I have an opportunity to buy a Power matic Model 90, can anybody tell me anything about this wood lathe. It's going for about $500 is this worth it, can anybody respond please. Thanks in advance.

It is a high-quality, American made, commercial ability lathe. Most modern lathes of the same build and quality will run you over $4000 today. Assuming it is in good shape, $500 is a bargain. But again, that's assuming there is not overly wrong with it.

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What would you guys recommend and what attachments are recommended?

Anybody that would own such a lathe may well have everything you need. This isn't a toy - you're talking about a very serious lathe.

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Thanks, what else would you recommend, and what attachments are recommended?

Self centering chuck. Live tail stock. Jacobs chuck for tail stock. Good turning tools - Roughing gouge, parting tool and perhaps a skew chisel. And a proper means for sharpening them.

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Tom I always appreciate your help, I met you at ICRBE and I was impressed with the whole operation. Which lathe would you recommend, because I might not purchase the powermatic because I'll have to run 220 electric in the garage. And I will be attending 2020 ICRBE, would you happen to have next year's dates yet.

The Question {You} have to ask yourself, Is, Are you just going to use it for Rod grips and rod building only? Or are you going to get into Med size and up, wood turning as well? Such as Bowls, vase's, Art pieces, And whatnot?? If just rod-building you don't need a lot of lathe, Any of the small Chinese ones will work well. I do like variable speed. And a Bed extension for the little extra room. Look around you area for a woodturners club, Lot's of times members are ready to upgrade to a larger lathe, So you might find a good used deal out their!

If you're just using this for rod building then the Model 90 is a whole lot more than you'll ever need. I'd look at any of the small mini or midi lathes from Rikon, Jet, Delta, etc. A name brand. Variable speed is a plus. Same accessories as mentioned above will be helpful.

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Thank you very much! Everybody's input has been very helpful.

Fernando,
Just remember, as with any tool - one begins to use it more and more. The more you use it, the more you will want to use it and to do a better and better job. As your wishes increase, your needs for accessories will increase.
After a while you will find that you have spent considerably more on accessories than you will have spent for the lathe originally.

But, having said that - this tool will allow you do do some phenomenal wood work of all kinds, including building rods.

Take care