Best Wood Lathe For Spindles This Year – Power Tools Reviews
Our winners of the Best Wood Lathe For Spindles this year are:
PREMIUM CHOICE
WEN 3421 3.2-Amp 8-Inch by 12-Inch Variable Speed Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe
- 3.2-Amp motor
- Variable speed (750-3200 RPM)
- 8-inch swing over bed
- 12-inch distance between centers
- Includes two tool rests
Introduction
Are you a woodworking enthusiast looking for the best wood lathe for spindles? You’ve come to the right place! A wood lathe is an essential tool for turning and shaping wood into various forms and designs. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, finding the right lathe can make all the difference in your projects.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the best wood lathe for spindles. We’ll cover key features to look for, answer some frequently asked questions, and review some of the top products available on Amazon. Let’s get started!
Reviews & Comparisons
1. JET JWL-1221VS Variable Speed Wood Lathe
The JET JWL-1221VS is a high-quality wood lathe designed for both beginners and professionals. It offers a combination of power, precision, and ease of use.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the JET JWL-1221VS for its robust build and versatile speed control. It’s perfect for a wide range of spindle turning projects.
Features
- 1 HP motor
- Variable speed control (60-3600 RPM)
- 12-inch swing over bed
- 21-inch distance between centers
- Innovative ratchet-style belt tension system
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Easy speed adjustments
- Sturdy and stable
- User-friendly controls
- Durable construction
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy
- Requires assembly
- Limited accessories included
- May be overkill for small projects
Our Verdict
The JET JWL-1221VS is an excellent choice for serious woodworkers looking for a reliable and versatile wood lathe. Its features and performance justify the higher price point.
2. WEN 3421 3.2-Amp 8-Inch by 12-Inch Variable Speed Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe
The WEN 3421 is a compact and affordable wood lathe, perfect for small projects and beginners. Its variable speed control makes it a versatile tool for various tasks.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the WEN 3421 for its budget-friendly price and ease of use. It’s an ideal starter lathe for those new to woodworking.
Features
- 3.2-Amp motor
- Variable speed (750-3200 RPM)
- 8-inch swing over bed
- 12-inch distance between centers
- Includes two tool rests
Pros
- Affordable
- Compact design
- Easy to use
- Variable speed control
- Comes with essential accessories
Cons
- Limited power
- Not suitable for large projects
- Plastic components
- Limited warranty
- Basic features
Our Verdict
The WEN 3421 is a great entry-level wood lathe for beginners. Its compact size and affordable price make it a practical choice for small projects and hobbyists.
3. Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-Inch Variable-Speed Midi Lathe
The Delta Industrial 46-460 is a powerful and versatile midi lathe, offering a range of features for both novice and experienced woodworkers.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the Delta 46-460 for its robust motor and wide range of speed adjustments. It’s a reliable and durable tool for various woodworking projects.
Features
- 1 HP motor
- Variable speed (250-4000 RPM)
- 12-1/2-inch swing over bed
- 16-1/2-inch distance between centers
- Forward and reverse function
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Wide speed range
- Durable construction
- Forward and reverse function
- Smooth operation
Cons
- Higher price point
- Heavy
- Limited accessories included
- Requires assembly
- Noise level
Our Verdict
The Delta Industrial 46-460 is an excellent midi lathe for serious woodworkers. Its powerful motor, variable speed, and durable build make it a reliable choice for a variety of projects.
4. RIKON Power Tools 70-100 12-by-16-Inch Mini Lathe
The RIKON 70-100 is a well-built mini lathe, ideal for small to medium-sized projects. Its sturdy construction and easy-to-use features make it a popular choice among woodworkers.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the RIKON 70-100 for its solid build and user-friendly design. It’s a reliable mini lathe that offers great value for its price.
