well it's a lathe ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxN9zrzkkhnjUF5PQbuA_B1gYdsfCu9k6z but it wasn't what i would have anticipated. Headstock, tailstock, carriage apron are manufactured from aluminum now not cast iron. The spindle diameter for the bearings is too small allowing for a few play in the spindle so I am using some blue Loctite to take out the play.
I’m a lifelong hobby woodworker. I have quality turning tools. Once the carbide tools came out, I saw the cost was ridiculous. After some time, carbide tips became available on eBay. So I went to Home Depot and bought steel rod, ordered tips, turned my own handles and had good carbide cutters for less than $20. You can get a decent set of tips for around $20. There will be 3 or 4, round, square, pointed detail, and it’s well worth the effort versus paying $175 for one tool. Excellent review by the way.
RNGPRODUCTS You certainly don’t need a mill for these wood turning tools. I cut the square and round steel rod with a 4” grinder. Then I drilled and tapped the center hole with hand tools. Other tools would be nice to make it easier, but it can be done by anybody in their small wood shop. I’m working very primitively, as shop standards go. I’ve seen a lot of tools and jigs made here on UA-cam and being that I have no disposable income, I have to make all of the cool gadgets. But it gets the job done. It’s funny, but I seem to enjoy making the tools and jigs, more than I do any real projects now.
I bought half inch square steel bar online, needed a metric drill bit and tap for a mounting hole and got the carbide inserts from a guy in Arizona. I have a nice piece of hardwood to make handles if I ever get back in the shop. Looks like you can turn wood just using the metal parts. If I had to pay 150 dollars for a single cutting tool I’d probably take up a cheaper hobby like drag racing or flying a WWII war bird😜
@@brookswade5774 I make a few of my own jigs too. I am the other way around though aboutthe enjoyment. For the most part I make toys. It makes me happy to see kids receive the toys and watch their faces light up. I do understand how you enjoy making your own tools.
I've had mine for 2 years now and it still works Great. Bought a bigger lathe but still like doing small items on this unit. Highly recommend if you are starting out! I've turned a ton of projects on it with no issues.
I watched this video a few times and about a year ago I finally decided to buy this lathe. With some patience and common sense it has proven to be a fun time for me learning how to turn some wood projects. I did the comparisons to other brands and as you said, they are the same. Its been a good product for me as a beginner and has brought "new life" (joy) to me. Peace be with all of you
I have one and I'd definitely recommend it. The only problem i have with it is the plastic handles for tightening the tool rest and tail stock. Mine broke off and for now I'm just using pliers. Not a huge deal. Perfect for any skill level.
While you reviewed the mini, we bought the large one. Thank you. I now know what to look for. We went for a USA made machine on a local trade site originally. A year later we have given up and chalked that machine up as a "lemon". Every time we have "turned around", we were buying another part. Since it was a trade buy, there isn't any warranty of any kind. I don't really care about that lack of warranty. What ticks me off is the time we wasted. We now have the large model Harbor Freight model (still in the box), but as we mount and assemble it, I will know what to look for, and what to expect. Again, thanks.
I bought this lathe and have used it for a couple years. It's been surprisingly useful for its size. The only issue I had was the tool rest. Its cast iron, and it broke when a piece came off the lathe. I bought a larger steel tool rest and things have been amazing. I love this tiny lathe!
I purchased the same lathe about two years ago. At the time I had never used a lathe before. I bought it simply because I watched a UA-cam video on bent wood rings and I was looking for a new craft. I taught myself how to use it and be safe. It was intimidating at first. After about 3 months I was producing rings with a high enough quality to sell them. I have turned it into a small business and I’m still doing very well with it. I currently have over 50 unique designs that I make. Anyway, it’s a great little lathe and i would definitely recommend it.
This is a thorough and interesting review! Thumbs up for sure. Two suggestions: 1.) Showing the machine in action or showing some of the products you've made with it would make your review much more authoritative. 2.) You never explain WHY the HF tool set is bad. You don't give specifics or show the tools. Then you go straight to carbide tools. I totally get that you have a background in manufacturing, but that probably wouldn't give you the skills to sharpen turning tools, just because they're very different than cutters for a machine lathe. Your details on sharpening are also very vague. Many new turners don't get sharpening right away and then just say "screw it" and go to carbine. I kind of suspect that's what happened here. Anyway, I really did like this review and your quick delivery. I only offer suggestions as one content creator to another.
I bought mine several years ago and it has been GREAT! NO problems with it period. I've turned numerous things on it and it keeps chugging along. This one he is showing looks like a higher quality updated version so I'm sure it would do everything you would want it to do. If you are just starting out in wood turning, this is the one to get. Get your coupon and get it.
Fantastic take on this lathe! I own three lathes including two full sized lathes but I can honesty say there isn’t a better bang for your buck than this lathe. It’s also a fantastic entry point for the prospective turner as well. It won’t do what my laguna 24x36 can for example but that’s not what it’s intended for and those detractors from the lathe are missing that point. It has its faults no doubt but for a mini lathe, there isn’t better value in my opinion.
Ok man here it comes. Look out. Absolutely the best Video as far as details and your background and how thoroughly you went through everything. The title of the video is exactly as stated after watching your video. I myself also worked in Manufacturing my entire career. Also worked for the Family Powdered Metal company to start and then moved on from there I have worked Maintenance where we had 2000,000 ton presses clear down to pill presses between Powdered Metal and forging. I finally settled into Machining and was at one point in the family business was the Quality Manager back in the day when Q-1 was the biggest thing out there. That was my absolute 1st audit that i had ever been through in Manufacturing. I did the actual set up and implementation of the Entire Q-1 requirements of course all the employees had to buy into it also but Procedures and such were all my own doing from being an operator for years . The inspections in the Marine Corps were at least 3 times the stressor yes USMC 1984-1992 0311/1371 were my primary and secondary MOS. But yea I went on with the quality thing for actually 35 years retired at 53 years old after working in several different kinds of Mfg. Got my Certified Quality Engineering cert and became an internal/3rd party QS/TS auditor and Quality manager at almost every company I worked for . Now I restore old tools in my garage as a pass time I do not normally sell them. They are hand tools for the most part but have spent my share of time down in the Hydraulic oil and powdered metal so yea I know a decent set up when I see it. I am going to Harbor freight this coming weekend to pick mine up. Again Awesome presentation. I know my comments tend to babble on and on. But keep the Video's coming man this one gets 2 thumbs up and a subscriber.
Great comment. At the end of the day If South Bend, Logan, Clausing etc… made a quality mini lathe from back in the day I’d be all over it. These simple little lathes with sharp tooling are perfectly fine. Once you master it, simple upgrade and use that small guy for polishing or dedicated pen turning etc…
Great attitude about defective products...Don't complain or write a bad review about something that is clearly defective, exchange it for a good one. The manufacturing process isn't always perfect. Thumbs up...liked!!
I have the same lathe and I recommend it along with the HF lathe gouges. Their gouge set leaves a lot to be desired (no bowl gouge) but these are the tools you want to learn sharpening with; cheap ones. Once you have it down then you can start buying the expensive tools. I have done 9.75 inch bowls on it all the way down to finials. It is a HF tool and it will require some setup and a little fiddling in the beginning. When one is ready and now dedicated to lathe turning you can upgrade as I'm doing this spring - but I will not get rid of my HF since it is perfect and I have it "dialed-in" for pen turning and alike projects. Keep in mind - the lathe is cheap, the tools and after market needs/wants is what will be expensive - price a nova chuck or a slow speed grinder and you will see what I mean. Make sure your tail and headstock are dead on before you start. I had to return my first one as the quill would not advance - no problem getting a new one. All of this IMHO
I have the variable speed one and like it. I bought the tool set just so I could learn to sharpen the turning tools and if I ruined them I wouldn't be ruining much. No, they are not much to brag about, but I did learn to sharpen them and they are much better when sharp. But I had to epoxy all the handles back on when they eventually came off, and all of them came off lol! but once sharpened and glued they are functional. But then I got some Sorby's. Yep, different ball game, but I am now not afraid to sharpen them when they need it. Also, the cheap tools let me have several grinds to experiment with and find which one's worked for me without spending $500 to do so. All in all for a hobbyist, I would highly recommend the harbor freight lathes even if a bit under powered.
