raise the lathe too much to work comfortably.

A leaf blower can help clean up the chips outside if your shop is next to the woods. :)

JKJ

[Jim Tobias]

Thanks again for the input. The double doors from my shop open to a concrete sidewalk that leads around back under the deck( 2nd story). The area under the deck is also concrete and only slants enough to allow for runoff away from the house. The woods are just off the deck/sidewalk so I was thinking ( like John said) just blow off with leaf blower. I have a couple of those retractable reels with electrical outlets so I am thinking those will work I'll check the amps required for the lathe. I'm looking pretty seriously at the Laguna 18-36. I thought I read something about single phase input but gives 3 phase output. What exactly does that mean? I "electrically challenged"!
Jim

[John K Jordan]

...I have a couple of those retractable reels with electrical outlets so I am thinking those will work I'll check the amps required for the lathe. ...

From their web site the Laguna is apparently 2HP, 220V. You will need a special 220v extension cord plugged into a 220v outlet. You can make one yourself or have an electrician make one up. The wire has to be sized appropriately but current requirements (number of amps) for a 2hp motor is not large so the wire size won't be excessive. (I made an extension cord for a 50 amp welder and the cable is huge!)


...I thought I read something about single phase input but gives 3 phase output. What exactly does that mean? I "electrically challenged"!
Jim

As for the single phase input and 3-phase output, don't worry about it! Most variable speed lathes these days use that but don't bother advertising it since it is internal to the works. I suspect the marketing person at Laguna was scratching for things to put in the specs to impress potential buyers. :)

Modern lathes use a VFD (variable frequency drive) circuit to get smooth and efficient electronic variable speed with plenty of torque. A VFD is usually powered from single phase electrical service, the type that comes into residences and most shops. 3-phase electrical service is normally an industrial service and very few people have it in the shop.

The VFD takes the single-phase input, either 110v or 220v depending on the lathe, and converts it to 3-phase. In the process, it lets you control the frequency with a knob on the lathe to get variable speed. This is a wonderful way to get variable speed at higher torque from single phase electrical service. The VFD also allows easy control of things like reversing the rotation direction and provides smooth acceleration and deceleration and overload and error detection. A safety advantage is that the on/off and speed controls on the lathe are operated with safe low voltage, perhaps 10 volts DC rather that 220 volts AC!

JKJ

[John K Jordan]

I meant to add: if you find yourself using the area under the deck a lot for the lathe you might consider adding an appropriate 220v receptacle there - much more convenient than an extension cord.

Also, I once built a two-story deck and wanted to keep the lower deck dry. I built a hidden "roof" below the upper story to catch the rain water that came through and direct it into a drainage system. I suspended 4x8 corrugated plastic panels below the upper deck, sloped them slightly to drain into a trough made from a length of PVC pipe cut in half, and hid the whole thing from below with 1x4 pt boards underneath. Took a bit of figuring and work but it was very effective. For a lathe I'd keep a tarp handy in case of a sudden rain shower!

Another possibility to contain dust while keeping the lathe inside the shop: add ceiling-to-floor curtains around one corner of the shop and put the lathe there. That might be easier than moving it each time, keep the lathe away from the elements, let you play when it's too cold outside, and make it far more accessible for spontaneous use. (Don't forget that you have to move your tools outside too, go inside to sharpen and fetch things like sandpaper and finishes, provide for good lighting under the deck, etc.) Unless I switched to turning only simple things like bowls, I can't imaging moving everything I want at hand outside (and this picture doesn't' show the half of it!!)

383983

JKJ

[Jim Tobias]

Thanks John for the electrical suggestions and advice. I think the 220 outlet under the deck will be on the list for sure. Again, I turn mainly when I need something round with something else I'm building. I've actually never turned a bowl, although I am sure I will give it a try at some point. This all sorts started when I started making some octagonal boxes and wanted round tops to go on them. Then the Jet Mini was limiting me to about a 10" round top.. With overhang, that means boxes about 9" or less in diameter.

