Hey fellow Creekers, I'm in the process of trying to decide on which lathe to purchase. I've been using my brothers 35 year old 12" Craftsman Spindle Lathe for the past 6 months, and want to get one of my own. I asked Steve Schlumpf for a direction to start looking in and have narrowed it down to about three different units. I've been turning small bowls, vases, hollow forms, and a few boxes. I'm looking to spend around $600-$1000, so Powermatics are out of the question. I would really like variable speed, a minimum of a 12" swing. Now I would like to get your personal opinions and or experiences on these three lathes, or please suggest any others that may be to my liking.
(1) Delta 46-460 (+/- $599) read reviews on it, watched vidios, seems like belt pully changes can be a challenge. This was Steves suggestion, but I'm not sold on it. Just something about it I'm not crazy about.
(2) Jet JWL-1442VSK (+/- $1349) I did see some negative reviews on the mechanical speed changing system on this unit, also minimum speed is 450 rpm, is this acceptable for it's lowest speed?
(3) Turncrafter 12" VS Commander (+/- $480) I do like the electronic speed control, with the digital dispaly, although I couldn't find any info on how the belt changes take place.
The Jet 1442 is a floor model, but only has a 10" swing. The Jet & Delta have a 5yr warranty, the Turncrafter 3 years. The Jet has 42" between centers, the two bench models under 20' without extensions. I'm leaning towards the Turncrafter 12" Commander with the bed extension, but would appreciate your opinions.
Thanks in advance!