Jet Lathes

Jet also manufactures a line of woodworking lathes.  Unlike a machine (metal) lathe, these lathes for woodworking have a large work volume.  Even their "mini" lathes typically have a 12" swing and 20" bed.  These smaller lathes, such as the Jet lathe models JWL-1014 and JWL-1220, are among the most popular and most affordable.  They're great for anyone doing small turnings such as pens and short but large-diameter turning such as bowls.  These particular models are known for being really solid, with little vibration and noise.  If you need need a longer bed you could either go for a larger model, or add a bed extension.  Even if you only need the working volume of the 1014, you may need to go with the 1220.  It has a 3/4 horsepower motor compared to the 1/2 horsepower moter of the 1014.  Plus the 1220 has a wider speed range (270 to 4,200 rpm) compared to that of the 1014 (400 to 3,900).  The lower speed could be particularly important for slightly out-of-balance stock.