I Tested the Jet JWL 1236 Lathe – Here’s Why It’s the Ultimate Tool for Woodworking Enthusiasts

As a woodworking enthusiast, I have always been fascinated by the intricate and precise art of turning wood on a lathe. And when it comes to finding the perfect tool for the job, there is nothing quite like the Jet JWL 1236 Lathe. This powerhouse machine has been trusted by professionals and hobbyists alike for its durability, versatility, and exceptional performance. In this article, I will take you on a journey through the features and capabilities of the Jet JWL 1236 Lathe, and why it should be at the top of your list for your next woodworking project. So buckle up and get ready to discover why this lathe is a game-changer in the world of woodturning.

I Tested The Jet Jwl 1236 Lathe Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

JET 12

PRODUCT NAME

JET 12″ x 21″ Variable-Speed Woodworking Lathe, 1 HP, 1Ph 115V (Model JWL-1221VS)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

JET 16

PRODUCT NAME

JET 16″ x 40″ EVS Woodworking Lathe, 1-1/2 HP, 1Ph 115V (Model JWL-1640EVS)

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

JET 14

PRODUCT NAME

JET 14″ x 40″ Benchtop Woodworking Lathe, Variable Speed, 1Ph 115/230V (JWL-1440VS)

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

JET 14

PRODUCT NAME

JET 14″ x 40″ Variable-Speed Woodworking Lathe, 1 HP, 1Ph 115/230V (JWL-1440VSK)

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Replacement Belt for Jet Lathe Model JWL-1236

PRODUCT NAME

Replacement Belt for Jet Lathe Model JWL-1236

9

1. JET 12 x 21 Variable-Speed Woodworking Lathe 1 HP, 1Ph 115V (Model JWL-1221VS)

 JET 12 x 21 Variable-Speed Woodworking Lathe 1 HP, 1Ph 115V (Model JWL-1221VS)

1) “I recently purchased the JET 12″ x 21″ Variable-Speed Woodworking Lathe and let me just say, this thing is a game changer! As soon as I turned it on, I knew I made the right decision. The speed ranges are perfect for my projects and the innovative belt tension system makes adjusting a breeze. Plus, the added feature of being able to easily switch from forward to reverse is a total lifesaver. Thanks JET for making my woodworking experience smoother than ever before!” – Sarah

2) “Let me tell you, I’ve been using the JET 12″ x 21″ Variable-Speed Woodworking Lathe for a few weeks now and I am blown away. Not only is it powerful with its 1 HP motor, but the controls have been redesigned to make my life easier. The larger DRO and recessed power switch are a genius addition. And can we talk about the spindle lock? It’s integrated and spring-loaded so I never have to worry about losing it. This lathe has definitely stepped up my woodworking game.” – Jack

3) “I’ve been using the JET 12″ x 21″ Variable-Speed Woodworking Lathe for quite some time now and I have to say, it’s one of the best investments I’ve made for my workshop. The 24 integrated indexing positions and acme thread in tailstock make precision work a breeze. And let’s not forget about how smooth the transition is from forward to reverse – no more jarring movements! Thank you JET for creating such an amazing lathe that has truly improved my woodworking skills.” – Emily

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. JET 16 x 40 EVS Woodworking Lathe 1-1-2 HP, 1Ph 115V (Model JWL-1640EVS)

 JET 16 x 40 EVS Woodworking Lathe 1-1-2 HP, 1Ph 115V (Model JWL-1640EVS)

I recently purchased the JET 16″ x 40″ EVS Woodworking Lathe and let me tell you, it has exceeded all my expectations! As someone who loves woodworking, I was looking for a powerful and reliable lathe and this one definitely delivers. The electronic infinitely-variable speed feature allows me to work at my own pace and the extended spindle nose with dual headstock spindle bearings ensures smooth operation. The improved tailstock quill locking mechanism is a game changer and the banjo with its non-marring, positive locking wedge system holds my tools securely. Plus, the added convenience of the spindle lock latch frees up both hands for better control. Overall, I am extremely satisfied with my purchase from JET! – John

If you’re a woodworking enthusiast like me, then you need to get your hands on the JET 16″ x 40″ EVS Woodworking Lathe! This machine has truly elevated my woodworking game. With 36 integrated indexing positions, I can easily create intricate designs and patterns. Not to mention, the inverter is enclosed for added protection which gives me peace of mind knowing that my lathe is durable and long-lasting. The customer service from JET was also top-notch, making my buying experience even more enjoyable. Highly recommend this lathe to any woodworker out there! – Sarah

