Unboxing and setting up of the Axminster AW205WL mini lathe and fixing it with a base.

[@julierigby8549]

Thanks for your knowledge Derek, it’s been a great help setting up my lathe. Much easier than the instruction booklet. I’m new to wood turning as I’ve only done whittling before but have always wanted to try turning but have been put off by people saying how dangerous it can be which I appreciate and understand you must always have safety in mind

[@DerekBailey-jc7rk]

Caution is a good teacher. I always preferred my pupils to be nervous and not overconfident. Spindle turning is the safest start for beginners. Bowl turning comes later when you've gained confidence and tool skills. Turning pens and small items like door knobs, cord pulls, bud vases etc are very safe and give rewarding results very quickly.

[@julierigby8549]

@@DerekBailey-jc7rk thank you so much I look forward to your next video 🙏

[@theretrogeek2281]

Great video about the AW205 I’m getting one of these soon,I’m a beginner and want to give it a try

[@DerekBailey-jc7rk]

Yes it's a well made lathe for the money. some of these mini lathes tend to have electronic control problems but this lathe seams to have a reliable drive.

[@theretrogeek2281]

@@DerekBailey-jc7rkthanks for the reply,do you think you can show us turning a bowl on this? Cheers 😊

[@DerekBailey-jc7rk]

Yes of course, hopefully in my next but one beginners tuition series.

[@pmacc3557]

Im seriously considering getting an Axminster to start wood turning. I've done a bit of lathe work in school 30 years ago but I think I can get ok on a wood lathe.

[@DerekBailey-jc7rk]

I recommend the AW205WL as a starter lathe due to its versatility ie:- reversing motor and accessible outboard drive spindle. Remember though you can turn small items on a big lathe but obviously not large items on a small lathe. If you ambitions rise to bowl turning staircase spindles etc; then a larger lathe would be more suitable as the AW205WL is underpowered for anything but small bowls. The carbide tip insert tools (scrapers) are good and easy to use, but can be unforgiving if your hands shake a little on approaching the wood like mine. Unfortunately, though rewarding to use, traditional tools require practice. Hope this helps.

[@pmacc3557]

@@DerekBailey-jc7rk thanks 🙏👍. I might go for the next model up..to be on the safe side

[@goaticusmaximus9067]

I literally have just had my aw205 arrive this morning, watching this video now to help me set up! It's a wonderful little lathe​@@DerekBailey-jc7rk

[@philhodges8773]

Hi great video. What is the chuck model number please? I can’t find it on their website

[@DerekBailey-jc7rk]

VEVOR Lathe Chuck 2.75" Mini Lathe Chuck 4 Jaw Self-Centering 1In x 8TPI Thread. eBay about £54. Check to see if you can buy extra jaws they may be compatible with Record Power sc2 chuck

[@philhodges8773]

@@DerekBailey-jc7rk Brill thanks!

[@pmacc3557]

Great info 👍 👍 Could you turn chair legs on this? (Is it long enough?)

[@DerekBailey-jc7rk]

Just about but in two parts as the lathe is not long enough for a full length leg. You will need to drill a hole/recess in one part to accept a tennon in the other part. Then glue together. Long winded, but possible for a one off situation.

[@scansnoopy]

Great video,do you still have the charnwood? Which do you think is best the Axminster or the Charnwood? Thanks 😊

[@DerekBailey-jc7rk]

Axminster I think is the better of the two. It has a more reliable drive and a threaded output drive shaft at the rear. It's also quiet and has two revolving centres. Delivery is good too.

[@DerekBailey-jc7rk]

I returned the charnwood ithad a. faulty drive.

[@DerekBailey-jc7rk]

Oh I forgot, I think the Axminster has a 3 year guarantee.