10 best bowl lathe

A bowl lathe is a type of lathe used specifically for turning bowls and other curved, hollow forms from wood or other materials.It's a specialized woodworking tool that allows craftsmen to create round, hollow shapes by rotating the material on a horizontal axis and shaping it using various cutting tools.

Key Features and Components:

  1. Headstock and Spindle: The headstock houses the spindle, which holds and rotates the workpiece. The spindle can have different sizes and configurations to accommodate various workpiece diameters.

  2. Tailstock: The tailstock provides support for the workpiece on the opposite end from the headstock. It helps stabilize the material while it's being turned.

  3. Tool Rest: The tool rest is an adjustable support that holds the cutting tools and allows the turner to shape the workpiece accurately and safely.

  4. Banjo and Tool Rest Post: The banjo is the mechanism that holds the tool rest, and the tool rest post allows for adjustments in height and position.

  5. Bowl Chuck or Faceplate: Depending on the type of bowl lathe, a chuck or faceplate may be used to secure the workpiece to the spindle.

  6. Motor and Power Source: Bowl lathes are powered by electric motors, providing the rotational force needed for turning the workpiece.

Usage: Woodturners use a bowl lathe to create bowls, plates, platters, and other hollow or curved objects from wood. The lathe allows for intricate shaping and smoothing of the workpiece to achieve desired designs.

Safety: Safety precautions are crucial when operating a bowl lathe. Protective gear, such as safety goggles, a face shield, and hearing protection, should be worn. Proper training and knowledge of the lathe's operation and the associated tools are essential to ensure safe usage.

Maintenance: Regular maintenance of a bowl lathe includes keeping the lathe clean and well-lubricated, checking for any loose or damaged parts, and ensuring the motor and electrical components are functioning correctly.

Overall, a bowl lathe is a vital tool for woodturners and woodworking enthusiasts, enabling them to create beautifully crafted curved and hollow objects from wood or other materials.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best bowl lathe on the market
  

IMOTECHOM 1/2-Inches HSS Bowl Gouge Lathe Chisel Wood Turning Tools with Walnut Handle, Round Plastic Box and Hanging Bag

Based on 182 reviews Check latest price
  • SHARPENED CHISEL HEADS - Accurately pre-sharpened by machine for all turning tools.
  • BLADE - 9-Inches High Speed Steel blades outlast high carbon steel and will give you years of use.
  • HANDLE - 15.3-Inches Walnut wooden handle is harder and comfortable for using.
  • Packaging: Round Soft Transparent Box with Mail box to be sure all chisel in good condition.
  • CONTENTS - 1/2-Inches HSS Bowl Gouge Lathe Chisel

User questions & answers

Question: Where is this tool made
Answer: China
Question: What is the diameter of the steel bar in this product
Answer: 3/8 INCH
Question: What is the grind angle on this gouge
Answer: It's a stranded "English" grind, so 55 Deg. "around". Mine had a 53 on the left side and a 56 Deg on the right wings; the nose was dead on 55. Hope this helps.
Question: Is the tool profile a U, V, or Elliptical
Answer: Honestly looked like a U, but very shallow, nearly a spindle gouge. I returned this one becu I didn't feel safe turning face grain with it.

Woodcut Tools Bowlsaver for Coring Bowl Blanks 3" to 12" on Woodturning Lathe BSVR

Based on 43 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Woodcut Tools is a small family owned business with over 30 years experience. Designed by turners, for turners. Made in New Zealand.

When purchasing a Woodcut Tools Bowlsaver everything is included to start coring ​bowls from 3" to 12", safely and easily for all skill levels. Other bowl coring systems seem cheaper but after buying all the required blades & parts they are much more costly. A comprehensive user guide is included as well as a template pattern to determine bowl depth. Demo videos available on You Tube.

The Bowlsaver couples to the lathe via the tool post and is the only coring system which is also supported by a Morse taper that fits into the tailstock of the lathe. (#2 Morse taper provided, however a #1 Morse taper can be supplied FOC separately). The design gives a solid support and reduces vibration. 