I have the 12x34 HF wood lathe bought it used , 2 years ago, no complaint. Have turned big bowls , rolling pins, mortar and pestle, dozens of Christmas ornaments, utinsil holders . I have no problem with my used harbor freight lathe, even use their chisels
I have had the same lathe for 2 years, and it works great. I bought a variable speed dc motor, from PennState industries, and it took about 20 minutes to change it out. No more belt adjustments. Also, I purchased the extension base, for the Rockler Excelsior lathe, and I can turn up to 38 1/2" in length. Turned multiple pens, bowls, and a walking cane on mine. Definitely a Harbor Freight gem. Spare parts (belts, switches, etc) can be purchased from Grizzly for this lathe. Basically the same lathe as the Excelsior, Grizzly, and several others, just cost less than those.
Awesome mods! Like anything mechanical mass produced by humans, a few bad apples will get loose into the wild. But overall one of the better things you can pickup and your HF and get years of enjoyment out of it. Thanks for sharing your story!
Paul Waldrop...Thanks for the info Paul, I was curious myself if the motor could be changed out and what commercial brand it was compatible with for upgrades! Saved me some time! Merry Christmas 2019!
what variable speed motor did you buy? did you find a video showing how to switch it out? I want to buy this thing and I love the idea of fixing the speed issue :D
Every tool high end low end have a place in the shop and on the work level.... So depending on your professional level and budget .... thank you for your input
Thank you ! I buy a lot from HF and know how easy to return things if they suck or fail. It's refreshing and rare to view a review from an experienced individual and definitely better than reading a review from a winey DIY'er. Yes I liked and subscribed.
This is a very good lathe. It is the go to lathe that is sold by other retailers under a different brand name. I have used mine for over three years. Turned dozens of bowls and spindle pieces. I have been turning since 1964. Just a fun little machine.
I know this is a 2 year old video but I found it to be an awesome video, I’ve been on the fence on which lathe to get for my first lathe and the Laguna and Rikon at $800 is hard to justify, thank you for the very informative video and I look forward to more...👍🏼👍🏼
I appreciate the honesty of the review, I've been looking into getting that lathe from Harbour Freight and your video answered my questions about it, and answers some I wouldn't thought of asking, thanks
I used this lathe for over 10 years, never had a problem, even when I left it outside when I was in an apartment and it rusted it still worked fine. I eventually upgraded this year because I was tired of changing the belts and went for a jet vs. I don’t regret it but I wine get rid of the HF until I find someone who will actually use it.
They are great little machines, when used properly. Variable Speed is very nice. Once you have that it's hard to live with a belt change. Hence why for the price this is a great lathe to start with and make sure you enjoy the hobby before you get to invested into equipment!
Really great review. Gave me everything I wanted to know. And nothing I didn't lol which is refreshing for a change. Usually I have to watch 20 reviews on one product to feel I really have the right idea about it. But you just saved me a whole lot of time. It's like an actual review and not a commercial for once. Appreciate you my man. 🙏
I've had this lathe for a couple of years, and I highly recommend it. I made the following adjustment to mine and it helped a bunch. I removed the motor mounting plate and drilled three additional holes for cooling air to pass through. Chainsawxyz.
I've owned this lathe for some time now, and I love it. Great for not so big projects. You're exactly right about the starter set of tools....they suck! Good video, very informative.
I bought the 8X12 wood lathe from Harbor Freight several years ago. It has served me well and I still use it for projects.The lathe you showed does have my interest. The 2 extra inches of swing and 6 extra inches of length would make quite a difference. I agree about the Harbor Freighr tools also. They are not worth buying. I found a set of used tools on ebay. When I got the tools from ebay, I dressed the edges and they work very well. They are an old set of Craftsman tools made in the 50s or 60s. Great information in the video. Thanks for taking time to review the lathe.
I appreciate the reminder about the specs and also your suggestions as I'm adding some accessories. Have owned one now for two years, no complaints, machined parts and spindles lined up nicely out of the box, just a basic, heavy, no-frills machine which is what I wanted.
Had mine four years now upgraded the motor from motor from Penn state industry multi speed made it even better made my money back on projects I have done
Good video. I bought a similar one(Axminster) and found changing speeds was a great pain. You can't see the belt or pulleys unless you are a contorsionist. I found the headstock was reversable so it was a case of turnig it round and knocking out the spindle and reversing the top pulley. The whole thing took an hour. And now the window is facing me and I can see down to the motor pulley. So much more satisfying to use. I can't imagine why they make them like they do.
As someone who has been down this road before, nothing wrong with saving money on your first lathe. If you do get the truning bug you can upgrade later. I am on lathe #2 and it's a full size lathe. But I would hit up Craigslist for a better used lathe for the same price.
Nice review. I am just starting to get into wood turning and have been struggling to find a decent lathe for the money to be spent. Your opinions, advice and tips and tricks are much appreciated.
I purchased a lathe of this model, and am quite happy with it. This Central Machinery model is essentially an "off-brand" version of Rockler's Excelsior Mini Lathe MC1018. As such, it offers fewer accessories, but the base price is substantially lower, and it is fully compatible with Rockler accessories. I personally bought a Rockler 1", 8tpi woodturning chuck, which works perfectly with this machine. Overall, I found the included faceplate rather useless for woodturning, however, once I got the chuck, I mounted a piece of plywood to the faceplate, turned it to 8"", and now I use it as a sanding disc, so no worries! I will say, the unit is not perfect (the knob handles are a bit too long and awkward, and belt adjustment is somewhat cumbersome), however, over all, I find this machine to be an excellent value, especially for beginning turners like myself!
Have had one for 20 years there old full size lathe. Think I paid 120.00 for it when they opened in wpb, use it around 10 15 times a year. Made bowls and all kinds of handles a few vases, use it every so often glad to have it , and use when needed, be a waste of time to have anything better, don't use it enough. Great buy great price great tool. Great video
I bought a $70 PSI chisel set for a hand-me-down grizzley midi lathe and they're the best chisels I've used by far. They sharpen easy and stay sharp. Cheap tools are not always cheap quality. Just need to know what to look for.
I recieved the lathe from my daughter as a Christmas gift and that's been 2 1/2years ago I've been extremely happy with it and its function. Now I've gotten a lot of extras like two chucks, in additional large set and small set or carbide tools. I've made every one in my family happy with my craftsmanship making all sorts of turning toys and decor also crosses small 2 oz goblets tops driedels in a box as a call them, flowers (tulips) all from exotic wood. It's late at night and I may have written erotic wood from Bellforest my pleasure and a piece of maple lumber I'd like to make and give away to friends and family so it doesn't feel like a job. So far all cash is out flow, but it's a wonderful coping mechanism for some one with RSD/CRPS on good days. For an hour a day. To make some one happy. I think I duplicated everything I've seen made on you tube and it's where I got my knowledge from. Thank you Lord and thank you you tube craftsman for making me so happy. And harbor freight, also the extras my wife bought for me. My wonderful wife of 50 years and my inspiration.
Hey Richard, I just got my Harbor Freight Mini Lathe yesterday, and I was curious to know which two chucks you ordered. I am new to all of this and hoping to capitalize on others past experience, especially with making sure that I am purchasing compatible parts to my lathe. Thanks for any assistance you can provide me with, it's very much appreciated. Best!
@@nilesmadison I first got the nova 48111 turning chuck, than the nova G3 chuck on special with the large outside hold bowl chuck as a promotional set. I have a 1" x8 and had to get the adapter for the G 3 chuck to thread on to the shaft. The multiple sets of jaws that came with the G3 provides me with any turning task for the mini lathe. I use both with different size jaws to turn differing sized wood blanks after turning them with the pin and 4 blade drive chuck to get it to 2 1/4 inches or so to fit the self centering chucks nova makes. All are 4 jaw nice hold. Best of luck and enjoyment I've tried and succeeded making everything I saw on woodturners on you tube from flowers to finials and goblets.
@@nilesmadison I also enjoy making beautiful crosses that neatly everything I made went to a large family and friends. I have made a dime from my work as I consider it a labor of love. I got my wood from Bellforest. Just one of many my wife likes the looks of their wood pic on line.
Hi and thank you for sharing your knowledge. I am just a crafter and know nothing about using a lathe much less which tools to use or buy. I am looking at buying a lathe in the future but not until I know more about the machine and how to use it. So, thank you again for sharing your knowledge.
I bought my HF mini-lathe about 4 years ago and used it a lot. I have since upgraded to a Jet mini with variable speed and got a Beall buffing system for the little green machine, so it now serves as a dedicated buffing station. The thing just keeps going and going. It's a great little lathe for the money, and definitely a work horse. One thing I where I have to disagree is about those with high budgets. If someone can afford a higher end machine, by all means get one with electronic variable speed. Stopping to move the belt between pulleys is annoying enough but, more importantly, you won't be limited to those 5 speeds. It's worth the extra money for those who can afford it. The HF mini-lathe (and it's larger cousin) is made for the rest of us.
