Grizzly G8688 7" x 12" Mini Metal Lathe Review: The Best Metal Lathe for Home Hobbyist

Metalwork is a tough job that requires even tougher machinery. What else fits the job perfectly than Grizzly Industrial’s metalworking equipment honed by three decades of success?

Grizzly G8688 7" x 12" Mini Metal Lathe brings hobby work to a new level with its .75 HP motor and flexible speeds of zero to 2500 RPM. This mini metal lathe boasts of 16 TPI reversible lead screws that can be adjusted in forward and reverse modes on all speeds. This sturdy lathe also comes with a chip tray and backsplash guard for maximum safety, be it used at home or shop.

Unlike other brands, Grizzly G8688 7" x 12" Mini Metal Lathe is paired with ergonomically manufactured drill and tool bits of the same brand, making adjustments for a wide range of metal types as easy as ABC.  As metalworking is hard enough in itself, this product is manufactured with all the conveniences of users in mind. Grizzly ensures tightness of drill chucks and accessories to maintain accurate machining and safety all throughout.

The threading gears are exceptionally tight, although they are made of plastic, which could have been better if they are made of alloy. In the package, head housing gears are also made of plastic, although it is a fairly acceptable industrial standard to have it that way. The ergonomically designed face plate also offers four-position turret post.

For its size, the product certainly offers more than its actual claim. Beginner to intermediary machinists will surely find Grizzly G8688 7" x 12" Mini Metal Lathe comfortable and reliable while professional metalworkers may forget that it is a mini equipment they are using.

Substandard metalwork equipment may lead to waste of money and accidents at worst. As metal lathes are at fairly higher prices, it is important to pick a trusted brand with perfectly fit accessories. Grizzly is the one for that.