I think you have a good idea to take this little guy to shows with you and turn on site. You’ll have kids lined up all day to get the next top that comes off the lathe. The mini lathe is probably the best lathe Harbor Freight sells. I’d suggest going ahead and get a replacement belt and a set of bearings for it, just to have on hand. Good job showing some of the abilities of this little guy.
My first lathe was the larger HF lathe and it worked well enough to begin to love turning. I bought the extended warranty and returned it after 2 years of use(some items broke, tool rest and a lever) and got a new one completely free. Sold that and got a 1836 Laguna.
Thanks I'm looking to buy my first lathe for messing around with, and was looking at the same lathe and almost bought it today but it was raining and didn't want to put it in the back of the truck. Your video has helped me with a few worries that I had. Thanks
I, too, have been looking at this as a beginning turner. Your review as a knowledgeable, experienced turner has encouraged me in this direction. Thanks Also have enjoyed (& learned) from you other videos) J.T.
Thanks for taking the time to share this with us. My first lathe was a Jet table top lathe and it still works great. I taught my wife how to use it and she's making mini-bird houses with it and loves doing it.
A decent little lathe, picked one up for a small job while my big lathe was packed away. It worked just fine, my only concern is that the motor gets very hot requiring cooldown periods throughout the project.
I just got a Central Machinery Lathe just like the one in your video. I really enjoyed your video and I’ll be watching all of them cause I need to learn all I can. I also have A Central Machinery bigger Lathe that I haven’t used yet. I’ve been cutting on a scroll saw going on 24 years, if I can get it on paper I can cut it out of wood , even photos of people. I’ll be looking for your videos, so keep turning and keep videoing. Thanks Brother
I’m A Biker, I’m always cutting out A big Eagle to be auctioned off at our Rallies, with the money it makes all of the money goes to St. Judes, I donate it for that. My Bike group gave me the road name Termite cause I’m always doing something with wood
I got one of these as my first lathe (same lathe different brand) for peanuts second hand and love it. Brushing the chips off, that collect on the chip magnet motor, is a must to prevent it getting too hot. I also got the bed extension with the lathe and cut it down to make it a 10 x 24, which allows the tailstock to slide far enough back for hollowing up to about a 4" deep bowl without getting in the way. To deal with the lack of power I'm not sure whether to do a treadmill motor upgrade or to use a backshaft from a metal lathe to provide more gearing options. As Doug says below it's worth keeping a couple of spare belts and a set of bearings (I've broken 2 belts in 3 years, I put SKF bearings in when I got the lathe and haven't had to replace them yet). Have fun with it, I'll be referring back to this video as I don't have a manual.
Hi Mike, I have the same lathe, but mine is the Rockler Excelsior. It works great for small things, but for larger and heavier turning blanks, the motor will get too hot. Also, with larger blanks it can vibrate a lot, but since you’re using yours for small bowls and tops it should be fine. I’d recommend getting a better tool rest for it eventually. I was using a spindle gouge at the end of the tool rest, when I had bad catch and it broke the tool rest off right at the post. Overall, for the price and what it is it’s a great little lathe!
I can tell you that I do not intent to tax that lathe. It will turn mainly tops and likely never a bowl over 6". I will use it only at demonstrations and let my grandson turn on it when he comes to visit.
Cute little lathe Mike. I sure can see how that tail stock gets in the way when you are trying to turn the inside of a bowl. I would just leave that plate off.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and demonstration video of this HF midi lathe. HF definitely has some wonderful tools and it appears it will meet your demonstration needs at shows. Like you I would like to have a VS speed lathe and not have to change the belt position on my Delta LA200. However, my Delta at 20 years of use is running well. Everyone stay safe, warm, happy and healthy. From Henrico County Virginia
Great video! Actually, this is the first video for this lathe that I watched to the end. Thank you for sharing. Have you ever done an instructional video for greenhorns?
