Jet Wood lathe

This post will specifically review the Jet Wood lathe

To see reviews of other models click the links below.

Delta Wood Lathe…..Powermatic Wood Lathe

To see our overview on wood lathes click Wood Lathe Reviews

When I wanted to buy a lathe recently, I couldn’t find the info I wanted so I created this blog.  I thought it was important to know which brand was best for me, what features did I need, was it really worth it?

I have been woodworking for a couple of decades now and consider myself a capable and experienced woodworker.  I will try and share some of my experiences and what I found out about these saws.

If you’re simply looking for the best place to purchase, I have found that Amazon has the best prices and usually includes free shipping on their tools.

==>Click Here to See the Best Deals on a Jet Wood Lathe<==

 Jet Wood Lathe

Is this the right lathe for you?

When you are looking at Jet lathes the model numbers can be a little confusing.  Here’s a simple key.  

Here’s an example.    Model JET 1220VS Mini Lathe  

The first number is the diameter of what you can cut, the second the length.  The actual wood turning and type of construction is very similar on different models.  But since Jet has several different models, make sure you know what size you’re getting.

OK, now on to the reviews!

Jet has been around for quite a while now.  They make quality tools and they have an excellent reputation for customer service. Pretty good starting point, I think

Let’s get started with the mini lathes.

As mentioned above they have several models differentiated mostly by size of cut, so what I describe here can be related to all their mini lathes.

Most mini lathes start out with about 1/3 hp motors.  Jet’s either have ½ or ¾.  They are certainly strong enough to cut most small items, like pens or small bowls.  If you plan on cutting larger bowls or long spindles, you would probably need a little more power.

But isn’t the purpose of a mini lathe to cut small items?  Ultimately enough power to turn what the lathe was intended to make.

The full sized lathes have more power and weight.  Usually 3/4 horsepower.  The weigh is around 400lbs.  This combination is enough to cut medium sized bowls and medium sized spindles.  

Other than the obvious size and weight, full size lathes will cut a little smoother.  I’m convinced most people really only need a mini lathe, but really want a larger lather.  That’s OK.  Remember you can cut much more on a full size lathe.  The trade off is a little more in up front cost and you need a little more room for the tool.

For many people who start out on a mini lathe, they seem to find that the mini is much more convenient to use and they end up using it for what it was intended which is small projects.  If they ever evolve into cutting bigger bowls or really heavy blanks then they get an additional full sized lathe.

Ultimately you have to decide which style of lathe you’ll use most.  But if you decide on a Jet lathe, you’ll probably be fine either way.

Vibration

The heavy duty body eliminates almost all vibration.  So turning here is really smooth.  Once you get above the say $300 price range, vibration for most lathes is a non issue.  This is certainly true for Jet models.

If you can, I would suggest you add the stand.  It will also help dampen vibration and probably be at the correct height to turn.  A solid bench can be used effectively if you have absolutely no wobble and the lathe is bolted or securely clamped down.

Another big benefit of low vibration is a quiet operation.  Jet saws produce very little noise.  Not a make or break feature, but you’ll appreciated this after you’ve been turning awhile.

How easy are they to use?

The controls are pretty easy to use.  All are within easy access on the headstock.  The variable speed is I think a necessary feature for any quality lathe.  It’s safer, too.

Another feature on most of their lathes is an indexing feature.  You probably won’t use this much, but once you do, you’ll be glad you have it.  An index feature allows you to carve flutes or veins in your work.

Here’s a video by Jet describing their lathes.

Concerns

As with any tool price can be an issue.  No different here. But if you get a lesser quality lathe you’ll regret it and eventually end up spending more in the long run after you come back and buy a lathe like this, anyway.

Certain tools you can get away with spending less, but precision tools like lathes aren’t one of them. 

Conclusion

I have always liked Jet tools.  I have never had an issue with their customer service but for the handful of people who have had contact with them, speak in glowing terms.  All and all gives me a comfortable feeling knowing I probably won’t need them, but if I do, I’ll get a great response.

I think the tools do what they are designed to do and do it well.  I feel very comfortable that you will like your Jet Lathe.  The fun part for you is deciding which one you like the most!

Best Deals

I hope this review has been helpful.  If you would like to read more reviews or purchase a Jet Wood Lathe click the link below click the link below to Amazon.  I have found their prices are the lowest on lathes and usually include no shipping or sales taxes.

Click Here to see more reviews on Jet Lathes

Best wishes and enjoy your new lathe.