Lures are a crucial element of fishing. They can make or break your catch, but not all lures are created equal. Some fishermen prefer to use the best wood lathe for lure making in order to create their own personalized lures that will be more effective on the water.
In this article, we will review four different models of wood lathes and compare them based on price, durability, and versatility so you can find the right one for your needs!
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Best Wood Lathes For Lure Making
| Image | Product | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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JET JWL-1221VS | Best Wood Lathe for Lure Making | Check Price |
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JET JWL-1015VS | Runner up | Check Price |
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Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-Inch Midi Lathe | Check Price | |
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WEN 3424T Benchtop | Best Budget Wood Lathe For Fishing Lures | Check Price |
If you are a lure maker or plan to be one in the near future, then you will need the best wood lathe for fishing lures.
We have compiled a list of 4 top models that we feel work well with this type of work and explained what they offer. If you want to find out more about them before making an informed decision on which one is right for your needs, continue reading!
JET JWL-1221VS, 12″x21″ Variable-Speed (Best Wood Lathe for Lure Making)
The JET JWL-1221VS is an outstanding performer when it comes to variable speed and power. With THREE different speed ranges— 60-900/110-1,800/220-3,600 RPMs—choose the perfect speed for almost any job big or small.
Additionally, this 12″x21″ Lathe has a tool storage caddy on each end of the machine for easy access to your most-used tools, not in use.
The JET JWL-1221VS is a 12″x21″ variable-speed lathe that’s great for woodworkers of any level. It features easy-to-reach controls, a digital readout, and solid construction.
The directional control allows us to have smooth transitions when changing from forward to reverse motion.
This item includes a removable safety key that turns the lathe OFF when removed and ensures security during operation.
Pros
- Solid construction
- Three variable speeds (60-900/110-1,800/220-3,600 RPM)
- Digital Readout
- Extra safety features
- Forward and reverse function
Cons
- The LCD display and speed knob are a bit small
JET JWL-1015VS Variable Speed Wood Lathe (Overall Best Wood Lathe for Lure Making)
The JET JWL-1015VS Variable Speed Wood Lathe is perfect for novice woodturners and those with limited shop space.
Its smooth, quiet operation means you can make beautiful projects and not disturb your neighbors. The entire lathe, including the headstock base, is fully welded together and stays in one place giving you plenty of stability during your project.
With three-speed ranges to choose from (200-1,050/300-1,750/600-3,600), this 15” mini lathe is easy to use whether you’re a beginner or more advanced woodworker looking for an easier way to sharpen tools and achieve high precision cuts.
This product is recommended to novice woodturners as well as those who enjoy intricate pieces but lack adequate space.
Pros
- Easy to set up and start using
- The heavyweight frame reduces vibrations
- Variable speed
Cons
- This lathe is on the expensive side of its category
Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-Inch Variable-Speed Midi Lathe
Turn to the Delta Industrial midi lathe for all of your turning needs. With a powerful 1 hp max, 1,725 rpm motor, this machine delivers power and control without sacrificing versatility.
Its 12-1/2-inch swing capacity is ideal for large projects or when tight quarters are necessary. You’ll love its ability to produce fine detail with electronic variable speed range (250-700, 600-1,800, and 1,350-4,000 RPM), as well as every turner’s favorite feature: forward and reverse function that can help you achieve a superior finish on both end parts and complex shapes without sacrificing balance or symmetry.
Its large swing capacity and range of function have proven this machine to be a time-saving workhorse for anyone looking for versatility in their workshop space.
The Delta Industrial 46-460 is aimed at professional woodturners but if you want a wood lathe that is high quality and will last for years then it is a good investment. Also, this wood lathe is ideal if you plan on turning more than just fishing lures. It is more expensive so this justifies the higher cost.
Pros
- Powerful 1 hp motor that can handle many projects
- Great value for the money
- 3 variable speeds from 250-700, 600-1,800 to 1,350-4,000 RPM
- Forward and reverse function
Cons
- Customer support is not the very good
- No digital readout
WEN 3424T Benchtop (Best Budget Wood Lathe For Fishing Lures)
The Wen 3424T is a versatile and powerful lathe with a 4.5A motor that offers 5 speeds from the lowest of 520 to the max 3400 RPM, an 8-inch tool rest, 3/8 inch Faceplate for turning bowls and cups, MT2 Tailstock for versatility in accessories, strong build that prevents vibrations during turning.
This wood lathe is easy to operate due to its lever clamp assembly, which makes it simple and precise to make adjustments to the tailstock and tool rest.
When you purchase this product from WEN, you’re ensured a two-year warrantee, professional service technicians spread throughout the country, and an immediate support line for customers.
For a beginner that wants to create his own fishing lures but does not want to break the bank, this wood lathe is the best choice.
Pros
- Five different speeds: 520, 900, 1400, 2150, or 3400 RPM
- Cast iron construction
- Great starting lathe for a beginner
Cons
- Not designed to handle medium or big size projects
What Wood Do You Use To Make Fishing Lures?
Wood is the most common material to make fishing lures. Other materials can be used as well, however, you will find that wood is the best for creating a realistic lure in terms of size and appearance.
Basswood is the most popular wood used for lure making. It is lightweight, hard, and has a straight grain pattern that makes it easy to work with. Basswood also absorbs less water than other types of wood so it will not warp or shrink as quickly while being worked on the lathe.
Hickory is another popular type of wood for fishing lures because of its heavy weight.
Walnut is not the most common type of wood to use for lure making because it has a strong grain pattern that can tear easily but walnut does have beautiful coloring and patterns which make it perfect for high-end lures.
Maple is another popular type with both light and dark colors.
Wood Lathe Buying Guide
Here are some things to consider when buying a wood lathe for lure making:
Price Range
The cost of a wood lathe can range from $100 to $2000.
You should consider the price and how much you are willing to spend on your purchase before deciding which one is best for you.
Price alone does not indicate quality so make sure that there are other features or specifications that meet your needs when considering wood lathes for fishing lure making.
Size of Lathe
A lathe for fishing lure making would ideally be a large size to accommodate the larger lures.
Some models of wood lathes have interchangeable centers that can change from smaller to larger diameters or vice versa, but this may not always meet your needs depending on what you are wanting to make.
Motor
If you are constantly working with lures or projects for an extended period of time and need the machine to power through your work then this is something to consider when searching for the best wood lathe for fishing lure making.
Try to look for wood lathes with at least 1 HP if your budget allows.
This will also depend on the size of your lathe.
A larger wood lathe with a higher power is going to have more torque and can be used for making heavier items, which would include fishing lures or other large projects that require a lot of sanding or intricate details in the carving.
Conclusion
There are many great wood lathes on the market, but some of them may be more suitable for your needs than others.
You want to choose the best wood lathe for lure making based on your needs, considering price and durability. We hope you found this helpful in getting started with crafting your own lures! Let us know if we can help you find a model that will work well for you.