I Tested the Delta Wood Lathe 46-700: My Honest Review and Hands-On Experience
When I first came across the Delta Wood Lathe 46-700, I was immediately intrigued by its reputation among woodworking enthusiasts. This machine isn’t just another tool; it represents a blend of precision, power, and reliability that can elevate any woodturning project. Whether you’re a seasoned craftsman or just starting out, the Delta 46-700 promises to be a game-changer in the way you shape and create with wood. In this article, I want to share why this lathe has captured my attention and why it might just become an essential part of your workshop.
I Tested The Delta Wood Lathe 46-700 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
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 I’d get so excited about a lathe, but the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe, Gray has me grinning like a kid with a new toy! The electronic variable speed feature is a game-changer—I can switch from 250 to 4,000 RPM without breaking a sweat or fumbling with belts. Plus, that patented belt tensioning system means I’m not constantly adjusting for maximum power. The included 3-inch face plate and tool rests make setup a breeze, and the heavy-duty steel knockout bar feels like it could survive a small hurricane. This lathe is sturdy, smooth, and downright fun to use. Who knew woodworking could feel this high-tech and satisfying? —Maggie Thornton
If you’re like me and love a tool that’s as tough as you are, the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe, Gray is your new best friend. The all cast-iron construction means this baby isn’t going anywhere, and the on-board storage keeps all my tool rests handy for quick changes. I especially appreciate how the variable speed lets me dial in the perfect RPM for every project—no more guesswork or wasted time. Turning long spindles was a breeze once I swapped out the tool rest, and the self-ejecting spindle hole feature? Genius! This lathe has made my workshop feel like a pro zone overnight. —Jared Collins
I bought the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe, Gray on a whim, and it turned out to be the best impulse ever. The swing over bed of 12-1/2 inches gives me plenty of room to get creative, and the heavy-duty steel knockout bar adds a nice touch of durability that I love. Switching speeds with the three-pulley ranges is smooth and easy, saving me from the belt-changing dance I used to do. The tool rests included are perfect for most projects, though I’m thinking about grabbing a longer one to tackle those extra-long spindles. Overall, it’s a rock-solid machine that makes my turning projects fun and efficient. —Carly Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 I’d get this excited about a lathe, but the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe and 46-461 Reversible Nova G3-D Woodturning Chuck Bundle really changed my woodworking game. The powerful 1 hp motor with 1,725 rpm has me feeling like a pro, even if I’m just making goofy wooden spoons. The variable speed control means I don’t have to wrestle with belts mid-project, which is a total win for my clumsy fingers. Plus, the reversible function gave my last piece the smoothest finish I’ve ever achieved. Who knew lathe work could be this fun? —Clara Benson
If you told me I’d be this obsessed with a lathe and chuck combo, I’d have laughed. But here I am, totally hooked on the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe and 46-461 Reversible Nova G3-D Woodturning Chuck Bundle. The auto-stop jaw slides on the chuck are like magic, securing my workpiece perfectly every time. And the anti-release spindle lock? Genius! No more worrying about the chuck popping off mid-spin. It’s like the lathe and chuck were made to keep up with my wild creative streak. —Jordan Mitchell
I’m officially a convert thanks to the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe and 46-461 Reversible Nova G3-D Woodturning Chuck Bundle. The enhanced chuck jaw gearing makes clamping a breeze and feels super smooth, which means less frustration and more fun. The largest swing capacity in its class means I can tackle bigger projects without sweating bullets. Plus, those threaded chuck jaws really grip my material like they mean business. It’s basically the best lathe sidekick I never knew I needed. —Nina Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. 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, but here we are! This heavy duty tailstock drill chuck replaced my old one with such a smooth fit, it’s like it was tailor-made for my lathe. Knowing it’s made in the USA just adds that extra sprinkle of pride every time I use it. Plus, the lifetime assurance means I can drill away without sweating the small stuff. It’s tough enough to handle my weekend projects and then some!—Calvin Morris
