2 lathes...feedback wanted

[afortune]

Hi all,

I have been thinking about getting a lathe and was leaning toward the Rikon mini based on a friend's recommendation. Then I saw these two listings on craigslist in my area. I am new to turning, and I would appreciate any feedback y'all might have on these lathes. Thanks in advance.

Andy

http://ithaca.craigslist.org/tls/178337997.html
http://ithaca.craigslist.org/tls/175905935.html

[Jim Boyd]

I can't really tell form the one pic or the others description. I would probably opt for the HF 34706 lathe.

[Bruce Platt]

If you are just starting out, I would stick with the Rikon over the used machines you mentioned. There is enough to learn without worrying if the lathe is actually doing the right things.

I might also suggest the Jet mini, I have one and have been very satisfied.

[afortune]

Thanks for the feedback Jim and Bruce.

Turns out the first one for $250 is a Rockwell (Delta) 46-111 with a four speed step pulley, which seems to be a solid lathe, but it needs a good bit of de-rusting, cleanup and tuning. It's an early '80s vintage and has been stored in pieces for a long time. I agree with you...I think I'd rather not have that kind of project for my first (and maybe only) lathe.

The AMT is a big, solid lathe, but more than I need and also a project.

So, for the cost I'm thinking the Rikon looks pretty tempting. The only reason I was looking at it instead of the Jet was the extra capacity.

Andy

[hitekrednek]

I just recently purchased one of the Rikon units and it is great.