This is a video I did with my Daughter In Law. She is as green as they come! Thank you and thanks for watching! th-cam.com/video/LijxDPS6jIA/w-d-xo.html
I have that same lathe, got it for pen turning, and still have it, upgraded the motor to a variable speed motor, other than that, its a good little lathe, and I like the idea of being mobile for craft shows, I do that with one of my scroll saws, on its stand, built a mobile base to roll it in and out of the trailer we use for shows, use some good rolling wheels and hang onto it coming down the ramp.
This was my first lathe to make sure I would like turning. Now I have a Jet 1221vs + Extension. It is the same as the Rockler Excelsior so order a spare belt from Rockler. Rockler makes some OK tool rests that are 5/8" that are not cast. Of Course the Robust 5/8" tool rests are much better Penn State Industries makes a drop in replacement motor that is 3/4 hp and adds variable speed. These days I use my old HF for dedicated tasks, buffing pens etc.
Thanks for the great advice! I will be using it for demonstrations at craft shows. I will pick up a spare belt and likely a better tool rest. I will wait until the motor burns out to replace it. Thanks for watching!
Have heard a lot of good about this lathe. You confirmed what I've already heard. I've been looking at getting my first lathe (and wow what an undertaking with all the options of chucks, jaws, tools, and lathes) but was trying to decide between this one and the bigger model from HF. I believe it's a 12x24 3/4hp for around 479. Honestly I'm mostly looking to make small boxes, rings, tobacco pipes, and stuff like that. So I reckon this would probably be fine for that. Just worried about limiting myself in the future, but, for the time being what's 300$ to have a tool to learn on, get some experience, and have some fun with in the meantime? Anyway, pardon the novel, thank you for the video. It was really nice to actually see this thing in action! You don't think 750 is too high of a lower end speed for things like sanding safely, do ya? I've heard people say to do that around 300 to 500, but I'm a total noobie so have no idea.
I just got this for MLK day sale. They are now grey in color instead of the old HF green. I just hope it works longer than 2 days. That was the record for my WEN lathe. 2 days. No parts available to replace...
I hope it does as well! This exact same lathe is also sold by Rockler under their name. www.rockler.com/rockler-10-18-mini-lathe-bundle?country=US&sid=V91074&promo=shopping&PL&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAkp6tBhB5EiwANTCx1Nms8qe7DUOnQlodRp6V_zZa4xq51E5jT7uBOotGwHfJKHhHHgB-TRoCpngQAvD_BwE
Thats irritating... I went to my local Rockler store and they said nothing about this lathe. Surprisingly, after setting up the HF lathe, they did something good with it! The panel you lift to change the belt is now on the front instead of the back! It is hinged on the front and held in place by a magnetic latch.@@BrailsfordWoodworks
Thanks for the demo. I just bought a model 65345 used and it looks to be in great condition. I'm interested in the chuck you used. Any specs available on that?
I had the exact same thought as a use for my Jet 1014 now that I have upgraded my lathe. I was thinking of preparing some stock in advance and only sanding/finishing while at the show just to limit the sharp tools with unruly adults and curious kids. Do you plan to power this with a battery pack and turn at an outside venue or inside and then clean up the floor when you are done? You have some great videos about your show setup. When you get this worked out, PLEASE post an update with your experience and showing how you set it up. As with all the other stuff you do, it will be a great opportunity for us to learn. Really appreciate what you do.
All good questions. My intention is to only use it at outside shows, and clean up right away. Also the show will have to offer electrical connections. I actually have a different thought about this than you... I don't want to sand on site at all. I have been told neighboring booths get upset if you are putting dust on their product (rightfully so). So I intend to only use sharp tools. However processing the pieces to cut down on total turning time might be a good idea. I also intend to put up a shield to prevent people from actually touching any moving part. This will be a work in progress. Thanks for watching!