The Bowlsaver will fit almost all lathes large and small, from 12" to 16" swing with 1HP and up.

1" TOOL POST INCLUDED which is the most common size - If it does not fit with your lathe simply order a tool post separately, ensure it has a 1/2" UNF thread.  Woodcut Tools have suitable tool posts available on Amazon. Please contact us should you require assistance with this. (Please note the tool post was not previously supplied, hence comments below)

The Bowlsaver has two blades, which are used one at a time.  The blades give a combination of cuts that will remove blanks from 3” up to 12” from the inside of the mother bowl. The replaceable Stelite cutters come sharp and ready to start coring. To re sharpen simply lightly sharpen with a Credit Card Hone also sold on Amazon, or similar. 

 The Bowlsaver comes with a handle which can also easily be used for any 1/2" dia. tools.

  • SAFE AND EASY FOR ALL LEVELS - The only coring device which is integrated with both the tool rest tail stock, making it the safest coring device on the market. Easy to operate meaning turners of all levels can use it.
  • SAVE MONEY AND TIME - Create multiple bowl blanks , no additional blade purchases required. The Bowlsaver includes two high strength blades (used one at a time) with Stellite Cutters giving a combination of cuts that will remove bowls from 3" to 12" up to 5" deep from the inside of the mother bowl.
  • LATHES 1HP AND UP - Can be used on almost all Woodturning Lathes, from 12" to 16" swing with 1HP and up. 1" tool post included however, each lathe has a different diameter tool post so you may need to order a tool post to suit the lathe you are using if not 1". Set it up and start saving wood.
  • PREDICTABLE RESULTS EVERY TIME - The Woodcut Tools Bowlsaver has long lasting Stellite cutters which can cut green or seasoned wood, accurately remove a perfect bowl every time. A template pattern to determine bowl depth is included, or purchase a Light Guide to make this even easier.
  • USER GUIDES, TEMPLATE & VIDEOS SUPPLIED - An extensive user guide booklet is included in the box with your Bowlsaver. User guide, set up and demonstration videos are available on our You Tube channel.

User questions & answers

Question: Can i buy a max 3 system in the united state
Answer: Search the web. Or buy from Woodcut.
Question: Where do i buy the tool post for my delta -46-460 midi lathe type
Answer: Hi, thank you for your email. Currently the following tool posts are available on Amazon.com 1" diameter x 5, 1" x 6, 25 x 110mm, 30 x 180mm. Further Tool post size options are available from Woodcut Tools
Question: Does this bowl saver make any size bowl up to the 16" size limit? Say I wanted a 4.5" , 8.75" and a 12.5" bowl is that possible
Answer: Hi, the Woodcut Bowlsaver product is designed to be versatile and therefore enable a turner to core a range of diameter, shape and depth of bowls. Planning templates are supplied, or a Light Guide is available on Amazon to assist with planning. It is feasible to core a bowl as small as 3" or 76mm and up to 12" or 30mm diameter. It is possible to further adjust the depth and shape of the bowl to be cored with a simple adjustment of the tail stock assembly. A demonstration of this can be viewed on You tube. Thank you for your question
Question: For the laser guide can the existing solid bolt be drilled out? What dia/depth
Answer: Hi thank you for your question. If you have an older Bowlsaver you will need a new bolt. Please just make contact directly with us once you have purchased and we will send one to you. Many thanks.