I am in charge of a craft program at a local church camp. Long story short, I now have 4 lathes at camp where I teach kids down to 3rd grade to turn pens. I also have one of the Harbor freight table top lathes like this one which I have had for 4 or 5 years. Harbor freight does not have a great spare parts dept. We had a tail stock break due to abuse by a kid who tried to lock down the tail spindle with a mallet instead of finding a maintenance guy to look at it long enough to see that the locking handle was not lined up with the slot in the spindle. I ended up having to order another tail stock from Grizzly tools for a replacement. The Grizzly Tools tail stock had a narrower opening between the ways on the bed, so I ended up buying some 1/8th inch square keystock and gluing the key stock to the bottom of the tail stock housing with J-B Weld, and then using a file to carefully narrow both sides until the tail stock would fit down into the bed and was centered on the head stock. I don't blame Harbor Freight. It never occurred to me that a college student that I trained to operate the lathe could not figure out how to properly operate the spindle lock, or figure out that the slot machined into the spindle was intended to have the locking screw indexed to it. The biggest problem with the Harbor freight power tools is the on off switch is really cheap. The one on my lathe as well as another harbor freight lathe failed within 1 year on my lathe, the camp lathe switch fail after 2 years, but the camp lather is only used from late June to early August. Instead of trying to replace the Harbor Freight switch with another Harbor Freight switch, I went to Rockler and picked up their "E-stop" switch. I fastened the switch down to my bench at home, and to the leg of the stand of the lathe at camp. I took the failed switch out of the machines and cut the wires off and spliced them together bypassing the switch. I then put the broken switch back in place to fill the hole. Plug the lathe into the Rockler switch, and then plug the Rockler switch into the wall.
Make sure you apply paste wax to the bed way of your lathe. No matter what brand/ size, rust prevention is important. Great performance is important for the long life of your lathe!🙂
Ryan, Thanks for taking the time to make this video. I have wanted to buy a wood-turning lathe for a while now. I had thought of buying the bigger one #34706, but after a few videos and seeing the cheap handles, and space required (small shop, shed really lol) I decided to go with the smaller #65345 Thanks for helping me make my decision. Well made and very informative video. -Paul
Great video. Thanks for sharing your knowledge. I'm a long time CNC machinist getting into woodworking on a shoe-string budget, and I appreciate the candor and info about chucks, tapers, and tooling necessary!
Your video is much appreciated. I too grew up around craftsmen and it is apparent to me by the manner in which you present, you have a clue. Just the kind of video I prefer when reviewing products. Thank you!
Thanks for the review. I have been considering that lathe as an initial starting point but wasn't seeing the kind of reviews that would answer my questions. I'm just starting to acquire shop tools on a very low budget for various woodworking projects on an as needed basis. The lathe is still a little down the road but I have more confidence in this area since I operate a CNC metal lathe at work. I miss working on the manual lathe but high yield production isn't satisfied with the number turnout for manuals. I am really enjoying both the similarities and differences between my knowledge of metal working and what I am learning about woodworking. Great stuff in my opinion. I have subscribed to your channel as I think it will be a good source of information for me. Again, Thank you.
I'm thinking about buying this lathe. It seems alot better than the one I have. I already have a lathe, but it only has threads, no morse taper. You can't put a regular spur or drive center on it. It has a thread-on spur center that came when i bought it on Ebay, but it's getting worn out. Also, the headstock and tailstock on my lathe aren't properly aligned.
I'm so glad you made this vid, I was about to take back the lathe I just bought a week ago because I literally have no place to put it & it's still sitting in the back of my Jimmy...:-( BUT..... a girl can never have too many tools & if it has to stay in my vehicle until spring arrives, so be it...LOL!!! You brought up some important items, like taking it apart & checking the tightness of the bolts etc, I wouldn't have thought about it unless something had sounded loose, but an ounce of prevention...so thank you for that, also for the specs on the spindle thread. 1x 8 & what a good idea for the wax! Thank you very much!!!
I bought one on Tuesday, unboxed it on Saturday, the motor was total junk, hissing and smoking as soon as the power was turned on. Harbor Freight replaced it without issue the new one works great!!!! BTW, I make my living as a CNC lathe programmer and set up tech.
Thanx for the information, it was a BIG Help !!! We are just getting started in our wood working journey. You probably saved us a ton of money and headaches with your video.
I do wood carving, and have used Lee Valley Tools for chisels, etc., and can vouch for their quality. They have turning tools--not cheap, but well made.
I can't speak for the new harbor freight chisels but at one point in time I bought a smaller three piece set of Windsor chisels from there and the spindle gouge is amazing. It holds an edge for an extremely long time. It was marked as high speed steel and actually out lasts other high speed chisels I have. I don't believe they sell them anymore but I definitely got my money worth out of it.
excellent review. I am researching for a friend who wants to get started but is on a tght budget. I have usually only hear good reviews about this lathe, especially its price point in relation to value. Well done.
II have this lathe, and I like it. The same lathe is available from Grizzly Industrial and another source, at higher prices. But the others offer a bed extension and other things. Grizzly sells replacement parts, but HF does not. Penn State Ind sells a variable speed kit that fits this lathe, as well as several other fine accessories. While there are a lot of places that sell things to improve the lathe, this basic lathe is the heart of it all. Actually, this lathe was a solution to the problem I encountered when I first got into pen turning. I started with a wood turning tool rest mounted on the carriage of my metal lathe. I was surprised by all the wood chips that were thrown EVERYWHERE. My solution was to buy this inexpensive wood lathe and build a cabinet/stand ON WHEELS so I could move it OUTSIDE when I used it.
I have been looking at this lathe for quite some time now, but never pulled the trigger on getting one. After watching this video, I can now jump off of the fence and head to harbor freight and get one.
I have had this lathe for 2 yrs+ and it has yet to fail me (I was able to turn a 9.5 inch wide 4 inch deep bowl) - the HF tools are a good idea if one does not know how to sharpen tools - this will let you learn on the cheap - once you have that down then the expensive part of buying quality tools is warranted - also when you move up to a bigger/better lathe this one will still be good for pens and PSI kits.
This is the same thing (motor, headstock, ...) as the Rockler Excaliber. Just way less expensive. Decent small lathe and should do bowls, pens, Christmas ornaments, finials and plates to 10". The reason you want the 1-8 thread on the headstock is to fit common chucks on it. BTW - motor gets hot on the Rockler too.
Extremely useful information for finding the accessories for this machine. I received this lathe without any attachments, and trying to figure out what to buy is confusing. Thanks!
I have one of those lathes, and I like it. When I first got interested in pen turning I bought a wood turning tool rest for my 7x16 metal lathe. While the 7x16 is big enough for most gunsmithing tasks, the problem I had was it threw wood chips EVERYWHERE. It was not nice getting them into the gears of the carriage. LOTS of cleanup. My solution was to buy the HF wood lathe and building a cabinet for it ON WHEELS so I could wheel it outside whenever I used it. The biggest difference I have seen between the HF wood lathe and the Grizzly version is some things are covered in one manual, but not both. Since both manuals can be downloaded for free from the separate retailers, the problem is solved. HF used to offer a .5 HP variable speed conversion kit, but the new ones are .75 HP. So far, I have not found a need for such a thing for pen turning.
My brother had 2 of the HF mini lathes and the motors went out on both. Glad you guys are having good luck with yours....obviously he did not and all he makes is pens.
Owned one of these for a number of years. Had no problems with it at all. Only real downside is the need to move the belt to change the speed. That got old REALLY fast. Unless you plan to be turning the same stock to produce the same items repeatedly I'd suggest you're better off spending the additional money for a variable speed lathe. For someone looking to try out turning for the first time it's a good value - but if you stick with it as a hobby you'll immediately begin thinking about upgrading.
I have this lath and a bed extension that allows turning up to 38 inches. I made table legs and it works perfect for me. I did make a longer tool rest due to longer turning.
