About two years ago I was seriously considering getting into woodturning so I started a thread on this site asking for suggestions and information about purchasing a first lathe. I had stated my total budget was about $1500 and I thought a 12" variable speed midi lathe might be a good starting point.
Well, fast forwarding to today, I haven't yet made the plunge but am still very interested in giving turning a try and think I am going to do it before the end of this year.
However, now I'm thinking of reducing my total initial investment (lathe, tools, sharpening setup, etc) to about $1000 due to other commitments as well as fear that I might not like it. I am still thinking a 12" bench lathe makes the most sense but am questioning whether variable speed, while obviously nice, and which raises the price considerably, is really necessary.
One particular lathe I'm considering that has very attractive pricing and seems to be rated very well is the Rikon 70-100 which Highland Woodworking presently has on sale for $299. Model 70-100 has 6 speed ranges with a low speed of 430 rpm which is about the lowest non-variable speed lathe I have found. And from some things I've read, and been told, 430 rpm should provide reasonable control over roughing pieces to 10" or so. (Btw, Model 70-100 speed ranges are 430, 810, 1230, 1810, 2670, 3900)
So once again, I'm asking for some input on whether a Rikon 70-100 would be a good first lathe or would it contribute to my concern of not embracing woodturning and letting it collect dust in a corner?
I would appreciate any and all comments.
Thank you
Dom