WEN LA432F 8-Inch Flat Lathe Chuck Jaws for Bowl Turning

Based on 237 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Remember when you could turn your own bowls? Fill your house with as many bowls as possible with a set of WEN Flat Lathe Chuck Jaws. Designed specifically for the WEN LA4374 3.75-Inch Lathe Chuck, these steel jaws install easily to help support bowls, goblets, and other larger circular workpieces. This package includes eight 1/2-inch rubber pins and eight 3/4-inch rubber pins to keep your workpiece nice and secured without causing any damage to the workpiece rim. These pins can be adjusted to any of the 48 mounting holes, allowing you to remove tenons and mortises on bowl bottoms of all sizes. When attached to a WEN LA4374 Lathe Chuck, these jaws can hold bowls anywhere from 2.3 inches to 8.3 inches in diameter. Remember when you could make your own bowls? Remember WEN

  • Modify your current WEN lathe chuck to keep bowls properly secured
  • Hold round workpieces ranging from 2. 3 to 8. 3 inches in diameter
  • Easily adjust the holding diameter with the 6-position peg system
  • Includes eight 1/2-inch rubber pins, eight 3/4-inch rubber pins, and 48 mounting holes
  • Compatible with the WEN LA4374 3. 75-Inch 4-Jaw Lathe Chuck

User questions & answers

Question: What are the numbers and holes on the back of the chuck for
Answer: The individual jaws are mounted in specific places on the chuck, The jaws and locations are numbered 1 through 4 to identify where each is to be mounted. Jaw #4 is also keyed.
Question: Will this work with my jet lathe jml
Answer: Yes it will
Question: Is this chuck reversible
Answer: I’m not sure what you mean by reversible . The Chuck works well on a spigot, or recess very well. The jaws are beveled on the outside, which grab and lock on to the piece tightly. Jaws don’t have threads, thus leaving no marks in the recess.
Question: I want to use these to turn aluminium roundstock, would need to be able to hold solid metal roughly 3.5" in diameter, would these jaws do the job
Answer: The jaws open 3” to grab project. They push out 3 1/4” for spigot attachment. Anything over that won’t work, unless you ordered larger jaws. I would email the company, and explain what you want to do. I use this chuck for turning wood.

WEN 34027 12-Inch by 16-Inch Variable Speed Multi-Directional Cast Iron Wood Lathe with 16-Inch Capacity Bowl-Turning Back Plate

WEN

Based on 14 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Remember when you could turn heads with your woodturning? Fill your house with as many pens, table legs, and bowls as you can with the WEN 12-Inch Variable Speed Multi-Directional Wood Lathe. Boasting a 4.5-amp motor, take on wood up to 16 inches long and 12 inches wide. If that’s not enough space, mount your workpiece and tool rest onto the back faceplate to turn bowls up to 16 inches in diameter. Adjust the variable speed anywhere from 500 to 2500 rotations per minute with the onboard digital speed display illuminating the current RPM. Change the rotational direction of the lathe from forward to reverse as needed with the simple flip of a switch. The WEN Variable Speed Multi-Directional Wood Lathe features an MT2 spindle and tailstock taper to tightly grip workpieces and a 7-7/8 inch tool rest to provide needed support for chisels and tools during operation. The additional rear support provides a separate place to install your banjo and tool rest for better access when chiseling bowls and other round projects. The easy-to-use lever clamping system makes adjustments to both the tool rest and the tailstock simple and precise. Soft startups prevent damage to both your workpiece and your motor. For additional length, the WEN 34027EX Bed Extension can be purchased separately to increase the maximum capacity from 16 inches all the way up to 39 inches. And, because it’s a WEN product, your lathe comes backed by a two-year warranty, a nationwide network of skilled service technicians and a friendly customer help line. Remember when you could turn bowls, cups, chess pieces, table legs and more? Remember WEN.

  • Adjust the variable speed anywhere from 500 to 2500 rotations per minute in either direction
  • Attack workpieces up to 12 inches wide and 16 inches long
  • Exterior back plate turns bowls up to 15.75 inches in diameter (see figure 3)
  • Featuring a digital speed display, a 7-7/8 inch tool rest, a soft start 4.5-amp motor, a face plate, a center spur, a live center, and a two-year warranty
  • Increase the capacity to 12 x 39 inches with the WEN 34027EX Table Extension (sold separately)

