Collection: Powermatic Lathes

Which Powermatic lathe should I buy?

The right Powermatic lathe depends on three things: swing capacity (largest diameter you'll turn), between-centers length (longest spindle work), and whether you need variable speed for bowl work. The PM2014 handles pens, small bowls, and spindles up to 14". The 3520C is the workhorse for most professional shops — 20" swing, 35" bed, variable speed from 15-3200 RPM. The 4224B is for turners doing hollow forms, large bowls, or production-scale work.

Powermatic PM2014 Lathe

The PM2014 is Powermatic's benchtop lathe — 14" swing, 20" between centers, 1 HP, variable-speed 15-3200 RPM. It runs on standard 115V household power, making it the smallest Powermatic lathe that still uses the full Powermatic build quality (cast-iron bed, digital readout, electronic braking). Pairs with the PM2014 Stand and PM2014 Lathe Light. Great choice for pen turners, bowl turners under 14", and any shop tight on floor space.

Powermatic PM2020 Short-Bed Lathe

The PM2020 gives you the same 20" swing, 2 HP variable-speed motor, and controls as the 3520C — but in a shorter (20") bed footprint. If you don't turn spindles longer than 20" and want to save both floor space and $60+, the PM2020 is the pick. Optional bed extensions available if your projects grow.

Powermatic 3520C Lathe

The 3520C is the fourth-generation refresh of Powermatic's flagship — 20" swing, 35" between centers, 2 HP variable-speed. New for the C: brighter digital readout, improved motor, and better spindle indexing. This is the lathe you'll find in serious woodworking schools and pro shops. Pairs with the Tailstock Swing-Away to save your back.

Powermatic 4224B Lathe

The 4224B is the heavy-hitter — 24" swing, 42" between centers, 3 HP (1PH or 3PH), weighs over 900 lb. Made for turning that pushes the limits of the 3520: hollow forms, deep bowls, salad-plate stacks, production runs. Compatible with the 4224B-specific Tailstock Swing-Away.

Powermatic lathe accessories worth adding

• Tailstock swing-away — pivot the tailstock off-line without lifting it. Once you've used one, you don't go back.
• Lathe light — mounts to the headstock, angles into the work. Cheap fix for the "where's my tool sitting on the bed" moment.
• Bed extension — turns a 20" bed into 40"+ when a long spindle project comes up.
• Outboard turning stand — for large diameter bowls that exceed the natural swing.

Are Powermatic lathes worth the price?

For pro turners, schools, and serious hobbyists — yes. Powermatic's cast-iron builds, spindle indexing, variable-speed motors, and 5-year warranties hold their value on the used market and outlast lighter-duty machines. The 3520C in particular has been the shop standard for 20+ years across the woodturning world.

Is the PM2020 the same as the 3520C, just shorter?

Almost. Same 20" swing, same 2 HP motor, same variable-speed controls and digital readout. The PM2020 has a 20" bed instead of 35", and no bed-extension option out of the box (though extensions are aftermarket-available). If you never turn spindles longer than 20", the PM2020 saves floor space and a bit of money.

Do Powermatic lathes ship fully assembled?

The head and bed ship pre-assembled; you attach the legs (or stand), tailstock, and any accessories. Every machine is crated for freight — most go LTL freight to a business address with a lift-gate. Residential delivery is available for an added fee at checkout.

What's the warranty on Powermatic lathes?

Powermatic lathes come with a 5-year limited warranty on the machine (parts and labor), through JPW Industries. We handle warranty claims on your behalf — no going to voicemail with the manufacturer.

Do you offer financing on Powermatic lathes?

Yes — through Credit Key and Klarna at checkout on any Powermatic lathe. Business financing available for accounts. Call for large-order quotes or to combine lathe + accessories in one purchase order.

Can I use a Powermatic lathe for metal turning?

No — Powermatic lathes are wood-turning machines. For metal-turning work look at the Jet BDB-919 or a Baileigh gear-head lathe.