Smashedfinger 21 Posted October 10, 2019 Report Share Posted October 10, 2019 I'm looking at this lathe for purchase to use for general purpose turning; such as small bowls, spindles, pens. He said he would sell for 850.00. It has new bearings and runs very well. I am wondering if the lathe that was designed for pattern makers is good for general purpose, or I should look elsewhere. Any help would be appreciated! Quote Link to post Share on other sites
Mark J 2286 Posted October 10, 2019 Report Share Posted October 10, 2019 While I am sure it is a substantial piece of equipment, especially for the money, it's not going to have modern features that most turners would want. For example: Electronic variable speed Reversible A sliding or rotating head stock Able to mount a vacuum chuck $850 should get you at least half, if not three quarters, of the way to a modern lathe. Quote Link to post Share on other sites
Bankstick 287 Posted October 11, 2019 Report Share Posted October 11, 2019 Yes, what Mark said, you can get a nice modern lathe for about the same price or cheaper. Good luck as there are a lot of choices. And one good turn deserves another. Quote Link to post Share on other sites
Smashedfinger 21 Posted October 11, 2019 Author Report Share Posted October 11, 2019 I'm not sure what I'll end up doing. I don't have the $$$ to buy new, still looking around. Quote Link to post Share on other sites
Mark J 2286 Posted October 11, 2019 Report Share Posted October 11, 2019 Have you looked at mini lathes? I think $850 would be enough for a new one. Otherwise look for a used midi. Quote Link to post Share on other sites
JohnG 1251 Posted October 11, 2019 Report Share Posted October 11, 2019 Nova Comet II midi lathe starts at $500. It is reversible and has electronic speed control (3 belt settings). 12” diameter and 16.5” between centers. Quote Link to post Share on other sites
Barron 265 Posted October 12, 2019 Report Share Posted October 12, 2019 The Latina Revo 12/16 is about $850. Quote Link to post Share on other sites
Bankstick 287 Posted October 12, 2019 Report Share Posted October 12, 2019 I have a Rikon 70-050VS which has been replaced. Rikon has a 5 year warranty. Small but fits what I turn. So many choices. Quote Link to post Share on other sites
Smashedfinger 21 Posted November 2, 2019 Author Report Share Posted November 2, 2019 Looking at a Delta 46-525 right now. I gave up on the Oliver. Quote Link to post Share on other sites
RichardA 5104 Posted November 2, 2019 Report Share Posted November 2, 2019 I'd be careful with any Delta tools. Their customer service from what I've read here is that it's the poorest as are the tools. Quote Link to post Share on other sites
lzybt 0 Posted November 4, 2019 Report Share Posted November 4, 2019 Older Delta tools made in the USA are very good. Parts may be harder to get. Quote Link to post Share on other sites
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