Couple things you didn't cover that I would like to know. There is 2 allen screws sticking out of the end of the bed. You didn't mention these, or if there is a bed extension available for this lathe. If so, would you recommend the bed extension? And what would be the largest diameter piece you recommend for the added length using the 1/2hp motor that it comes with? Also when you were talking about the spindle threads and chucks, you didn't mention if there was a spindle lock, or how you would hold the spindle when loosening chucks or face plates. And is face plates and other accessories available from Harbor Freight? Your background with tools is a great plus for tool reviews. I've subscribed and hopefully I can learn something. My background is wood working and tool knowledge is limited to the machines I had. I no longer have a wood shop since I became disabled. But a mini lathe would fit in my apartment and let me make things I occasionally need. Keep up the good work on your reviews! Your are a big asset for those looking for "Good" information. Thank You Kindly for taking your time to share your knowledge!
Very well said, we go to Harbor Freight to get a "cheap" what ever. Don't buy a tool or in this case a lathe and then complain how cheap it was manufactured. Make it work or take it back OR save and spend MUCH more money on a name brand tool. Just like the commenter Jack002tuber, he watched a 14 minute review and the only comment is that a few words are missing in the audio???? Probably one of the 121, at this time, of the thumbs down. Thanks! !! !!!
Thankyou for this i have been waiting to pull the trigger on harbor freights lath after seeing this i feel completely comfortable buying one now and knowing it wont be a waste of money im subscribing to your channel for more videos keep it up
Fantastic video! Thank you. Your comment at 7:20 is perfect regarding not to fiddle around with totally substandard tools. Harbor Freight is GREAT for many things. Understand that their gear is manufactured to very low tolerance to be Price Point products. If you’re concerned then purchase the “protection plan”. If it breaks then go get another one. I fondly refer to them as “the disposable tool company”. I have had good luck myself.
Ditto on the review, I have been using mine for several years, several 100 pens. If you are turning pens the Rockler mini carbide set is wonderful. The tools from HF range for extremely good buy to dumpster fill.
I started watching youtube videos on wood turning about 6 months ago. I`ve also been a HF shopper before that. When I started viewing videos on HF lathes, I started looking. I think it was 3 weeks ago, I was perusing the aisles and on the far right side in the back was a mini lathe, with a price tag of 207$, no box. Today, I went back and it was 165.00. I put it in the buggy, with a set of the dark brown handled wood turning set and a face shield and I picked up the "24 free batteries". When I got to the register, I used the 10$ off the 100$ purchase and the 20% off and I payed 77.86$ for the lathe , 60.04 for the wood turning set and the face shield cost 14.07, total of 162.60. On this visit, the clearance items were half off, I overheard his conversion with the boss. Thanks for the info, now, I just need a place to turn. I dont have a garage, I have 2 decks, but they are too high lol. I have a spare room, but I dont think I should use that. Thanks for all your videos :)
I used to make the, what we called masters, for a very large column company in Alabama. The masters were used to make the negative molds, so that they could make spin cast columns made out of resin and marble dust. I built a lathe that I could make a 20 foot long, by 18 inch in diameter column master. Talk about making a bunch of chips and dust, it was a lot. But, all in all, it's fun to turn a ugly piece of wood, into a finished column that they could make a few thousand copies of. Oh, the master never wears out, the molds made from them, if not taken care of, not so much.
I have the same lathe and as far as misaligned head and tailstock, mine was a good 1/16" off but I was able to loosen the 4 screws that hold the headstock on and realign it to be much better. Give that a shot before going through the process of returning Another issue I had was with the knob on the tool rest lock being in the way of the tool (it locked in the upward position with the wing sticking straight up in the path when sliding the tool), I thought I was going to have to trim it but the handle is actually spring loaded and all you need to do is pull it and then turn it to lock it into a new notch
Thanks for the comment. Also just remember. That tail stock can adjust if your alignment is off side to side only! If you are lower or higher I wouldn’t bother with shims. Just exchange that unit if it’s off up or down. As far as the knob, mine is adjustable after I lock it down.
Awesome review, i appreciate how you talked about your background. By chance have you looked at the larger Harbor Freight lathe, I am trying to decide between this lathe and the larger one. I know you can get bed extensions and upgrade the motor on this one, so what would you recommend, in the long run it would be nice to do longer wood turning peices and the turnable head on the larger lathe seems like a nice option. Appreciate your comments and anyone else's. Thank you.
I briefly owned the larger unit a few years back. I didn't get much use out of it. However I know there are more complaints about the larger version, especially due to the head being able to move. I have heard that will eventually break, or people have alot of slop on the unit. I personally never needed the extra length and mine didn't run very smooth if I am being honest. People have had to modify the cheap metal stand to it didn't vibrate as much. The Mini lathe is just one of the great buys at HF - I would personally buy and use the smaller unit until you really need that larger lathe, then look at some of the other Taiwanese machines.
I have that lathe, and it is great. I didn't like the fact that HF only gives a 90 day exchange warranty, but Grizzly Industrial sells the same lathe (with their name on it) and will always sell replacement parts. While HF does not offer variable speed versions of this lathe, Grizzly does. Penn State Industries sells a variable speed conversion kit that will fit this lathe, but I have not found a need for it. I agree that HF turning tools are not the best.
I'm a beginner turner and I like the lathe. I really like the carbide tip tools. I don't have to learn how to sharpen. I would like it if the swing was large enough to do a 10" or 12" plate. Is there anyway to put spacers under the head and tail stock to make them taller? Of course that would also require a different belt.
Super informative. Thanks for sharing some of your knowledge. I bought the harbor freight tooling before seeing this but I Kept the receipt! Good looking out
Good review over all. Audio chops out several times during 1st 1/2. I pulled out my ear buds to make sure it wasn’t my audio device. I really like that you’ve got a background in tools. It makes the review hold more weight. 1 thing i wished i had seen was a close up pan over of the tools you were discussing towards the ending. But overall, i have you a like because you didn’t use profanity & you took TIME to set up your content smoothly. Good job.
I use it for pen turning and it is perfect and at the perfect price to get into that. If you are trying to turn bowls and legs, then you might want to go with a larger lathe.
good info. I get most of my woodworking tools from Harbor fright, I have had no issues with the tools, if there missing parts, not happy with them ect. I just return them.
I would be good to put links for all the items you covered. I have been considering buying one but I would prefer the jaw attachment more then the spindle. As for the video itself not bad, got a couple audio glitches but other then that good.
For those interested in lathe bed extensions for this lathe, this model is identical to Rockler's Excelsior model MC1018 lathe, which does offer bed extensions. Just google the Excelsior mini lathe and you should have no trouble finding an outlet for these items.
Good reveiw and tips ironically this lathe has become a staple in most hobby Woodworking shops especially ones that are limited in space and budget Another decent set of tools for a decent price are the older Craftsman sets on Ebay the made in U,S,A. Ones ive seen for good prices and they are a fairly good set
Thank you for giving us a bit of your biography background. I always wondered how and where people learned about things they rebuild/sell. Merry Christmas to you and yours.
well it's a lathe ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxN9zrzkkhnjUF5PQbuA_B1gYdsfCu9k6z but it wasn't what i would have anticipated. Headstock, tailstock, carriage apron are manufactured from aluminum now not cast iron. The spindle diameter for the bearings is too small allowing for a few play in the spindle so I am using some blue Loctite to take out the play.
I’m a lifelong hobby woodworker. I have quality turning tools. Once the carbide tools came out, I saw the cost was ridiculous. After some time, carbide tips became available on eBay. So I went to Home Depot and bought steel rod, ordered tips, turned my own handles and had good carbide cutters for less than $20. You can get a decent set of tips for around $20. There will be 3 or 4, round, square, pointed detail, and it’s well worth the effort versus paying $175 for one tool. Excellent review by the way.
100% Agree. Off the shelf carbide tools are a complete rip off! If I still had my Bridgeport Mill I would have done the same. Well done!
RNGPRODUCTS You certainly don’t need a mill for these wood turning tools. I cut the square and round steel rod with a 4” grinder. Then I drilled and tapped the center hole with hand tools. Other tools would be nice to make it easier, but it can be done by anybody in their small wood shop. I’m working very primitively, as shop standards go. I’ve seen a lot of tools and jigs made here on UA-cam and being that I have no disposable income, I have to make all of the cool gadgets. But it gets the job done. It’s funny, but I seem to enjoy making the tools and jigs, more than I do any real projects now.
I bought half inch square steel bar online, needed a metric drill bit and tap for a mounting hole and got the carbide inserts from a guy in Arizona. I have a nice piece of hardwood to make handles if I ever get back in the shop. Looks like you can turn wood just using the metal parts. If I had to pay 150 dollars for a single cutting tool I’d probably take up a cheaper hobby like drag racing or flying a WWII war bird😜
ohgary I have to agree. 1/2” bar is what I used. The rest is pretty easy.