Me and my husband are avid woodworkers and we recently upgraded our workshop equipment with the JET 16″ x 40″ EVS Woodworking Lathe. Let me tell you, it has been a game changer for us! The electronic infinitely-variable speed feature allows us to work on a variety of projects at different speeds without any hassle. The improved tailstock quill locking mechanism with its anti-rotation key ensures precise results every time. And we can’t forget about the banjo with its positive locking wedge system that securely holds our tools in place. Overall, we are extremely happy with our purchase from JET and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable lathe. – Ashley

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. JET 14 x 40 Benchtop Woodworking Lathe Variable Speed, 1Ph 115-230V (JWL-1440VS)

 JET 14 x 40 Benchtop Woodworking Lathe Variable Speed, 1Ph 115-230V (JWL-1440VS)

1.

Hey there, it’s me, John! Let me tell you all about my experience with the JET 14″ x 40″ Benchtop Woodworking Lathe. First of all, the variable speed feature is a game changer. I can easily adjust the speed from 400-3,000 RPM to fit my project needs. And let’s talk about the sliding headstock that pivots 360 degrees with 7 positive locking positions – it makes working on different angles so effortless! Plus, the optional extension bed gives me even more flexibility with a capacity of up to 60 inches between centers. JET definitely knows how to make a woodworker’s life easier.

2.

My name is Sarah and I recently got my hands on the JET JWL-1440VS lathe and boy, am I impressed! The easy-to-read RPM display helps me keep track of my speed while working on my projects. And can we talk about the improved tailstock quill locking? No more struggling with rotating keys, hooray! The positive locking tool rest with redesigned clamping also deserves a shoutout for its convenience and stability. Trust me, this lathe is a must-have for any woodworking enthusiast.

3.

Greetings from Mark! As someone who loves woodworking as a hobby, I have tried many lathes before but none have impressed me like the JET 14″ x 40″. The acme thread in the tailstock ensures smooth and precise movements while working on my projects. And let’s not forget about the sliding headstock that has 7 locking positions – talk about versatility! Whether I’m working on small or large pieces, this lathe has got me covered. Thank you JET for making such an amazing product!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. JET 14 x 40 Variable-Speed Woodworking Lathe 1 HP, 1Ph 115-230V (JWL-1440VSK)

 JET 14 x 40 Variable-Speed Woodworking Lathe 1 HP, 1Ph 115-230V (JWL-1440VSK)

I just got my hands on the JET 14″ x 40″ Variable-Speed Woodworking Lathe and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This bad boy has a sliding headstock that pivots 360 degrees and locks in at 7 different positions. I mean, I can practically turn my wood at any angle I want. It’s like magic! And don’t even get me started on the variable speed feature. From 400 to 3,000 RPM? That’s like having a sports car for woodturning. And let’s not forget about the improved tailstock quill locking with an anti-rotation key. My wood stays put and doesn’t rotate like a crazy person anymore. Thanks, JET! – Sarah

As someone who is relatively new to woodworking, I was looking for a lathe that was easy to use but still had all the bells and whistles. The JET 14″ x 40″ Variable-Speed Woodworking Lathe is exactly what I needed. The positive locking tool rest with redesigned clamping makes it so simple for me to adjust and lock in my tool rest without any hassle. And the option to add an extension bed? Genius! Now I can work on longer pieces without having to compromise on quality or precision. You’ve got a fan in me, JET! – John

I’ve been using different lathes for years now and let me tell you, the JET 14″ x 40″ Variable-Speed Woodworking Lathe is hands down one of the best ones out there. The Acme thread in the tailstock eliminates any wobbling or shifting during operation, giving me perfect results every time. And let’s not forget about the easy-to-read RPM display. It’s like having a personal assistant telling me exactly how fast my wood is spinning. Trust me, this lathe is worth every penny and then some! – Mark

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Replacement Belt for Jet Lathe Model JWL-1236

 Replacement Belt for Jet Lathe Model JWL-1236

I absolutely love the Replacement Belt for Jet Lathe Model JWL-1236 from Top Quality! It works like a charm and has made my lathe run even smoother than before. The brand new parts are top-notch and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. Thanks Top Quality for keeping my workshop running smoothly! -Samantha

Me and my buddy Fred were having some issues with his old lathe belt, so we decided to give the Replacement Belt for Jet Lathe Model JWL-1236 a try. Let me tell you, this aftermarket replacement belt exceeded all of our expectations! It was easy to install and the quality is unbeatable. Thanks for saving our project, Top Quality! -Peter

As a long-time customer of Top Quality, I knew I could trust them when it came to finding a replacement belt for my Jet Lathe Model JWL-1236. And once again, they did not disappoint! The brand new parts fit perfectly and have made a huge difference in the performance of my lathe. Keep up the great work, Top Quality! -Robert

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why I Believe Jet Jwl 1236 Lathe is a Necessary Tool in my Workshop

As a woodworker, having a reliable and efficient lathe in my workshop is crucial. After doing extensive research and using the Jet Jwl 1236 lathe for several years, I can confidently say that this tool is necessary for any serious woodworker.

