Those of you who have MinI lathes which model do you have? What are your pros and cons about your unite

Good Wraps Bob

Whatever one you decide upon get a variable speed model. I think it is well worth the extra money. PSI Turncrafter Pro variable speed is hard to beat for the money. Check out prices on Amazon for free shipping if it is still available. I have the Turncrafter Pro to which I added the VS, and I have a small Turncrafter VS which is a much smaller 1 morse taper lathe. I use pen mandrels and bushings to turn inserts on the small lathe. It is the cost of the accessories that will eat you up not the lathe.

Rikon......does more for less and have come to love the bells and whistles it has over the rest.

DR

I have a Turncrafter Pro variable speed and love it!! That being said, all of the better known brands (Jet, Ricon, Delta, etc) are good. I would strong suggest the bed extension, you will be glad you dod

Mike (Southgate, MI)
If I don't want to, I don't have to and nobody can make me (except my wife) cuz I'm RETIRED!!

i have the jet. it is the standard most are patterned after. i have heard good things about the turncrafter and rikon. make sure you get enough bed for center boring. you will most likely need the bed extension on any for boring

I saw the new Steel City lathe a few weeks ago. Granite bed and headstock. Sure to be square and true, and heavy. Which is a good thing provided you don't need to move it around.

A local builder bought a Rikon and in the couple years he's had it it's given good service and no trouble.

JET and Delta have both recently introduced slightly larger versions of their original midi-lathes. A little more bed length and a little more swing.

...............

I second the Rikon great lathe for the money, the only bad thing is turning is more addicting than rod building.

I bought a Jet 1220 earlier this year. I have nothing but nice things to say about it. Well built, heavy (no walking), integrated light, 20" between centers, very easy belt adjustments, 3/4 hp motor AND only $400.

I actually haven't found ANY cons to the purchase. It really suits my needs and works flawlessly. The best feature might very well be the 3/4 hp motor ... it REALLY makes for some smooth cutting.

Thanks to all for your input

Good Wraps Bob