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.

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