! I got my Jet ! I got my Jet ! I got my Jet ! Heeheeheeheehee......... ! My wife Barbara mentioned that it has been a long time since she noticed me just break into a couple of chuckles from time to time for no apparent reason.
Seriously though, this 14" mini-lathe seems to be a pretty good piece of work. Quiet, solid, no vibration to speak of, dead accurate right out of the box, just a real nice machine. Nothing missing, packed well for the shipping, just everything was as it should be.
For anyone considering a Jet purchase, I would like to mention that there is $100 difference between the standard model and the variable speed motor. I have found that the belts are simple and quickly adjustable for speed. Just not worth the extra $100 for the variable speed (my opinion).
I'm sure this looks like an advertisement for the Jet, but I have to think that if someone is seriously interested in a small-but-large-enough lathe, you could do a lot, lot worse than one of these for $249..
You folks in the Houston, Tx. area, look at the web site for The Cutting Edge, Houston. Gary



Gary Bechtel
North Channel Tackle Service

The Jet mini's are great lathes. Your statement about the usefulness of the variable speed feature is misplaced. For spindle turning (i.e. cork grips) the variable speed isn't necessary, but for turning bowls it can be a life saver. A lot of times you will have rough stock that is out of round on your lathe. The ability to go slower than the slowest pully setting is a godsend. You would be surprised and how much power that little lathe has to chuck a couple pound piece of maple at your head.

Congratulations Gary! I am about to order one myself.

For those who have not noticed the post on March 15th, Amazon.com is giving a $25.00 instant rebate on both the Jet and the Delta. Delta even offers your choice of a free bed extension or an extra $30.- off the price. Offers are good through March 28th. The Jet is my choice and it is certainly a bargain even at $249. Just passing on the info in case someone else is ready to get a lathe.

Dave