Best Wood Lathe For Bowls This Year – Power Tools Reviews
Our winners of the Best Wood Lathe For Bowls this year are:
BEST OVERALL
JET JWL-1221VS Wood Lathe
- 1 HP motor
- Variable speed control (60-3600 RPM)
- 12-inch swing over bed
- 21-inch distance between centers
- Digital RPM readout
Introduction
Turning wood into beautiful bowls is a satisfying and creative hobby. To make the perfect bowl, you need the right tool: a wood lathe. But with so many options available, finding the best wood lathe for bowls can be a daunting task. This article aims to simplify your search by providing detailed reviews of top wood lathes on the market. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced woodturner, our comprehensive guide will help you make an informed decision.
In the following sections, we’ll cover what to look for when buying a wood lathe, answer frequently asked questions, and provide in-depth reviews of the best wood lathes for bowl making. By the end of this article, you’ll have all the information you need to choose the perfect wood lathe for your needs.
Reviews & Comparisons
1. JET JWL-1221VS Wood Lathe
The JET JWL-1221VS is a versatile and powerful lathe designed for both beginners and experienced woodturners. With its variable speed control and robust construction, it is ideal for bowl turning.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the JET JWL-1221VS because of its smooth operation, ease of use, and excellent speed control. It’s a reliable lathe that offers great value for money.
Features
- 1 HP motor
- Variable speed control (60-3600 RPM)
- 12-inch swing over bed
- 21-inch distance between centers
- Digital RPM readout
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Wide speed range
- Sturdy construction
- Easy to adjust
- Digital RPM readout
Cons
- Heavy
- Pricey
- Limited accessories
- May require additional purchases
- Not portable
Our Verdict
The JET JWL-1221VS is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and powerful wood lathe. Its features and performance make it well worth the investment.
2. Delta Industrial 46-460
The Delta Industrial 46-460 is a mid-sized lathe known for its exceptional performance and durability. It offers a range of features that make it perfect for bowl turning.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We appreciate the Delta Industrial 46-460 for its powerful motor, smooth variable speed control, and solid build. It’s a great lathe for serious woodturners.
Features
- 1 HP motor
- Variable speed control (250-4000 RPM)
- 12.5-inch swing over bed
- 16.5-inch distance between centers
- Forward and reverse function
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Wide speed range
- Sturdy construction
- Forward and reverse function
- Smooth operation
Cons
- Heavy
- Expensive
- Limited accessories
- Requires additional purchases
- Not portable
Our Verdict
The Delta Industrial 46-460 is a high-quality lathe that offers excellent performance and durability. It’s an ideal choice for dedicated woodturners looking for a reliable machine.
3. Grizzly Industrial G0844
The Grizzly Industrial G0844 is a robust and versatile lathe designed for bowl turning and other woodturning projects. It offers a range of features and a powerful motor that ensures efficient operation.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the Grizzly Industrial G0844 for its powerful motor, wide speed range, and sturdy construction. It’s a reliable lathe that provides excellent value for money.
Features
- 1.5 HP motor
- Variable speed control (100-3200 RPM)
- 14-inch swing over bed
- 40-inch distance between centers
- Digital RPM readout
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Wide speed range
- Sturdy construction
- Large capacity
- Digital RPM readout
Cons
- Heavy
- Pricey
- Complex assembly
- Limited accessories
- Not portable
Our Verdict
The Grizzly Industrial G0844 is an excellent choice for those looking for a powerful and versatile wood lathe. Its features and performance make it well worth the investment.
4. NOVA 46300 Comet II
The NOVA 46300 Comet II is a compact and versatile lathe that offers a range of features, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced woodturners.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We appreciate the NOVA 46300 Comet II for its compact size, variable speed control, and ease of use. It’s a great lathe for hobbyists and small projects.