@@brookswade5774 I make a few of my own jigs too. I am the other way around though aboutthe enjoyment. For the most part I make toys. It makes me happy to see kids receive the toys and watch their faces light up. I do understand how you enjoy making your own tools.
I've had mine for 2 years now and it still works Great. Bought a bigger lathe but still like doing small items on this unit. Highly recommend if you are starting out! I've turned a ton of projects on it with no issues.
I have had the same lathe for about three months now. Loving every minute on it. Works well. Thanks for the video.
I watched this video a few times and about a year ago I finally decided to buy this lathe. With some patience and common sense it has proven to be a fun time for me learning how to turn some wood projects. I did the comparisons to other brands and as you said, they are the same. Its been a good product for me as a beginner and has brought "new life" (joy) to me. Peace be with all of you
What's your favorite piece you've done so far?! I'm finally gonna buy this, any recommendations for a beginner like me?!
Answers to the title : @9:26
Answer on the Harbor Freight tools : @10:32
Doing god's work ty
Thanks
thanks,for looking was I what Exactly
Thanks Pal.
Bless you
I have one and I'd definitely recommend it. The only problem i have with it is the plastic handles for tightening the tool rest and tail stock. Mine broke off and for now I'm just using pliers. Not a huge deal. Perfect for any skill level.
While you reviewed the mini, we bought the large one. Thank you. I now know what to look for. We went for a USA made machine on a local trade site originally. A year later we have given up and chalked that machine up as a "lemon". Every time we have "turned around", we were buying another part. Since it was a trade buy, there isn't any warranty of any kind.
I don't really care about that lack of warranty. What ticks me off is the time we wasted.
We now have the large model Harbor Freight model (still in the box), but as we mount and assemble it, I will know what to look for, and what to expect.
Again, thanks.
I bought this lathe and have used it for a couple years. It's been surprisingly useful for its size. The only issue I had was the tool rest. Its cast iron, and it broke when a piece came off the lathe. I bought a larger steel tool rest and things have been amazing. I love this tiny lathe!
I purchased the same lathe about two years ago. At the time I had never used a lathe before. I bought it simply because I watched a UA-cam video on bent wood rings and I was looking for a new craft. I taught myself how to use it and be safe. It was intimidating at first. After about 3 months I was producing rings with a high enough quality to sell them. I have turned it into a small business and I’m still doing very well with it. I currently have over 50 unique designs that I make.
Anyway, it’s a great little lathe and i would definitely recommend it.
Rebecca Brooks do you have a website?
Poseidon UA-cam, yes I sell my rings on Etsy. You can check out my work if you like. Www.etsy.com/shop/naturalcreationsshop
@@spazydoo1 Beautiful work, Rebecca!
Brent Douglas thank you very much
This is a thorough and interesting review! Thumbs up for sure. Two suggestions: 1.) Showing the machine in action or showing some of the products you've made with it would make your review much more authoritative. 2.) You never explain WHY the HF tool set is bad. You don't give specifics or show the tools. Then you go straight to carbide tools. I totally get that you have a background in manufacturing, but that probably wouldn't give you the skills to sharpen turning tools, just because they're very different than cutters for a machine lathe. Your details on sharpening are also very vague. Many new turners don't get sharpening right away and then just say "screw it" and go to carbine. I kind of suspect that's what happened here. Anyway, I really did like this review and your quick delivery. I only offer suggestions as one content creator to another.
Great video Ryan! I just picked up one yesterday to make pens and bowls. Thanks for sharing your video👍
How much did it cost?
Good review, dude. Honest, upfront, no beating around the bush. Been thinking about getting this for kicks.
For the price it's a fun little machine and you can always resell on the second hand market for almost what you paid for it new!
I bought mine several years ago and it has been GREAT! NO problems with it period. I've turned numerous things on it and it keeps chugging along. This one he is showing looks like a higher quality updated version so I'm sure it would do everything you would want it to do. If you are just starting out in wood turning, this is the one to get. Get your coupon and get it.
Fantastic take on this lathe! I own three lathes including two full sized lathes but I can honesty say there isn’t a better bang for your buck than this lathe. It’s also a fantastic entry point for the prospective turner as well. It won’t do what my laguna 24x36 can for example but that’s not what it’s intended for and those detractors from the lathe are missing that point. It has its faults no doubt but for a mini lathe, there isn’t better value in my opinion.
Ok man here it comes. Look out. Absolutely the best Video as far as details and your background and how thoroughly you went through everything. The title of the video is exactly as stated after watching your video. I myself also worked in Manufacturing my entire career. Also worked for the Family Powdered Metal company to start and then moved on from there I have worked Maintenance where we had 2000,000 ton presses clear down to pill presses between Powdered Metal and forging. I finally settled into Machining and was at one point in the family business was the Quality Manager back in the day when Q-1 was the biggest thing out there. That was my absolute 1st audit that i had ever been through in Manufacturing. I did the actual set up and implementation of the Entire Q-1 requirements of course all the employees had to buy into it also but Procedures and such were all my own doing from being an operator for years . The inspections in the Marine Corps were at least 3 times the stressor yes USMC 1984-1992 0311/1371 were my primary and secondary MOS. But yea I went on with the quality thing for actually 35 years retired at 53 years old after working in several different kinds of Mfg. Got my Certified Quality Engineering cert and became an internal/3rd party QS/TS auditor and Quality manager at almost every company I worked for . Now I restore old tools in my garage as a pass time I do not normally sell them. They are hand tools for the most part but have spent my share of time down in the Hydraulic oil and powdered metal so yea I know a decent set up when I see it. I am going to Harbor freight this coming weekend to pick mine up. Again Awesome presentation. I know my comments tend to babble on and on. But keep the Video's coming man this one gets 2 thumbs up and a subscriber.
Great comment. At the end of the day If South Bend, Logan, Clausing etc… made a quality mini lathe from back in the day I’d be all over it. These simple little lathes with sharp tooling are perfectly fine. Once you master it, simple upgrade and use that small guy for polishing or dedicated pen turning etc…
Great attitude about defective products...Don't complain or write a bad review about something that is clearly defective, exchange it for a good one. The manufacturing process isn't always perfect. Thumbs up...liked!!
I have the same lathe and I recommend it along with the HF lathe gouges. Their gouge set leaves a lot to be desired (no bowl gouge) but these are the tools you want to learn sharpening with; cheap ones. Once you have it down then you can start buying the expensive tools. I have done 9.75 inch bowls on it all the way down to finials. It is a HF tool and it will require some setup and a little fiddling in the beginning. When one is ready and now dedicated to lathe turning you can upgrade as I'm doing this spring - but I will not get rid of my HF since it is perfect and I have it "dialed-in" for pen turning and alike projects. Keep in mind - the lathe is cheap, the tools and after market needs/wants is what will be expensive - price a nova chuck or a slow speed grinder and you will see what I mean. Make sure your tail and headstock are dead on before you start. I had to return my first one as the quill would not advance - no problem getting a new one. All of this IMHO
I have the variable speed one and like it. I bought the tool set just so I could learn to sharpen the turning tools and if I ruined them I wouldn't be ruining much. No, they are not much to brag about, but I did learn to sharpen them and they are much better when sharp. But I had to epoxy all the handles back on when they eventually came off, and all of them came off lol! but once sharpened and glued they are functional. But then I got some Sorby's. Yep, different ball game, but I am now not afraid to sharpen them when they need it. Also, the cheap tools let me have several grinds to experiment with and find which one's worked for me without spending $500 to do so. All in all for a hobbyist, I would highly recommend the harbor freight lathes even if a bit under powered.
I have the 12x34 HF wood lathe bought it used , 2 years ago, no complaint. Have turned big bowls , rolling pins, mortar and pestle, dozens of Christmas ornaments, utinsil holders . I have no problem with my used harbor freight lathe, even use their chisels
Sounds like a WIN to me :)
I have had the same lathe for 2 years, and it works great. I bought a variable speed dc motor, from PennState industries, and it took about 20 minutes to change it out. No more belt adjustments. Also, I purchased the extension base, for the Rockler Excelsior lathe, and I can turn up to 38 1/2" in length. Turned multiple pens, bowls, and a walking cane on mine. Definitely a Harbor Freight gem. Spare parts (belts, switches, etc) can be purchased from Grizzly for this lathe. Basically the same lathe as the Excelsior, Grizzly, and several others, just cost less than those.
