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RIKON 70-100 12-by-16-Inch Mini Lathe

RIKON

RIKON 70-100 12-by-16-Inch Mini Lathe

  • 12-inch swing
  • 16-inch between centers
  • 5-speed pulley
  • Tool rest and drive centers included
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Is the RIKON 70-100 12-by-16-Inch Mini Lathe worth it?

Yes, for the right buyer. The RIKON 70-100 12-by-16-Inch Mini Lathe ranks #5 in our Best Beginner Wood Lathe 2026 list (best mini). Its biggest strength: 12-inch swing covers most small bowl and spindle turning for beginners. The main caveat: 5-speed pulley requires stopping and manually moving the belt to change speed.

Specs that matter

Key features

  • 12-inch swing
  • 16-inch between centers
  • 5-speed pulley
  • Tool rest and drive centers included
The trade-offs

Pros & cons

Pros

  • 12-inch swing covers most small bowl and spindle turning for beginners
  • 16-inch between centers for pens, lidded boxes, and short spindle work
  • RIKON builds this lathe with better runout tolerance than most similarly priced minis
  • Complete tool rest and centers included -- ready to turn after assembly

Cons

  • 5-speed pulley requires stopping and manually moving the belt to change speed
  • Smaller motor than variable-speed midi lathes
Fit check

Should you buy the RIKON 70-100 12-by-16-Inch Mini Lathe?

Think twice if this matters to you

  • 5-speed pulley requires stopping and manually moving the belt to change speed
  • Smaller motor than variable-speed midi lathes
Where it ranks

Featured in 1 best-of list

ListRank
Best Beginner Wood Lathe 2026· Best Mini#5 / 8
Cross-shop

Alternatives to the RIKON 70-100 12-by-16-Inch Mini 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

RIKON 70-100 12-by-16-Inch Mini Lathe: common questions

Is the RIKON 70-100 12-by-16-Inch Mini Lathe worth buying?

Yes, for the right buyer. The RIKON 70-100 12-by-16-Inch Mini Lathe ranks #5 in our Best Beginner Wood Lathe 2026 list (best mini). Its biggest strength: 12-inch swing covers most small bowl and spindle turning for beginners. The main caveat: 5-speed pulley requires stopping and manually moving the belt to change speed.

What are the downsides of the RIKON 70-100 12-by-16-Inch Mini Lathe?

The main trade-offs owners and reviewers point to: 5-speed pulley requires stopping and manually moving the belt to change speed; smaller motor than variable-speed midi lathes.

What are the key features of the RIKON 70-100 12-by-16-Inch Mini Lathe?

12-inch swing, 16-inch between centers, 5-speed pulley and Tool rest and drive centers included.

What are the best alternatives to the RIKON 70-100 12-by-16-Inch Mini Lathe?

Worth comparing: WEN 3421 3.2-Amp 8-Inch by 12-Inch Variable Speed Mini Benchtop Wood Lathe, JET 12-Inch x 21-Inch Variable-Speed Woodworking Lathe, 1 HP, 115V 1Ph (JWL-1221VS) and Powermatic 20-Inch x 35-Inch Variable Speed Woodworking Lathe, 2 HP, 220V 1Ph (3520C). Each ranks near it in our research for a slightly different buyer.

Where can I buy the RIKON 70-100 12-by-16-Inch Mini 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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