Finding the best jet lathes suitable for your needs isnt easy. With hundreds of choices can distract you. Knowing whats bad and whats good can be something of a minefield. In this article, weve done the hard work for you.
Reviews
1. Jet 719500 JWL-1640EVS 1.5 hp 115V Lathe
Feature
Headstock slides and rotates for maximum versatilityExtended spindle nose houses dual headstock spindle bearings
Improved tailstock quill locking mechanism incorporates an anti-rotation key
Tailstock features acme Threads for smooth and durable movement
Banjo uses non-marring, positive locking Wedge system to securely hold tool post
Description
The new Jet 16 x 40 electronic VARIABLE speed woodworking LATHE is loaded with cutting-edge features that distinguish it from others in its class. Included is a sliding headstock that also pivots 360 degrees, electronic infinitely VARIABLE speed from 40 3200 rpm, and a newly designed headstock locking handle.2. Jet JWL-1015 Wood Working Lathe
Feature
15-1/2" between centersSix spindle speeds: 500, 840, 1240, 1800, 2630 and 3975
Integrated 24 position indexing
Improved tensioning system with easier access to belts
Wider bed ways provide increased rigidity
Description
The new JET 1015 is an ideal choice for the novice woodturner looking for an affordable, user-friendly first lathe, as well as the advanced enthusiast or professional who wants to add a full-featured mini-lathe to the shop. This sturdy, smooth-running 15" mini-lathe has the power, precision and versatility to turn out any number of projects. When you're ready to make your ideas a reality... Start Here.3. JET JWL-1221VS 12-Inch by 21-Inch Variable Speed Wood Lathe
Feature
Unrivaled speed control60-3600 RPM variable speed
Optimally designed speed ranges
Forward to reverse is a smooth transition
Innovative ratchet style belt tension system (patent pending)
Description
The JET 1221VS is different from anything we've made before. In truth, its different from anything that anybody has ever made before. The design is better. The features are better. The entire turning experience is better. And it all focuses on one concept Control.4. JET 708359 JWL-1642EVS 16-Inch Swing 42-Inch between Centers 1-1/2 Horsepower Electronic Variable Speed Woodworking Lathe, 115-Volt 1 Phase
Feature
1-1/2-horsepower electronic woodworking lathe16-inch swing, 42-inches between centers; variable speed (0-3,200 rpm)
Cast-iron bed and legs
Includes lathe, tool rest, faceplate, spur center, live center, knockout bar, tool storage rack
410-pounds for reduced vibration; 63-1/2 by 20 by 50-inches; 5-year warranty
Description
The JET 16in. x 42in. EVS Pro Wood Lathe is a one of a kind machine for the true wood turner. With a 1.5 HP motor and electronic inverter, you can operate the machine at any speed from 50 to 3200 RPM for optimum wood lathe performance. Swing: Swing over bed: 16 in., Mount Type: Stand alone, Spindle Diameter (in.): Spindle nose: 1 1/4 in. x 8 TPI, Speeds: 50-3,200, Amps: 4.6, Motor Voltage: 115 (prewired 115V), Distance Between Center of Holes (in.): Distance between centers: 42in., Spindle Lock: Yes, allows for ease of removing chucks and faceplates, Motor Phase(s): 3, Material Type: Cast iron, metal, Hole Diameter (in.): Hole through tailstock: 3/8in., Variable Speed: Spindle speeds: infinite, Includes: Swing over tool rest base: 12 in., Ram Travel (in.): 45. RIKON 70-100 12-by-16-Inch Mini Lathe
Feature
Easy Access Speed Change: Provides ample room to change speeds quicklySelf Ejecting Tail Stock: No need to use the knock-out bar to remove the center
Laser engraved ram with 2-1/2-Inch travel
Ability to Add Multiple Extensions
1/2HP Motor
Description
Model 70-100 Rikon has taken the standard mini lathe to the next level with increased capacity - this mini lathe does more in less space. Featuring a 12" swing and 16" between centers with the ability to add one or more bed extensions. Shipping weight 89 lbs. Features: 12 position indexing head, self-ejecting tailstock with 2-1/2" ram travel, 8" tool rest, convenient lifting handle, tool holder, easy access to the top and bottom pulleys for quick speed changes, six speed (430, 810, 1,230, 1,810, 2,670, 3,900), #2 MT head stock, powered by a 1/2 HP TEFC motor. Overall dimensions: 32" long x 10-1/2" wide x 19" high. Includes: 8 tool rest, live center, 3 faceplate, spur center, tooling knockout.6. Jet JWL-1015VS 10-Inch X 15-Inch Variable Speed Wood Working Lathe
Feature
15-1/2" between centersThree speed ranges: 200-1050, 300-1750 and 600-3600
Integrated 24 position indexing, Improved tensioning system with easier access to belts
Wider bed ways provide increased rigidity, Motor Power (HP) - 1/2
Description
The new JET 1015VS is an ideal choice for the novice woodturner looking for an affordable, user-friendly first lathe, as well as the advanced enthusiast or professional who wants to add a full-featured mini-lathe to the shop. This sturdy, smooth-running 15" mini-lathe has the power, precision and versatility to turn out any number of projects. When you're ready to make your ideas a reality... Start Here.7. JET BD-920W Lathe with S-920N Stand
Feature
Spindle supported by precision tapered roller bearingsHardened and ground bedways
Power longitudinal feed allows threading
Standard 1-1/2" x 8 TPI spindle mount allows for many aftermarket accessories
Reversing switch included for added versatility
Description
Jet belt drive bench lathes feature an enclosed gearbox with Helical cut gears for noise reduction and smooth operation. The full length splash guard on all sizes prevents hot chips and fluid from contaminating the work area and the Quick Change gearbox allows for fast and easy gear changes for metric threading. Each Jet Lathe comes loaded with features You've come to expect, all backed by the industry leading Jet two year warranty.8. JET BDB-1340A Lathe with CBS-1340A Stand
Feature
One of the most popular JET lathes now comes with an enclosed gearbox as a standard featureEnclosed gearbox design provides smooth, quiet operation
Fast, easy speed changes
Low voltage motor controls
D1-4 spindle is precision ground for accuracy and supported by high quality tapered roller bearings
Description
One of the most popular JET lathes now comes with an enclosed gearbox as a standard feature Enclosed gearbox design provides smooth, quiet operation Fast, easy speed changes Low voltage motor controls D1-4 spindle is precision ground for accuracy and supported by high quality tapered roller bearings9. JET 321376 9-Inch by 20-Inch Belt Drive Bench Lathe