I have an opportunity to buy a new Excelsior Lath with an extension for a very attractive price. Both the head stock and tail stock are fitted for MT2 accessories. The reviews seem quite good on the lathe.

[www.youtube.com]

Does any one on the forum have any first hand experience with this lathe.

In doing some searches, it appears to be the same imported lathe that is being sold under a few different names.

Thanks for any comments.
Roger



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 08/04/2012 01:09AM by roger wilson.

That is identical to my Turncrafter Pro with the exception that mine is the variable speed version. It performs flawlessly and has done many grips and inserts. I only wish that at times I did have the extension also, but will eventually get one. I literally stole mine as it had only been used once and I got it for 100.00, one of the best investment I have ever made, and it have paid for itself many times over. I have more invested in tooling than in the unit. If you feel the price is right, get it, you will not be disappointed I can assure you.

Ron Weber

virtually all the mini-midi lathes come out of the same off shore factory and all perform quite well, the quality control demanded by the importer is what will tell the tale, try hitting some wood working forums for real time info re the model you are looking at
John

Have an Excelsior and use the heck out of it. You definitely want the extension for grips of any length.

You won't go wrong with that and the price point compared to Jet or some of the more commonly known names makes it especially nice.

As earlier noted, most likely the same bed casting as other brands. Motor is solid, quiet and reliable, IME.

Bob,
Thanks for the update.
I purchased the lathe today, along with the extension. Both new in the factory sealed box for $200. About the best price that I have found on line for the same items is about $375. So I think it will work out just fine.

I am going to pick up a cople of adapters so that I can use my smaller thread size chucks on this lathe, until I get a different chuck.

Thanks again for everyones remarks.

REW

p.s.
The lathe that I currently have only has a 1/3rd hp motor with a slower top speed. It is also a much shorter lathe. The combination of lower power and short bed has caused me to do the continued search for the more powerful lathe with the longer bed.

You made a great deal especially both pieces new in the box

Ron Weber