Excellent video! I would like to purchase a chuck that you just had laying around! Haha. Would you please share the description, price and where i can purchase? Thanks
I just bought this lathe off of Facebook marketplace. Messed with it a little tonight. Nice to see it can handle small bowls. What are your thoughts on the chucks from harbor freight? I’d like one like what you used on the bowl.
I would give it a shot! I have a Wen chuck. I would not be surprised that it is made in the same factory. The one I bought was a cheap one from Amazon. Thanks for watching!
Got one of those super cheap brand new in the box. Get rid of the motor and replace it with a treadmill motor. Build a heavy duty table and its a great little lathe.
First ghing , READ THE BOOK BEFORE TURNING IT ON AND READ ASSEMBLY INSTRUCGIONS , then clamp it down Lucky ou got one that the head and tail aligne many reviewers had to shim them
I think you have a good idea to take this little guy to shows with you and turn on site. You’ll have kids lined up all day to get the next top that comes off the lathe. The mini lathe is probably the best lathe Harbor Freight sells. I’d suggest going ahead and get a replacement belt and a set of bearings for it, just to have on hand. Good job showing some of the abilities of this little guy.
Thanks Doug! I am eager to give it a try at a show!
My first lathe was the larger HF lathe and it worked well enough to begin to love turning. I bought the extended warranty and returned it after 2 years of use(some items broke, tool rest and a lever) and got a new one completely free. Sold that and got a 1836 Laguna.
I am glad it worked out for you! Thanks for watching!
Thanks I'm looking to buy my first lathe for messing around with, and was looking at the same lathe and almost bought it today but it was raining and didn't want to put it in the back of the truck. Your video has helped me with a few worries that I had. Thanks
I am glad I could help! Thanks for watching!
Ditto! Thanks. Very informative!
I, too, have been looking at this as a beginning turner. Your review as a knowledgeable, experienced turner has encouraged me in this direction. Thanks
Also have enjoyed (& learned) from you other videos) J.T.
Finally a honest review thank you
Thank you!
Great review. So awesome to see someone who knows what they are doing, un-box this thing and get right to turning. Nice job.
Thank you Dennis!
Thanks for taking the time to share this with us. My first lathe was a Jet table top lathe and it still works great. I taught my wife how to use it and she's making mini-bird houses with it and loves doing it.
Thanks Steve! When the lathe is not in use at shows, it will be used for my grandson to learn on.
A decent little lathe, picked one up for a small job while my big lathe was packed away.
It worked just fine, my only concern is that the motor gets very hot requiring cooldown periods throughout the project.
It is pretty good! Rockler sells the same lathe under a different name. I try to keep my projects small on this one, for sure.
I just got a Central Machinery Lathe just like the one in your video. I really enjoyed your video and I’ll be watching all of them cause I need to learn all I can. I also have A Central Machinery bigger Lathe that I haven’t used yet. I’ve been cutting on a scroll saw going on 24 years, if I can get it on paper I can cut it out of wood , even photos of people. I’ll be looking for your videos, so keep turning and keep videoing. Thanks Brother
Thank you Kevin! I hope you get something from my content!
I’m A Biker, I’m always cutting out A big Eagle to be auctioned off at our Rallies, with the money it makes all of the money goes to St. Judes, I donate it for that. My Bike group gave me the road name Termite cause I’m always doing something with wood
I got one of these as my first lathe (same lathe different brand) for peanuts second hand and love it. Brushing the chips off, that collect on the chip magnet motor, is a must to prevent it getting too hot. I also got the bed extension with the lathe and cut it down to make it a 10 x 24, which allows the tailstock to slide far enough back for hollowing up to about a 4" deep bowl without getting in the way. To deal with the lack of power I'm not sure whether to do a treadmill motor upgrade or to use a backshaft from a metal lathe to provide more gearing options. As Doug says below it's worth keeping a couple of spare belts and a set of bearings (I've broken 2 belts in 3 years, I put SKF bearings in when I got the lathe and haven't had to replace them yet).