Features
- 1/2 HP motor
- Variable speed (430-3900 RPM)
- 12-inch swing over bed
- 16-inch distance between centers
- Self-ejecting tailstock
Pros
- Sturdy construction
- Variable speed control
- Easy to use
- Good value for money
- Includes tool rest and faceplate
Cons
- Limited power
- Not suitable for large projects
- Basic features
- Requires assembly
- Limited warranty
Our Verdict
The RIKON 70-100 is a great mini lathe for small to medium-sized projects. Its solid build and user-friendly design make it a reliable and affordable choice for woodworkers.
5. NOVA 46300 Comet II Variable Speed Mini Lathe
The NOVA 46300 Comet II is a versatile mini lathe, offering a range of features for various woodworking projects. Its compact design and variable speed control make it a popular choice among hobbyists.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the NOVA 46300 Comet II for its versatility and ease of use. It’s a reliable mini lathe that offers great performance for its size.
Features
- 3/4 HP motor
- Variable speed (250-4000 RPM)
- 12-inch swing over bed
- 16-1/2-inch distance between centers
- Forward and reverse function
Pros
- Versatile speed control
- Compact design
- Easy to use
- Forward and reverse function
- Includes essential accessories
Cons
- Limited power
- Not suitable for large projects
- Requires assembly
- Higher price point
- Limited warranty
Our Verdict
The NOVA 46300 Comet II is a versatile and reliable mini lathe, ideal for hobbyists and small projects. Its compact design and variable speed control make it a practical choice for woodworking enthusiasts.
6. Shop Fox W1704 1/3-Horsepower Benchtop Lathe
The Shop Fox W1704 is a compact and affordable benchtop lathe, perfect for small projects and beginners. Its easy-to-use features make it a popular choice among hobbyists.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the Shop Fox W1704 for its budget-friendly price and compact design. It’s an ideal starter lathe for those new to woodworking.
Features
- 1/3 HP motor
- Variable speed (700-3200 RPM)
- 8-inch swing over bed
- 12-inch distance between centers
- Includes two tool rests
Pros
- Affordable
- Compact design
- Easy to use
- Variable speed control
- Comes with essential accessories
Cons
- Limited power
- Not suitable for large projects
- Plastic components
- Limited warranty
- Basic features
Our Verdict
The Shop Fox W1704 is a great entry-level benchtop lathe for beginners. Its compact size and affordable price make it a practical choice for small projects and hobbyists.
7. Grizzly Industrial T25920 – 12" x 18" Variable-Speed Wood Lathe
The Grizzly Industrial T25920 is a powerful and versatile wood lathe, offering a range of features for both novice and experienced woodworkers.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the Grizzly T25920 for its robust motor and wide range of speed adjustments. It’s a reliable and durable tool for various woodworking projects.
Features
- 3/4 HP motor
- Variable speed (650-3800 RPM)
- 12-inch swing over bed
- 18-inch distance between centers
- Digital RPM readout
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Wide speed range
- Durable construction
- Digital RPM readout
- Smooth operation
Cons
- Higher price point
- Heavy
- Limited accessories included
- Requires assembly
- Noise level
Our Verdict
The Grizzly T25920 is an excellent wood lathe for serious woodworkers. Its powerful motor, variable speed, and durable build make it a reliable choice for a variety of projects.
8. PSI Woodworking KWL-1018VS Turncrafter Commander 10" Variable Speed Midi Lathe
The PSI Woodworking KWL-1018VS is a versatile midi lathe, offering a range of features for various woodworking projects. Its compact design and variable speed control make it a popular choice among hobbyists.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the PSI KWL-1018VS for its versatility and ease of use. It’s a reliable midi lathe that offers great performance for its size.
Features
- 1 HP motor
- Variable speed (500-3800 RPM)
- 10-inch swing over bed
- 18-inch distance between centers
- Forward and reverse function
Pros
- Versatile speed control
- Compact design
- Easy to use
- Forward and reverse function
- Includes essential accessories
Cons
- Limited power
- Not suitable for large projects
- Requires assembly
- Higher price point
- Limited warranty
Our Verdict
The PSI Woodworking KWL-1018VS is a versatile and reliable midi lathe, ideal for hobbyists and small projects. Its compact design and variable speed control make it a practical choice for woodworking enthusiasts.
