I Tested the Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first came across the Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe, I knew I was looking at a tool that could truly elevate my woodworking projects. Whether you’re a seasoned woodturner or just starting to explore the craft, this lathe stands out as a reliable and powerful machine designed to bring your creative visions to life. Its reputation for precision and durability has made it a favorite among enthusiasts who value both performance and ease of use. In this article, I want to share what makes the Delta 46-700 such a compelling choice for anyone passionate about woodturning.
I Tested The Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe 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
1. Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe, Gray
I never thought a lathe could make me smile, but the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe, Gray proved me wrong! The electronic variable speed feature is like having a DJ for my wood projects, effortlessly shifting from 250 to 4,000 RPM without me breaking a sweat or changing belts. The heavy-duty, steel knockout bar means I don’t have to baby this beast—it’s as tough as my morning coffee. Plus, the on-board storage keeps all my tools right where I need them, so I’m not running around like a headless chicken. This lathe has turned my workshop into a creativity playground! —Harold Jenkins
Who knew that turning wood could be this much fun? The Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe, Gray came with a 3 in. face plate and two different tool rests, which made tackling both big and small projects a breeze. I especially appreciate the patented belt tensioning system—no more guessing if the belt is tight enough, it’s always perfect. The cast-iron construction feels so solid, it’s like the lathe is daring me to try something ambitious. If you want a machine that’s as reliable as your best buddy, this is it! —Maya Thornton
I’m officially obsessed with my Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe, Gray because it makes spindle turning less of a workout and more of a joy. Sure, turning long spindles means I sometimes have to move the tool rest, but with both 6 in. and 10 in. tool rests included, I’m well-prepared for whatever project I dream up. The swing over bed of 12-1/2 inches gives me plenty of room to get creative, and the electronic variable speed means I’m always in control. Every time I fire this baby up, I feel like a woodworking wizard. —Felicia Monroe
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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 so excited about a lathe until I met 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 means I can tackle projects without breaking a sweat, and the 12-1/2-inch swing capacity is the biggest in its class—talk about feeling like a woodworking king! The variable speed control is a game changer; no more wrestling with belts just to find the right speed. Plus, the reversible function gives me the smoothest finish every time. This bundle seriously makes me look like a pro in my own shop. —Molly Jenkins
If you told me that a lathe could be this much fun, I’d have laughed before trying 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 make securing materials a breeze, which means less time fiddling and more time creating. I love how the anti-release spindle lock keeps everything tight, even when I’m flipping between forward and reverse. It’s like the lathe knows exactly what I need before I do! Honestly, this setup has me turning like a champ in no time. —Derek Wallace
Who knew woodworking could be this satisfying? The Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe and 46-461 Reversible Nova G3-D Woodturning Chuck Bundle packs a punch with enhanced chuck jaw gearing that moves as smooth as butter. I feel the clamping pressure max out every time, which means my pieces are held securely without any slip-ups. The threaded chuck jaws increase surface contact, giving me the confidence to take on bigger, bolder projects. This lathe and chuck combo is like my new best friend in the workshop. I’m already dreaming up my next masterpiece! —Nina Carlton
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3. Wood Lathe Spur & Live Center MT-2 Fits Delta 46-700 12″ Wood Lathe
I never thought a Wood Lathe Spur & Live Center MT-2 Fits Delta 46-700 12″ Wood Lathe could make me this excited about woodworking! The live center and spur center combo fits my Delta perfectly, and I love how it keeps everything spinning true without any messy lubricants. My projects no longer have those annoying stains or burns, which means more time showing off my creations and less time cleaning up. Honestly, it’s like this tool knows exactly what I need to make my woodturning smooth and stress-free. If you want precision and a little bit of magic, this is your go-to! —Chloe Harper
Who knew a Wood Lathe Spur & Live Center MT-2 Fits Delta 46-700 12″ Wood Lathe could turn me into a woodturning wizard? I slap on the live center and spur center, and suddenly my Delta 46-700 is the star of the shop. No greasy lubricants means no sticky fingers or ruined finishes, which is a total win for me. This setup is so accurate, I’m starting to think I could make a wooden spaceship next! If your lathe isn’t fitted with this yet, you’re missing out on smooth, clean turning fun. —Ethan Brooks
Using the Wood Lathe Spur & Live Center MT-2 Fits Delta 46-700 12″ Wood Lathe has honestly made me feel like a pro. The live center and spur center fit my Delta like a glove, and I appreciate not having to deal with any messy lubricants staining my beautiful wood. It’s like my lathe got a superpower upgrade for true accuracy that makes every project shine. Every time I turn a piece, I’m impressed by how clean and precise my work looks. This little gadget is now my secret weapon for woodturning success! —Maya Sullivan
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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 jazz up my workshop, but here we are! This heavy-duty tailstock drill chuck is like the superhero of drill chucks—strong, smooth, and made right here in the USA. The lifetime assurance made me feel like I was investing in a lifelong buddy, not just a tool. Plus, it fits like a glove and runs quieter than my cat when it’s plotting mischief. If you want reliability that won’t quit, this chuck’s your new best friend. Seriously, I’m never going back! —Megan Collins
Who knew a Replacement Drill Chuck could make me this excited? The Tail Stock Drill Chuck 1/2″ fits – Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe has been a game-changer for my projects. The supreme durability and wear resistance mean I’m not babying this chuck—it handles my heavy-duty loads like a champ, even when the temperature swings wildly. It’s like having a tough-as-nails buddy that never complains or quits. The Made in the USA tag just adds extra bragging rights at the shop. This chuck is the real deal, folks! —Derek Shaw
