Powerful and easy to use, the Delta 12-1/2 in. Midi-Lathe Variable Speed Wood Lathe has a 1 HP motor with 1725 RPM and electronic variable speed to tackle a wide range of applications with ease. The patented belt tensioning system allows easy and quick speed changes and sets the belt at the correct tension for maximum power transfer and longer tool life. For fluting and other decorative applications, the indexing pin locks the head stock spindle in 24 different locations and with forward and reverse functioning, you get the superior finish your job demands. Extremely durable and stable with cast-iron construction, this heavy-duty lathe will provide years of reliable and accurate use.
- Powerful 1 HP max, 1725 RPM motor handles a wide range of applications
- Large 12-1/2 in. swing capacity
- Electronic variable speed with three pulley speed ranges provides the required speeds needed to turn a project without changing belt position
- Forward and reversing function for a superior finish with a simple flip of the switch
- Over headstock on/off switch for easy access
- Includes: 6 in. and 10 in. Tool Rest, Spur Center, Chrome 3 in. Face Plate, Tool Rest Base, Knockout Bar, Live Center and Wrenches
- 5-year warranty on parts and labor
Delilah Johnson (verified owner) –
Prompt delivery and the lathe was as ordered. Good to do business with a great efficient company. Every employee is always so courteous and helpful.
Joe Miller (verified owner) –
Why is the on/off switch wired backwards. Don’t they do a test run?. Have they fixed this problem? I would like to buy but worried.
Augustine Watsica (verified owner) –
Really enjoying this lathe! Turning bowls and spindles with great success. The reverse option is fabulous when sanding or applying paste. Having the ability to adjust the rotation speed especially when locating the spinning centers.
Dayna Pouros (verified owner) –
Picked up the Delta midi on sale at HD after using one in a community workshop for three years. We had no maintenance problems despite near continuos use by dozens of members. A rugged tool….
Sabrina Lakin (verified owner) –
Exactly as hoped. Does a great job. Smooth, quiet, and true. Wish it had a one inch banjo so would be interchangeable with our other rests but not a big issue.
Whitney Homenick (verified owner) –
This lathe is a pleasure to use. It’s powerful but surprisingly quiet. It has variable speed and 3 belt positions for each speed range. The tail stock and tool rest assembly glide easily along the lathe bed, and they’re easy to lock and unlock with a quarter turn of the locking levers. They’re also easy to remove from the lathe bed if they’re in the way during finish sanding.The reverse feature is handy for finish sanding; it’s easier on the fingers, and the sawdust goes to the back instead of towards the operator. The reverse feature is good only when using the faceplate, which can be “locked” onto the spindle so it won’t unscrew. Using a chuck in reverse would likely be a problem.The two tool rests are a little wimpy; they’re lightweight and easily marred, and my tools do not glide along them. I may have to upgrade them, but the posts are an odd size.The included lathe stand was the deciding factor for this purchase from Home Depot. It’s wonderfully sturdy and stable, and it has leveling feet. The tool holder on the stand is really only good for storing the tool rests; my lathe tools just fall through.I was hesitant to go with a Delta due to the service problems and difficulty getting repair parts, so I hope this lathe continues to work flawlessly. I’ve owned several lathes, and this one is by far the best and most versatile. I’m very happy with my purchase.
Hollie Kirlin (verified owner) –
Very happy with the lathe. I use it to turn spindles up to 54″ x 3 1/2″. The lathe with two extensions is mounted on a plywood box 1′ x 1′ x 7′ filled with play sand to dampen vibration. It has plenty of power and is much more quiet and smooth than lathes with the lever type speed control. The reason the quality missed the highest rating is the forward/reverse switch seems to be labeled backwards. The tool rests that are included are small but it’s easy to make them with a few pieces of angle iron and bolts. The speed control works great for tuning out any vibration and the reverse is great for sanding. The centers are fine but the spur center worked much better after I sharpened it.Home Depot had the best price and return policy. It was delivered on time in perfect condition through a common carrier.
Marie Rogahn (verified owner) –
Easy to install and mount. Love the vari speed and the reverse.
Abraham Barton (verified owner) –
Works perfectly right out of the box
Luciano Mayer (verified owner) –
The only thing I didn’t like is the fact that the forward/reverse switch is wired backwards. According to the reviews I read before I bought it this is fairly common. I’ve tried getting in touch with Delta a few times without any luck. Other than that I’ve been pleased.
Brielle Nikolaus (verified owner) –
My son is thrilled with this gift!
Jamey Ferry (verified owner) –
Variable speed works perfectly and has plenty of power for the projects I’ve done so far with it (bowls, pens, tool handles). Very happy with this replacement for my Excelsior lathe. The lathe was perfectly in alignment and hasn’t required any adjustments. I’ve owned it for just over a month and expect it to last for a long time.
Erling Gislason (verified owner) –
LATHE IS STRONG, BELT EASY TO CHANGE, GOOD WEIGHT, NO VIBRATION.TURNS A 10″X10″ EASILY, AT ANY SPEED.
Leonard Batz (verified owner) –
Exactly what I thought it would be.
Gladyce Kautzer (verified owner) –
This is a beautifully well made lathe. One horse power motor out classes any other midi lathe on the market. It’s smooth, vibration free and the tail stock is perfectly aligned with the drive center. One thing that puzzles me though, is why Delta still hasn’t fixed the wrong way wired reverse switch. Other than that, it’s still well worth the money.
Anita Carter (verified owner) –
Excellent. Easy forward/reverse converniently placed next to on/off switch. Comes with faceplate, live center #2 MT, headstock center with rod remover, removeable tailstock, Good range of speeds for each belt position. Haven’t changed belt positions yet though. Excellent materials: good weight, doesn’t vibrate, chrome wheels on head and tailstocks. Can’t beat it for the price. Can’t imagine why anyone would buy the Jet for so much more money. Works beautifully. I’m very happy with it. Now if I can only learn how to turn….
Clark Rempel (verified owner) –
Very good lathe for the money, only critics are the power switch should be at front for safety and the spindle lock is difficult to grasp.
Ransom Williamson (verified owner) –
Great sized lathe for small shop. Works beautifully
Bernadette Rowe (verified owner) –
Solid construction great for every project I want to do. Just can’t stop using it, so much fun!
Piper Veum (verified owner) –
What a great lathe, it’s a little giant and very versatile lathe. Smooth and easy to use. I had to add the extended bed to do longer work but it does everything I need super well. Variable speed control is awesome when finishing. Well made and precise right out of the box.