Introducing the Woodturning Lathes from Robust Tools, USA, new and exclusive to Axminster Tools in the UK.

Robust Tools are often regarded by turners the world over as makers of some of the finest woodturning lathes on the market. Available to buy from Axminster Tools is Robust's flagship model, the American Beauty.

Not only is this the lathe that many turner’s aspire to own, but with the ability to custom build your lathe with a range of exciting features, the American Beauty offers woodturner’s the ultimate turning experience.


Introducing the American Beauty

Setting the standard by which all other lathes are judged, the American Beauty is often regarded as one the world’s best.

All Robust woodturning lathes and accessories are cast, fabricated, machined and assembled in Barneveld, Wisconsin, USA. Invest in Robust, and invest in a lifetime of turning pleasure.

What makes it so good?

Sleek, solid and built to last, the American Beauty is made from stainless steel and features a sliding headstock, stainless steel ways and industrial grade motor and controls.

The exceptionally quiet motor is housed below the lathe in the leg assembly, protected and out of the way of dust.

Fully adjustable to fit you, each leg is made from square steel tubing and adjusts independently.

The headstock is relieved at the front, allowing greater access to the back of your workpiece. Both the headstock and tailstock are formed from cast iron in a US foundry and then precision CNC machined to exacting tolerances.

Other features as standard include:

  • 2HP motor as standard, or upgrade to 3HP
  • 630mm over the bed and 710mm between centres
  • A speed range between 50 and 3,000rpm
  • Variable speed, forward/reverse
  • Corded, movable, magnetic control box - can be placed within easy reach
  • Adjustable spindle height

Custom build your lathe

As well as the wide range of features available as standard, there are a whole host of additional features that can be added to custom build your lathe to meet your turning needs.

Upgrade Your Motor

Upgrade from 2HP to 3HP and take on bigger projects.

Tilt-Away

Robust's patented Tilt-Away moves the tailstock out of the way for easy turning. It also provides a safe storage space for the tailstock.

Gas-Shock Assist

Operate the Tilt-Away and move the heavy tailstock effortlessly with the lever arm.

Outboard Turning Attachment

Turn up to 1,500mm (60”) in diameter with the Outboard Turning Attachment. Simply bolt on the leg stand and position the articulated arm. The tool rest is supported with a solid steel bar that sits on the ground, providing rock solid support. The perfect attachment for turning large hollow forms and projects. The Outboard Turning Attachment is compatible with the Tilt-Away.

16" Bed Extension

Increase your turning capacity by an extra 406mm. The bed extension gives you a potential distance of 1,116mm between centres.

Steady Rest

Provide vital support for larger or thinner turning projects, prevent vibration and ensure accuracy with the Steady Rest.

Remote Foot 'Off' Switch

A useful safety feature when your hands are full. Simply turn off the lathe using your foot. Note this is an 'off' switch only.

Tool Caddy

Keep your tools close to hand with the optional bolt on Tool Caddy. Bolt on to the headstock end of the lathe and safely store your tool rests and centres in one, easy to reach, place.

Castor and Jack Kit

Move your lathe easily around the workshop with the Castor and Jack Kit. Features 125mm swivel castors which are great for moving and parking your lathe. Easy to snap on and off the lathe, simply use the jack kit provided, attach and you're off.

Fully customise your American Beauty today

Create a unique lathe to last you a lifetime. Simply get in touch with your needs for a full, personalised quote.


The full Robust Range

Other Robust woodturning lathes available from Axminster Tools are the Sweet 16 and the Scout. Each has their own unique features and similar upgrade options as the American Beauty and can be ordered from Axminster Tools.

Sweet 16

Features a unique removable bed section that makes this the lathe of choice for bowl turners.

  • 1.5HP (110 or 220 volt) as standard or upgrade to 2HP
  • Removable bed section increases bowl capacity up to 812mm
  • Digital RPM readout and 24-position indexing
  • 610mm between centres with optional extension increasing capacity to 965mm
  • Single pulley design for great torque and range

Add the Tilt-Away, the 16" Bed Extension, Steady Rest, Remote Foot 'Off' Switch, Tool and Tailstock Rack and Castor Kit as optional extras.

Robust Sweet 16

The Scout

An excellent mid-sized benchtop lathe for turners who want a compact lathe with a powerful performance.

  • 1HP motor as standard (110 or 220 volt) or upgrade to 1.5HP
  • 355mm over the bed and 660mm between centres
  • Optional Robust Universal Stand available
  • Digital RPM readout and 24-position indexing
  • Stop bar function enables a quick stop when hands are full

Add the 16" Bed Extension, Steady Rest, Remote Foot 'Off' Switch and the Scout's Universal Stand, to adjust the height and even tilt your lathe and use for seated woodturning. A Castor Kit is available for this stand.

Robust Scout

Did you know?

All three lathes in the Robust range come with Robust's seven year 'head to tail' warranty as standard, which includes headstock bearings.

Find out more and order today

To find out more, or to order your lathe, contact our helpful and knowledgeable specialist sales team who will happily answer any questions you have and advise on what features will best suit your needs.

Enquire now