User questions & answers

Question: What is the thread size on the spindle
Answer: This is not a lathe, it has no spindle. it is a standI
Question: How many horsepower is this lathe? The initial description shows 10a motor but the extended description shows 4.5a motor. Confusing
Answer: Roughly 3/4 but the banjo will be short and not extend to the compliment of the lathe measurements. I tried to get it fixed and they tried to charge me for the proper figment part. Be warned.
Question: v ir 110v
Answer: All small lathes this size are 110V that I have seen. Best I can do.
Question: Does the tail piece accept a chuck and if so what is the cost
Answer: Yes, 1/32" - 5/8" Heavy /Duty Drill with chuck key and MT2 shank $36.95 I use it for center holes. When you install the chuck, crank in the on a piece of wood to the turn plate to insure locking.

Product features

Variable Speed Operation

Adjust the variable speed anywhere from 500 to 2500 rotations per minute with the onboard digital speed display illuminating the current RPM.

MT2 Spindle & Tailstock

With threads measuring in at 1 inch by 8 TPI, the included MT2 spindle and tailstock allow for a variety of accessories.

4.5 Amp Slow Start Motor

Our powerful 4.5 Amp motor starts gradually to prevent motor damage and maximize safety. Change the rotational direction with the flip of a switch.

Variety of Accessories

The WEN Lathe includes a 7-7/8 inch tool rest, a face plate, a center spur, and a digital speed display, allowing you to spin a variety of projects.

PSI Woodworking CLTEZSETC EZ-Glide Bowl Turner's 4pc Toolrest Set

Based on 308 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Ultra smooth, round hardened steel rod top will let you effortlessly glide your chisel or other lathe tool for superior results; Upper support rod will not nick or scratch. Post on all four toolrests is 5/8" diameter (15.875mm). S-curve toolrest has 11" span with 3" long post with overall vertical length of 4". 1-1/2" radius J-curve toolrest has 8" span with 2-3/4" post and overall vertical length of 4-1/4". 2-1/2" radius toolrest has 6-1/2" span with 3" post and overall vertical length of 4-1/4". 2" radius toolrest has 6-3/4" span with 2-1/2" post and overall vertical length of 3-1/2". Reach far into the interior of bowls with ease; Use for bowl exterior, interior hollowing, deep penetration, and sharp corners.

  • Ultra smooth, round hardened steel rod top will let you effortlessly glide your chisel or other lathe tool for superior results; Upper support rod will not nick or scratch
  • Post on all four toolrests is 5/8" diameter (15.875mm)
  • S-curve toolrest has 11" span with 3" long post with overall vertical length of 4"; 1-1/2" radius J-curve toolrest has 8" span with 2-3/4" post and overall vertical length of 4-1/4"
  • 2-1/2" radius toolrest has 6-1/2" span with 3" post and overall vertical length of 4-1/4"; 2" radius toolrest has 6-3/4" span with 2-1/2" post and overall vertical length of 3-1/2"
  • Reach far into the interior of bowls with ease; Use for bowl exterior, interior hollowing, deep penetration, and sharp corners

User questions & answers

Question: Can I use this to turn small bowls,on a nove 2. the the one that came with it is all chewed up
Answer: The overall length is 26". The handle including the ferrule is 17".
Question: Psi website shows this in stock, but amazon says it takes a month to ship?! which is correct
Answer: It’s a U shape. Very nice tool. Holds an edge wonderfully.
Question: I have a laguna revo 12|16 lathe will these fit
Answer: Buying the sanding pads is easy but I will suggest you try to buy extra Velcro heads. The foam backing does ware out after a while and they are difficult to find on their own.
Question: Will these work with my harbor freight central machinery lathe
Answer: Just search Flocking Sandpaper on Amazon.