Awesome mods! Like anything mechanical mass produced by humans, a few bad apples will get loose into the wild. But overall one of the better things you can pickup and your HF and get years of enjoyment out of it. Thanks for sharing your story!
Thanks for the info, Paul! This is exactly what I was curious about.
Paul Waldrop...Thanks for the info Paul, I was curious myself if the motor could be changed out and what commercial brand it was compatible with for upgrades! Saved me some time! Merry Christmas 2019!
what variable speed motor did you buy? did you find a video showing how to switch it out? I want to buy this thing and I love the idea of fixing the speed issue :D
Wouldnt it be easier and cheaper just to purchase the HF variable speed model in the first place instead of buying the new motor???
Every tool high end low end have a place in the shop and on the work level.... So depending on your professional level and budget .... thank you for your input
I agree thanks
Thank you ! I buy a lot from HF and know how easy to return things if they suck or fail. It's refreshing and rare to view a review from an experienced individual and definitely better than reading a review from a winey DIY'er. Yes I liked and subscribed.
This is a very good lathe. It is the go to lathe that is sold by other retailers under a different brand name. I have used mine for over three years. Turned dozens of bowls and spindle pieces. I have been turning since 1964. Just a fun little machine.
I know this is a 2 year old video but I found it to be an awesome video, I’ve been on the fence on which lathe to get for my first lathe and the Laguna and Rikon at $800 is hard to justify, thank you for the very informative video and I look forward to more...👍🏼👍🏼
Honest, to the point and just the right amount of time and information. No rambling on, good video. Thanks, I ended up subscribing.
I appreciate the honesty of the review, I've been looking into getting that lathe from Harbour Freight and your video answered my questions about it, and answers some I wouldn't thought of asking, thanks
I used this lathe for over 10 years, never had a problem, even when I left it outside when I was in an apartment and it rusted it still worked fine. I eventually upgraded this year because I was tired of changing the belts and went for a jet vs. I don’t regret it but I wine get rid of the HF until I find someone who will actually use it.
They are great little machines, when used properly. Variable Speed is very nice. Once you have that it's hard to live with a belt change. Hence why for the price this is a great lathe to start with and make sure you enjoy the hobby before you get to invested into equipment!
Really great review. Gave me everything I wanted to know. And nothing I didn't lol which is refreshing for a change. Usually I have to watch 20 reviews on one product to feel I really have the right idea about it. But you just saved me a whole lot of time. It's like an actual review and not a commercial for once. Appreciate you my man. 🙏
I've had this lathe for a couple of years, and I highly recommend it. I made the following adjustment to mine and it helped a bunch. I removed the motor mounting plate and drilled three additional holes for cooling air to pass through. Chainsawxyz.
I bought the bigger version and is garbage! The head stock cracked within 3 months and keeps falling off and the stand fell apart.
Good to hear an honest review. Harbor Freight tools have no resale value.
I've owned this lathe for some time now, and I love it. Great for not so big projects. You're exactly right about the starter set of tools....they suck! Good video, very informative.
Hi Lynn, do you have any chuck suggestions for this lathe?
I bought the 8X12 wood lathe from Harbor Freight several years ago. It has served me well and I still use it for projects.The lathe you showed does have my interest. The 2 extra inches of swing and 6 extra inches of length would make quite a difference. I agree about the Harbor Freighr tools also. They are not worth buying. I found a set of used tools on ebay. When I got the tools from ebay, I dressed the edges and they work very well. They are an old set of Craftsman tools made in the 50s or 60s. Great information in the video. Thanks for taking time to review the lathe.
I appreciate the reminder about the specs and also your suggestions as I'm adding some accessories. Have owned one now for two years, no complaints, machined parts and spindles lined up nicely out of the box, just a basic, heavy, no-frills machine which is what I wanted.
Had mine four years now upgraded the motor from motor from Penn state industry multi speed made it even better made my money back on
projects I have done
Thank you for making a no crap video on the lathe, I'm looking at getting but never used or had one looks like I will be getting this one.
Good video. I bought a similar one(Axminster) and found changing speeds was a great pain. You can't see the belt or pulleys unless you are a contorsionist. I found the headstock was reversable so it was a case of turnig it round and knocking out the spindle and reversing the top pulley. The whole thing took an hour. And now the window is facing me and I can see down to the motor pulley. So much more satisfying to use. I can't imagine why they make them like they do.
As someone who has been down this road before, nothing wrong with saving money on your first lathe. If you do get the truning bug you can upgrade later. I am on lathe #2 and it's a full size lathe.
But I would hit up Craigslist for a better used lathe for the same price.
Nice review. I am just starting to get into wood turning and have been struggling to find a decent lathe for the money to be spent. Your opinions, advice and tips and tricks are much appreciated.
I purchased a lathe of this model, and am quite happy with it. This Central Machinery model is essentially an "off-brand" version of Rockler's Excelsior Mini Lathe MC1018. As such, it offers fewer accessories, but the base price is substantially lower, and it is fully compatible with Rockler accessories. I personally bought a Rockler 1", 8tpi woodturning chuck, which works perfectly with this machine. Overall, I found the included faceplate rather useless for woodturning, however, once I got the chuck, I mounted a piece of plywood to the faceplate, turned it to 8"", and now I use it as a sanding disc, so no worries! I will say, the unit is not perfect (the knob handles are a bit too long and awkward, and belt adjustment is somewhat cumbersome), however, over all, I find this machine to be an excellent value, especially for beginning turners like myself!
Have had one for 20 years there old full size lathe. Think I paid 120.00 for it when they opened in wpb, use it around 10 15 times a year. Made bowls and all kinds of handles a few vases, use it every so often glad to have it , and use when needed, be a waste of time to have anything better, don't use it enough. Great buy great price great tool. Great video
Audio aside well done my man . You articulate your word very well
I bought a $70 PSI chisel set for a hand-me-down grizzley midi lathe and they're the best chisels I've used by far. They sharpen easy and stay sharp. Cheap tools are not always cheap quality. Just need to know what to look for.
I recieved the lathe from my daughter as a Christmas gift and that's been 2 1/2years ago I've been extremely happy with it and its function. Now I've gotten a lot of extras like two chucks, in additional large set and small set or carbide tools. I've made every one in my family happy with my craftsmanship making all sorts of turning toys and decor also crosses small 2 oz goblets tops driedels in a box as a call them, flowers (tulips) all from exotic wood. It's late at night and I may have written erotic wood from Bellforest my pleasure and a piece of maple lumber I'd like to make and give away to friends and family so it doesn't feel like a job. So far all cash is out flow, but it's a wonderful coping mechanism for some one with RSD/CRPS on good days. For an hour a day. To make some one happy. I think I duplicated everything I've seen made on you tube and it's where I got my knowledge from. Thank you Lord and thank you you tube craftsman for making me so happy. And harbor freight, also the extras my wife bought for me. My wonderful wife of 50 years and my inspiration.
Hey Richard, I just got my Harbor Freight Mini Lathe yesterday, and I was curious to know which two chucks you ordered. I am new to all of this and hoping to capitalize on others past experience, especially with making sure that I am purchasing compatible parts to my lathe.
Thanks for any assistance you can provide me with, it's very much appreciated. Best!
@@nilesmadison I first got the nova 48111 turning chuck, than the nova G3 chuck on special with the large outside hold bowl chuck as a promotional set. I have a 1" x8 and had to get the adapter for the G 3 chuck to thread on to the shaft. The multiple sets of jaws that came with the G3 provides me with any turning task for the mini lathe. I use both with different size jaws to turn differing sized wood blanks after turning them with the pin and 4 blade drive chuck to get it to 2 1/4 inches or so to fit the self centering chucks nova makes. All are 4 jaw nice hold. Best of luck and enjoyment I've tried and succeeded making everything I saw on woodturners on you tube from flowers to finials and goblets.
@@nilesmadison I also enjoy making beautiful crosses that neatly everything I made went to a large family and friends. I have made a dime from my work as I consider it a labor of love. I got my wood from Bellforest. Just one of many my wife likes the looks of their wood pic on line.
Hi and thank you for sharing your knowledge. I am just a crafter and know nothing about using a lathe much less which tools to use or buy. I am looking at buying a lathe in the future but not until I know more about the machine and how to use it. So, thank you again for sharing your knowledge.
I bought my HF mini-lathe about 4 years ago and used it a lot. I have since upgraded to a Jet mini with variable speed and got a Beall buffing system for the little green machine, so it now serves as a dedicated buffing station. The thing just keeps going and going. It's a great little lathe for the money, and definitely a work horse.