Have fun with it, I'll be referring back to this video as I don't have a manual.
Thanks for the great advice! I will keep it all in mind! Thanks for watching!
Hi Mike, I have the same lathe, but mine is the Rockler Excelsior. It works great for small things, but for larger and heavier turning blanks, the motor will get too hot. Also, with larger blanks it can vibrate a lot, but since you’re using yours for small bowls and tops it should be fine. I’d recommend getting a better tool rest for it eventually. I was using a spindle gouge at the end of the tool rest, when I had bad catch and it broke the tool rest off right at the post. Overall, for the price and what it is it’s a great little lathe!
I can tell you that I do not intent to tax that lathe. It will turn mainly tops and likely never a bowl over 6". I will use it only at demonstrations and let my grandson turn on it when he comes to visit.
Awesome review brother MIKE. Happy 4th. Thanks for sharing. Keep the content coming. Hope you have an incredible day. Much love and RESPECT
Thanks Tim! I hope you had a great holiday!
Cute little lathe Mike. I sure can see how that tail stock gets in the way when you are trying to turn the inside of a bowl. I would just leave that plate off.
I have already discarded it! Thanks for watching!
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and demonstration video of this HF midi lathe. HF definitely has some wonderful tools and it appears it will meet your demonstration needs at shows. Like you I would like to have a VS speed lathe and not have to change the belt position on my Delta LA200. However, my Delta at 20 years of use is running well. Everyone stay safe, warm, happy and healthy. From Henrico County Virginia
Thanks!
awesome video thanks
Thank you Dennis!
Great video! Actually, this is the first video for this lathe that I watched to the end. Thank you for sharing. Have you ever done an instructional video for greenhorns?
This is a video I did with my Daughter In Law. She is as green as they come! Thank you and thanks for watching! th-cam.com/video/LijxDPS6jIA/w-d-xo.html
Great honest review Mike, thanks
Thank you for watching Norm!
I have that same lathe, got it for pen turning, and still have it, upgraded the motor to a variable speed motor, other than that, its a good little lathe, and I like the idea of being mobile for craft shows, I do that with one of my scroll saws, on its stand, built a mobile base to roll it in and out of the trailer we use for shows, use some good rolling wheels and hang onto it coming down the ramp.
If I upgrade the motor it will for sure be a variable speed. What speed control did you add? Thanks for watching!
This was my first lathe to make sure I would like turning. Now I have a Jet 1221vs + Extension.
It is the same as the Rockler Excelsior so order a spare belt from Rockler.
Rockler makes some OK tool rests that are 5/8" that are not cast. Of Course the Robust 5/8" tool rests are much better
Penn State Industries makes a drop in replacement motor that is 3/4 hp and adds variable speed.
These days I use my old HF for dedicated tasks, buffing pens etc.
Thanks for the great advice! I will be using it for demonstrations at craft shows. I will pick up a spare belt and likely a better tool rest. I will wait until the motor burns out to replace it. Thanks for watching!
Have heard a lot of good about this lathe. You confirmed what I've already heard.
I've been looking at getting my first lathe (and wow what an undertaking with all the options of chucks, jaws, tools, and lathes) but was trying to decide between this one and the bigger model from HF. I believe it's a 12x24 3/4hp for around 479. Honestly I'm mostly looking to make small boxes, rings, tobacco pipes, and stuff like that. So I reckon this would probably be fine for that.
Just worried about limiting myself in the future, but, for the time being what's 300$ to have a tool to learn on, get some experience, and have some fun with in the meantime? Anyway, pardon the novel, thank you for the video. It was really nice to actually see this thing in action! You don't think 750 is too high of a lower end speed for things like sanding safely, do ya? I've heard people say to do that around 300 to 500, but I'm a total noobie so have no idea.
Watch this video of mine... th-cam.com/video/rM-aN-YvNYM/w-d-xo.html
I hope that will give you additional help!
