Shop Fox W1758 Wood Lathe Review [UPDATED]

Last updated on November 18th, 2022 at 11:49 am

Are you thinking of getting the Shop Fox W1758 and taking up woodturning? Or do you want to replace your current machinery? Or do you think that your current lathe is just not cutting it (pun intended)?

Choosing a lathe can be difficult if you do not know what to look for. It is necessary to think about what you want to turn. The size of your project will determine how much power the lathe must have.

You also need to think about the amount you are willing to spend on the machinery. Keep in mind that you will need to buy other accessories to use along with the lathe. 

When buying a lathe that sits on its stand, you need to have enough room to place it in and still work efficiently. Keeping the lathe away from the walls will allow ample room to maneuver. 

The ShopFox W1758 16″ x 46″ Wood Lathe with Stand and DRO is a wood lathe with a large capacity that will allow you to carve various projects that you ordinarily wouldn’t be able to. It has a powerful 2-horsepower motor as well as a variable speed spindle. 

It also has a precision ground cast iron bed, headstock, and tailstock. It is set on heavy cast iron legs, which give it amazing stability and help enhance your woodturning skills—the optimum environment for the best woodworking. 

Shop Fox W1758 Aesthetics

While looks are not everything, especially when it comes to machinery and tools, it does help to have something easy on the eyes. The W1758—16″ x 46″ Wood Lathe with Stand and DRO is an all-white late on a cast iron stand, keeping the entire machine stable and sturdy. 

The 2HP motor hangs off the lathe bed’s end and has a 6-Inch faceplate, MT#2 spur center, MT#2 live center, and tool rest with an extension. The maximum distance between the centers i3 46 inches. 

This is quite an imposing piece of machinery that you can not miss in any room. It is 76-1/2 inches long, 19inches wide, and  48-3/4inches high.

Looks may not always count, but this lathe gives you the confidence that it can help you deliver what you need. Woodturning does not need to be difficult or inaccurate when you have the right tools.

Performance Review

This wood lathe will be a great addition to your workshop. It is a powerful machine that gives you precision and accuracy. Thanks to its 2-horsepower motor, ten speeds, and a swivel board for outboard turning. 

The sturdy stand that it sits on keeps your work grounded, which helps you get the desired result. There is no vibration with this machine, enabling you to keep the work steady and smooth. 

When making anything that needs the precision required when you want to make something as asymmetrical as a bowl, it is a necessary and required feature.

This lathe is a heavy-duty machine that will easily become the staple and centerpiece of your workshop. This is easily one of the best lathes on the market. 

Outboard turning is easy with this lathe, and it also has a standard three-way adjustable tool rest extension. This is the feature that gives you the support that you need when you are working. It has variable speeds from 600 RPM to 2400 RPM. 

One of the advantages of this lathe is that it can perform outboard turning, which is a variation of faceplate turning. You can use the tool rest extension when you need to turn the wood, and the headstock is at 90 degrees. You can easily adjust them to the height you prefer and lock them in place for safe use. 

Safety

This is a reliable machine with a heavy-duty motor and a substantial capacity. This means that you will need to be careful when using it. Make sure to switch it off and unplug it from the power source when you are not using it. 

Even if you think you will just be stepping away for a few moments. You would rather be safe than sorry. Also, unplug it whenever you need to make any adjustments. It can cause severe injury and even be fatal.

Also, make sure that you are appropriately dressed when working. This means that you need to watch out for any clothing items hanging over the lathe and risk getting caught in it. Make sure everything is tucked away and out of reach. 

It would help if you also considered wearing personal protective equipment. This includes dust masks, which will keep out dust and other particles that can be harmful to you. 

Above all, take the time to read the manual and learn how it works to take the necessary precautions and get the work done right. This powerful machine needs to be handled skillfully to avoid injury.

Who is this product ideal for?

Improper use of this machine can be hazardous. It is essential to have the necessary experience working with this lathe. Trained professionals best use it. If you are unsure how to use it, attend a class, or get a tutor to help you understand.

Pros

• It is  a sturdy lathe
• It can perform outboard turning.
• It is a heavy-duty lathe that is good for more extensive projects
• It has a powerful motor. 

Cons

• It is cumbersome and can not easily be moved around. 

Our Verdict

The Shop Fox W1758 16″ x 46″ Wood Lathe with Stand and DRO is a rugged and powerful lathe with many features.

We think it is a good buy as far as woodturning tools are concerned. Although it may seem expensive at first glance, it is a worthwhile investment and will serve you for many years. Enjoy your shopping! See the Shop Fox W1856 review.