One thing I where I have to disagree is about those with high budgets. If someone can afford a higher end machine, by all means get one with electronic variable speed. Stopping to move the belt between pulleys is annoying enough but, more importantly, you won't be limited to those 5 speeds. It's worth the extra money for those who can afford it. The HF mini-lathe (and it's larger cousin) is made for the rest of us.
I am in charge of a craft program at a local church camp. Long story short, I now have 4 lathes at camp where I teach kids down to 3rd grade to turn pens. I also have one of the Harbor freight table top lathes like this one which I have had for 4 or 5 years.
Harbor freight does not have a great spare parts dept. We had a tail stock break due to abuse by a kid who tried to lock down the tail spindle with a mallet instead of finding a maintenance guy to look at it long enough to see that the locking handle was not lined up with the slot in the spindle. I ended up having to order another tail stock from Grizzly tools for a replacement. The Grizzly Tools tail stock had a narrower opening between the ways on the bed, so I ended up buying some 1/8th inch square keystock and gluing the key stock to the bottom of the tail stock housing with J-B Weld, and then using a file to carefully narrow both sides until the tail stock would fit down into the bed and was centered on the head stock. I don't blame Harbor Freight. It never occurred to me that a college student that I trained to operate the lathe could not figure out how to properly operate the spindle lock, or figure out that the slot machined into the spindle was intended to have the locking screw indexed to it.
The biggest problem with the Harbor freight power tools is the on off switch is really cheap. The one on my lathe as well as another harbor freight lathe failed within 1 year on my lathe, the camp lathe switch fail after 2 years, but the camp lather is only used from late June to early August. Instead of trying to replace the Harbor Freight switch with another Harbor Freight switch, I went to Rockler and picked up their "E-stop" switch. I fastened the switch down to my bench at home, and to the leg of the stand of the lathe at camp. I took the failed switch out of the machines and cut the wires off and spliced them together bypassing the switch. I then put the broken switch back in place to fill the hole. Plug the lathe into the Rockler switch, and then plug the Rockler switch into the wall.
I’ve been looking at this one for a while, thank you for the honest review
Make sure you apply paste wax to the bed way of your lathe. No matter what brand/ size, rust prevention is important. Great performance is important for the long life of your lathe!🙂
Ryan,
Thanks for taking the time to make this video.
I have wanted to buy a wood-turning lathe for a while now.
I had thought of buying the bigger one #34706, but after a few videos and seeing the cheap handles, and space required (small shop, shed really lol) I decided to go with the smaller #65345
Thanks for helping me make my decision.
Well made and very informative video.
-Paul
Great video. Thanks for sharing your knowledge. I'm a long time CNC machinist getting into woodworking on a shoe-string budget, and I appreciate the candor and info about chucks, tapers, and tooling necessary!
Me too
Your video is much appreciated. I too grew up around craftsmen and it is apparent to me by the manner in which you present, you have a clue. Just the kind of video I prefer when reviewing products. Thank you!
I just got this exact same lathe for Christmas. I'm excited to try it out. Thanks for the great video.
Thanks for the review, and the follow-up information on the tools. There are places you can go cheap and some places you can't. Great tips.
Thanks for the review. I have been considering that lathe as an initial starting point but wasn't seeing the kind of reviews that would answer my questions. I'm just starting to acquire shop tools on a very low budget for various woodworking projects on an as needed basis. The lathe is still a little down the road but I have more confidence in this area since I operate a CNC metal lathe at work. I miss working on the manual lathe but high yield production isn't satisfied with the number turnout for manuals. I am really enjoying both the similarities and differences between my knowledge of metal working and what I am learning about woodworking. Great stuff in my opinion. I have subscribed to your channel as I think it will be a good source of information for me. Again, Thank you.
I'm thinking about buying this lathe. It seems alot better than the one I have.
I already have a lathe, but it only has threads, no morse taper. You can't put a regular spur or drive center on it. It has a thread-on spur center that came when i bought it on Ebay, but it's getting worn out. Also, the headstock and tailstock on my lathe aren't properly aligned.
I'm so glad you made this vid, I was about to take back the lathe I just bought a week ago because I literally have no place to put it & it's still sitting in the back of my Jimmy...:-( BUT..... a girl can never have too many tools & if it has to stay in my vehicle until spring arrives, so be it...LOL!!! You brought up some important items, like taking it apart & checking the tightness of the bolts etc, I wouldn't have thought about it unless something had sounded loose, but an ounce of prevention...so thank you for that, also for the specs on the spindle thread. 1x 8 & what a good idea for the wax! Thank you very much!!!
I bought one on Tuesday, unboxed it on Saturday, the motor was total junk, hissing and smoking as soon as the power was turned on. Harbor Freight replaced it without issue the new one works great!!!! BTW, I make my living as a CNC lathe programmer and set up tech.
Thanx for the information, it was a BIG Help !!! We are just getting started in our wood working journey. You probably saved us a ton of money and headaches with your video.
I do wood carving, and have used Lee Valley Tools for chisels, etc., and can vouch for their quality. They have turning tools--not cheap, but well made.
I second the motion on the paste wax, much better than oil when shavings or sawdust is involved
I can't speak for the new harbor freight chisels but at one point in time I bought a smaller three piece set of Windsor chisels from there and the spindle gouge is amazing. It holds an edge for an extremely long time. It was marked as high speed steel and actually out lasts other high speed chisels I have. I don't believe they sell them anymore but I definitely got my money worth out of it.
Thank you for the great information. I am just getting into this hobby and this was informative.
excellent review. I am researching for a friend who wants to get started but is on a tght budget. I have usually only hear good reviews about this lathe, especially its price point in relation to value. Well done.
II have this lathe, and I like it. The same lathe is available from Grizzly Industrial and another source, at higher prices. But the others offer a bed extension and other things. Grizzly sells replacement parts, but HF does not. Penn State Ind sells a variable speed kit that fits this lathe, as well as several other fine accessories. While there are a lot of places that sell things to improve the lathe, this basic lathe is the heart of it all.
Actually, this lathe was a solution to the problem I encountered when I first got into pen turning. I started with a wood turning tool rest mounted on the carriage of my metal lathe. I was surprised by all the wood chips that were thrown EVERYWHERE. My solution was to buy this inexpensive wood lathe and build a cabinet/stand ON WHEELS so I could move it OUTSIDE when I used it.
I have been looking at this lathe for quite some time now, but never pulled the trigger on getting one. After watching this video, I can now jump off of the fence and head to harbor freight and get one.
I have had this lathe for 2 yrs+ and it has yet to fail me (I was able to turn a 9.5 inch wide 4 inch deep bowl) - the HF tools are a good idea if one does not know how to sharpen tools - this will let you learn on the cheap - once you have that down then the expensive part of buying quality tools is warranted - also when you move up to a bigger/better lathe this one will still be good for pens and PSI kits.
Preach it brother!! 100% agree
This is the same thing (motor, headstock, ...) as the Rockler Excaliber. Just way less expensive. Decent small lathe and should do bowls, pens, Christmas ornaments, finials and plates to 10". The reason you want the 1-8 thread on the headstock is to fit common chucks on it. BTW - motor gets hot on the Rockler too.
Same as the grizzly too
Extremely useful information for finding the accessories for this machine. I received this lathe without any attachments, and trying to figure out what to buy is confusing. Thanks!
I have one of those lathes, and I like it. When I first got interested in pen turning I bought a wood turning tool rest for my 7x16 metal lathe. While the 7x16 is big enough for most gunsmithing tasks, the problem I had was it threw wood chips EVERYWHERE. It was not nice getting them into the gears of the carriage. LOTS of cleanup.
My solution was to buy the HF wood lathe and building a cabinet for it ON WHEELS so I could wheel it outside whenever I used it.
The biggest difference I have seen between the HF wood lathe and the Grizzly version is some things are covered in one manual, but not both. Since both manuals can be downloaded for free from the separate retailers, the problem is solved.
HF used to offer a .5 HP variable speed conversion kit, but the new ones are .75 HP. So far, I have not found a need for such a thing for pen turning.
My brother had 2 of the HF mini lathes and the motors went out on both. Glad you guys are having good luck with yours....obviously he did not and all he makes is pens.
Owned one of these for a number of years. Had no problems with it at all. Only real downside is the need to move the belt to change the speed. That got old REALLY fast. Unless you plan to be turning the same stock to produce the same items repeatedly I'd suggest you're better off spending the additional money for a variable speed lathe. For someone looking to try out turning for the first time it's a good value - but if you stick with it as a hobby you'll immediately begin thinking about upgrading.
