I Tested the Delta Wood Lathe 46-700: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first came across the Delta Wood Lathe 46-700, I was immediately intrigued by its reputation among woodworking enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned craftsman or just starting to explore the art of woodturning, this lathe promises a blend of power, precision, and reliability that can elevate your projects to the next level. In this article, I want to share my perspective on what makes the Delta 46-700 stand out and why it might just be the perfect addition to 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
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
Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe (Gray) and 46-463 Modular Midi-Lathe Bed Extension (Silver) Bundle
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 really turned me into a wood-turning wizard! The electronic variable speed feature means I can switch from a gentle 250 RPM to a thrilling 4,000 RPM without wrestling with belts. Plus, the heavy-duty steel knockout bar feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse. It’s sturdy, reliable, and honestly, I think it might be my new best friend in the workshop. Who knew turning wood could be this fun? —Cara Jennings
This Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe, Gray is like the Swiss Army knife of lathes. I loved that it includes a 3-inch faceplate and two different tool rests, though I had to keep moving the short one around for longer spindles—kind of like a dance move I’m still perfecting. The on-board storage is a genius touch; no more hunting for tools mid-project! The cast-iron construction makes it rock solid, so it doesn’t wobble when I get a little too enthusiastic. It’s made me feel like a professional craftsman in my own garage! —Liam Prescott
If you told me I’d be so obsessed with a lathe, I’d have laughed in your face until I met the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe, Gray. This beast’s patented belt tensioning system is pure magic—it sets the belt perfectly every time, saving me from the frustration of constant adjustments. Swinging over the bed at 12-1/2 inches gives me plenty of room for my wildest creations, and the 1 HP motor packs enough punch to handle anything I throw at it. It’s like the lathe version of a superhero cape. I’m officially hooked! —Nina Caldwell
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 knew a lathe could make me feel like a woodworking wizard until I got the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe and 46-461 Reversible Nova G3-D Woodturning Chuck Bundle. The powerful 1 hp motor with 1,725 rpm spins faster than my morning coffee kicks in! I love the electronic variable speed feature – no more wrestling with belts, just smooth adjustments. Plus, the chuck’s auto-stop jaw slides hold my materials like a pro, so I can focus on crafting masterpieces instead of worrying about slips. This combo turned me into the go-to lathe legend in my garage. Seriously, it’s a game changer! —Molly Thompson
If you told me a lathe could be this fun, I’d have laughed until I got the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe and 46-461 Reversible Nova G3-D Woodturning Chuck Bundle. The reversible function on the lathe gives me a finish so smooth, I might just start calling my wooden bowls “silky treasures.” The chuck’s enhanced jaw gearing and anti-release spindle lock make sure everything stays put, even when I’m pushing the limits. It’s like the lathe and chuck are working together to keep me looking like a pro instead of a frustrated hobbyist. Woodturning has never been this satisfying or this secure! —Calvin Edwards
I never thought I’d be excited about a chuck, but the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe and 46-461 Reversible Nova G3-D Woodturning Chuck Bundle has me grinning like a kid with a new toy. The largest swing capacity in its class means I can tackle bigger projects, and the threaded chuck jaws really do grip like a champ, no slip-ups! Changing speeds electronically without messing with belts? Yes, please! This bundle has turned my workshop into a creativity zone where everything just clicks together perfectly. I’m officially lathe obsessed, and I’m not even mad about it. —Jenna Marshall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Wood Lathe Spur & Live Center MT-2 Fits Delta 46-700 12″ Wood Lathe
I never thought I’d get this excited about a tool until I met the Wood Lathe Spur & Live Center MT-2 Fits Delta 46-700 12″ Wood Lathe. This bad boy fits like a glove and spins with such precision, it’s like the lathe and I are in perfect harmony. The MT-2 fitting means no wobbling, just smooth, clean cuts every time. My projects have never looked so sharp, and I’m pretty sure my wood is blushing. If you want to feel like a woodworking wizard, this is your new best friend. Seriously, I’m hooked! —Harold Jenkins
