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I have had this lathe for about 7 years now and it still runs great. I have made hundreds of pens on this unit. I like the high speed it produces. Sure it could use a few improvements, but for the price it can't be beat
If you work for a living you deserve good tools at reasonable prices. Don't be sucked in by the low price, Grizzly products are really below pedestrain level.
This is pure Chinese junk. Just save up and buy the Jet 1014VSI or the Turncafter Pro (about the same price as the Grizzly)from PSI.
Don't waste your money. VERY poor quality, Very poor customer service, Miserable parts availability (no small parts available -you must order over-price "assemblies").
I have now given Grizzly three chances on three various products: Ultimate Band Saw, Pen Press and this boat anchor. They have failed miserably on all three products and in every respect.
They remind me of "carnival" hucksters: From a distance Grizzly looks really appealing, but, when examined closely, their products (in my experience, anyway)are real mutts. From my exoerience, Grizzly doesn't make ANY great tools and a defective product is of no value, regardless of the cheap price you paid for it.
The variable speed drive is a nice feature and works fine. The only problem I have had with it is that the tool rest was not at all parallel to the ways. This lathe is similar to a Carbtec. However, they are adequate for the job. However, for the buck it can't be beaten, and will do the job. There are certainly fine points where corners have been cut to save money. I have owned this lathe for two years and used it to make 100s of pens.
I had to grind it down to make it satisfactory. The ways and tailstock are cast iron and the lathe is quite stiff and rigid. I got a new one from grizzly, but it was only somewhat better. The plastic handles for example. This is really a lathe for pens and other very small parts, so there aren't a lot of forces involved. (frankly, I have had this problem with other inexpensive lathes too) If you need a bigger lathe or can spend a lot more money, this may not be for you. I enjoy using it.
Very little documentation comes with this machine also. The parts are all cast "cheap" metal. Well, I purchased this machine about a year ago and it is mediocore at best. It is very noisey, and vibrates too much for my liking. I have already broken one the the handles. While the parts are readily available, I had to pay 6.95 shipping for a $2 part that was shipped 1st class mail for 80 cents.Secondly, I have noticed that the motor (variable speed) fluctuates by itself while running. No tips on maintance or lubrication.The tailstock keeper loosens frequently, and I am afraid to tighten too much for fear of breaking the handle.I guess for the money, if you are not looking for a real good machine it will do the job. However I am dissapointed in the quality.Would not reccomend this machine.
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