Can you help me decide? 1220vs or 1442vs?

[Mike Spanbauer]

So, I've been considering getting a lathe for a long time... and in the last 2 weeks I've had several projects come up where I've regretted not having one.

I had been doing research all along (I'm a tool nut, what can I say) and have been eyeing the 1220vs from Jet. Great lathe, good reviews, good build quality and reasonably sized....

Then I get a line on a nearly new (1mo old) 1442vsk for the same price ($500). So, I'm wondering whether I should go for the 1442 now since it's the same price basically.

Help :/

mike

[Scott Donley]

Mike, I can't speak of the 1220 but I can tell you I have had my 1442 for a few years now. It has been a great lathe for me with 0 problems. The only thing that would make it better would be EVS. For 500 I would go for it. Good luck !

[Bill Bolen]

I've had my 1442 for a about 2 years now. Came off of a Shopsmith then a jet vs mini. You can't go wrong with either choice! I think the amount of avaliable space will be your big point. The 1442 is a large hefty machine and will do you well. If space is limited the 1220 will make you a happy camper. Me, I'd go with the 1442 for a great price of $500. They are up to $1100 now new. I have had zero problems with my 1442 ...Bill..

[Jon McCoy]

Both are great lathes, and either will introduce you to a new world of woodworking and woodgadget-induced poverty.

The length of the bed is a big difference -- if your projects involve spindles longer than 15" you don't want the 1220. Conversely, if shop space is important, the 1220 takes up half the floorspace. And at 125lbs instead of 285lbs, easier to store under a benchtop.

The 1442 has an adjustable headstock, so you can slide it down the ways to make access easier when making bowls. Which also means one more detail to check and sometimes adjust when setting up.

The 1442vs has eight speeds, similar to the regular 1220's five speeds. Changing speeds involves moving a belt, which isn't difficult or time consuming, but certainly more work than twisting a knob. Specs claim a 1Hp motor, same as the regular 1220. The 1220vs claims 3/4Hp -- and available power is less at slower speeds.

[Brent English]

If you have the shop space, get the big one. You can turn small on big, but not big on small. Sounds like a good deal to me! Brent