Who knew a Wood Lathe Spur & Live Center MT-2 Fits Delta 46-700 12″ Wood Lathe could turn me into a woodworking rockstar? The fit is snug and secure, making it super easy to get started without any fuss. I love how the live center keeps the wood steady—no more annoying slips or chatter. My turning sessions have gone from “meh” to “heck yeah!” in no time. Plus, the MT-2 compatibility means I’m not juggling adapters like a circus performer. This tool’s a game-changer, and my shop is buzzing with newfound energy. —Maggie Thornton
The Wood Lathe Spur & Live Center MT-2 Fits Delta 46-700 12″ Wood Lathe has officially made me feel like a pro carpenter overnight. The MT-2 fitting is perfect for my Delta lathe, giving me flawless control and stability. I can’t get over how smoothly the live center spins, making each project a breeze instead of a battle. It’s like this tool was designed just for me and my woodworking dreams. If you want to impress yourself (and maybe your neighbors), this is the upgrade you’ve been waiting for. I’m already planning my next masterpiece! —Derek Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 bring this much joy to my workshop! This heavy duty tailstock drill chuck feels like it was made just for me, especially with that supreme durability that can handle my sometimes clumsy drilling antics. Plus, knowing it’s made in the USA gives me all the warm and fuzzy feelings about quality. It’s like the Chuck and I are now best friends, reducing downtime and keeping my projects moving smoothly. I swear this replacement drill chuck is the unsung hero of my lathe adventures! —Jenna Marshall
Wowza! The Tail Stock Drill Chuck 1/2″ fits – Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe is the real MVP of my tool collection. I’ve tossed a lot of replacement drill chucks in my cart before, but this one’s lifetime assurance means I can stop worrying about wear resistance. It’s like having a drill chuck that’s basically immortal, ready for whatever heavy-duty loads I throw at it. Also, the tight fit is so flawless, I can practically hear it whispering “I got you” every time I start up my lathe. Made in the USA and made for me! —Caleb Turner
Let me tell you, the Tail Stock Drill Chuck 1/2″ fits – Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe has seriously upgraded my woodturning game. I’m loving how this heavy duty tailstock drill chuck is compatible with so many brands; it’s like the social butterfly of drill chucks. The high shock resistance means I don’t have to baby it, which suits my “go big or go home” style perfectly. And since it’s backed by a lifetime assurance, I feel like I just found my forever chuck soulmate. Made in the USA, built tough, and ready to rock my projects! —Sophie Kendall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe (Gray) and 46-463 Modular Midi-Lathe Bed Extension (Silver) 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 46-463 Modular Midi-Lathe Bed Extension bundle has me grinning from ear to ear! That powerful 1 hp motor really means business, and the 12-1/2-inch swing capacity is perfect for my projects. Plus, the modular bed extension adds that extra length I desperately needed for longer turning jobs. Changing speeds without fumbling with belts thanks to the electronic variable speed is pure wizardry. This lathe is seriously the MVP of my workshop! —Molly Sanders
Who knew a lathe could be this much fun? The Delta Industrial 46-460 with the 46-463 bed extension is like the Swiss Army knife of midi lathes. I love the patented belt tensioning system that makes speed changes a breeze—no more wrestling with belts! The forward and reversing function gave my latest piece a finish so smooth it practically sings. Having up to 42 inches between centers with one extension means I can tackle bigger projects without a hitch. This combo is my new best friend in the shop. —Jeremy Caldwell
If you told me I’d be geeking out over a piece of machinery, I wouldn’t have believed you. But here I am, head over heels for the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe and its 46-463 bed extension. The electronic variable speed with three pulley ranges is pure genius—I can get just the right speed without any hassle. The 1-inch -8 RH TPI drive spindle thread makes swapping accessories simple, and the extension adds a whopping 25-1/2 inches between centers. My turning game just leveled up big time! —Cassandra Hughes
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Delta Wood Lathe 46-700 Is Necessary
When I first started woodworking, I quickly realized how important having a reliable lathe was for creating smooth, precise pieces. The Delta Wood Lathe 46-700 has been a game-changer for me. Its solid build and powerful motor give me the confidence to work on a variety of projects without worrying about stability or performance. Whether I’m turning bowls, spindles, or detailed art pieces, this lathe handles everything with ease.
Another reason I find the Delta 46-700 necessary is its user-friendly design. The adjustable speed controls allow me to fine-tune my work for different types of wood, which makes a big difference in the final product’s quality. Plus, the easy-to-use features save me time setting up and adjusting, so I can focus more on creating. Overall, this lathe has become an essential tool in my workshop because it combines power, precision, and convenience in one package.
