10 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 Shop Fox M1099 is a solid benchtop metal lathe designed for hobbyists or light industrial use who need a reliable machine with good power. It features a 1 horsepower motor running on standard 110V power, which is strong enough for most small to medium metalworking projects. The lathe offers a broad range of six spindle speeds from 150 up to 2400 RPM, giving flexibility for different materials and cutting tasks. Its 10-inch swing over bed and 26-inch distance between centers allow turning relatively large workpieces for a benchtop model.

The included 5-inch 3-jaw chuck and 6.5-inch 4-jaw chuck provide good versatility for gripping various shapes, and the addition of MT2 and MT3 dead centers is helpful for precision work. The heavy-duty metal construction ensures stability and durability, but at 475 pounds, this machine is quite heavy and not very portable.

This lathe is not aimed at heavy industrial production but suits users wanting a capable, sturdy lathe for metal projects in a home or small shop setting. Its size and power make it more versatile than smaller hobby lathes, although the weight and footprint require a dedicated workspace.