Thanks for watching!
Harbor Freight has a Bauer chuck for $99.00 that fits the same TPI as the one shown as well as the floor model
I just got this for MLK day sale. They are now grey in color instead of the old HF green. I just hope it works longer than 2 days. That was the record for my WEN lathe. 2 days. No parts available to replace...
I hope it does as well! This exact same lathe is also sold by Rockler under their name. www.rockler.com/rockler-10-18-mini-lathe-bundle?country=US&sid=V91074&promo=shopping&PL&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAkp6tBhB5EiwANTCx1Nms8qe7DUOnQlodRp6V_zZa4xq51E5jT7uBOotGwHfJKHhHHgB-TRoCpngQAvD_BwE
Thats irritating... I went to my local Rockler store and they said nothing about this lathe.
Surprisingly, after setting up the HF lathe, they did something good with it! The panel you lift to change the belt is now on the front instead of the back! It is hinged on the front and held in place by a magnetic latch.@@BrailsfordWoodworks
That is a good change!
@@starhawke380
Great vid
Thank you!
Thanks for the demo. I just bought a model 65345 used and it looks to be in great condition. I'm interested in the chuck you used. Any specs available on that?
Thanks Bruce! I got it on Amazon and in that case I did by it for the price.
I had the exact same thought as a use for my Jet 1014 now that I have upgraded my lathe. I was thinking of preparing some stock in advance and only sanding/finishing while at the show just to limit the sharp tools with unruly adults and curious kids. Do you plan to power this with a battery pack and turn at an outside venue or inside and then clean up the floor when you are done? You have some great videos about your show setup. When you get this worked out, PLEASE post an update with your experience and showing how you set it up. As with all the other stuff you do, it will be a great opportunity for us to learn. Really appreciate what you do.
All good questions. My intention is to only use it at outside shows, and clean up right away. Also the show will have to offer electrical connections.
I actually have a different thought about this than you... I don't want to sand on site at all. I have been told neighboring booths get upset if you are putting dust on their product (rightfully so). So I intend to only use sharp tools. However processing the pieces to cut down on total turning time might be a good idea. I also intend to put up a shield to prevent people from actually touching any moving part. This will be a work in progress.
Thanks for watching!
Excellent video! I would like to purchase a chuck that you just had laying around! Haha. Would you please share the description, price and where i can purchase? Thanks
Thank you Terry! I got it from Amazon. In this particular case I looked for 1"x 8TPI chucks and then just picked one that was fairly inexpensive.
I just bought this lathe off of Facebook marketplace. Messed with it a little tonight. Nice to see it can handle small bowls.
What are your thoughts on the chucks from harbor freight? I’d like one like what you used on the bowl.
I would give it a shot! I have a Wen chuck. I would not be surprised that it is made in the same factory. The one I bought was a cheap one from Amazon. Thanks for watching!
I have no word to say thanku but wawww great, next how can i got the address to buy the machine
You are welcome! The lathe comes from the company Harbor Freight. Thanks for watching.
Bauer from Harbor freight is 12 inch swing and has a one horsepower motor, variable speed for $600 and goes on sale once in a while for $550....
They hadn't released the Bauer yet when I had gotten this one. The variable speed would be nice. Thanks for watching!
Got one of those super cheap brand new in the box. Get rid of the motor and replace it with a treadmill motor. Build a heavy duty table and its a great little lathe.
I am glad it worked out well for you! Thanks for watching!
How are you able to take the lathe to shows given the noise?
You commented the same thing twice.
How can I get one of these machines? I live around Houston TX and I can't find it can you help me ?
Any Harbor Freight store. Thanks for watching!
First ghing , READ THE BOOK BEFORE TURNING IT ON AND READ ASSEMBLY INSTRUCGIONS , then clamp it down Lucky ou got one that the head and tail aligne many reviewers had to shim them
I'm good thanks!