Best Wood Lathe Reviews: Jet JWL-1220VS (1221VS new version)

Guest Post by Jerry K.

Why Is JET JWL-1220VS So Popular Among Woodworkers? 

Jet 708376 JWL-1220VS features a middle range lathe capable of performing the tasks fit for both mini and full size lathes. This lathe's exceptionally expandable between centre capacity, reliable operation, 12" swing makes this lathe suitable both for a newbie and experienced woodworker. JET JWL-1220VS can be a good money saver for a beginner since he/she can get started on the basic lathe and modify the spindle capacity when desired.

This tool's capacity can be classified as a midi range lathe with its 12" swing capacity and a 20" to 50" bed extension. We found that JET JWL-1220 is very much the same Jet quality machine as 10141 model but with a more powerful engine. Attachments such as tool holder, tool rest and attached light are new features thus adding a nice touch . Extended headstock cross section width resulted in the increased mass of the machine ensuring the additional stability and rigidity. The Jet 708376 JWL-1220 Wood Lathe spindle comes loaded with speeds ranging from 500 to 3975 rpm.

Jet 708376 JWL-1220VS Indexing System 

Straightforward and user-friendly 

24-position, very user friendly indexing system feature has been added to Jet JWL-1220. Continuous spacing and precision whilst drilling and fluting is easy when using the indexing feature that allows you to cut uniformly spaced features in a woodpiece and at the same time keeping the Lathe headstock spindle locked. We use it, for instance, when cutting flutes on a spindle blank with a router, while the spindle blank is anchored within the Lathe centers. The system within is operated by a button which is spring-loaded on the headstock and can be engaged by either pressing the button for temporary lock to remove chucks or faceplates. Or it can be screwed in for a hands-free operation.

Work Lamp Jet 708376 JWL-1220 Wood Lathe

Jet JWL 1220VS view from the back 

 

Jet 708376 JWL-1220 vs Jet JWL-1220VS (variable speed version) 

Speed control box and pulleys 

 Both types are identical except the addition of a advanced electronic speed control box to the side and well-crafted six step pulleys to to the VS version. The variable speeds of the Jet JWL-1220VS Variable Speed Wood Lathe are managed by the speed dial on the control box and also the setting of the belt on the pulleys. All together they manage complete spindle RPM control, which ranges from 200 to 4300 RPM. You can turn various sized of wood with no fear of the machine overheating. Changing settings is easy, with speed control dial having 5 dial settings, we liked the simplicity of selecting RPM settings for a certain speed.

 

Changing Speeds

Changing spindle speeds is achieved by moving the belt to the wanted pulley groove. There is speed chart you can use on the inside of the headstock access door. Belt must be aligned with spindle pulley as well as motor pulley. The handle on the motor plate is used to adjust the belt tension and should be locked in place.

 

Power switch

Power switch regulates the supply of electric power to lathe motor unit. Turn toggle switch on ON position to start the motor. The lathe will initiate rotating and driving the headstock spindle. The machine is going to arrive at its maximum speed in about 1 to 3 seconds. Keep in mind the size and weight of the workpiece will decide when the motor achieves the speed established by the speed control.

 

Speed Control Dial And The Reset Button

Speed Control Dial is turned clockwise to increase spindle speed, anti-clockwise to decrease speed. The Reset Button between the power switch and speed control dial is another very useful feature that comes with VS version, in case the unit get overloaded it provides overload protection. You use it if the lathe suddenly stops during operation or won't start with the power switch in the on position.

JET JWL-1014 vs JET JWL-1220VS 

Same quality just more power

Speaking from our own experience and according to customer reviews on woodworking forums who worked on the JET JWL-1014 for many years this machine is a reliable, quiet and smooth running unit. The JET JWL-1220VS possesses same great quality features and build but with extended capabilities and more power giving this great unit even more flexibility and superb functionality. 

1. Powerful Motor And Increased Capacity Stocks in measure from 12 inches in diameter and 20 inches in length can be turned on JWL-1220 with ease thanks to a strong 3/4 HP motor. The motor performs with consistent RPM, is flexible and can handle various projects of different sizes without slowing down your lathe. 2. Overall Stability, Spindle Lock Convenience A heavy-duty cast-iron lathe bed provides steadiness and solidity whereas significantly reducing vibrations throughout operation ensuring highly accurate final results. Despite heavy cast iron construction and weight of about 100 lb the lathe is portable and can be moved easily on the workbench for maintenance. Spindle change is straightforward and the spindle itself incorporates a locking mechanism rendering it much easier to take off faceplates, chucks, and other components using one hand only. 3.Ease Of Adjustments Designed to be simple to operate, the JWL-1220 features a cam-lock mechanism system that allows you to adjust the headstock, tailstock, and tool-rest base without the need of additional equipment. 4.Very Portable, Includes Handles With dimensions 15.5 x 12 x 32 and weight of 98.3 pounds, the lathe is very portable with built in, large-diameter, retractable carry handles and a cord wrap. Also included six-inch and 10-inch tool-rests for versatility, a storage tray, and a three-inch faceplate. 5.Compatibility With Various Accessories #2 Morse taper and popular 1X8 spindle thread makes JWL-1220 wood lathe compatible with a vast range of extra components and accessories.

Jet 708376 JWL-1220 Included Attachments 

 What's in the box 

The new additions are a 10"-long tool rest, a pair of good quality safety glasses,a tool rack and cord-wrap bracket and a work lamp that is connected to the lathe electrical system so there no need for an additional socket.

What Other Customers Say 

Positive comments

This wood lathe became another favorite with woodworkers, both beginners and veterans. The attraction is the usual Jet quality, more powerful motor and the capacity to expand its functionality. We read rave reviews (4 to 5 stars) on woodworking forums throughout the web and Amazon. 

  Some of the extracts from the reviews:

Update: there is a new version of Jet JWL-1220VS available on Amazon. See details below. The older version info is available HERE.

Best Price On Jet JWL-1221 Variable Speed Wood Lathe 

Best Deals

Amazon Customer Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5

At the moment of writing this post Jet JWL-1221VS is available at 17% off with Free Super Saver Shipping on Amazon.

Are There Any Complaints? 

 

There are not many complaints about this lathe. One customer had to tighten the loosened screws on the motor pulley twice after hundred hours of operation. Some wished for a variable speed feature. Some owners had to get replacement switches which are covered by guarantee. One customer would prefer a different door latch system. There was a problem of a unit's motor running backwards... but it was dealt with quickly by Amazon and the replacement worked fine. 

photo credit: Life As Art

Deals and Warranty

Is There A Warranty? 

Yes, JET JWL-1220 is backed by a five-year warranty.

Customer Support 

According to Amazon customer reviews the Customer support is "terrific".

Jet JWL-1220 Video Reviews