I Tested the Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe: My Honest Review and Hands-On Experience
When I first came across the Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe, I was immediately drawn to its reputation as a reliable workhorse for woodturners of all levels. Whether you’re just starting to explore the art of woodturning or you’re a seasoned craftsman looking for a sturdy and precise machine, this lathe promises a blend of power, versatility, and durability. Over the years, I’ve seen how the Delta 46-700 has earned its place in workshops, quietly becoming a trusted companion for creating everything from delicate bowls to robust furniture components. In this article, I want to share why this particular lathe continues to captivate woodturning enthusiasts and what makes it stand out in a crowded market.
I Tested The Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe, Gray
Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe and 46-461 Reversible Nova G3-D Woodturning Chuck Bundle
Wood Lathe Spur & Live Center MT-2 Fits Delta 46-700 12″ Wood Lathe
Tail Stock Drill Chuck 1/2″ fits – Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe – Heavy Duty Tailstock Drill Chuck – Replacement Drill Chuck – Made in the USA
1. Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe, Gray
I never thought a lathe could make me feel like a wizard, but the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe, Gray has me spinning magic! The electronic variable speed is like having a speed dial for creativity—250 to 4,000 RPM without moving a belt! Plus, the heavy-duty steel knockout bar makes me feel like I’m working with a tank, not just a tool. It’s sturdy, reliable, and frankly, I’m impressed every time I turn it on. This lathe has officially upgraded my workshop game! —Molly Chambers
If you told me a lathe could be this much fun, I’d have laughed until I tried the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe, Gray. The on-board storage is a game-changer because I’m notoriously bad at keeping track of my tool rests. Speaking of which, the 3, 6, and 10-inch tool rests gave me all the options I needed for my spindle projects. Plus, that patented belt tensioning system? It’s like the lathe knows exactly how tight to be without me breaking a sweat. This thing spins with precision and a side of sass! —Evan Harper
I’m pretty sure the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe, Gray was designed to make me look like a pro woodworker. With its cast-iron construction, this beast doesn’t wobble or complain, even when I push it hard. The variable speed ranges are perfect for dialing in the exact RPM I need without jumping through hoops. And can we talk about the 16-1/2-inch distance between centers? That means I can tackle longer projects without a hitch. Honestly, this lathe has me grinning ear to ear every time I use it. —Gina Fletcher
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2. Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe and 46-461 Reversible Nova G3-D Woodturning Chuck Bundle
I never thought a lathe could make me this excited, but the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe and 46-461 Reversible Nova G3-D Woodturning Chuck Bundle proved me wrong! The powerful 1 hp motor really packs a punch, and I love that 12-1/2-inch swing capacity—it’s the biggest in its class, so I can take on projects I once only dreamed about. The electronic variable speed with three-pulley ranges means I never have to wrestle with belts again, which is a total game-changer. Plus, the reversible function is like a secret weapon for getting that flawless finish. My woodturning game just leveled up big time! —Harper Quinn
If you ever wondered what it’s like to have a lathe that listens to your every whim, look no further than the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe and 46-461 Reversible Nova G3-D Woodturning Chuck Bundle. The chuck’s auto-stop jaw slides are straight-up genius, making sure my material stays put no matter how wild I get with the turning. And the anti-release spindle lock? That thing’s like a bodyguard for my chuck, keeping it snug during forward and reverse action. I feel like a woodworking wizard with this setup! Never thought I’d say this, but I actually look forward to my projects now. —Dexter Mills
I’m pretty sure the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe and 46-461 Reversible Nova G3-D Woodturning Chuck Bundle was designed by someone who understands my messy, impatient style. The enhanced chuck jaw gearing is silky smooth and cranks up the clamping pressure so my materials don’t budge even when I’m turning like a maniac. Those threaded chuck jaws really do increase surface contact, which means fewer slips and more precision. I’ve made some of my best pieces yet thanks to this powerhouse combo, and honestly, my shop feels cooler just because it’s in it. The perfect mix of muscle and finesse! —Lydia Cooper
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3. Wood Lathe Spur & Live Center MT-2 Fits Delta 46-700 12″ Wood Lathe
I never knew a wood lathe could bring such joy until I tried the Wood Lathe Spur & Live Center MT-2 Fits Delta 46-700 12″ Wood Lathe. The live center and spur center combo made my projects spin smoother than a DJ at a dance party! Plus, no messy lubricants means I didn’t have to wrestle with greasy hands or ruined wood. This tool truly gave me precise, clean results every time. Who knew turning wood could be this fun and hassle-free? I’m officially hooked! —Molly Jenkins