Looking for a new hobby, The information on this lathe was super helpful. Looking forward to more videos and hints to make quality stuff.
I have this lath and a bed extension that allows turning up to 38 inches. I made table legs and it works perfect for me. I did make a longer tool rest due to longer turning.
Couple things you didn't cover that I would like to know. There is 2 allen screws sticking out of the end of the bed. You didn't mention these, or if there is a bed extension available for this lathe. If so, would you recommend the bed extension? And what would be the largest diameter piece you recommend for the added length using the 1/2hp motor that it comes with? Also when you were talking about the spindle threads and chucks, you didn't mention if there was a spindle lock, or how you would hold the spindle when loosening chucks or face plates. And is face plates and other accessories available from Harbor Freight?
Your background with tools is a great plus for tool reviews. I've subscribed and hopefully I can learn something. My background is wood working and tool knowledge is limited to the machines I had. I no longer have a wood shop since I became disabled. But a mini lathe would fit in my apartment and let me make things I occasionally need.
Keep up the good work on your reviews! Your are a big asset for those looking for "Good" information. Thank You Kindly for taking your time to share your knowledge!
Very well said, we go to Harbor Freight to get a "cheap" what ever. Don't buy a tool or in this case a lathe and then complain how cheap it was manufactured. Make it work or take it back OR save and spend MUCH more money on a name brand tool. Just like the commenter Jack002tuber, he watched a 14 minute review and the only comment is that a few words are missing in the audio???? Probably one of the 121, at this time, of the thumbs down. Thanks! !! !!!
I hear it everyday. Ur stuff is cheap. Yea cuz its cheap.
Thankyou for this i have been waiting to pull the trigger on harbor freights lath after seeing this i feel completely comfortable buying one now and knowing it wont be a waste of money im subscribing to your channel for more videos keep it up
I have one like yours and also a 46in machine ,both from Harbor Freight.. been using the for at least 5 years.
Fantastic video! Thank you. Your comment at 7:20 is perfect regarding not to fiddle around with totally substandard tools. Harbor Freight is GREAT for many things. Understand that their gear is manufactured to very low tolerance to be Price Point products. If you’re concerned then purchase the “protection plan”. If it breaks then go get another one. I fondly refer to them as “the disposable tool company”. I have had good luck myself.
Great video! What size Chuck fits this model? Or are the chucks adjustable to the thread? Thanks in advance.
I bought a drill press...did fine on wood,......metal-not so good......the motor slowed to a stop....NOW it's a BOAT anchor.....(works great!)
Ditto on the review, I have been using mine for several years, several 100 pens. If you are turning pens the Rockler mini carbide set is wonderful.
The tools from HF range for extremely good buy to dumpster fill.
Spot on Monte! Thanks for the comment and sharing your experience with the same machine!
I started watching youtube videos on wood turning about 6 months ago. I`ve also been a HF shopper before that. When I started viewing videos on HF lathes, I started looking. I think it was 3 weeks ago, I was perusing the aisles and on the far right side in the back was a mini lathe, with a price tag of 207$, no box. Today, I went back and it was 165.00. I put it in the buggy, with a set of the dark brown handled wood turning set and a face shield and I picked up the "24 free batteries". When I got to the register, I used the 10$ off the 100$ purchase and the 20% off and I payed 77.86$ for the lathe , 60.04 for the wood turning set and the face shield cost 14.07, total of 162.60. On this visit, the clearance items were half off, I overheard his conversion with the boss. Thanks for the info, now, I just need a place to turn. I dont have a garage, I have 2 decks, but they are too high lol. I have a spare room, but I dont think I should use that. Thanks for all your videos :)
I used to make the, what we called masters, for a very large column company in Alabama. The masters were used to make the negative molds, so that they could make spin cast columns made out of resin and marble dust. I built a lathe that I could make a 20 foot long, by 18 inch in diameter column master. Talk about making a bunch of chips and dust, it was a lot. But, all in all, it's fun to turn a ugly piece of wood, into a finished column that they could make a few thousand copies of. Oh, the master never wears out, the molds made from them, if not taken care of, not so much.
bought one on super clearance ($120) back in July. Haven’t had it out of the box yet. Hope those head and tail stocks line up!
I have the same lathe and as far as misaligned head and tailstock, mine was a good 1/16" off but I was able to loosen the 4 screws that hold the headstock on and realign it to be much better. Give that a shot before going through the process of returning
Another issue I had was with the knob on the tool rest lock being in the way of the tool (it locked in the upward position with the wing sticking straight up in the path when sliding the tool), I thought I was going to have to trim it but the handle is actually spring loaded and all you need to do is pull it and then turn it to lock it into a new notch
Thanks for the comment. Also just remember. That tail stock can adjust if your alignment is off side to side only! If you are lower or higher I wouldn’t bother with shims. Just exchange that unit if it’s off up or down.
As far as the knob, mine is adjustable after I lock it down.
@@RISENGRINDWORKSHOP Valid point! Luckily mine was only off side to side. Thanks for the video, it helped convince me to buy mine a few months back
Awesome review, i appreciate how you talked about your background. By chance have you looked at the larger Harbor Freight lathe, I am trying to decide between this lathe and the larger one. I know you can get bed extensions and upgrade the motor on this one, so what would you recommend, in the long run it would be nice to do longer wood turning peices and the turnable head on the larger lathe seems like a nice option. Appreciate your comments and anyone else's. Thank you.
I briefly owned the larger unit a few years back. I didn't get much use out of it. However I know there are more complaints about the larger version, especially due to the head being able to move. I have heard that will eventually break, or people have alot of slop on the unit. I personally never needed the extra length and mine didn't run very smooth if I am being honest. People have had to modify the cheap metal stand to it didn't vibrate as much. The Mini lathe is just one of the great buys at HF - I would personally buy and use the smaller unit until you really need that larger lathe, then look at some of the other Taiwanese machines.
I have that lathe, and it is great. I didn't like the fact that HF only gives a 90 day exchange warranty, but Grizzly Industrial sells the same lathe (with their name on it) and will always sell replacement parts. While HF does not offer variable speed versions of this lathe, Grizzly does. Penn State Industries sells a variable speed conversion kit that will fit this lathe, but I have not found a need for it.
I agree that HF turning tools are not the best.
i own this lathe for 8 years i love it runs good
I'm a beginner turner and I like the lathe. I really like the carbide tip tools. I don't have to learn how to sharpen. I would like it if the swing was large enough to do a 10" or 12" plate. Is there anyway to put spacers under the head and tail stock to make them taller? Of course that would also require a different belt.
Super informative. Thanks for sharing some of your knowledge. I bought the harbor freight tooling before seeing this but I Kept the receipt! Good looking out
Good review over all.
Audio chops out several times during 1st 1/2. I pulled out my ear buds to make sure it wasn’t my audio device.
I really like that you’ve got a background in tools. It makes the review hold more weight.
1 thing i wished i had seen was a close up pan over of the tools you were discussing towards the ending.
But overall, i have you a like because you didn’t use profanity & you took TIME to set up your content smoothly.
Good job.
I use it for pen turning and it is perfect and at the perfect price to get into that. If you are trying to turn bowls and legs, then you might want to go with a larger lathe.
Appreciate the insight. You are n the money!!
good info. I get most of my woodworking tools from Harbor fright, I have had no issues with the tools, if there missing parts, not happy with them ect. I just return them.
I would be good to put links for all the items you covered. I have been considering buying one but I would prefer the jaw attachment more then the spindle. As for the video itself not bad, got a couple audio glitches but other then that good.
Did you ever figure out the jaw attachment he was using?
For those interested in lathe bed extensions for this lathe, this model is identical to Rockler's Excelsior model MC1018 lathe, which does offer bed extensions. Just google the Excelsior mini lathe and you should have no trouble finding an outlet for these items.
Good reveiw and tips ironically this lathe has become a staple in most hobby Woodworking shops especially ones that are limited in space and budget Another decent set of tools for a decent price are the older Craftsman sets on Ebay the made in U,S,A. Ones ive seen for good prices and they are a fairly good set
Funny thing is I looked at one today. I was wondering how good it could be. Thanks.
Thanks for the time you put in on the review. It was well done and informative.
I've owned that same Harbor Freight Lathe for over. Two years I make hundreds of fishing lures and sell them it's a great lathe. For small projects
Thank you for giving us a bit of your biography background. I always wondered how and where people learned about things they rebuild/sell. Merry Christmas to you and yours.