UPDATE: Delta 46-460 Midi-Lathe has arrived.
OK, I am starting to look at the feasibility of purchasing the Rikon Mini Lathe 70-100 AS MY FIRST LATHE. I have read the other threads regarding which to buy…HF, Jet, PM, etc. I will NOT consider the larger lathes at this point as I will never be able to spend multiple thousand$ on a lathe.
My GOAL: I envision wanting to turn table legs in the range of ~30in length, turnings for chair backs, as well as turn hand plane knobs and smaller such items.
I am also considering buying the:
- RIKON Mini Lathe 24in Bed Extension ($99.99) because of this expandability in capacity.
- WoodRiver High Speed Steel Beginner's Turning Set, 5 piece ($157.49)
That said, what I am looking for in the way of advice:
- Are the above turning tools enough to start, quality/quantity? Do I need a smaller set as well?
- Is 1/2hp motor enough, considering my goals?
- Is the RIKON Universal Mini Lathe Stand
1. Capable/Able to mount the this lathe WITH a 24in extension?
2. Is this worth it? I have read some neg. reports regarding this stand and wonder if I should pass, and make my own stand or plate for mounting on my workbench when needed?
- AND THE BIG QUESTION- What OTHER additional things do I need in the way of collets, chucks, jaws, etc.? I have read several time where this may be the biggest part of the money hole, so help me out here.
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RUNNING TALLY OF ADDED SUGGESTED ITEMS NEEDED (from posters), OR OF ITEMS NOT NEEDED:
- Bionic Face Shield ($56.99)
- Tap to match Spindle -- 1in x 8TPI ($17.99)
- Drill Chuck with MT#2 taper (Sale! $39.99)
- HF 8 Piece Wood Lathe Turning Tool Kit ($18.99)
- Set of 3 HSS Benjamin's Best Versa Chisels: 1/2in, 3/4in & 1in ($36.95)
- Harbor Freight 4in x 36in Belt Sander ($79.99 Sale before 20% OFF coupon) PLUS ~ $35 to convert to Sharpening/Buffing System TOTAL MAYBE $115.00
- General Tools 12-1/4 in. Outside Caliper ($27.97)
- NO to stand-build own cabinet or base to anchor to WB
- Collet holder-Buy LATER On
Sub-Total of Add-ons = ~$320 so far (many at Sale prices)
Rikon 70-100 Mini Lathe = $360 on $ale
RIKON Rough TOTAL = $360 on $ale + $320 = ~ $700 + Sales Tax/Shipping
DELTA 46-460 Rough TOTAL = ~ $680 + $320 = ~ $1,000 + Sales Tax/Shipping