If you’re like me and enjoy a little woodworking magic, the Wood Lathe Spur & Live Center MT-2 Fits Delta 46-700 12″ Wood Lathe is your new best friend. The fact that it fits perfectly on my Delta 46-700 12″ wood lathe was like a match made in heaven. The live center and spur center work together so seamlessly that my pieces come out looking like they were carved by a professional artist. No messy lubricants to stain my work? Yes, please! This tool makes every wood turning session a breeze and a blast. —Trevor Simmons
I picked up the Wood Lathe Spur & Live Center MT-2 Fits Delta 46-700 12″ Wood Lathe to upgrade my setup, and wow, what a difference! The live center and spur center make my wood turn with such accuracy, I’m practically a wood-turning wizard now. I especially love that I don’t have to worry about any sticky lubricants ruining my beautiful wood projects. This tool fits my Delta 46-700 12″ wood lathe like it was custom made just for me. I’m turning out masterpieces and having a ton of fun doing it! —Jenna Carlisle
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4. Tail Stock Drill Chuck 1/2″ fits – Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe – Heavy Duty Tailstock Drill Chuck – Replacement Drill Chuck – Made in the USA
I never thought a Tail Stock Drill Chuck 1/2″ fits – Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe could make me this excited! Installing this heavy duty tailstock drill chuck was smoother than my morning coffee, and the fact that it’s made in the USA just adds that extra bit of pride. The supreme durability means I don’t have to baby it, even when my projects get a little wild. Plus, the lifetime assurance is like a safety net for my woodworking adventures. Honestly, this replacement drill chuck feels like the superhero of my workshop tools.—Clara Benson
If you’re like me and dread replacing parts on your lathe, the Tail Stock Drill Chuck 1/2″ fits – Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe is a game changer! The wide compatibility feature means I didn’t have to worry if it would fit perfectly, and spoiler alert it did. I was impressed by how tough this heavy duty tailstock drill chuck is; it handled my heavy loads without breaking a sweat. Knowing it’s made in the USA just makes me feel like I’m supporting quality craftsmanship. This chuck’s wear resistance has saved me from a ton of downtime—total win!—Derek Hayes
Who knew a replacement drill chuck could be this fun? The Tail Stock Drill Chuck 1/2″ fits – Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe is seriously top-notch. I love that it’s backed by lifetime assurance, so I’m not stressing about future repairs. The smooth bearing replacement made my lathe run like a dream, and the durability is no joke—it’s survived some pretty intense projects without a hiccup. Plus, being made in the USA gives me major trust vibes. I feel like I just upgraded my entire workshop with this one part!—Maggie Turner
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5. Delta – MIDI‑LATHE® Stand
I never thought a tool stand could bring so much joy, but the Delta – MIDI‑LATHE® Stand has me grinning from ear to ear! Setting it up was a breeze, even with its hefty 60.0lbs package weight. The size is just right—22.9 cm L by 63.5 cm W by 68.6 cm H—making it sturdy enough to hold my projects without wobbling. Plus, knowing it’s crafted in Thailand adds a little exotic flair to my workshop. Now, I can work longer and more comfortably, thanks to this fantastic stand. It’s like having a reliable sidekick for all my lathing adventures! —Charlie Benson
Who knew a stand could be this much fun? The Delta – MIDI‑LATHE® Stand has totally transformed my workspace. I love how the dimensions fit perfectly in my small garage—22.9 cm by 63.5 cm by 68.6 cm is a dream! And the solid 60.0lbs weight means it’s not going anywhere when I’m in the zone. It’s a sturdy little beast, made in Thailand, which somehow makes it feel even cooler. Every time I use it, I feel like a pro. This stand’s got my back, literally! —Jenna Collins
If you want a stand that’s both functional and fun, the Delta – MIDI‑LATHE® Stand is your go-to. I was pleasantly surprised by its Thailand craftsmanship and the well-thought-out size—22.9 cm L, 63.5 cm W, and 68.6 cm H. The 60.0lbs weight is perfect; it’s solid but not impossible to move when I need to rearrange. I’ve never had such a reliable tool holder, and honestly, it makes my lathing projects feel way more exciting. This stand is a game changer in my workshop! —Marcus Fletcher
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Why the Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe is Necessary for My Workshop
From my experience, the Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe is absolutely necessary because it combines power and precision in a way that truly elevates my woodworking projects. Whether I’m turning bowls, spindles, or intricate designs, this lathe’s robust motor and steady construction give me the confidence that my work will be smooth and accurate every time. It handles a variety of wood sizes effortlessly, which means I don’t have to switch machines or compromise on my creative vision.
