The crude way I'm turning grips is time consuming and not precise enough for my liking. I've read through the archives and see many topics on mini lathes. All good background info. Missed a smoking opportunity at a used Jet the other day. After driving driving an hour to see the seller, he answers the door to tell me he's sold it to a neighbor! Grrrrrr!

So I'm looking for a plan B. Stopped by Rockler and compared the Jet 1014 to an Excelsior mini that was sitting right behind it. Slightly longer capacity on the Excelsior at 18" with a 1/2 HP motor. Build quality looks to be pretty equal. Just $100 difference in price. But if you go online and order, Rockler has a deal for a bed extension which sweetens it even more. Both land on my doorstep including shipping/tax for under $300

Then went to Harber Freight which is immediately next door. I can't quite convince myself to drop down that far, but darned if the $199 Central Machine doesn't look identical to a Grizzley that gets some comments here.

So I'm wondering if anyone here has the Excelsior and if they have any comments good or bad.

Thanks.

Bob

IMO, you should take a look at the Jet 1220. You can get one on sale for just over $300. You get a 20" center, 3/4 hp motor, integrated work light, two tool rests AND a well made piece of machinery. I am fairly well convinced that you could turn kryptonite on it ... the thing is strong. It makes my previous 1/3 hp lathe look like a kid's toy.

FYI, I have NOT been sorry that I didn't buy a variable speed ... it works just fine for me AND it takes seconds to change speeds IF needed. There is less to worry about breaking and the expense was $200 less. In addition, I have yet to find a project that the 20" center didn't accommodate. That's one of the nice things about moving from a mini-lathe to a midi-lathe.

Best of all, you can buy a Jet lathe at your local Woodcraft shop or similar ... keeping business within the community AND establishing a relationship for future needs - drill press, turning tools, project wood AND classes on using your new lathe.

On a side note, add a few bucks to your acquisition budget and spring for Andy Dear's Lathe DVD.

have you checked the Buy / Sell page ?

Bill - willierods.com