Hurricane Turning Tools, Woodturning Bowl Gouge, High Speed Steel, 3/8 Inches Flute (1/2 Inches Bar Stock)

Based on 78 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This is the 3/8 " Woodturning Bowl Gouge with a Superflute style shape made from 1/2" High Speed Steel. Hurricane Turning Tools are made in one of the world's largest turning tool factories. They are made out of M2 High Speed Steel for superior edge holding ability and will last 8X longer between sharpenings as compared to carbon steel. In addition to the high quality steel, Hurricane Turning Tools have extra long handles, some as long at 16 inches. The handles are made from solid Ash. These tools compare with any HSS tool on the market and are sold throughout the world. Compare these tools to others selling at 2 to 3 times the price.Ships ready for you to final sharpen.

  • 3/8" Bowl Gouge, (1/2" Bar Stock)
  • 14" Ash Handle
  • Made from High Speed Steel (HSS), Last up to 8X longer than Carbon Steel

User questions & answers

Question: What is the angle of the grind
Answer: The angle of the grind is about 45 degrees. However, we do recommend that you grind the tool yourself before using the tool. We chose 45 degrees because it is a good starting point for wherever you would like your grind to be Thanks Steve

Hurricane Turning Tools, Woodturning Three Piece Bowl Gouge Set, 1/4 Inches Flute, 3/8 Inches Flute, and 1/2 Inches Flute, High Speed Steel

Based on 228 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This set consists of three different Woodturning Bowl Gouges with a Superflute style shape. All bowl gouges are made from High Speed Steel. Hurricane Turning Tools are made in one of the world's largest turning tool factories. They are made out of M2 High Speed Steel for superior edge holding ability and will last 8X longer between sharpenings as compared to carbon steel. In addition to the high quality steel, Hurricane Turning Tools have extra long handles, some as long at 16 inches. The handles are made from solid Ash. These tools compare with any HSS tool on the market and are sold throughout the world. Compare these tools to others that sell for two to three times the price. Ships ready for you to sharpen.

  • Contains Three Separate Hurricane Bowl Gouges
  • 1/4" Bowl Gouge, (3/8" Bar Stock), 3/8" Bowl Gouge, (1/2" Bar Stock), 1/2" Bowl Gouge, (5/8" Bar Stock)
  • Made from High Speed Steel (HSS), Last up to 8X longer than Carbon Steel

User questions & answers

Question: What is the HRC of the tools
Answer: China
Question: What are the dimensions? How long is the handle? How long is the tool
Answer: Honestly looked like a U, but very shallow, nearly a spindle gouge. I returned this one becu I didn't feel safe turning face grain with it.
Question: looking at the technical details it looks like there are 3 gouges and only one handle. is that correct
Answer: It comes with a standard grind. However, you can grind it into a fingernail grind yourself.
Question: PLS advise can you ship them to London, UK
Answer: The shape of the flute on my 1/2" bowl gouge strikes me as more V-shaped than U-shaped.

DCT Wood Bowl Hand Sanding Tool and 10-Pack Set of 2in Small Mini Round Abrasive Sand Pad Discs for Turning Projects

Based on 71 reviews Check latest price
  • SAND ON LATHE: The DCT Wood Bowl Hand Sanding Tool and 10-Pack Set of 2” Inch Small Mini Round Abrasive Sand Pad Discs for Turning Projects is a perfect addition to any turner’s toolkit and allows you to both finish sanding and polishing of wood workpieces that are still on the lathe; You will be able to do most bowl sanding (4 inches and upwards) with the piece mounted on the lathe
  • PROFESSIONAL RESULTS: Adjustable head angle (a plus from other rotary sanders on the market) and dual ball bearings for smooth operation; Sand the inside of bowls from 4 inches upwards and eliminate straight lines or markings commonly caused by conventional sanding strips or sanding by hand; Saves wear and tear on your electric sander
  • PROTECT HANDS: Ensures that your hands are not in the way when hand handing; No need to ineffectively use a dangerous method of folding a sheet of sandpaper while spinning; This tool will save your hands from accidental injury
  • GRIP COMFORTABLY: 10-inch long (25.4cm) molded wooden oversized monster handle with comfortable grip for easy hold with 2 hands; Less user fatigue and more productivity
  • CONTENTS: Package includes tool and (10) sanding pads to get you started

User questions & answers

Question: What grit sanding pads come with this bowl sander? Thanks
Answer: I don't remember. I bought extra pads to be safe,
Question: How does the mandrel stay in the handle
Answer: There's what I would describe as a C-ring washer on the back side that secures the mandrel and lets it turn.
Question: will it hold 3 inch pad/disc as well
Answer: I have only used the 2 inch pad on it. I honestly doubt a 3" would be supported well. It would have a half inch around the perimeter hanging off. The 2 inch fits exactly.

