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Hoping to make the right decision

C

Chipster

Joined
Dec 2, 2004
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First, a little introduction. Chip and Vicki (us) are in Ann Arbor MI. We both create sawdust on squared wood (before now). Recently, a friend helped (?) me out by offering to teach me how to turn some handles and foot pegs for a Christmas rocking horse. The inevitable happened. You guessed it, we got hooked on turning.

We've been researching lathes and vow not to make an all-to-frequent mistake. We don't want to quickly outgrow our new lathe.

We started looking at the Jet 1236 and in no time at all, realized that we would outgrow it for what we feel we will turn (bowls, vases, platters, etc.). We then started looking at other, larger ones, but thought we'd ask about good ol' used ones too. Are there any sources out there with good, heavy used lathes that we should consider? How about any of you? Anyone have a terrific, larger lathe that you've outgrown that you are selling?
 
If you are looking for a used lathe you might want to see if you can locate a company that buys used equipment from schools and refurbishes it. We have a large one here in the Cleveland area called Ornamental Products, Tool and Supply and we are not that far from Ann Arbor. There might even be somehing in your immediate area as well. Might be worth a phone call.

Regards,

Joe
 
Thank you for your response Joe. I'll dig into your lead.

Also, thank you Jeff. I found the page that you referenced shortly after posting my message. I appreciate your response.
 
Hi Chip & Vicki

I'm in Mt. Clemens, MI & have a Jet 1236 for sale. I outgrew it in about 2 years & bought a 3520. I don't want to talk you into something you don't want, but I'm selling the Jet for $275. Use it for a year & sell it for $275. By then you will feel better about buying (spending) something like the 3520.
Also, my shop is in transition right now, but should be up & running shortly. You can try both the Jet 1236 if it hasn't sold, and the Powermatic 3520.
PM me if you're interested.

Welcome the the addiction!
ChuckS
 
I recommend the whole enchilada. Why not start with a substantial lathe. The PM 3520 gives you a lathe that would be good for the rest of your life.....lots of flex..
If you can find a used one, great. But a new one is the best deal on the market. Just my opinion, but you asked.
David Galloway
 
Chip and Vicki,

You have received lots of good suggestions and I want to add my support to them. The kind offer of Chuck S to try out his Powermatic 3520 is one you should take advantage of. As David Galloway wrote, the 3520 is the best deal available and the most versatile. It is not a lightweight, it is the favorite of a lot of good turners, and it will always have good resale value. It certainly gives the most bang for the buck.

If you were sure that you would be doing mostly spindle work, such as ornaments or boxes, then I would recommend the Oneway 1224. I have the 1018, which a friend let me try out, and I have never regretted it. The 1224 wasn't available then, but friends who have them are equally pleased.

If space is a consideration and you want a substantial lathe that is versatile, then take a look at the Stubby 750.

Buy the BEST lathe that you can afford. Good Luck, and welcome to a great fraternity.
 
Thank you all for your help. I can imagine you get these "what lathe should I buy" questions alot. I really appreciate everyone's help.

ChuckS, thank you for your very generous offer! I don't think the 1236 is going to do it for me. I seriously thought about one, but know that I will outgrow it and have lathe-envy very soon. However, I would love to take you up on the 3520 offer. I will PM you soon about this. With the holidays fast approaching, things are so busy I may not be able to do it for a little while. Thank you!

PapaDoc, thanks for the comments. I agree with the "whole enchilada" notion. I'd love to find a used 3520. I'll keep searching!

Ed, Thanks to you for your comments. I agree that I should buy the best lathe I can afford (and actually, it will probably be a bit more than I should afford!)

You all have been very helpful! Thank you. OKay, who has a used 3520 for sale? :D
 
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