SHOP FOX W1704 1/3-Horsepower Benchtop Lathe and PSI Woodworking Products TM31 1/2-Inch Drill Chuck with #1 Morse Taper Arbor (1/2″ 1MT)

Description: The SHOP FOX W1704 1/3-Horsepower Benchtop Lathe is a great choice for the budget-conscious woodworker. This lathe has a cast iron construction and infinitely variable speed control, 8” swing over bed, 12” distance between centers and motor of 1/3 HP, 2 Amp, 110V, Single-phase, 60 Hz. The PSI Woodworking Products TM31 1/2-Inch Drill Chuck with #1 Morse Taper Arbor (1/2″ 1MT) is an accessory for the lathe which includes the 1/2″ Drill chuck, #1 Morse taper Arbor, and jaw tightening key. This 3-jaw chuck will mount into the headstock or Tailstock of any Lathe that accepts #1MT accessories. The #1MT Arbor accepts 1/4″ X 20TPI draw bolt; draw bolt not included. Removes easily with a knock out bar. Great for holding drill bits, small turnings, dowels, pen Mandrel shafts, and much more!

Pros:

Variable speed control

Includes a 1/2” drill chuck and arbor

Mounts easily into headstock or tailstock

Easy to remove with knock out bar

Accommodates multiple accessories such as drill bits, small turnings etc.

Cons:

Tail stock hand knob may be slightly off center requiring replacement

Tool rests may be rough and bumpy

Key Features:

Cast iron construction

Infinitely variable speed control

8” swing over bed

12” distance between centers

Motor: 1/3 HP, 2 Amp, 110V single phase 60 Hz

What Users Think: Users find this lathe to be an excellent choice for those on a budget. It is generally well constructed though some users have experienced issues with the tail stock hand knob being slightly off center or tool rests being rough and bumpy. Most users are satisfied with its performance given its low cost.

Compare To Similar Products: The Shop Fox W1704 Benchtop Lathe is very similar to other benchtop lathes such as the Grizzly G0602 10” x 22” Benchtop Metal Lathe in terms of size and features but at a much lower price point making it more attractive to those on a budget. Both products have 8” swing over bed but the Grizzly G0602 has 12 ½” distance between centers compared to 12” for the Shop Fox W1704. The Shop Fox W1704 also has infinitely variable speed control compared to 9 spindle speeds for the Grizzly G0602. The Grizzly G0602 also comes standard with 3 jaw chuck while the Shop Fox requires an additional purchase of PSI Woodworking Products TM31 1/2-Inch Drill Chuck with #1 Morse Taper Arbor (1/2″ 1MT).

Conclusion: The Shop Fox W1704 1/3-Horsepower Benchtop Lathe is an excellent choice for those looking for an affordable lathe that still offers plenty of features including variable speed control and 8” swing over bed with 12” distance between centers as well as all necessary accessories such as chuck arbor and jaw tightening key which makes it ideal for small projects like holding drill bits or small turnings without breaking your budget!

This item is available now on Amazon for $428.49