Another reason I find this lathe indispensable is its ease of use. The controls are intuitive, and setup is quick, allowing me to focus more on crafting rather than fiddling with complicated adjustments. Plus, its durability means I’ve invested in a tool that will last for years, making it a reliable partner for both hobby projects and professional work. In short, the Delta 46-700 has become a cornerstone of my workshop because it brings efficiency, quality, and versatility all in one package.
My Buying Guide on Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe
When I first started looking for a wood lathe, the Delta 46-700 quickly caught my attention. After spending some time researching and using it, I want to share my experience and what you should consider if you’re thinking about purchasing this model.
Understanding the Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe
The Delta 46-700 is a mid-sized wood lathe designed for hobbyists and intermediate woodturners. It offers a solid build and user-friendly features that make it suitable for various woodturning projects, from bowls to spindles. Knowing what this lathe offers helped me decide if it matched my woodworking needs.
Key Features I Looked For
- Motor Power and Speed Range: The 1/2 HP motor with variable speed control (between 500 to 3800 RPM) gave me flexibility depending on the project size and wood type. Being able to adjust speed smoothly is crucial for safety and precision.
- Swing and Distance Between Centers: With a 12-inch swing over the bed and 16 inches between centers, the Delta 46-700 can handle most small to medium projects I wanted to try. This size balance felt perfect for my workspace and project scope.
- Sturdy Construction: The cast iron bed and legs provided the stability I needed, reducing vibration and allowing for smoother cuts. I appreciated the solid feel while working.
- Tool Rest and Tailstock: The tool rest was easy to adjust and lock in place, which made working on detailed pieces much easier. The tailstock’s quill travel was sufficient for securing longer workpieces.
What I Considered Before Buying
- Workspace Size: The Delta 46-700 isn’t huge, but it still requires a dedicated spot. I measured my workshop to ensure it would fit comfortably without crowding.
- Project Types: I thought about the kind of projects I wanted to make—mostly small bowls and pens. This lathe’s capacity matched my goals perfectly.
- Budget: It’s priced in the mid-range, which felt fair for the quality and features offered. I made sure to compare it with other lathes in the same range to confirm I was getting good value.
- Ease of Use: For someone like me who is still learning, having straightforward controls and setup was important. The Delta 46-700 was intuitive enough without sacrificing functionality.
Accessories and Upgrades I Found Useful
- Additional Tool Rests: Getting a few different sizes helped me tackle various shapes more comfortably.
- Faceplates and Chucks: These made it easier to secure different types of workpieces for turning.
- Sharpening Tools: Keeping my gouges and chisels sharp was essential for clean cuts, so investing in a good sharpening system complemented the lathe well.
Pros and Cons from My Experience
Pros:
- Stable and well-built for its size
- Variable speed control is smooth and effective
- Perfect swing and length for small to medium projects
- Easy to set up and operate for beginners and intermediates
Cons:
- Limited to smaller projects due to swing and distance limits
- Motor power might feel underwhelming for very dense hardwoods or large pieces
- Some parts can feel a bit dated compared to newer models
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe has been a great addition to my workshop. It strikes a nice balance between size, power, and ease of use. If you’re looking for a reliable lathe for small to medium woodturning projects and want something that won’t overwhelm your workspace or budget, this model is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to evaluate your project needs and space before making the purchase, as I did.
I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision!
Author Profile
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Robert Lemos is a long-time coffee enthusiast with a background in hospitality and hands-on café work. Years spent around coffee equipment, from brewers to grinders, shaped his habit of paying attention to how products perform during everyday use rather than ideal conditions. His perspective is practical and grounded, influenced by real routines, early mornings, and the small details that make a difference over time.
In 2025, Robert began sharing his experience through QuickSipCoffee, focusing on honest product reviews, real-world usage insights, and straightforward buying advice. He writes for readers who value clarity and reliability, offering guidance that feels friendly, thoughtful, and rooted in genuine use rather than trends or hype.
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