Product features

BUILT TO LAST

Constructed of premium materials for strength, durability, and comfort.

Wooden handle allows you to comfortable handle tool with two hands for more productivity and control. Hook and Loop pad on sander head allows for a quick change of abrasive discs.

EASY TO USE

Allows you to finish sanding and polishing wood workpieces while they are mounted on a lathe.

You will be able to do most bowl sanding (4 inches and upwards).

ADJUSTABLE HEAD

Adjustable head angle and dual ball bearings for smooth operation.

Sander head adjusts so you can sand at varying angles and move with the curve of your work piece.

PROTECT YOUR HANDS

Oversized handle ensures that your hands are not near work piece while working at dangerous speeds.

findmall 4 Inch 4 Jaw Self-Centering Lathe Chuck Set with 1-Inch x 8TPI Thread for Holding Bowls Spindles and Other Unwieldy Wood Lathe Projects

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Take on projects of all shapes and sizes with the 4-Inch 4-Jaw Self-Centering Keyed Chuck. This versatile chuck features dovetailed jaws, allowing you to grip the outside of stock between 1.6 to 2.8 inches in size, or to hold internal pilot holes ranging from 2 to 3.2 inches in diameter.

  • Internal jaws tighten around workpieces varying from 1.6 to 2.8 inches in size.
  • External jaws spread inside of workpieces with pilot holes ranging from 2 to 3.2 inches.
  • Features a 1†x 8 TPI thread for compatibility with the majority of wood lathes on the market.
  • Scroll chuck perfect for holding bowls, spindles, and other unwieldy wood lathe projects.
  • Included screw chuck provides even more options for supporting your projects.

Lathe Chuck,7-3/4", Flat Jaws, Installation Distance 0.79"/20mm, Lathe Woodturning Chucks, Flat Lathe Chuck Jaws for Bowl Turning

Based on 7 reviews Check latest price

Product description

8" flat jaws used for finishing bowl bottoms when attached to a Barracuda scroll chuck. The Jaws open to accommodate an 8-inch bowl. 

Includes : 8 - 1/2" and 8 - 3/4" rubber bumper pegs (16 total) to securely hold your bowl in position. It is easy to adjust sizes with the 7-position peg system. 

Compatible with 4" type "C" chucks and nova chucks;

Weighs 1.7 pounds shipped.

  • 【INSTALLATION SIZE】- The distance between of two install holes is 20mm/0.79", the slot to the second install hole lasts 11mm/0.43". The jaw set can fit not only 4 inch C typed chucks and 4 inch Nova chuck, but also other chucks with the same install size.
  • 【WIDE APPLICATION】- Light wight 0.77 kg (1.7 lb). The cole jaws made of Aluminium are designed for finishing and polishing woodturning bowl and plate bottoms.
  • 【INSURANCE OFFERED】- The jaw with insurance should be installed on chuck jaw number 4, insurance keeping jaws no falling from chucks. Our Bowl Reversing Jaws are made of high quality steel, well-shaped and durable, featuring long and stable performance.
  • 【Large Capacity】- Max. turning speed: 800 RPM. Large diameter range for workpieces from 2-1/2" to 7-3/4" can meets your different finishing and polishing working needs.
  • 【7-3/4" Jaw Diameter】- The 7-3/4" jaw set consists of 4 flat jaws, and each has 7 holding positions. The distance between holes is about 1cm (0.4").

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