Jim

[John Sanford]

... Some lathes - like the 18-36 vsn of the Laguna offer aftermarket upgrades like a gap bed or swing away attachment, so you can upgrade the features and capacity if you get the itch later, but don't reasonably foresee needing these on day 1. This was a big factor in my decision to go 'middle of the road'.


One thing to keep in mind if you choose the "upgrade/get accessory later" path is don't wait too long! If you do, you might end up looking for goodies for a tool that is out of production. I got caught in this trap with my Jet 1014. It seems to me that it wouldn't have been too difficult for Jet to insure that the lathe bed extension was interchangeable between the 1014 and the later 1015, but nooooooooooo, it wasn't.

hmmmm, maybe I should heed my own warning and set some sheckles aside for the next Laguna sale, so I can get the extension or swing away for my 18-36.

[Brian Manning]

I have the Grizzly G0766 also. Bought it using the TOTH10 discount. I was about to pony up for a $4000 3520b but when you compare the G0766 to most all the mid priced lathes ($2000-4000) it actually seems like the price is too good to be true.Welll after a month or so of turning on it I couldn't be happier. If someone were to offer me the 3520b-c for free I would certainly choose it, but for 1/3 the money I would buy the G0766 again no question.

[Mick Fagan]

Thanks again to everyone for feedback. I had to make a quick run to Kllingspor Woodworking Shop yesterday and while I was there I looked at the Lathes they had on the floor.
They had a Powermatic 3220, Jet 1640 and the Laguna 18/36. Of the 3, I liked the size and feel of the Laguna. But that is just standing next to it in the store. I have heard that the height of the Laguna makes it more comfortable? I'm 5' 10" in height so I don't know if the height of the Laguna is a plus or minus.
The Powermatic seemed too massive for the turning I will do on it.... again, I'm more of a woodworker who uses a lathe occasionally than a "Turner". I'm probably leaning toward the Laguna at this point but wondered what might be the advantages of the Laguna 24-36 vs the Laguna 18-36? I know the difference in swing but wondered what features are inportant to those who might own one of these two?
Also, do you have the mobile base attachment? I definitely want to be able to move this around when not in use. I even have my Jet Mini on wheels.

Jim

he main differences between the 18/36 and the 24/36 are, as far as I can work out, mainly in the head and legs. As well as the switch gear. The spindle height of the 24/36 is 76.5mm (3”) higher than the 18/36, the same spindle height of the Vicmarc 300 unit I have very comfortably used several times. I’m 174cm or 68.5” in height.

The output bearing on the spindle of the 18/36 is rated as per the accompanying clip from the technical PDF of the Taiwanese bearing manufacturer whose bearings are, according to Laguna, their bearing supplier. The 6207 bearing, is the output bearing in the 18/36 lathe.

As you can see the load is not onerous, nor is it light, but the speed is most likely lower than a reasonable percentage of turning work; the computed bearing life is 20,000 hours.
If you load the bearing by approximately 50% more, then the calculations come out to a bearing life of 7,000 hours. Add in some form of average speed increase and you will get a forecast decrease, but……….

With my current usage of approximately 10 hours of actual turning time per week and with no time off for holidays (I’m retired) other interests et cetera, then I have the impression that I wouldn’t be wearing the spindle bearings out on a Laguna 18/36 unit.

The Laguna 24/36 output spindle bearing, which is a 6307 bearing, has this over the 6207 bearing according to their website blurb, “The dynamic load rating is 30% higher than a 6207 ball bearing”. In short, the load rating, and by default the longevity factor if you don’t really change what you are turning, is quite favourable, on paper, over the smaller capacity lathe.

The wall thickness of the legs of the 24/36 are 80% thicker than the 18/36.

The real kicker for me is the remote switch as standard on the 24/36 something not at all available for the 18/36. Having used some Vicmarc lathes with a magnetic remote switch that enabled one to start or stop without being anywhere near the line of fire, is the real winner.

