Rikon 70-1218vs review: Variable Speed MIDI Lathe

Introduction of Wood Lathe

You can’t buy any lathe machine without justifying. Right? You should read review article about lathe machine. So, you are welcome to the rikon 70-1218vs review article.

Most of the people search the rikon 70-1218vs lathe. Because it is a very good, high-quality, and made of excellent components.

The company of RIKON is ISO9001 certified. It is located in Qingdao, China. They utilize the systems of 6-Sigma and 5S management. Rikon seems like a good company. They sell a dozen different styles of lathe machine and serious about building woodworking equipment.

The Rikon 70-1218vs variable speed MIDI lathe machine comes with a 3/4 HP motor. The motor provides ample power for all your turning needs.

Also, it provides electronic variable speed control, wider range of operating speeds.

This lathe machine includes spur center, live center, 3 inch faceplate, 6 inch tool rest with 1 inch diameter post, knock-out bar, wrenches and tool holder.

Product description

Overview of the Rikon 70-1218vs review

The 70-1218vs midi-lathe is an all-rounder being a top choice for professional turners and even handy for early beginners.
The Rikon midi lathe features a powerful HP motor, 12 inch swing and 18 inch between centers. It provides ample strength and room for a variety of projects. The lathe motor requires a 3-wire electrical plug to match your electrical receptacles.
The smooth electronic variable-speed control has a 3 operating speed ranges from 450 RPM up to 3500 RPM.
The headstock gives easy access to the belt and the tool rest post is 1 inch which provides a solid support. The spindle size is 1 inch x 8 inch and has a #2 Morse Taper.

Performance and size 

This midi lathe is high-quality woodworking machine. It has gained a reputation for being sturdy. Also, the 1218vs lathe offers a good balance between power, capacity and portability.
This lathe machine allows you to work comfortably. Because the rikon 70-1218vs lathe machine has a powerful motor. This lathe allows you to have variable speeds in your work. The speed ranges are 450-1100, 960-2400, 1400-3500. Also, this lathe machine is easy to assemble, well-built parts and solid construction.
This lathe is constructed of cast iron with precision-machine parts. Parts can turn bowls up to 12-1/2 inch in diameter and up to 20 inch spindle. Also, the longer spindles can be turned by adding one or more optional bed extensions.
The pivoting belt cover is the cool feature. It allows easy access when changing belt speeds. There’s also a ball-bearing construction that ensures smooth spindle operation. Also, you can adjust locking handles with the ball-bearing to keep all components positioned securely.
Midi lathe 70-1218vs size is 12 inch x 18 inch.It is an ideal small size lathe for professional turners and it is designed for extra stability with anti-vibration rubber feet. This machine has many features favored by turners.

Features

• This lathe machine comes with powerful 3/4 HP DC motor. The motor provides ample power for all turning needs. Also, this motor requires a 3-wire electrical plug to match your electrical receptacles.
• The pivoting belt cover for easy access at the time of changing belt speeds.
• Ball-bearing construction offers you smooth, precise spindle operation.
• The bed and all components will give you precise alignment.
• The locking handles keep components positioned securely.
• Digital speed control with on/off switch and RPM display for easy tracking.

Specifications

• Model Number 70-1218VS
• Ratings 5.0 out of 5
• Weight: 77 Pounds
• Shipping weight 77 lbs
• Size 12 inch x 18 inch
• Horsepower 3/4 HP
• Amps 4.5
• Voltage 120v, 60Hz
• Spindle nose 1 inch x 8
• Ram travel 2 inch
• Headstock Taper MT2
• Length 37-3/4 inch
• Width 9-3/4 inch
• Height 16-1/4 inch
• Tool rest post diameter 1 inch
• Base size 30 inch x 7-3/8 inch
• Swing over bed 12 inch
• Swing over tool rest 9-1/16 inch
• Dimensions 33.5 x 19 x 13 inches
• Working distances between centers 18 inch
• Warranty 5 years

Pros

• Good built quality
• Good speed control
• Backward/Forward rotation
• Beginner-Friendly
• Heavy-duty motor.
• Variable speed
• Decent swing size
• Capable of lasting long.

Cons

• Expensive
• Heavy

Conclusion

Okay then… I hope that this rikon 70-1218vs review has been helpful for you.

To be honest, it is a decent lathe machine that possesses the power and stability to get work done. It might fall on the expensive side, but you will soon realize its worth after you start using the tool.

So, I will leave it up to you to decide. Good luck with the machine.

And hey! Don’t forget to visit our powertoolsguyd page for more top quality power tool reviews.