8 Best Benchtop Metal Lathe 2025 in the United States

The Grizzly Industrial G4003G is a 12" x 36" gunsmithing metal lathe designed for both hobbyists and professionals looking for a reliable lathe for metalwork. One of its standout features is the 9-speed spindle range, allowing users to operate at speeds from 70 to 1400 RPM, which offers versatility for various machining tasks, from fine cuts to heavier material shaping. The lathe's solid construction, with a bed width of 7-1/4" and a robust weight of approximately 1374 lbs, contributes to its stability during operation, minimizing vibrations for more precise work. Additionally, the 40mm spindle bore and MT#5 spindle nose taper enhance its capability for larger workpieces and tooling options, making it suitable for gunsmithing and other detailed machining jobs.

The lathe is quite heavy and takes up a significant amount of space, which might not be ideal for users with limited workshop areas. The motor power is rated at 2 horsepower, which is sufficient for most tasks but may fall short for very heavy-duty applications.

The Grizzly G4003G is well-suited for users who need a powerful and precise lathe for metalworking, especially gunsmithing. Its combination of features offers a great balance of performance and versatility, but potential buyers should consider their space and specific needs before making a decision.

The JET 13" x 40" Geared Head Bench Lathe with Stand, Model GHB-1340A, is a substantial machine designed for users requiring precision and versatility in metalworking. With a swing over bed of 13 inches and a distance between centers of 40 inches, it offers ample space for various projects. The lathe's motor power of 2 HP and a spindle speed range supported by a geared head make it suitable for both low and high-speed operations. The V-Way bed design, which is induction hardened and ground, enhances durability and precision.

The independent lead screw and feed rod, along with the apron-mounted spindle actuation control, provide ease of use and operational efficiency. Additionally, the backlash elimination in the compound and cross slide is beneficial for accuracy in machining tasks. The lathe includes a comprehensive set of components such as a three-jaw chuck, four-jaw chuck, face plate, and tool box, making it a complete package for advanced users.

However, the product's weight and size, along with its 230V power requirement, might limit portability and usage in smaller workshops. Furthermore, it is a relatively older model, released in 2006, which may lack some modern features found in newer lathes. This lathe is well-suited for professionals and serious hobbyists looking for a robust, reliable benchtop metal lathe.

The CREWORKS Mini Metal Lathe is a compact yet powerful tool suitable for small to medium-sized metalworking projects. It features an 8.7-inch swing over bed and a 23.6-inch distance between centers, which should be adequate for most hobbyist and light professional tasks. The 1100W brushless motor provides ample power and supports a variable spindle speed range from 0 to 3000 rpm, allowing for precise control over various operations such as turning, drilling, threading, and cutting. The inclusion of a digital display for monitoring speed in real-time is a notable advantage, enhancing user control and accuracy.

The lathe's 5-inch 3-jaw chuck is designed to handle both square and round objects effectively, which is beneficial for jobs requiring high precision like threading. Constructed from robust cast iron, the lathe offers durability and resistance to corrosion. Safety is also a priority, with a transparent chuck guard to protect the user while maintaining visibility. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The lathe weighs 159 pounds, which could make it challenging to move or set up without assistance. Additionally, while it is versatile, the lathe's capabilities may be limited for more extensive, industrial-level projects.

The wide array of included components, such as brazed carbide tools, wrenches, and change gears, adds value to the purchase, providing users with all necessary tools to start their projects right away. This mini metal lathe is particularly well-suited for hobbyists, small workshops, and professionals requiring high precision in their work.