9. Rikon 70-105 10" x 18" 1/2 hp Mini Lathe
The Rikon 70-105 is a well-built mini lathe, ideal for small to medium-sized projects. Its sturdy construction and easy-to-use features make it a popular choice among woodworkers.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the Rikon 70-105 for its solid build and user-friendly design. It’s a reliable mini lathe that offers great value for its price.
Features
- 1/2 HP motor
- Variable speed (500-3800 RPM)
- 10-inch swing over bed
- 18-inch distance between centers
- Self-ejecting tailstock
Pros
- Sturdy construction
- Variable speed control
- Easy to use
- Good value for money
- Includes tool rest and faceplate
Cons
- Limited power
- Not suitable for large projects
- Basic features
- Requires assembly
- Limited warranty
Our Verdict
The Rikon 70-105 is a great mini lathe for small to medium-sized projects. Its solid build and user-friendly design make it a reliable and affordable choice for woodworkers.
10. JET JWL-1015 Wood Working Lathe
The JET JWL-1015 is a high-quality wood lathe designed for both beginners and professionals. It offers a combination of power, precision, and ease of use.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the JET JWL-1015 for its robust build and versatile speed control. It’s perfect for a wide range of spindle turning projects.
Features
- 1/2 HP motor
- Variable speed (500-3975 RPM)
- 10-inch swing over bed
- 15-1/2-inch distance between centers
- 6 spindle speeds
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Easy speed adjustments
- Sturdy and stable
- User-friendly controls
- Durable construction
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy
- Requires assembly
- Limited accessories included
- May be overkill for small projects
Our Verdict
The JET JWL-1015 is an excellent choice for serious woodworkers looking for a reliable and versatile wood lathe. Its features and performance justify the higher price point.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right wood lathe for spindles can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Here are some key points to consider:
- Power: The motor’s power is crucial for smooth and efficient spindle turning. Look for lathes with at least 1 HP for consistent performance.
- Speed Control: Variable speed control allows you to adjust the speed to match your project needs. This is essential for achieving a fine finish and precise cuts. Learn more about variable speed control here.
- Stability: A heavy, stable base minimizes vibrations, providing better control and accuracy. Ensure the lathe is made of durable materials like cast iron.
- Capacity: Consider the distance between centers and the swing over bed. This determines the maximum length and diameter of the spindle you can work on. For more details on lathe capacity, visit this guide.
- Accessories: Having a variety of tool rests, chucks, and faceplates can enhance your lathe’s versatility. Check if the lathe comes with essential accessories or if they need to be purchased separately.
FAQs
What is the best wood lathe for a beginner?
For beginners, a wood lathe with variable speed control and a stable base is ideal. Look for models that offer easy adjustments and come with essential accessories. The WEN 3421, for example, is a great entry-level choice that provides a balance of power and ease of use.
How much power do I need for turning spindles?
For turning spindles, a lathe with at least 1 HP is recommended. This ensures that the lathe can handle various types of wood and provide a smooth, consistent performance.
Can I turn large pieces on a wood lathe for spindles?
Yes, but it depends on the lathe’s capacity. The distance between centers and the swing over bed will determine the maximum size of the piece you can turn. Make sure to check these specifications before purchasing.
What safety features should I look for?
Safety features such as a sturdy base, emergency stop switch, and protective guards are essential. Also, make sure to wear safety gear like goggles and gloves while operating the lathe.
What accessories are essential for spindle turning?
Essential accessories include different sizes of tool rests, chucks, faceplates, and sharp chisels. These accessories will help you achieve precise and varied cuts in your spindle turning projects.
Conclusion
Finding the best wood lathe for spindles involves considering several factors like power, speed control, stability, capacity, and accessories. By understanding these key points, you can make an informed decision and choose a lathe that meets your woodworking needs. The product reviews provided here will further guide you in selecting the right tool for your projects.