Features
- 3/4 HP motor
- Variable speed control (250-4000 RPM)
- 12-inch swing over bed
- 16.5-inch distance between centers
- Forward and reverse function
Pros
- Compact size
- Variable speed control
- Sturdy construction
- Forward and reverse function
- Easy to use
Cons
- Limited power
- Small capacity
- Limited accessories
- Requires additional purchases
- Not suitable for large projects
Our Verdict
The NOVA 46300 Comet II is a great choice for hobbyists and those with limited space. Its features and performance make it a versatile and reliable lathe.
5. RIKON Power Tools 70-220VSR
The RIKON Power Tools 70-220VSR is a high-quality lathe that offers a range of features and a powerful motor, making it ideal for bowl turning and other woodturning projects.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the RIKON Power Tools 70-220VSR for its powerful motor, variable speed control, and solid construction. It’s a reliable lathe that provides excellent value for money.
Features
- 1 HP motor
- Variable speed control (250-3850 RPM)
- 12.5-inch swing over bed
- 20-inch distance between centers
- Digital RPM readout
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Wide speed range
- Sturdy construction
- Digital RPM readout
- Smooth operation
Cons
- Heavy
- Pricey
- Limited accessories
- Requires additional purchases
- Not portable
Our Verdict
The RIKON Power Tools 70-220VSR is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and powerful wood lathe. Its features and performance make it well worth the investment.
6. SHOP FOX W1704
The SHOP FOX W1704 is a compact and affordable lathe designed for small projects and beginners. It offers a range of features that make it suitable for bowl turning and other woodturning tasks.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We appreciate the SHOP FOX W1704 for its compact size, ease of use, and affordability. It’s a great lathe for beginners and small projects.
Features
- 1/3 HP motor
- Variable speed control (700-3200 RPM)
- 8-inch swing over bed
- 13-inch distance between centers
- Cast iron construction
Pros
- Affordable
- Compact size
- Easy to use
- Sturdy construction
- Variable speed control
Cons
- Limited power
- Small capacity
- Limited accessories
- Requires additional purchases
- Not suitable for large projects
Our Verdict
The SHOP FOX W1704 is a great choice for beginners and small projects. Its features and affordability make it a versatile and reliable lathe.
7. Powermatic 1352001 Model 3520B
The Powermatic 1352001 Model 3520B is a high-quality and powerful lathe designed for serious woodturners. It offers a range of features and robust construction, making it perfect for bowl turning.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the Powermatic 1352001 Model 3520B for its powerful motor, wide speed range, and solid build. It’s a reliable lathe that provides excellent value for money.
Features
- 2 HP motor
- Variable speed control (50-3200 RPM)
- 20-inch swing over bed
- 34.5-inch distance between centers
- Digital RPM readout
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Wide speed range
- Sturdy construction
- Large capacity
- Digital RPM readout
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy
- Complex assembly
- Limited portability
- Requires additional purchases
Our Verdict
The Powermatic 1352001 Model 3520B is an excellent choice for serious woodturners. Its features and performance make it well worth the investment.
8. WEN 3421 3.2-Amp Mini Benchtop Lathe
The WEN 3421 3.2-Amp Mini Benchtop Lathe is a compact and affordable lathe designed for small projects and beginners. It offers a range of features that make it suitable for bowl turning and other woodturning tasks.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We appreciate the WEN 3421 for its compact size, ease of use, and affordability. It’s a great lathe for beginners and small projects.
Features
- 3.2-Amp motor
- Variable speed control (750-3200 RPM)
- 8-inch swing over bed
- 12-inch distance between centers
- Cast iron construction
Pros
- Affordable
- Compact size
- Easy to use
- Sturdy construction
- Variable speed control
Cons
- Limited power
- Small capacity
- Limited accessories
- Requires additional purchases
- Not suitable for large projects
Our Verdict
The WEN 3421 is a great choice for beginners and small projects. Its features and affordability make it a versatile and reliable lathe.
