Re: Looking for good lathe

Hey Josh, A question first. Have you turned before or worked wood at all? If you just want to try out turning then how about a mini lathe like the mini Nova or Jet. Supposed to be real nice lathes. That way if you like you can get a bigger one later and still have a nice, small, very usable lathe. The tools you use will be the same, chucks etc will need adapters though. If you don't like turning then a good quality mini lathe is easy to sell and you won't be out too much $$. That being said, I have a Nova 3000 with a 3 phase motor and controller, and yeh, I lust after a Stubby but every time I go out to my lathe and do my thing I don't feel the need for anything else. Yes, the tailstock is minimal at best but it still does its job. The turning head works beautifully and I don't want for any more power. 16 inch swing is a lot of wood if you fill it up (I've done it a time or two:) ) Total for the lathe and motor set cost about $1200. For the price difference you can get a whole bunch of quality tools and accessories. I have seen Oneways and just pictures of the Stubby and the Nova does not compare in fit and finnish but it does a journeyman's duty of spinning wood just fine. Just remember the lathe is only the beginning :) Have fun and enjoy which ever one you choose, Guy