Jet JWL-1221VS Variable Speed Wood Lathe vs Rikon 70-220VSR Midi Lathe
Buy the Rikon 70-220VSR if you want more swing and power for bowls: 14 in over the bed and a 1.5 hp motor. Buy the Jet JWL-1221VS if you want finer speed control and a longer bed for spindles. The Jet's lowest daily price was $989.99 as of October 31, 2026; no current Rikon price was given, so compare live store prices before deciding.
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Jet JWL-1221VS Variable Speed Wood Lathe
Choose the Jet JWL-1221VS if you turn spindles and small bowls and want a 60-3600 RPM range with three belt ranges, a 20.5 in bed and a D1-8 camlock spindle.
- Three speed ranges give fine control from 60 RPM for roughing to 3600 RPM for finishing.
- 24-position indexing and a spring-loaded spindle lock speed up fluting and detail work.
- D1-8 camlock spindle takes common chucks without an adapter.
- Reviewers call it smooth, quiet and solidly built.
- Only 12-1/2 in of swing limits bowl diameter.
- 1 hp motor is weaker than the Rikon's for big green blanks.
What separates them
| Jet JWL-1221VS Variable Speed Wood Lathe | Rikon 70-220VSR Midi Lathe | |
|---|---|---|
| Swing over bed | 12-1/2 in | 14 in |
| Distance between centers | 20.5 in | 20 in |
| Motor | 1 hp DC, 6 A at 115 V | 1.5 hp TEFC DC, 13 A at 115 V |
| Speed range | 60-3600 RPM in three belt ranges (60-900, 110-1800, 220-3600) | Variable speed, three speeds, 2900 RPM motor |
| Spindle mount | D1-8 camlock, MT2 taper | Morse taper spindle |
| Indexing | 24 integrated indexing positions | Not listed |
| Weight | About 121 lb net; needs a stout bench or stand | 137 lb (62 kg) |
| Safety features |
Price history
- Jet JWL-1221VS Variable Speed Wood Lathe: lowest $989.99 on Oct 31 at Lowe's; $989.99 on Nov 3.
- Rikon 70-220VSR Midi Lathe: lowest $1,399.99 on Oct 31 at Walmart.
Prices at every store
Jet JWL-1221VS Variable Speed Wood Lathe
- Lowe'sCheck price at Lowe's
- AmazonCheck price at Amazon
- Tractor Supply CompanyCheck price at Tractor Supply Company
Specs compared
| Spec | Jet JWL-1221VS Variable Speed Wood Lathe | Rikon 70-220VSR Midi Lathe |
|---|---|---|
| Lathe Type | Wood Lathe | Midi Lathe |
| Spindle Type | D1-8 Camlock | Morse Taper |
| Digital Readout (DRO) | Yes | Yes |
| Speed Control | Variable speed | Variable speed |
| Distance Between Centers | 20.5 in | 20 in |
| Swing Over Bed | 12-1/2 in | 14 in |
| Supported Operations | Wood Turning | Turning |
| Motor Horsepower | 1 hp | 1.5 Hp |
| Motor Phase | 1 | 1-Phase |
| Motor Type | DC | TEFC, DC Motor |
What reviewers say
Jet JWL-1221VS Variable Speed Wood Lathe
Reviewers are very satisfied with the lathe, praising its smooth, quiet operation, easy variable-speed control and solid construction. Beginners and experienced turners alike find it a good choice. A few mention packaging damage during shipping, though the contents usually arrived intact.
- Runs smooth and quiet
- Variable speed control is great
- Easy belt speed changes between ranges
- Solid, beefy construction
- Packaging sometimes not stout enough, allowing carton damage in shipping
Rikon 70-220VSR Midi Lathe
Owners of the 70-220VSR generally rate it as a solid step-up midi lathe, praising the power and smooth variable speed for its class. Common complaints center on the lack of reverse and on accessories and tool rests that need upgrading.
- Strong 1.5 hp motor for a midi lathe
Questions and answers
- Which is better for turning bowls?
- The Rikon. Its 14 in swing and 1.5 hp motor handle larger, heavier blanks than the Jet's 12-1/2 in swing and 1 hp.
- Which is better for spindles and pens?
- The Jet. Its 60-3600 RPM range in three belt ranges and 20.5 in bed suit long, thin work, and the D1-8 camlock takes standard chucks.
- Is the Rikon worth the extra money?
- No Rikon price was given, so check live prices. If the gap is small, the extra swing and power are worth it for bowl turners; spindle turners get more from the Jet's speed range.
- Which has more power?
- The Rikon, at 1.5 hp versus the Jet's 1 hp. It also draws 13 A versus 6 A, so check your circuit.
- Do both have digital readouts?
- Yes. Both list a DRO and variable speed control.
- Which is easier to move?
- The Jet, at about 121 lb versus 137 lb for the Rikon. Both are bench or stand machines, not benchtop-portable.