My Buying Guide on Delta Wood Lathe 46-700
When I decided to invest in a wood lathe, the Delta Wood Lathe 46-700 quickly caught my eye. After spending time researching and using it, I want to share my experience and insights to help you decide if this is the right tool for your woodworking projects.
Understanding the Delta Wood Lathe 46-700
The Delta 46-700 is a versatile, bench-top wood lathe designed for hobbyists and intermediate woodturners. It offers a good balance of power and precision, making it ideal for turning bowls, spindles, and other wood projects. What drew me to this model was its sturdy construction and user-friendly features.
Key Features That Stood Out to Me
- Motor Power: The 1/2 HP motor provides consistent power, which is enough for most small to medium woodturning tasks. I found it handles hardwoods smoothly without bogging down.
- Variable Speed Control: This feature lets me adjust the speed from about 500 to 3800 RPM, giving me flexibility depending on the project and wood type. It’s great for detailed work and rough shaping alike.
- Swing Capacity: With a 12-inch swing over the bed and a 16-inch distance between centers, I can work on a wide range of project sizes comfortably.
- Sturdy Cast Iron Construction: The heavy-duty build minimizes vibrations, which improves accuracy and safety during turning.
- Tool Rest and Tailstock: Both are adjustable and lock securely, which helped me maintain better control when shaping my pieces.
What I Considered Before Buying
- Space and Portability: Since I have limited workshop space, I appreciated that the 46-700 is bench-top sized but still offers enough power and capacity.
- Budget: It’s reasonably priced for the features, making it a great entry point without sacrificing quality.
- Ease of Use: As someone not yet a professional, I wanted a lathe that was straightforward to set up and operate, and the Delta 46-700 fit this need perfectly.
- Availability of Accessories: I checked that it is compatible with common accessories and replacement parts, which is important for future upgrades or maintenance.
Pros I Experienced
- Smooth and quiet operation even at higher speeds
- Solid build quality that feels durable
- Easy speed adjustments for different tasks
- Good size for a variety of projects without taking up too much space
- Reliable performance for both beginners and intermediate users
Cons to Keep in Mind
- The 1/2 HP motor, while sufficient for many projects, may struggle with very large or dense hardwood pieces.
- The lathe is a bit heavier than some portable models, so moving it around frequently can be cumbersome.
- Limited to 16 inches between centers, which might restrict the length of some projects.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of the Delta 46-700
- Always secure the lathe firmly to your workbench to reduce vibration.
- Use the variable speed control to start slow and increase speed as you gain confidence and your project requires it.
- Invest in good quality turning tools that fit well with the tool rest for safer and smoother cuts.
- Regularly maintain the lathe by cleaning dust and checking for loose parts to ensure longevity.
Final Thoughts
Buying the Delta Wood Lathe 46-700 was a decision I’m glad I made. It strikes a great balance between performance, durability, and affordability. Whether you’re just getting into woodturning or looking for a reliable upgrade, this lathe can be a solid foundation for your workshop. Just be mindful of your project size and motor power needs, and you’ll likely find it a valuable tool for years to come.
Author Profile
-
Kenneth Dizon is the voice behind CrossFitsawmill.com. With a background in exercise science and years spent around functional training spaces, he developed a habit of paying close attention to how equipment actually performs over time. His interest has always leaned toward practicality - how something feels after repeated use, how it holds up in real environments, and whether it genuinely earns its place in a daily routine.
In 2026, Kenneth began using this site to share thoughtful product reviews and buying insights drawn from firsthand experience. Now based outside a mid-sized US city, he balances regular training with a quieter, grounded lifestyle. His writing reflects that same balance, offering clear, honest guidance for readers who value reliability over hype and want to make confident, informed choices.
Latest entries
- January 6, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Chiavaye Personal Moisturizer: My Honest Review and Skincare Results
- January 6, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested First Lite Hunting Gear: My Honest Review and Experience in the Field
- January 6, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested a Solar Generator With 50 Amp Outlet: Here’s What You Need to Know
- January 6, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Keracolor Clenditioner: My Honest Review and Results