Rockler's Excelsior Mini Lathe, $150

[Bill in Buena Park]

Saw this in the recent Rockler ad: http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?p...lter=excelsior. Sale goes through 12/3, I believe.

Appears to be the same as the Grizzly H8259 (currently $199 on sale w/o shipping) and the HF 65345 (currently $194 on sale without shipping).

Was wondering if there is any experience with or observation about this unit's suitability for small-piece turning, e.g., pens, etc.

Rockler also carries the extension bed for this. All input welcome and appreciated.

[Reptile]

I have the Penn State Industries Turncrafter Pro Midi-Lathe(now discontinued) with the extension bed which looks to be the same lathe as the others you listed. I've had it for roughly 7 years, used it hundreds of times, some days for 8 hours and haven't had any problems. It's smooth and quite and I would buy another if it disappeared. A lot of saltwater fishermen use them to make fishing lures and they highly recommend them.

[Bill in Buena Park]

Thanks Reptile - I've found some reviews on the Turncrafter and Excelsior that are positive. I may end up with one for Christmas, and wanted to make sure it was well-featured and regarded for something in its size/price class, small enough for my shop and purposes (small piece work.)