Best Wood Lathe For Turning Bowls This Year – Power Tools Reviews
Our winners of the Best Wood Lathe For Turning Bowls this year are:
BEST OVERALL
JET JWL-1221VS
- Variable speed control
- 1 HP motor
- 12-inch swing capacity
- Digital readout
- Smooth operation
Introduction
Woodturning is a fascinating craft that allows you to create beautiful, intricate, and functional pieces. One of the most popular projects for woodturners is making bowls. To do this effectively, you’ll need a high-quality wood lathe. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best wood lathe for turning bowls?
In this article, we’ll guide you through the essential features to look for when selecting a wood lathe for bowl turning. We’ll also review some of the top wood lathes available on Amazon to help you make an informed decision. Read on to find out more!
Reviews & Comparisons
1. JET JWL-1221VS
The JET JWL-1221VS is a highly regarded wood lathe known for its versatility and powerful motor. It is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced woodturners.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the JET JWL-1221VS for its robust construction, variable speed control, and ease of use. It offers a great balance of features for bowl turning projects.
Features
- Variable speed control
- 1 HP motor
- 12-inch swing capacity
- Digital readout
- Smooth operation
Pros
- Easy to use
- Highly versatile
- Durable construction
- Quiet operation
- Good customer support
Cons
- Relatively expensive
- Heavy
- Limited accessories included
- Requires assembly
- Digital display can be hard to read in bright light
Our Verdict
The JET JWL-1221VS is a reliable and versatile wood lathe that is well-suited for bowl turning. Its powerful motor and variable speed control make it a top choice for woodturners of all skill levels.
2. Delta Industrial 46-460
The Delta Industrial 46-460 offers a powerful motor and a large swing capacity, making it perfect for turning bowls. It is built to last with a sturdy construction.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the Delta Industrial 46-460 for its excellent build quality, powerful motor, and ease of use. It’s a great option for serious woodturners.
Features
- 1 HP motor
- 12.5-inch swing capacity
- Variable speed control
- Reversible motor
- Heavy-duty construction
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Durable build
- Variable speed settings
- Reversing function
- Good stability
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy
- Limited accessories included
- Requires assembly
- No digital readout
Our Verdict
The Delta Industrial 46-460 is a high-quality wood lathe that offers excellent performance for turning bowls. Its powerful motor and reversible function make it a valuable addition to any workshop.
3. Shop Fox W1758
The Shop Fox W1758 is known for its robust design and powerful motor. It is ideal for larger bowl turning projects and offers great value for its price.
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Why we like it
We like the Shop Fox W1758 for its powerful motor, large swing capacity, and solid construction. It’s a great option for woodturners looking for a reliable and affordable lathe.
Features
- 2 HP motor
- 16-inch swing capacity
- Heavy-duty construction
- Variable speed control
- Cast iron frame
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Large swing capacity
- Sturdy build
- Good value for money
- Smooth operation
Cons
- Bulky
- Requires assembly
- Limited accessories
- No digital readout
- Heavy
Our Verdict
The Shop Fox W1758 is a reliable and powerful wood lathe that offers excellent performance for bowl turning. Its large swing capacity and solid construction make it a great choice for serious woodturners.
4. Grizzly Industrial G0462
The Grizzly Industrial G0462 is a robust wood lathe with a powerful motor and a large swing capacity. It is designed for heavy-duty bowl turning projects.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the Grizzly Industrial G0462 for its powerful motor, large swing capacity, and solid construction. It is an excellent choice for professional woodturners.
Features
- 2 HP motor
- 16-inch swing capacity
- Variable speed control
- Digital readout
- Heavy-duty construction
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Large swing capacity
- Durable build
- Variable speed settings
- Digital readout
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy
- Requires assembly
- Limited accessories included
- Bulky
Our Verdict
The Grizzly Industrial G0462 is a high-quality wood lathe that offers excellent performance for bowl turning. Its powerful motor and large swing capacity make it a valuable addition to any professional workshop.
5. Nova 1624 II
The Nova 1624 II is a versatile wood lathe with a powerful motor and a large swing capacity. It is ideal for both beginners and experienced woodturners.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the Nova 1624 II for its robust construction, powerful motor, and ease of use. It offers a great balance of features for bowl turning projects.
Features
- 1.5 HP motor
- 16-inch swing capacity
- Variable speed control
- Heavy-duty construction
- Smooth operation
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Large swing capacity
- Durable build
- Variable speed settings
- Good stability
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy
- Limited accessories included
- Requires assembly
- No digital readout
Our Verdict
The Nova 1624 II is a reliable and versatile wood lathe that is well-suited for bowl turning. Its powerful motor and variable speed control make it a top choice for woodturners of all skill levels.
6. RIKON Power Tools 70-220VSR
The RIKON Power Tools 70-220VSR is a compact yet powerful wood lathe that is perfect for turning bowls. It offers great value for its price.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the RIKON Power Tools 70-220VSR for its compact design, powerful motor, and ease of use. It’s a great option for woodturners with limited workspace.
Features
- 1 HP motor
- 12-inch swing capacity
- Variable speed control
- Digital readout
- Compact design
Pros
- Compact size
- Powerful motor
- Variable speed settings
- Digital readout
- Good value for money
Cons
- Limited swing capacity
- Requires assembly
- Limited accessories included
- No reversing function
- Not suitable for very large projects
Our Verdict
The RIKON Power Tools 70-220VSR is a reliable and compact wood lathe that offers excellent performance for bowl turning. Its powerful motor and variable speed control make it a great choice for woodturners with limited workspace.
