In Brief: Jet JWL-1015 Woodworking Lathe Review
The Jet JWL-1015 Wood Lathe offers a half-dozen different variable speeds for the ultimate in precision and accuracy. With 15.5” between centers, this lathe is great for handling smaller workpieces and can even handle some medium-sized ones as well. And the improved tensioning system provides easier access to belts for optimal and easy speed selection.
For more than 30 years, Jet Tools has been in the business of producing power tools and equipment.
They have had the aim of providing a better overall quality tool than they have done before, and they aim for a greater depth of ease and innovation with each of their products.
The line of lathes that the company has been producing have become not only one of the most recognizable, but one of the most trusted in the North American market as well.
With over 750 authorized service centers across North America, Jet Tools has the reach that it needs to provide quality customer service whenever someone is in need.
Key Specifications of the Jet JWL-1015
Despite its compact size, the Jet JWL-1015 Wood Lathe has a 15.5” distance between centers.
This makes it optimal to take on small workpieces in particular, though it is capable of handling some medium-sized workpieces, too.
The variable speeds are truly the best thing about the Jet JWL-1015 Wood Lathe.
It offers six different spindle speeds: 500 RPM, 840 RPM, 1240 RPM, 1800 RPM, 2630 RPM, and 3975 RPM for maximum precision and versatility in any woodworking operation.
Additionally, the improved tensioning belt system makes it easier to not only get to the speed belts, but to change them in short order.
This makes changing speeds quick and effortless, allowing the turner to get back to their operation instead.
Read the long list of Jet JWL-1015 specs here :
| Specification | |
|---|---|
| Model Number/ Name | 1015 |
| Ideal For | Wood |
| Volts | 115 |
| Current (amps) | 5 |
| Speed (rpm) | 500-3975 |
| Distance between centers (in) | 15.5 |
| Spindle thread (in) | 1”-8 |
| Overall dimensions | 26 x 7 x 14 |
| Weight (lbs) | 77 |
| Other Features | Live Center Tailstock |
Top Features to Look For
A simple, effective, conservatively-sized lathe, the Jet JWL-1015 Wood Lathe doesn’t have some of the functionality that the larger lathes on the market has.
Still, it delivers ample power (5-amps) while allowing for maximum space use in even tighter areas.
Wider Bed
The Jet JWL-1015 Wood Lathe comes with a wider bed to improve the rigidity and stability of the body. When it comes to turning operations, stability is perhaps the most important thing.
The Jet JWL-1015 Wood Lathe won’t shake and move on you in the middle of turning.
Variable Spindle Speeds
As touched on above, the Jet JWL-1015 Wood Lathe comes with six variable speed settings that can be accessed through the improved tensioning belt system.
With speeds starting at 500 RPM and going up to 3975 RPM, turners can get the precise settings that they are looking to achieve.
24 Indexing Positions
Finding the space and proper angle for implementing a workpiece can be difficult with the wrong lathe.
The Jet JWL-1015 Wood Lathe has 24 different indexing positions so that turners can achieve comfort and ease of access in their workpieces.
Power and Performance
Despite its compact size, the Jet JWL-1015 Wood Lathe delivers a powerful 5-amp motor that is capable of handling all small workpieces and some medium-sized ones with greater accuracy, precision, and torque.
The wide variable speed range also makes it easier for turners to achieve the precise speed needed for that specific operation.
Ease of Use
The Jet JWL-1015 Wood Lathe is small enough that it can be handled with the greatest of ease even by amateur woodworkers.
There aren’t a wide array of features as there are on some of the larger lathes, so it is easy to use the features that are available.
The Jet JWL-1015 Wood Lathe is a great tool for learning the craft of woodworking.
Ease of Maintenance, Repairs, and Warranty
Maintaining the Jet JWL-1015 Wood Lathe is a simple as keeping it clean and free of debris build up through frequent use.
When wood chips build up over time, it can influence some of the components in a negative manner.
It is also recommended to change out centers and cutting tools on a fairly regular basis to ensure their integrity.
Damaged or worn centers and tools can lead to damage to the materials as well, so keep them fresh and new on a fairly regular basis.
Warranty
Jet Tools offers a five-year limited warranty for their industrial and commercial products.
The purpose of the warranty is to protect against any material and craftsmanship defects that can occur and may ultimately limit the effectiveness of the lathe entirely.
If you have any further questions, check out the Jet warranty page for more information.
Price of the Jet JWL-1015
At just $500, the Jet JWL-1015 Wood Lathe is great for more serious amateur woodworkers that want to learn the craft without sacrificing the functionality and power that can be involved when using a smaller or cheaper lathe.
Users were happy with the price point overall feeling that it is still quite affordable given the 5-amp motor, variable speeds, and the ability of the lathe to handle all small workpieces as well as the larger ones.
Pros and cons of the Jet JWL-1015
Here are some of the pros and cons of the Jet JWL-1015 :
Pros
- Variable Speed Control
- Improved Tension Control
- Quality Power
- 24 Position Indexing
Cons
- Limited to small workpieces
Who Should Buy the Jet JWL-1015 ?
For those who have relatively small spaces to work with or are looking to take a serious leap into learning about woodworking and how to properly use their lathe, the Jet JWL-1015 Wood Lathe is a great tool for the job.
Our Recommendation
While it won’t compete with some of the larger lathes on the market, the Jet JWL-1015 Wood Lathe delivers more than enough power, speed, and precision to tackle small woodworking pieces with little to no issue.
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