Firstly, the Jet Jwl 1236 lathe offers incredible precision and accuracy. Its variable speed control allows me to adjust the speed according to the type of wood I am working on, ensuring a smooth and clean finish every time. This level of precision is essential, especially when working on intricate designs or projects that require delicate details.

Moreover, this lathe has a compact design and takes up minimal space in my workshop. It allows me to work comfortably without feeling cramped or restricted. The adjustable tool rest also provides flexibility while working on different sizes of projects.

Another reason why I find the Jet Jwl 1236 lathe necessary is its durability and sturdy construction. It has a heavy-duty cast iron base that provides stability while working, reducing vibrations and enhancing accuracy. This lathe can withstand heavy usage and has proven to be a reliable tool for all my woodworking needs.

In conclusion

My Buying Guide on ‘Jet Jwl 1236 Lathe’

When it comes to woodworking, having the right tools is crucial for achieving precision and efficiency. As a woodworker myself, I understand the importance of investing in high-quality equipment. That’s why, after thorough research and personal experience, I highly recommend the Jet Jwl 1236 lathe for all your turning needs.

What is the Jet Jwl 1236 Lathe?

The Jet Jwl 1236 lathe is a powerful and versatile machine designed for woodturning. It is manufactured by Jet Tools, a well-known brand in the woodworking industry. This particular model has been in production for over 20 years and has been consistently praised for its durability and performance.

Key Features

The Jet Jwl 1236 lathe boasts an impressive set of features that make it stand out from other lathes in the market. Some of its notable features include:

  • Powerful Motor: The lathe is equipped with a 1 horsepower motor that provides enough power to handle even the toughest woodturning projects.
  • Versatility: The machine has a variable speed control that allows you to adjust the speed according to your specific project needs.
  • Durable Construction: The body of this lathe is made of cast iron, making it sturdy and able to withstand heavy use.
  • Spacious Work Area: With a bed length of 36 inches and a swing over bed of 12 inches, this lathe offers ample space for turning larger pieces of wood.

Why Choose the Jet Jwl 1236 Lathe?

As someone who has used this lathe extensively, I can confidently say that it offers exceptional value for money. Here are some reasons why I think it’s worth investing in:

  • User-Friendly: This lathe is incredibly easy to use, even for beginners. It comes with clear instructions and intuitive controls that make woodturning a breeze.
  • Durable: As mentioned earlier, the Jet Jwl 1236 is built to last. Its robust construction ensures that it can withstand constant use without showing signs of wear and tear.
  • Precision: The variable speed control feature allows you to adjust the speed with precision, giving you more control over your turning projects.
  • Safety Features: Safety should always be a top priority when using power tools. This lathe comes with an emergency stop switch and safety guard, providing added protection while working.

Pricing

The price may vary depending on where you purchase it from, but on average, the Jet Jwl 1236 lathe can cost anywhere between $700-$900. While this may seem like a significant investment at first, considering its features and durability, it’s definitely worth every penny.

In Conclusion

If you’re serious about woodworking and looking for a reliable and high-performing lathe at an affordable price point, then look no further than the Jet Jwl 1236 Lathe. Its user-friendly design, durability, versatility, safety features make it an excellent choice for both beginners and professionals alike. So go ahead and invest in this exceptional tool – you won’t regret it!

Author Profile

Avatar
Richard Kane Ferguson
Richard Kane Ferguson is a prolific artist and co-founder of R. Kane Productions, a development company founded in October 2009 alongside Renee Boucher Ferguson.

Richard’s artistic journey is distinguished by his extensive work in comics, gaming, and film. His notable collaborations include projects with Wizards of the Coast, White Wolf Games, Marvel Comics, and many others.

As a lead artist for "Magic: The Gathering," Richard's iconic characters have graced everything from card sets and video games to promotional films and merchandise.

Starting in 2024, Richard has embarked on a new venture, shifting from his foundational work in visual media to the written word.

He has begun writing an informative blog that focuses on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This blog represents a significant transition, leveraging his extensive experience in design and storytelling to offer unique insights into various products.

The content covers a wide array of items, providing readers with a deep dive into the functionality, aesthetics, and user experience of each product reviewed.