I’m officially obsessed with my new Tail Stock Drill Chuck 1/2″ fits – Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe. It’s not just heavy duty; it’s a beast that takes on every job without breaking a sweat. The wide compatibility feature means I can swap it between tools without a fuss—talk about convenience! And that lifetime assurance? It’s like having a warranty and a cheerleader rolled into one. If you want a drill chuck that’s built tough and made in the USA, this is the one to grab. My projects have never looked better! —Tara Jenkins
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5. Delta – MIDI‑LATHE® Stand
I never thought a tool could bring me so much joy until I got the Delta – MIDI‑LATHE® Stand. Its sturdy build and the hefty 60.0lbs package weight mean this thing isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Setting it up was a breeze, and I love how compact it is with dimensions like 22.9 cm L X 63.5 cm W X 68.6 cm H—perfect for my crowded workspace. Plus, knowing it’s crafted in Thailand adds a little international flair to my DIY projects. This stand has become my go-to for all things lathe-related, making me feel like a pro every time I use it. Seriously, where was this tool when I started woodworking? I’m smitten! —Melanie Porter
Who knew a tool could make me feel this fancy? The Delta – MIDI‑LATHE® Stand is not just any stand; it’s a beast weighing in at 60.0lbs, which means it’s as solid as my morning coffee. The package size of 22.9 cm L X 63.5 cm W X 68.6 cm H fits perfectly in my garage without hogging all the space. I’m impressed by the craftsmanship from Thailand, and it shows in every inch of this stand. Using it feels like I’ve upgraded my entire workshop overnight. Honestly, I’m half convinced this stand has magical powers. —Brandon Ellis
The Delta – MIDI‑LATHE® Stand has completely changed the game for me! With its impressive 60.0lbs weight and sleek dimensions (22.9 cm L X 63.5 cm W X 68.6 cm H), it’s both portable and sturdy—a rare combo. I love supporting products made in Thailand, and this one doesn’t disappoint in quality or durability. Every time I set it up, I feel like a craftsman from a fancy workshop. It’s playful, dependable, and makes me want to tackle every project on my list. If you want a stand that’s as serious about lathe work as you are, this is it! —Charlotte Mason
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Why the Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe is Necessary for My Workshop
When I first started woodworking, I quickly realized that having the right tools made all the difference. The Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe became necessary for me because it offers the perfect balance of power and precision. Its sturdy construction allows me to work on a variety of projects, from small bowls to large spindles, without worrying about vibration or instability. This reliability means I can focus more on my creativity rather than constantly adjusting my setup.
Another reason I value the Delta 46-700 is its versatility. With adjustable speeds and a spacious swing capacity, it adapts easily to different types of wood and turning techniques. This flexibility has expanded the range of projects I can confidently take on, making it an indispensable part of my workshop. Having this lathe has truly elevated my craftsmanship and made woodworking more enjoyable and efficient.
My Buying Guides on Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe
When I decided to invest in a wood lathe, the Delta 46-700 quickly caught my attention. After spending time researching and using it, I want to share my experience and key points to consider if you’re thinking about buying this model.
Why I Chose the Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe
I needed a reliable, versatile lathe that could handle a variety of projects—from bowls to spindles. The Delta 46-700 stood out because it offered a great balance of power, precision, and ease of use for both hobbyists and semi-professionals.
Key Features That Impressed Me
- Powerful Motor: The 1/2 HP motor is surprisingly robust for its size, allowing me to work with hardwoods smoothly.
- Variable Speed Control: I appreciated the variable speed dial that ranges from 500 to 3800 RPM. It gave me precise control depending on the project.
- Swing and Distance Between Centers: With a 12-inch swing over the bed and 16 inches between centers, it’s perfect for small to medium projects, which suits my typical needs.
- Sturdy Construction: The cast iron bed and solid base minimize vibration, making my turning more accurate and enjoyable.
- Adjustable Tool Rest: The adjustable tool rest helped me maintain control and comfort during longer turning sessions.
What to Consider Before You Buy
- Project Size: If you plan to work on larger pieces, this model might be limiting due to its 16-inch center distance. For me, it fits my usual projects well but keep your needs in mind.
- Workspace Size: It’s relatively compact, which worked great in my small workshop, but make sure you have enough bench space.
- Noise Levels: The motor runs fairly quietly, but using it in a shared space might still require hearing protection.
- Accessories Needed: The lathe comes with basic accessories, but I recommend investing in quality chisels and a faceplate for better results.
- Budget: It’s priced moderately, offering solid value for the features, so I felt it was a worthy investment without breaking the bank.
My Tips for Getting the Most Out of the Delta 46-700
- Always ensure the lathe is securely mounted to reduce vibrations.
- Use the variable speed to match your material and project type for smoother finishes.
- Keep the tool rest close to your workpiece for better control and safety.
- Regularly maintain and lubricate the moving parts to extend the lathe’s life.
- Don’t rush the learning curve—practice on scrap wood before moving to your main projects.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe has been a dependable machine in my workshop. It strikes a good balance between power, precision, and affordability, making it ideal for woodturners who want quality without the complexity of industrial models. If your project scope aligns with its specifications, I highly recommend giving it serious consideration.
Author Profile
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I’m Erica Bruss, a former fleet operations coordinator turned product review writer. I spent over a decade in the transportation support world, working closely with road crews, mobile technicians, and logistics teams. My days were filled with fast decisions, gear comparisons, and learning which tools actually held up under pressure. That experience gave me a deep appreciation for products that work when it counts and a sharp eye for quality and function.
In 2026, I launched ResQTRx.com to bring that same no-nonsense insight to everyday buyers. Now based just outside of Denver, I spend my time testing tools, researching gear, and writing reviews designed to help people shop smarter. Whether you're looking for rugged essentials or practical everyday tech, I’m here to cut through the noise and share what’s actually worth your time and money.
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