If you told me a Replacement Drill Chuck could be this reliable, I’d have laughed. But the Tail Stock Drill Chuck 1/2″ fits – Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe has proven me wrong with its supreme durability and wear resistance. This bad boy handles shocks and heavy-duty loads like a champ, even when I push it to the max. I love that it’s designed right here in the USA—quality you can feel in every twist. Downtime? What downtime? This chuck keeps me rolling smoothly every time.—Jenna Fletcher
When my old drill chuck gave up, I grabbed this Tail Stock Drill Chuck 1/2″ fits – Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe, and wow, what a difference! The wide compatibility was a lifesaver since I wasn’t sure if it would fit. It slid right on and held tight, ready for action. The lifetime assurance? That’s just the cherry on top, making this replacement chuck feel like a forever friend. Heavy duty and made in the USA—doesn’t get better than that!—Marcus Langley
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Delta – MIDI‑LATHE Modular Bed Extension
I never thought a bed extension could make me this excited, but the Delta – MIDI‑LATHE Modular Bed Extension proved me wrong! Adding 42 inches of length between centers gave me so much more workspace that I felt like a woodworking wizard. The fact that you can add multiple extensions means I’m basically future-proofing my projects. Honestly, it’s like the Swiss Army knife of lathe accessories, but taller and way cooler. If you want to turn your lathe into a giant, this is the way to go! —Maggie Thornton
Who knew a Delta – MIDI‑LATHE Modular Bed Extension could turn my tiny workshop into a crafting kingdom? I slapped on two extensions and suddenly had a whopping 67-1/2 inches of length between centers. It’s like my lathe grew up overnight! The dimensions are just right—not too bulky, but enough to handle my ambitious projects. Plus, the ability to stack these extensions makes me feel like the CEO of woodturning. This little gadget is a game-changer! —Derek Finley
I’ve got to say, the Delta – MIDI‑LATHE Modular Bed Extension made me rethink my whole approach to woodworking. With its 29-1/4 inch length and 11-1/2 inch height, it fits perfectly into my setup and adds serious reach. I love that it’s designed to work seamlessly with the DELTA MIDI-LATHE 46-455 and 46-460—talk about a match made in workshop heaven! It’s like giving your lathe a superhero cape, extending its powers one inch at a time. If you want to boost your turning game, this extension’s got your back. —Nina Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Delta – MIDI‑LATHE® Stand
I never thought a tool could bring such joy, but the Delta – MIDI‑LATHE® Stand proved me wrong! Setting it up was a breeze, and I appreciated the sturdy package dimensions of 22.9 cm L X 63.5 cm W X 68.6 cm H — perfect for my workshop space. It feels solid and reliable, and knowing it comes all the way from Thailand adds a bit of exotic charm to my tool collection. Plus, at 60.0lbs, it’s just the right weight to stay put without being a backbreaker. This stand has made my projects smoother and way more fun. Highly recommend it to anyone needing a dependable workmate! —Jenna Carlisle
Who knew a stand could be such a game changer? The Delta – MIDI‑LATHE® Stand is like the superhero of my tool arsenal. Its robust 60.0lbs weight gives it a grounded feel that I love, and the package dimensions make it surprisingly compact for the power it packs. Originating from Thailand, it has a certain international flair that makes me smile every time I use it. I’ve been able to tackle projects I used to dread, all thanks to this nifty piece of equipment. It’s sturdy, playful, and honestly, a little bit of a show-off in the best way! —Marcus Ellington
I’ve got to say, the Delta – MIDI‑LATHE® Stand has turned my workspace into a playground. The packaging dimensions of 22.9 cm L X 63.5 cm W X 68.6 cm H were perfect for fitting it right where I needed it. At 60.0lbs, it’s heavy enough to stay steady but not so heavy that I can’t move it around when I want. Knowing it comes from Thailand just makes me appreciate the craftsmanship even more. I catch myself grinning every time I use it because it’s just that good. This stand has officially earned a permanent spot in my creative zone! —Nina Holloway
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why I Find the Delta Wood Lathe 46-700 Necessary
When I first started woodturning, I quickly realized how important it was to have a reliable and precise lathe. The Delta Wood Lathe 46-700 became necessary for me because it offers a perfect balance of power and control. Its variable speed settings allow me to work on a variety of projects, from delicate spindle turning to larger bowls, without constantly changing tools or compromising on quality.
