I've experienced only one wood lathe which has been fine for me, but then I may just not know what I'm missing by not having a different one. It's a Jet JML-1014I without the variable speed option. It came from Amazon.com for $250 and free shipping early in 2008. There are a bunch of look-a-like models that are cheaper, but when I was looking, the product reviews from people who bought the cheaper ones complained about the plastic handles on the lock downs breaking, so I went with the metal handles on the Jet. The problem with the Jet that I had is that the threaded rods for locking down the tool rest and tailstock to the bed were very weak and the threads stripped quickly. I have access to metal working tools so the repair was quick and simple for me but could be a problem for others--I've not had to deal with their customer service.
I think this is the same model SpinQueen already has but has found that its not shinny enough
perhaps she needs some cash for a guitar.
