1. Jet JWL 1220

The Jet 1220 is a very popular lathe, due to its convenient size and reasonable price. Swing is 12″, with 20″ between centers. The 1220 has a powerful 3/4 HP motor, which makes turning very smooth and fluid. Other features include indexing and spindle lock. The optional bed extension increases the distance between centers to 48″ for large projects.

See larger image Jet 708376 JWL-1220 12-Inch X 20-Inch Wood Lathe (Tools & Home Improvement) List price: $665.00 USD New from: $499.00 In Stock

The 1220 comes with six and ten inch tool rests, faceplate, drift rod, live and spur centers, safety goggles, tool holder, lamp and the required hex wrenches.

2. Shop Fox W1704

The W1704 is probably the best option if you’re looking for an inexpensive wood lathe. With an 8″ swing and 17″ center to center this lathe is well suited to small projects such as pen turning and lure making. The 1/3 HP motor is more than enough power for a lathe this size and the variable speed control is a nice plus.

See larger image SHOP FOX W1704 1/3-Horsepower Benchtop Lathe (Tools & Home Improvement) List price: $209.00 USD New from: $183.76 In Stock

All around a great value, and an excellent choice for beginners or experienced wood turners in need of a small lathe.

3. Jet JML 1014VSI

The 1014I is another popular model from Jet. Swing is 10″ over the bed and distance between centers is 14″. This is one of the best mini lathes on the market, and comes at a great price point. The machining, finish and quality control on these lathes are excellent and separate the 1014I from similar models from other manufacturers. Has a 1/2 HP motor, variable speed control, indexing capabilities and spindle lock.

See larger image JET JML 1014VSI 10-Inch-by-14-Inch Variable Speed Indexing Mini Lathe (Tools & Home Improvement) List price: $642.00 USD New from: $529.99 In Stock

Comes with 6″ tool-rest, faceplate, drift rod, live and spur centers, safety goggle and hex wrenches.

4. Shop Fox W1752

The Shop Fox W1752 is very similar to the Jet 1014I in terms of size and feature set. Swing is 10″ and distance center to center is 15″. Motor is 1/2 HP with a belt change system. Less expensive than the Jet, but there is a trade off in terms of quality and finish. All in all a good wood lathe, and very affordable.

See larger image SHOP FOX W1752 Mini Wood Lathe (Tools & Home Improvement) New from: $299.00 In Stock

Comes with tool rest, live and spur centers and faceplate.

5. Jet JWL 1642EVS

The most popular full sized wood lathe available from Jet, The 1642EVS. Features a variable speed 1-1/2 HP motor capable of handling large projects, 16″ swing and 42″ between centers. This lathe weighs in at over 400 pounds and the large body helps to reduce vibration. Indexing capabilities, infinitely adjustable speed and digital spindle speed readout.

See larger image JET 708359 JWL-1642EVS 16-Inch Swing 42-Inch between Centers 1-1/2 Horsepower Electronic Variable Speed Woodworking Lathe, 115-Volt 1 Phase (Tools & Home Improvement) List price: $2,778.00 USD New from: $2,299.99 In Stock

Includes tool rest, faceplate, spur and live centers, knockout bar and tool rack