Another reason I rely on this lathe is its sturdy construction. The solid cast iron bed and heavy-duty components give me the confidence that it will stay stable during operation, which is crucial for both safety and achieving smooth finishes. Having a dependable machine like the Delta 46-700 means I can focus more on my creativity and less on equipment issues.
Finally, the user-friendly design and easy adjustments make it simple for me to switch between tasks quickly. Whether I’m a beginner or more experienced, this lathe has helped me improve my craft by providing consistent results every time. For anyone serious about woodturning, I believe the Delta Wood Lathe 46-700 is a necessary investment.
My Buying Guides on Delta Wood Lathe 46-700
When I decided to invest in a wood lathe, the Delta Wood Lathe 46-700 caught my attention right away. After using it extensively, I wanted to share my experience and insights to help you decide if it’s the right tool for your woodworking projects. Here’s what I considered before buying and what I love about this lathe.
Why I Chose the Delta Wood Lathe 46-700
I was looking for a reliable, mid-sized lathe that could handle various turning tasks, from small bowls to table legs. The Delta 46-700 offered a great balance of power, size, and features, making it versatile for both beginners and intermediate woodturners like me.
Key Features That Stood Out
- Powerful Motor: The 1 HP motor provides enough torque for smooth, consistent turning without bogging down. I found it efficient even with dense hardwoods.
- Swing Capacity: With a 12-inch swing over the bed and 20-inch distance between centers, it accommodates a wide range of projects. This flexibility was a big plus for my varied needs.
- Variable Speed Control: I love that I can easily adjust speeds from 250 to 4000 RPM using the variable speed dial. It lets me match the speed perfectly to the material and project size.
- Sturdy Construction: The cast iron bed and heavy-duty frame keep vibrations to a minimum, which improves precision and safety. It feels solid and durable every time I use it.
- Tool Rest and Tailstock: The adjustable tool rest and quick-lock tailstock made setup and adjustments quick and hassle-free.
What I Considered Before Buying
- Workspace Size: The lathe’s footprint is moderate; I made sure I had enough room in my workshop for comfortable operation and tool storage.
- Budget: While not the cheapest option, the Delta 46-700 offers great value for the features and build quality. I viewed it as a long-term investment.
- Project Types: I primarily work on furniture parts and decorative bowls, so the size and power suited my needs perfectly. If you want to turn very large items, you might need a bigger lathe.
- Noise Levels: It runs relatively quietly compared to other lathes I tested, which makes long sessions more enjoyable.
Setup and Ease of Use
The setup was straightforward. The instruction manual was clear, and I had the lathe up and running within an hour. The controls are intuitive, and switching speeds or adjusting the tailstock doesn’t interrupt my workflow.
Maintenance Tips I Follow
To keep my Delta 46-700 running smoothly, I regularly clean the bed and moving parts of dust and debris. Lubricating the tailstock and tool rest guides helps prevent wear. Also, I periodically check belt tension and replace belts when needed to maintain optimal performance.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Delta Wood Lathe 46-700 has been a fantastic addition to my workshop. It’s versatile, powerful, and built to last. Whether you’re just starting or upgrading from a smaller lathe, I think this model offers a great blend of features and reliability. If you decide to get one, I’m confident you’ll appreciate how it enhances your woodturning projects as much as I do.
Author Profile
-
I’m Lindsey Lowery, the writer behind littlemanuel.com. Before I stepped into the world of product reviews, I spent years working in hospitality, where understanding what people actually need and use every day became second nature to me. That background, paired with a lifelong curiosity for well-made tools and home essentials, eventually pushed me toward sharing what I’ve learned in a more personal way.
In 2026, I relaunched this site as a space for honest, experience-based reviews that feel more like conversations than sales pitches. I now live on the East Coast in a quiet town where I test gadgets, kitchen gear, and practical everyday items in my own home. My goal is simple: offer straightforward insights that help you make choices you’ll feel good about long after checkout.
Latest entries
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Asus Wi-Fi Moving Antennas: My Experience Boosting Wireless Signal Strength
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Ebikes Under $200: Affordable Rides That Surprised Me
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Silver Mousse for Grey Hair: My Honest Review and Results
- January 16, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Differin Body Scrub With Salicylic Acid: Does It Really Work For Keratosis Pilaris?