9. JET JWL-1440VSK Wood Lathe
The JET JWL-1440VSK is a high-quality and versatile lathe designed for serious woodturners. It offers a range of features and robust construction, making it perfect for bowl turning and other woodturning projects.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the JET JWL-1440VSK for its powerful motor, wide speed range, and solid build. It’s a reliable lathe that provides excellent value for money.
Features
- 1 HP motor
- Variable speed control (400-3000 RPM)
- 14-inch swing over bed
- 40-inch distance between centers
- Digital RPM readout
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Wide speed range
- Sturdy construction
- Large capacity
- Digital RPM readout
Cons
- Heavy
- Pricey
- Complex assembly
- Limited portability
- Requires additional purchases
Our Verdict
The JET JWL-1440VSK is an excellent choice for serious woodturners. Its features and performance make it well worth the investment.
10. Grizzly Industrial G0838
The Grizzly Industrial G0838 is a robust and versatile lathe designed for bowl turning and other woodturning projects. It offers a range of features and a powerful motor that ensures efficient operation.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the Grizzly Industrial G0838 for its powerful motor, wide speed range, and sturdy construction. It’s a reliable lathe that provides excellent value for money.
Features
- 1.5 HP motor
- Variable speed control (100-3200 RPM)
- 14-inch swing over bed
- 42-inch distance between centers
- Digital RPM readout
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Wide speed range
- Sturdy construction
- Large capacity
- Digital RPM readout
Cons
- Heavy
- Pricey
- Complex assembly
- Limited accessories
- Not portable
Our Verdict
The Grizzly Industrial G0838 is an excellent choice for those looking for a powerful and versatile wood lathe. Its features and performance make it well worth the investment.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best wood lathe for bowls, consider the following key points:
- Size and Capacity: Ensure the lathe has adequate swing over bed and distance between centers for the size of bowls you intend to make. Larger bowls require more capacity. For more information, visit Woodworkers Journal and Popular Woodworking.
- Motor Power: A powerful motor ensures smooth and efficient turning. Look for at least a 1HP motor for bowl turning to handle larger pieces of wood without stalling.
- Speed Control: Variable speed control allows you to adjust the lathe’s speed to match the project’s requirements. This is crucial for different stages of bowl turning, from rough shaping to fine detailing.
- Stability and Construction: A sturdy, well-built lathe reduces vibration and enhances safety. Cast iron bases and solid construction are ideal for stability.
- Additional Features: Look for features like a digital readout, easy access to controls, and a good tool rest to enhance your woodturning experience.
FAQs
What size lathe do I need for bowl turning?
The size of the lathe you need depends on the size of the bowls you plan to make. For larger bowls, you need a lathe with a greater swing over the bed and longer distance between centers. Generally, a lathe with a 12-inch swing and a 20-inch bed length is suitable for most bowl turning projects.
Can I use a mini lathe for bowl turning?
Yes, you can use a mini lathe for turning small bowls. However, if you plan to make larger bowls, a full-sized or mid-sized lathe is more suitable. Mini lathes are typically limited in capacity and power, making them less ideal for larger projects.
What is the best wood for bowl turning?
Hardwoods like maple, cherry, and walnut are excellent choices for bowl turning due to their durability and fine grain. Softwoods like pine can also be used but are more prone to damage and may produce more tear-out during turning.
How much should I spend on a wood lathe for bowls?
Wood lathes vary in price depending on their size, power, and features. For a good quality lathe suitable for bowl turning, expect to spend between $500 and $2000. More advanced models with additional features can cost even more.
What safety precautions should I take when using a wood lathe?
Always wear safety goggles and a face shield to protect against flying debris. Secure your wood piece properly, use sharp tools, and keep your work area clean. Additionally, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines for safe operation.
Conclusion
Choosing the best wood lathe for bowls can significantly impact your woodturning experience. By considering factors like size, motor power, speed control, stability, and additional features, you can find a lathe that meets your needs. Our detailed reviews and buying guide aim to provide you with all the information required to make an informed decision. Happy turning!