10 Best Benchtop Metal Lathe 2025 in the United States

The Grizzly Industrial G0769-8" x 16" Variable-Speed Combination Lathe/Mill is designed for versatility and compact use, making it a good fit for hobbyists or small workshops. The lathe feature offers a swing over bed of 8-1/4 inches and a swing over the cross slide of 4-5/8 inches, which is suitable for handling small to medium-sized projects. The mill component adds even more utility, with a swing of 13 inches, allowing for a range of milling operations. The motor, rated at 600W (3/4 HP), provides adequate power for most light to moderate tasks, and the variable spindle speed range (Low 50–1000 RPM, High 100–2000 RPM) gives users flexibility to tackle different materials and finishes. The dual-range spindle speeds make it adaptable for both detailed and rough work.

The size of 36" W x 20" D x 34" H ensures it fits well in smaller spaces while still offering a sturdy platform for operations. The combination lathe/mill design is a space-saver but may require frequent adjustments when switching between tasks. This can be a minor inconvenience for users needing to switch operations frequently. The tool post's flexibility is crucial for users who need to make frequent adjustments for different operations.

The WEN 7-by 16-Inch Benchtop Metal Lathe (ML716) is a versatile tool suitable for hobbyists and small workshop projects. It offers a decent swing over bed at 7 inches and a distance between centers of 16 inches, making it capable of handling a variety of small to medium-sized tasks. The variable speed range of 100 to 2500 RPM provides flexibility for both fine detailed work and more robust tasks, and the ability to operate in two directions adds to its versatility.

The lathe is equipped with a 4-amp motor which is adequate for lighter materials like aluminum and brass, but may struggle with more demanding materials like steel, if not used with care. Its threading capabilities are commendable, thanks to the threading dial indicator that allows for creating 18 different screw thread sizes, which is a useful feature for those involved in precision work.

The construction is solid with a 3-jaw chuck and a 5/16-inch capacity tool post, although some users may find the tool post size limiting for certain applications. The MT3 spindle taper and MT2 tailstock taper are standard fittings that offer good compatibility with various accessories. The lathe is manually operated, but the adjustable auto feed is a practical feature for repetitive work.

At 127.7 pounds, the lathe is relatively heavy for a benchtop model, which can be both a pro and a con; it provides stability but might be a challenge to move around if needed. Additionally, with a two-year warranty, it offers peace of mind to users. For those ranking functionality over portability and who work with softer metals, the WEN ML716 is an affordable and functional choice.

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.