Decisions Decisions.... Vega or Powermatic

[Scott Gibbons]

I have no intrest in turning spindles for anything I am strictly interested in bowels and vases. I am trying to decide between the 3520b and the Vega 2600 2hp unit. Anyone have an thoughts on this?

Thanks!!
Scott

[Jim Ketron]

I like a more traditional lathe, They take up more space but you have more options on different kinds of turnings you can make on them.
I know you want to do bowls, but its nice to be able to do other things like deep hollowing with a captured rig. I see there is a bed extension for the Vega so that might not be a problem.
IMO dont limit yourself to bowls only, Plan for all kinds of different turnings!
Jim

[Keith Burns]

What Jim said:)

[Quinn McCarthy]

Scott

I have a 1553 Vega lathe. I bought it mostly for spindle work. I really like the Vega lathes. I has been great so far. I put the outboard turning attachment on and can turn to 28". I have found that it is a little under powered when you get a bowl or table top that is larger than 15" or so. The support I got after I bought it was great as well.

[Steve Hayes]

Buy both, be happy!!

[Kurt Rosenzweig]

I have the B and i can't see ever needing another lathe! I don't know much about the Vega, but I know I could not be happier with what I have! Great lathe!

[Bernie Weishapl]

Get the mustard as Jim said. I think you will be happier and be more versitile.

[Andy Hoyt]

Bernie - the 3520 and the chevyvegathingamabob are both mustard colored.

Scott - you need the opinion of Miliunas and Grumbine on the Vega's merit.

[Tony Sizemore]

Hey Scott<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p>
I have been working on this for a few months now and I want to share with you something that is not easy to fine out. I too have very little interest in doing spindle work and have a tradition lathe that would work just fine for spindle work if I so desired. So I too was looking at a Vega, but in my reach and reading I found the picture below.<o:p></o:p>
After that I spent some time talking to a couple of guys here in NC about and I think that the PM 3520 with this ext will do anything I want. Plus if I need to use a tall stock I will have the option.<o:p></o:p>
Good luck on your decision. I know it is a hard one to make.<o:p></o:p>

[Scott Gibbons]

Kind of leaning towards the PM, i just wanted an opinion other then mine :)

Hey... were do i get a white PM? Is that a OneWay wanna Be?

[Scott Gibbons]

PS... amazon has 10% off on the PM3520. making it about $2500 shipped

[Dennis Peacock]

What Jim said.....and for the money? It's extremely hard to beat the 3520B for a very nice lathe and should last you many, many years. :D

[Scott Gibbons]

do the make them in white?

[Pat Salter]

Ok, got to read a little slower, I thought the title of this thread was "Power or Vegamatic" :eek: .....hmmm....brings back some memories:D