General Category > General Discussion
First Proper Lathe - Vicmarc, Stratos ?
Gibletz:
Hi all, I had a go at woodturning for the first time a couple of years ago when I bought a lathe just to use up some trees that were felled in my garden, it just felt wrong to burn them.
I bought an Axminster 370 and it was ok to learn some basics but it has no speed control and it really needs it.
I have decided to sell it and buy something new.
I have narrowed it down to a Stratos XL (possibly 230) or a Vicmarc 300 but I dont have any experience with these machines, I just dont want to buy anything that would make me think I should have spent more money or may have to upgrade in the future.. I see these as something that would last me for as long as I can stand in front of it.
which of these lathes would you suggest is the better/more versatile/etc
does anyone have any other suggestions?
Wood spinner:
Hi, Depending on your location I have a used VL300 that is for sale at half the price of a new one
You could come and have a look if required
I am in Boston Links
Twisted Trees:
--- Quote from: Wood spinner on December 22, 2023, 08:56:47 PM ---Hi, Depending on your location I have a used VL300 that is for sale at half the price of a new one
You could come and have a look if required
I am in Boston Links
--- End quote ---
Now that is an offer worth a train ride!!
Everyone has a favourite lathe and when you get up to this quality level it is only going to be small details that make the choice. One of the important details will be your workspace and how well the lathe fits into it. The other important consideration is to get your hands on them and preferably turn a few things because the ergonomics of where the levers and handles fall into your hands will find your personal favourite lathe
Gibletz:
--- Quote from: Wood spinner on December 22, 2023, 08:56:47 PM ---Hi, Depending on your location I have a used VL300 that is for sale at half the price of a new one
You could come and have a look if required
I am in Boston Links
--- End quote ---
I am in Wales, somewhere around 5 hours from you :(
I used to have a van that would have fit any lathe inside but im a car driver these days and I dont think my little motor would cope with bringing that back..
we talking around the 3K mark ? does it come with accessories / chucks etc?
I was looking at possibly visiting Simon Hope, he has both lathes there and the VL300 is just under 6K but thats a 5 1/2 hour drive for me :(
I dont know any other local turners so that might be the best thing to do. go and pry around their workshops :D
John Peachey:
Have you had a look at the AWGB club map https://www.awgb.co.uk/club-map/
There might be a club near to where you might find some local turners.
John
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