Archived from the Tools In Action forum (Woodworking). This thread is read-only.
I spotted a YouTube video this week with someone setting up and using a Ryobi entry level lathe. I can’t find an official listing on Ryobi’s site for it but it got my wheels turning about getting started turning and if these cheaper sub $500 lathes are worth their metal. Any advice?
It looks like the Ryobi lathe isn’t sold in the USA at all. I wondered about that myself because I never heard of Ryobi selling a lathe recently. They might have done it years ago when companies sold more stationary power tool equipment.
I personally use one from harbor freight. It was about $200 i believe. I hadn’t had any problems with mine. It runs true and was just what i was looking for when i was starting to turn projects.
I’ve been considering the Jet one myself. Delta’s has terrible reviews…I see them on craigslist all the time for pretty cheap.
There was a Delta 12″ with stand locally here, looked new $250 asking price. Right now I can get even a couple metal lathes under $500…wish I had the room. There’s also an old Craftsman lathe for $75. I think used is the way to go, maybe you can score some accessories thrown in too.