new lathe

[softop41]

Hi All,
I'm starting to think about moving up from my Jet mini lathe. Right now the ones of most interest are the Jet 1442, the Nova 1624-44, and the Nova DVR. Space is a consideration so the DVR is in the mix due to the shorter length albeit with a higher price. Cost is a secondary factor in this choice; I just want to get one that will last me as long as I want to do any turning as well as fit into my space.
>The Jet appeals due to the fact that I can move the headstock to the right so that I don't have to work is a corner when I don't need full length for a spindle project, which is most of the time since I enjoy turning bowls, etc. It will, however fill the space available completely.
>The 1624 is in between the others in length therefore in the mix but would force me into a corner when turning.
>The DVR will allow me to keep it out of the corner, due to it's shortness, and turn more comfortably.
Both of the Nova lathes would be mounted on the cast iron legs, when they become available, to add weight and have room for a shelf under the lathe for more weight or whatever.
I like the outrigger accessory on the Nova lathes should I ever want to go that big( above 16"). I have used free-standing tool rests in the past and WILL not turn bigger than can be turned over the bed of the lathe if the choice becomes the Jet.
I've wrestled with this for several weeks so far and haven't been able to make a decision, so I decided to seek opinions from the wisdom of this forum.
Thanks in advance,
Jerry

[kwgeorge]

Well here again I am gonna put out my opinion! So, my second lathe and the one that really got me started turning was the Grizzly lathe that is the exact clone of the Jet you mention. As a matter of fact at one time I researched this particular lathe to be sold by 7 manufactures. It was great to get me started on and I really liked it but I wanted more. I had done considerable updating on it and had also purchased a Jet mini to go with it. After much debate and looking I decided on the NOVA 3000 but it was no longer being made so I watched all around until I found one used and snapped it up! For me it is everything I wanted as it has the short bet that goes great in my small shop but has the outboard turning ability. Everything about the lathe says quality, the fit and finish are good and the tool rest locks solid on the bed. I converted mine to variable speed 3phase and just love it. I like the Spindle lock and indexing and pretty much everything about it. I did not care much for the handles but I quickly solved that issue as can be seen on my site.

I was very pleased when Teknatool brought back this lathe as the 1624 and think it’s a great value. It also just won Fine Woodworking’s best value award. So with all this take a trip to Woodcraft and compare the lathes and I think you will see what I am talking about.

My .02
Ken