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Powermatic

Powermatic 3520C 20-Inch x 35-Inch Variable Speed Woodworking Lathe

  • 20-inch swing
  • 2 HP motor
  • Sliding headstock, electronic variable speed
  • American made
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Is the Powermatic 3520C 20-Inch x 35-Inch Variable Speed Woodworking Lathe worth it?

Yes, for the right buyer. The Powermatic 3520C 20-Inch x 35-Inch Variable Speed Woodworking Lathe ranks #2 in our Best Wood Lathe 2026 list (best professional). Its biggest strength: 20-inch swing handles the largest production bowl sizes.

Specs that matter

Key features

  • 20-inch swing
  • 2 HP motor
  • Sliding headstock, electronic variable speed
  • American made
The trade-offs

Pros & cons

Pros

  • 20-inch swing handles the largest production bowl sizes
  • 2 HP motor with electronic variable speed control across two ranges spins large blanks without bogging down
  • Powermatic is the professional standard for production turning studios
  • Cast iron construction eliminates vibration at any speed
Where it ranks

Featured in 1 best-of list

ListRank
Best Wood Lathe 2026· Best Professional#2 / 8
Cross-shop

Alternatives to the Powermatic 3520C 20-Inch x 35-Inch Variable Speed Woodworking Lathe

Products ranked near it in our research, each better for a slightly different buyer.

Buying advice: woodworking

  1. Clamps, a combination square, a good saw and a drill cover most beginner projects.
  2. You can never have too many. Bar clamps handle wide glue-ups; quick-grip clamps are fast for smaller work.
  3. Standard wood glue suits indoor projects. Water-resistant glue suits outdoor work and cutting boards.
  4. Oils are easy to apply and repair. Polyurethane and varnish protect tabletops and floors better.
  5. Eye and hearing protection and dust collection matter from the first project. Lay oily rags flat to dry to prevent fires.

Read the full guides

Answers

Powermatic 3520C 20-Inch x 35-Inch Variable Speed Woodworking Lathe: common questions

Is the Powermatic 3520C 20-Inch x 35-Inch Variable Speed Woodworking Lathe worth buying?

Yes, for the right buyer. The Powermatic 3520C 20-Inch x 35-Inch Variable Speed Woodworking Lathe ranks #2 in our Best Wood Lathe 2026 list (best professional). Its biggest strength: 20-inch swing handles the largest production bowl sizes.

What are the key features of the Powermatic 3520C 20-Inch x 35-Inch Variable Speed Woodworking Lathe?

20-inch swing, 2 HP motor, Sliding headstock, electronic variable speed and American made.

What are the best alternatives to the Powermatic 3520C 20-Inch x 35-Inch Variable Speed Woodworking Lathe?

Worth comparing: WEN LA3421 8-Inch by 13-Inch Variable Speed Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe, JET 12-Inch x 21-Inch Variable-Speed Woodworking Lathe, 1 HP, 115V 1Ph (JWL-1221VS) and NOVA 46300 Comet II Variable Speed Mini Lathe 12-Inch x 16 1/2-Inch. Each ranks near it in our research for a slightly different buyer.

Where can I buy the Powermatic 3520C 20-Inch x 35-Inch Variable Speed Woodworking Lathe?

It's sold on Amazon. Prices and stock change often, so check the current listing before you buy, our link takes you straight to it.

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