Rikon Mini Lathes Review

RIKON Mini Lathe Model #70-100, Item #832637

Rikon has taken the standard mini lathe to the next level with increased capacity with this Model 70-100.

Featuring a 12″ swing and 16″ between centers with the ability to add one or more bed extensions, 12 position indexing head, self-ejecting tailstock with 2-1/2″ ram travel, 8″ tool rest, convenient lifting handle, tool holder, easy access to the top and bottom pulleys for quick speed changes, six speed (430, 810, 1,230, 1,810, 2,670, 3,900), #2 MT head stock, powered by a 1/2 HP TEFC motor.

Specs: 

  • Motor 1/2hp
  • Swing over bed 12″
  • Swing over tool rest base 9-1/2″
  • Working distance between centers 16″
  • Ability to add multiple extensions
  • Overall dimensions: 32″ long x 10-1/2″ wide x 19″ high.
  • Includes: 8” tool rest, live center, 3” faceplate, spur center, tooling knockout.
  • Woodcraft on-line, Model 70-100 is $399.99.

Belt Replacement for Model 70-100:

  • Woodcraft carries belt replacements for the Model #70-100 through our Cust. Support / Tech Dept.
  •  Belt Replacement Item #837988
  • Customer Service: 1-800-535-4482 (M-F, 8 a.m. – 12 a.m. EST, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. weekends)
  • Technical Department: 1-800-535-4486 (M-F, 8:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.)

Rikon 1/2HP Variable Speed Mini Lathe Model 1216, Item #151291  

Finally, a quality variable speed lathe at an affordable price. The New RIKON 1216 Variable Speed Mini Lathe, Model #70-050, is a true workhorse and offers a range of features that rival the much more expensive variable speed lathes. The powerful 1/2 HP DC motor speed is controlled by selecting one of three belt pulley positions and simply turning the dial to your desired speed. Your choice of three speed ranges (300-700, 700-1500, 1500-3350) allows you to adjust for cutting, sanding, buffing and curing finish with ease.

Specs:

  • Powerful 1/2 HP DC Motor
  • Motor Control: Electronic Variable Speed
  • Speed: 300-700, 700-1500, 1500-3350 rpm
  • Swing over Bed: 12″
  • Distance between centers: 16″
  • Quick change belt tensioning system
  • Cast iron base construction
  • Precision machined steel bed
  • Drive spindle: 1″-8 RH TPI
  • Head and tailstock taper: #2 MT
  • Includes: 1/2 HP Max, 120 V motor, 4″ tool rest, spur center, 3″ face plate, tool rest base, live center and instruction manual
  • Woodcraft on-line, Model 70-050VS is $429.99

Our Power Tool Product Manager Guru Andrew Bondi, tells all about the Rikon Mini Lathe Models 70-100 & VS1216:

Rikon Variable Speed Mini Lathe, Model 70-200EVS, Item #845084

Rikon introduces the new 12″ x 16″ Variable Speed Mini Lathe 1/2HP Model # 70-200EVS. The AC motor speed is controlled by a quality inverter box which provides more torque than a standard DC motor. The four bearing spindle design will take the stress of heavy turning loads. The 70-200EVS is a powerful work horse compared to other lathes in its class. Most lathes will slow or stall when too much force is applied to the work piece.

  • The 70-200EVS controls speed and torque electronically, monitoring the load placed on the motor.
  • When the AC inverter senses extreme loads it will compensate to keep the work piece at the desired speed.
  • The 12″ swing is perfect for the small to medium projects.
  • Small spindles and similar work can be done with the 16″ spacing between centers.
  • The 12 position indexing head with locking spindle is a great feature when marking out for fluting and other milling projects.
  • Extra long shoe plate on the tailstock provides more surface area for locking which prevents slip.
  • Standard 1″ x 8TPI spindle with #2 Morse taper and 3/8″ through bore for center drilling.
  • Self ejecting tailstock means no tool needed to remove the live center and 2-1/2″ ram travel is perfect for drilling applications.
  • The heavy duty cast iron base has holes in the feet for secure bench mounting.
  • Woodcraft on-line, Model 70-200EVS is $849.99.

Don’t forget about our Rikon Accessories:

Rikon Universal Mini Lathe Stand Accessory for Model #70-100:

Woodcraft Item #833262 on-line @ $179.99

Rikon Mini Lathes 24″ Bed Extension for Model #70-100:

Woodcraft Item #832638 on-line @ $109.99

Check out all our Rikon Tools & Accessories HERE.

Check back with us later this week, as Andrew gives us the details on the all NEW Porter Cable Multi-Tool Review!

auf Wiedersehen…Frank

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