10 Best Wood Lathe Tools 2025 in the United States

The JET 18" x 40" EVS Woodworking Lathe is a solid choice for both hobbyists and serious woodworkers looking for a reliable and versatile lathe. With a powerful 2 HP motor and an impressive speed range from 40 to 3200 RPM, it allows you to work on a variety of projects, from delicate turnings to larger pieces. The electronic infinitely-variable speed control is a standout feature, offering precise adjustments that ensure smooth operation at any speed. Users will appreciate the forward-to-reverse function, which makes it easy to switch directions during turning, adding to the tool's versatility.

One of the major strengths of this lathe is its improved tailstock quill locking mechanism, designed to prevent rotation during use, which adds to safety and ease of use. Additionally, the remote emergency stop button is a great safety feature, allowing for quick access in case of emergencies. The non-marring wedge system on the banjo also ensures that your tool posts are securely held, which minimizes the risk of accidental slips.

The lathe is quite heavy at 418 pounds, which may pose challenges for transport and setup. Its dimensions of 73 x 52.5 x 20 inches also require ample workspace. Some users might find the initial setup process a bit cumbersome, especially if they are new to using lathes. It comes with a 5-year warranty for personal use, which drops to 2 years for commercial purposes, so users should consider how they plan to use the lathe. The JET 18" x 40" EVS Woodworking Lathe is a robust tool, ideal for serious woodturners who need a powerful and adjustable lathe. Its advanced features and solid construction make it a worthwhile investment for those willing to manage its weight and space requirements.

The JET 16" x 40" EVS Woodworking Lathe (Model JWL-1640EVS) is a robust tool designed for serious woodworking enthusiasts and professionals. Its key strength lies in its electronic infinitely-variable speed control ranging from 40 to 3200 RPM, allowing for great versatility in handling different types of wood and projects. The extended spindle nose with dual headstock spindle bearings offers improved stability and precision. Additionally, the improved tailstock quill locking mechanism with an anti-rotation key enhances user safety and accuracy during operation.

The lathe's banjo features a non-marring, positive locking wedge system that securely holds the tool post, which is crucial for precision work. The spindle lock latch is a convenient feature, freeing up both hands for other tasks. The 36 integrated indexing positions further add to the lathe's versatility in detailed woodworking projects. The enclosed inverter protects the machine's internal components, contributing to its durability.

On the downside, the lathe is quite heavy at 377 pounds, making it less portable and possibly requiring a dedicated workspace. Its size, with dimensions of 57 x 31 x 28 inches, also demands ample space in your workshop. While it comes with a 5-year warranty for general use, this reduces to 2 years if used for commercial or industrial purposes, which may be a limitation for some users. Given its features and build quality, this lathe is best suited for serious hobbyists or professional woodworkers who need a reliable and versatile tool for their projects. Beginners or those with limited space might find it a bit overwhelming.

The Powermatic 20" x 35" Woodworking Lathe is a robust choice for serious woodworkers looking for a reliable and versatile tool. One of its standout features is the digital indexing readout, which makes it easier to achieve precise cuts, a key advantage for detailed projects. The magnetic-backed control box adds convenience, allowing users to position it wherever they find most comfortable and safe while working. Additionally, the adjustable riser blocks let you customize the height, ensuring a comfortable experience during long turning sessions.

The lathe's extended spindle nose enhances accessibility to the workpiece, which is great for larger projects. It can operate at very low speeds, starting from 15 RPM, making it suitable for various applications, including delicate work. The fully enclosed Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) offers extra user protection, a vital feature for those new to lathe work.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. The lathe is quite heavy at 726 pounds, which might pose challenges during setup and mobility, especially in smaller workshops. Its power source requires a 220V connection, limiting where it can be used unless the proper electrical setup is in place. This tool is best suited for experienced woodworkers or hobbyists who need a sturdy lathe for significant projects and who appreciate the precision that it offers. New users might find the weight and power requirements a bit daunting but would benefit from its features as they gain more experience.