All the accessories for the 18/36 and 24/36 are identical.

I am awaiting delivery of a Laguna 24/36 unit and I am getting the wheels. I have seen and moved an 18/36 with wheels, unbelievable.

Mick.

384285

[Jim Tobias]

Thanks to all again for the advice and ideas. I'm certainly more informed now about my lathe selection.
I am pretty much settled on the Laguna 18-36....now I'll just wait for Klingspor or some other place to have a 10% discount.

Jim

[Jim Tobias]

Just a follow up on my "New Lathe" thread. I settled on the Laguna 18-36. Delivery came 2/3 weeks back. It was a bear to put it together because it is Sooooo heavy. But, that is also why it is so solid. So, as with all new endeavors, there is always some "extra" expenses that show. I had to have a 220 volt receptacle put outside under our deck where I want to do turning. I then had to change out the threshold coming out the back of the shop. The one that was there was about 1.5 inches high....no way I could roll this monster over that so we removed the threshold and put sweeps on the bottom of the double doors to keep in heat/cool and critters out. Then I had to get a 1.25"adaptor for my Nova 2 jaws to fit on the Laguna.
Well, today I finally got out and set up and turned a piece. The irony is that after buying this lathe so I could do larger pieces, my first piece was a small 3.25" diameter ring/jewelry bowl for my wife to use on the counter top in our bathroom.
Any feedback is welcome. I wanted to start out with something small just to get a feel for the lathe. Just got a coat of GF Seal a cell on it today. More GF Urethane /oil tomorrow.

Jim387309387308387310387311

[David DeCristoforo]

Don't want to get in to the "which lathe is the best" thing but I will get into the "which the is the worst" one. Do not seriously consider, at any price, the Shopsmith if you want a lathe. It is a very shaky, even dangerous lathe and a very dangerous table saw. It's great as a drilling machine.

[Jim Tobias]

David,
I bought the Laguna 18-36.

Jim

[Barry McFadden]

I think you'll love it...I got one last year and it's great.... I see some comments about it possibly being low for some turners. I'm 6' 1" and with the leveling legs up about 2" it puts the center of the spindle 44" from the floor. This seems very comfortable for me when I turn. My old lathe is a Record Coronet and I just checked and it is also 44" from the floor so maybe after turning on it for 30 years that height just seem right for me.

[Thomas Wilson80]

Do the leveling legs come with the lathe or is that part of a separate package? I've been planning on getting the laguna but am 5'11'' and after reading several comments was concerned that it would be too short. Unfortunately I don't know anyone with the lathe so can't test it out (but it felt ok standing by it in the store).
Thanks,
Tom

[Jim Tobias]

The leveling legs do come with it but only give 2-3" of adjustment. I went to Klingspor Woodworking Shop here in Winston-Salem and stood at the Laguna 18-36. It seemed a little short to me....I'm 5' 10". I bought the riser kit and am happy with the height. If you have any need to move it on occasion, I highly recommend the mobility kit. It is probably the best mobile base kit I have ever seen on any equipment that I own or have owned. I roll it outside under our deck, plug it in and turn away. Use the leaf blower to clear out the shavings/etc. Roll it back in.

Jim

[Dave Sabo]

" Use the leaf blower to clear out the shavings/etc. Roll it back in. "


:eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek:

Holy Cow - seems to me like you're opening up an all you can eat buffet for the local termites.

[John K Jordan]

" Use the leaf blower to clear out the shavings/etc. Roll it back in. "


:eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek:

Holy Cow - seems to me like you're opening up an all you can eat buffet for the local termites.


I know termites like to eat tunnels in wood but would they eat piles of shavings and sawdust?

[Jim Tobias]

Dave,
When I say blow it off with the leaf blowet, I'm talking about blowing the shavings into the wooded area behind our house(which is full of trees(wood).

Jim