Rikon's midi-lathe is a small lathe with big features, including a 12-in swing, the capacity to turn up to 16 in. between centers, and an 8-in. tool rest.
The Rikon 70-100 midi-lathe is a recent arrival to the tool market since our last midi-lathe (also called mini-lathes) review in 2002. The Rikon midi-lathe I tested operated smoothly and accurately and I was especially satisfied with its extra-large features, which make it nearly comparable to floor-standing lathes.
This midi-lathe offers a 12-in. swing–2 in. more than most of the competition–a 16-in. capacity between centers, and the ability to add multiple bed extensions. Plus, its 8-in. tool rest is superior to the standard 6-in. rest on most midi-lathes. In addition to the faceplate, the lathe also comes with headstock and tailstock centers and a handy rack on the lathe that holds these accessories. The lathe is heavier than most in its class but a built-in handle makes it easier to carry around than its lighter competitors.
The Rikon model also features a headstock with a 12-position indexing head to assist when marking, routing, or carving on the lathe. This feature also locks the spindle for easy removal of the faceplate. Its manual speed control requires you to change speeds by moving a belt on stepped pulleys. This is less than ideal, but it takes only a moment.
Fine Woodworking Recommended Products
Freud Super Dado Saw Blade Set 8" x 5/8" Bore
Leaves a dado with a flat bottom and even performs excellent on plywood and melamine.
- Two 8", 24-tooth blades
- Six chippers; one 3/32" thick
The DeWalt 735X produced two faces perfectly parallel to one another, with surfaces far superior to what the other machines produced, thanks to its two feed speeds. At high speed, the planer works fast and leaves a smooth surface. But the slower, finish speed produces an almost glass-smooth surface. Knife changes are easy, with spacious access to the cutterhead from the top and a gib screw wrench that doubles as a magnetic lift to remove the knives. The 735X also has great dust collection, thanks to an internal blower that helps evacuate chips. The port has a 2-1/2-in.-dia. opening, but has a built-in adapter for 4-in.-dia. hoses. My only complaint is the location of the dust port. It’s on the outfeed side of the machine, and exits straight back. If you don’t pull the hose to the side, it interferes with material as it leaves the machine. The top is large and flat, so it’s a great place to set material in between passes through the machine.
With its graceful curves, cabriole legs, and ornamental back splat, a Queen Anne side chair is a bucket list build for many woodworkers. Dan Faia had a very specific Queen…
Become an UNLIMITED member and get it all: searchable online archive of every issue, how-to videos, Complete Illustrated Guide to Woodworking digital series, print magazine, e-newsletter, and more.
Log in or create an account to post a comment.
Sign up Log in