WEN LA3424 4.5-Amp 12-Inch by 18-Inch 5-Speed Benchtop Wood Lathe , Black

I call this a midi lathe instead of a mini because it has a 12 inch swing instead of the 10in found on most lethes in this category. I've turned 11 inch sepele and cherry bowls on this lathe and with the available extension bed you have a 12 x 38 inch machine that can handle turning most table legs and balusters. The motor has adequate power and the price point can't be beat. Would definitely recommend for someone not ready to shell out a couple of thousand dollars for a 14 inch machine but still wants to turn a variety of different projects.

If you can't afford or simply don't have room for a full size wood lathe, this is an excellent starter tool. It's heavy, so very stable (as long as you have a stable benchtop). All adjustment functions are smooth. The motor provides enough torque for most jobs. The pulley system is okay, but it really would be nice to have a variable speed unit. However, even with the pulley approach, it gets the job done. Great value and quality build. Recommended.

So far this has been great for the price. It would have been nice to have at least one cutting tool included.

This is a solid lathe! I’m a novice woodworker, and have every other piece of machinery one needs for woodworking.. been wanting a lathe for a while and figured I’d start small.. needless to say I’m quite satisfied! It runs smooth, is nice and quiet and easy to set up. Only reason I didn’t leave 5 stars is because there is no speed control knob.. but not to worry, it’s pretty easy to change the belts on the spindle and motor pulleys to adjust speed as needed, just takes an extra minute or two to do so. Would recommend for beginner wood turners and others who are looking for a small bench lathe!

This lathe is solidly made, with heavy metal fittings to adjust tool rest, tail stock and such. It's quiet but powerful. I've not yet had it stall while turning a piece. I like it. It replaces an ancient Craftsman lathe that had what looks like pot metal for the bases of the adjustment rods, most of which just broke. This lathe is SUCH an improvement.

A great lathe at a reasonable price. If you are thinking about getting into wood turning this is a great choice. I purchased the head stock chuck and tail drill bit chuck with this. The first time I used it the tool rest broke in half. Called customer service and they immediately sent out a replacement, no questions. Was likely just a bad casting. No problems with the new one. If there were a negative, I would say I wish it had more power for dense hard woods. For the price, it's it's more than adequate for small to medium bowl turning. I'd definitely purchase this again.

I love how smooth the adjustment functions are on this tool, making it a breeze to use for various tasks. The motor delivers plenty of torque for most jobs, ensuring seamless performance. While a variable speed unit would be a great addition, the pulley system still gets the job done effectively. Highly recommend for its efficiency and ease of use.

Our grandson makes duck calls and things of that nature and he has been using this and enjoying it very much.