I am new here (check my post count) and new to turning. I have been lurking here and all the other online turning forums as well as talking to some local wood turners. I am in the process of buying my first lathe and need some advice. I had already made my decision and have a Rikon on order. Paid in full waiting for delivery. The problem is that as of now it is not expected in until late March and this date is already the result of multiple delays (the original estimate was the first week of March). In the time that I have had to wait, I have really started to grow fond of the idea of VS. It seems that it would be very handy when turning pens and the multiple rounds of sanding and polishing they require. For this reason I have begun to question my Rikon order and have started looking at other options:
1) Bail on the Rikon and pick up a Jet 1014VS which I can get right now. With free shipping and 25.00 rebate this would only cost a few bucks more than the Rikon although I would be giving up a slight amount of capacity.
2) Be patient, wait on the Rikon, opting for the larger capacity instead of the VS.
3) Since I could be waiting on the Rikon anyway, I could also wait to see how soon everyone starts stocking the Jet 1220VS. This would be a little more money, but could give me the best of both worlds.
My main question for you guys is, is it worth the wait for either the Rikon or the 1220VS? Or should I go ahead and get the 1014VS and start turning.
I am really anxious to start spinning some wood as I have all my tools, supplies and even some wood. Everything but the lathe!
Do you think that if I went with the 1014VS, I could resell that with minimal loss if I decided later that the 1220VS was a must have?
I have racked my brain with this for the last couple of days and could use the input of experienced owners to ease my mind.
Thanks in advance,
Warren