To Buy, Or Not To Buy, New Lathe

[John Schumer]

Hello Everyone,

I have been lurking and learning, here at the creek for quite some time.
Just want to say Thank You for all the knowledge.
Here is my dilemma....

My son (16) has been turning pens and wine stoppers on a Rockler M Power lathe for a year now. No problems, little thing worked fine for this, but now he wants to make bowls. I would also like to try my hand at some Turning. I have been a cabinet maker for a long time now.
We decided to buy a Nova 1624-44 the other day, until we discovered the only way to get it, was with a hefty $300.00 shipping fee, bringing the total to $1300.00.
Then found out we could get a Jet 1642 EVS 1.5 HP #708359 lathe for $1200.00 locally including tax, no shipping costs, and a $100.00 rebate to boot from jet! Bringing the cost to $1100.00 total.
Ohhhh.... I know, not a big dilemma, just looking for some input on this purchase.
Any suggestions as to either brand would be appreciated!!

Thanks
John

[Scott Hubl]

The JET is a FINE lathe, i'd go for it.

Good price on it too.

[Bill Bolen]

Both are excellent lathes. Personally I'd go for the jet. Changing speeds by turning a knob is a big plus for me, and seeing both side-by-side at my local WC the jet just seems beefier!..Bill..

[Tim Malyszko]

I'd go for the Jet. I've been eyeing the same one recently and I love the VS feature - it sure beats adjusting belts. $1,100 seems like one heck of a deal for that lathe.

I hope you and your son enjoy whatever you chose.

[Steve Schlumpf]

John, I am sure you would be happy with either lathe as both are good machines. I personally have the Jet, swear by it and think you would be getting one heck of a good deal for $1100. I have the 2 hp but it cost me $1800 a little over 15 months ago! For $1100 I would jump on it!

[Gordon Seto]

Another vote for the Jet. It is the better buy of the two at this price; heavier cast iron legs and EVS.

[Bernie Weishapl]

I would go Jet. You won't be sorry.

[Bill Wyko]

I have a 1442 VS Jet and i love it. I do wish I had more swing though.

[Robert McGowen]

Have owned 3 lathes, all Jets. Currently have 1642 2HP. No regrets. Anything that will get a 16 year old to spend time with you is certainly worth the money! :rolleyes:

[Bobby Perry]

I also have and vote for the 1642 Jet and that is a great price.

[Scott Donley]

If I could get the Jet here for that price it would be in my shop already:D (I have the 1442 now)

[robert hainstock]

I do not have one, but would buy that one in a seconed if I were in the market.:):):)
Bob

[Chris Barnett]

The $100 rebate should apply also to a 2HP JET if they have it.

[Tom Steyer]

Buy the Jet - you'll love it - can't be beat for the money, even without the current deal.

[Dick Strauss]

Jet! Jet! Jet! (10 char minimum)

[Don Eddard]

Has anybody suggested the Jet to you? :p Either that, or maybe the Jet.

[RL Johnson]

BUY THE JET! (10 character minimum met)