What is the project? There is always more than one way to skin a cat so there may be other ways to do this than to spend over $100 for something you may not use again. The chuck may be the simplest way but glue blocks and other approaches can usually made to work for a one-off.
The Nova chucks are good. You have to make sure you get one with the correct thread (or insert) for you spindle.
yeah depends on what you mean by "needs a chuck". for my limted use of a lathe I bought an adapter that lets me use my drill press chuck, and then I fabricate whatever to hold that will fit in the chuck
Remember, the lathe is an ancient machine that has been used for centuries… and the modern scroll chuck is a recent invention. Yet they did some pretty amazing work back then, even without all of our modern conveniences.
Not saying you couldn't put a chuck to good use, only that in most cases - it is not necessary, just more convenient.
Are you able to use a faceplate chuck for this project, if not.
In my opinion as a newbie turner. You want the 4 jaw chucks for wood. Save using the 3 jaw chuck for turning metal. I have a Midi lathe with a 1hp motor. And use the Nova G3 chucks and jaws. You'll find that jaws are not interchangeable between brands. So If you multiple chucks, stay with one brand.
If you have a Mini or Midi lathe, I'd go with the chucks that don't weigh as much. Example; I use the Nova G3 chucks. They weight less than the SuperNova or the Titan. So with less stress, your bearing on the lathe will last longer on the Mini and Midi lathe. All the Nova jaws are interchangeable with all the Nova chucks.
If you want to save some cash, the Barracuda chucks may be the way to go. But, keep in mind, Barracuda jaws only fit Barracuda chucks. Most of the guys in our woodturning club use the Nova brand chucks. A couple of them have both Barracuda and Nova chucks. They are very happy with the Barracuda chucks. So double check to the available jaw options for which you chuck decide on. https://www.pennstateind.com/store/CUG3418CCX.html
As others have said, chucks are for convenience. Faceplates and glue blocks can do the same thing.
For limited use the psi Barracuda is ok. The ring gear/chuck key gears are a poor design and the key cams out, like a phillips screwdriver. I have 4 of them which I dont use anymore. The best bargain is the apprentice chuck at Craft Supplies. The best chuck is Oneway or Vicmark, depends on the jaw type one likes.
I agree that chucks are not always necessary. So before you go buying one, let us know what your project is.
Very possible to hold off on that purchase if you like.
What Jet lathe do you have? You say full size, 14", 16" or 18"?
The 14×40 has a 1X8 spindle, while the other two have 1-1/4"x8.
So I have several chucks that I have acquired over the years. Started off with a cheap Grizzly chucks similar to what I
linked below. Because it is a kit with several sets of jaws it is still a bit pricey. But look at what you get.
It is 1X8 tpi, and if you have the Jet 16 or 18×40 it will not work with out an adapter. I would avoid chucks that need the adapter myself. https://www.grizzly.com/products/grizzly-4-25-wood-lathe-chuck-set/t10810
There are also other cheaper brands out there like the apprentice chuck from Craft supplies. https://www.woodturnerscatalog.com/t/177/4-Jaw-Chucks
And then the big name brands.
I Started out with a Vicmarc, but now have both a oneway Stronghold, Talon, and a Super Nova chuck.
I find them all to be Good products. With no real preference. Gives me a very wide option in chuck jaws.
Also, I am glad I have them all. But I really never needed all these chucks. Bought the Oneway Stronghold new. The rest are all second hand that I got deals on that were just to good to pass up. I would have never bought them at full price. Just really no need for it.
So don't sweat all the choices. Pick one and be happy.
Good luck.
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