7. WEN 3421
The WEN 3421 is a budget-friendly wood lathe that is perfect for beginners. It offers a good balance of features for its price.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the WEN 3421 for its affordability, ease of use, and compact design. It’s a great option for those new to woodturning.
Features
- 0.75 HP motor
- 8-inch swing capacity
- Variable speed control
- Compact design
- Lightweight
Pros
- Affordable
- Easy to use
- Compact size
- Variable speed settings
- Lightweight
Cons
- Limited swing capacity
- Not suitable for large projects
- Less powerful motor
- Limited accessories included
- Requires assembly
Our Verdict
The WEN 3421 is a budget-friendly and compact wood lathe that is perfect for beginners. Its ease of use and variable speed control make it a great choice for those new to woodturning.
8. PSI Woodworking KWL-1018VS
The PSI Woodworking KWL-1018VS is a versatile and affordable wood lathe that is ideal for turning bowls. It offers great value for its price.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the PSI Woodworking KWL-1018VS for its affordability, versatility, and ease of use. It’s a great option for woodturners on a budget.
Features
- 1 HP motor
- 10-inch swing capacity
- Variable speed control
- Compact design
- Lightweight
Pros
- Affordable
- Versatile
- Easy to use
- Variable speed settings
- Compact size
Cons
- Limited swing capacity
- Not suitable for very large projects
- Requires assembly
- Limited accessories included
- No digital readout
Our Verdict
The PSI Woodworking KWL-1018VS is a versatile and affordable wood lathe that offers excellent performance for bowl turning. Its ease of use and variable speed control make it a great choice for woodturners on a budget.
9. Grizzly Industrial T25926
The Grizzly Industrial T25926 is a powerful and versatile wood lathe that is perfect for turning bowls. It offers great value for its price.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the Grizzly Industrial T25926 for its powerful motor, large swing capacity, and solid construction. It’s a great option for serious woodturners.
Features
- 1.5 HP motor
- 12-inch swing capacity
- Variable speed control
- Heavy-duty construction
- Smooth operation
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Large swing capacity
- Durable build
- Variable speed settings
- Good stability
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy
- Requires assembly
- Limited accessories included
- No digital readout
Our Verdict
The Grizzly Industrial T25926 is a reliable and powerful wood lathe that offers excellent performance for bowl turning. Its powerful motor and large swing capacity make it a great choice for serious woodturners.
10. JET JWL-1440VSK
The JET JWL-1440VSK is a versatile and powerful wood lathe that is perfect for turning bowls. It offers great value for its price.
Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the JET JWL-1440VSK for its powerful motor, large swing capacity, and solid construction. It’s a great option for serious woodturners.
Features
- 1.5 HP motor
- 14-inch swing capacity
- Variable speed control
- Heavy-duty construction
- Smooth operation
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Large swing capacity
- Durable build
- Variable speed settings
- Good stability
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy
- Requires assembly
- Limited accessories included
- No digital readout
Our Verdict
The JET JWL-1440VSK is a reliable and powerful wood lathe that offers excellent performance for bowl turning. Its powerful motor and large swing capacity make it a great choice for serious woodturners.
Buying Guide
When buying a wood lathe for turning bowls, there are several key features to consider:
- Power and Motor: A powerful motor is essential for turning large bowls. Look for lathes with at least 1 HP motor to ensure smooth operation. For more details on motor power, check out Wood Magazine.
- Speed Control: Variable speed control is crucial for different stages of bowl turning. A lathe with a wide range of speeds will give you more control over your projects. For more insights, visit Popular Woodworking.
- Swing Capacity: The swing capacity of a lathe determines the maximum diameter of the bowl you can turn. A larger swing capacity is better for turning bigger bowls.
- Stability and Construction: A sturdy and stable lathe will minimize vibrations and provide a better turning experience. Cast iron construction is often preferred for its durability and stability.
- Accessories and Attachments: Consider the availability of accessories and attachments for the lathe. These can enhance your woodturning experience and allow you to tackle a wider range of projects.
FAQs
What is the best wood lathe for beginners?
For beginners, it’s best to start with a mid-range lathe that offers a good balance of features and price. Look for a lathe with variable speed control, a decent swing capacity, and a reliable motor. Some popular options include the JET JWL-1221VS and the Delta Industrial 46-460.
How do I maintain my wood lathe?
Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your wood lathe in good working condition. Clean the lathe after each use, lubricate moving parts, check for loose bolts, and inspect the motor regularly. Following the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines will help extend the life of your lathe.
Can I use a wood lathe for other projects besides bowls?
Yes, a wood lathe is a versatile tool that can be used for various projects including turning spindles, pens, vases, and more. With the right accessories and attachments, you can expand your range of woodturning projects.
What safety precautions should I take while using a wood lathe?
Safety is paramount when using a wood lathe. Always wear safety goggles and a face shield to protect against flying debris. Make sure your workpiece is securely fastened, and never wear loose clothing or jewelry that could get caught in the lathe.
How do I choose the right turning tools for bowl making?
Choosing the right turning tools is essential for successful bowl making. Start with a basic set that includes a bowl gouge, spindle gouge, and parting tool. As you gain experience, you can add specialty tools to your collection.
Conclusion
Choosing the best wood lathe for turning bowls involves considering several factors such as motor power, speed control, swing capacity, stability, and available accessories. By understanding these key features, you can make an informed decision and find a lathe that suits your needs and budget. Our reviews of top wood lathes on Amazon can further assist you in making the right choice.