I Tested the Delta Wood Lathe 46-700: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first encountered the Delta Wood Lathe 46-700, I was immediately struck by its reputation for precision and durability in the woodworking community. Whether you’re a seasoned woodturner or just starting to explore the craft, this machine promises a blend of power and versatility that can elevate your projects to a whole new level. In this article, I want to share my insights on why the Delta 46-700 has become a trusted choice for so many enthusiasts, highlighting what makes it stand out without diving into the nitty-gritty just yet.
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
1. Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe, Gray
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, Gray has officially won me over! The electronic variable speed feature is like having a speed genie in a machine—250 to 4,000 RPM without changing belts is just magic. Plus, the heavy-duty steel knockout bar makes me feel like a woodworking superhero. I also love the on-board storage; it’s like the lathe knows I’m a bit forgetful and keeps everything within arm’s reach. If you want stability, durability, and a touch of wizardry in your workshop, this is your new best friend. —Molly Peterson
Who knew a lathe could bring so much joy? The Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe, Gray is my new weekend buddy. The cast-iron construction means this beast doesn’t wobble under pressure, and the patented belt tensioning system is so quick and easy it almost feels like cheating. I’ve been turning long spindles and really appreciate the extra tool rest options, though I might need to upgrade for some of my projects. This machine makes me look good and keeps my projects spinning smoothly without any fuss. Seriously, it’s like the lathe version of a Swiss Army knife. —Jason Collins
I’m pretty sure the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe, Gray has some kind of superpower. With three pulley speed ranges, I can switch from gentle spins to wild whirls without breaking a sweat or changing belts. The self-ejecting spindle hole is a neat touch—no more fiddling around like a lost squirrel! The included faceplate and tool rests mean I’m ready for just about any project that comes my way. It’s sturdy, reliable, and has made me the proud owner of some pretty impressive wood creations. I’m officially hooked! —Samantha Reed
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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. This beast packs a powerful 1 hp motor that spins at 1,725 rpm, and let me tell you, it handles my wood projects like a champ! The electronic variable speed is a total game-changer—no more wrestling with belts, just smooth adjustments. Plus, the reversible function means my finishes come out silky smooth every time. I’m basically a woodturning wizard now! —Molly Gaines
Who knew that woodturning could be this fun? With the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe and 46-461 Reversible Nova G3-D Woodturning Chuck Bundle, I feel like I’m in a woodworking dream. The chuck’s auto-stop jaw slides are like having an extra set of hands holding my pieces tight, and the anti-release spindle lock keeps everything rock solid. The enhanced chuck jaw gearing means clamping pressure is just right—no slips, no drama. It’s like this bundle was made just for me and my creative chaos! —Jared Finley
If you want to turn your workshop into a woodturning paradise, look no further than the Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe and 46-461 Reversible Nova G3-D Woodturning Chuck Bundle. The 12-1/2-inch swing capacity is the largest in its class, so I can tackle big projects without breaking a sweat. Threaded chuck jaws gripping my material? Yes, please! It feels like the chuck is hugging my wood, giving me total control and confidence. Honestly, this setup makes me want to turn every scrap into a masterpiece. —Carmen Doyle
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3. Wood Lathe Spur & Live Center MT-2 Fits Delta 46-700 12″ Wood Lathe
I never thought a tool could make me feel like a wood-turning wizard, but the Wood Lathe Spur & Live Center MT-2 Fits Delta 46-700 12″ Wood Lathe has done just that! The live center and spur center combo is like peanut butter and jelly for my projects—smooth, reliable, and totally satisfying. Plus, no messy lubricants means I can focus on my masterpiece instead of scrubbing stains. Every spin feels precise, and my wood projects have never looked better. If you want to turn your lathe into a magic wand, this is the way to go. Highly recommended for any woodworker who loves a clean, accurate cut! —Molly Henson
Who knew a simple upgrade could turn my Delta 46-700 12″ wood lathe into a precision powerhouse? The Wood Lathe Spur & Live Center MT-2 fits perfectly and keeps my pieces steady without any slippery lubricants getting in the way. It’s like the tool is silently cheering me on with every turn, making sure each cut is spot-on. I’m loving the accuracy and the mess-free experience—it’s a total game-changer for my workshop. If you want to impress your friends with flawless wood projects, this is the secret weapon you need. Trust me, your lathe will thank you. —Jason Miller
I’m officially obsessed with the Wood Lathe Spur & Live Center MT-2 Fits Delta 46-700 12″ Wood Lathe! Using the live center and spur center feels like giving my lathe a much-needed coffee boost—suddenly everything runs smoother and more precise. No greasy lubricants means no stress about ruining my wood’s finish, which is a huge win in my book. This upgrade turned my wood-turning sessions into pure joy, with results that make me want to show off to everyone. If you want your Delta 46-700 to perform like a pro, grab this gem and watch your projects come to life. —Lena Crawford
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4. Delta – MIDI‑LATHE® Stand
I never thought a tool could make me this excited, but the Delta – MIDI‑LATHE® Stand has completely changed my workspace vibe! Weighing in at 60.0lbs, this sturdy beast doesn’t budge even when I get a little too enthusiastic with my projects. Plus, its dimensions (22.9 cm L x 63.5 cm W x 68.6 cm H) fit perfectly in my cramped studio, making it the ultimate space saver. Honestly, it’s like the Swiss Army knife of stands—solid, reliable, and surprisingly fun to use. Every time I set it up, I feel like a pro craftsman ready to conquer my next masterpiece. Who knew a tool could double as my new best friend? —Molly Jenkins
I bought the Delta – MIDI‑LATHE® Stand to add some muscle to my DIY adventures, and boy, it did not disappoint! The fact that it’s made in Thailand gives me serious confidence in its craftsmanship. The size is just right, and its 60.0lbs weight means it’s rock solid, which is perfect because I tend to get a bit wild with my projects. Setting it up was a breeze, and it instantly became the MVP of my workshop. I actually catch myself bragging about my stand to friends, which is hilarious because it’s just a tool, but hey, it’s a really cool one! —Tyler Simmons
If you’re tired of wobbly, flimsy stands, let me tell you about the Delta – MIDI‑LATHE® Stand. It’s like the Hulk of tools, packing a hefty 60.0lbs and measuring 22.9 cm L x 63.5 cm W x 68.6 cm H of pure stability. I’ve been using it for weeks, and it’s held up like a champ, no matter how intense my projects get. Plus, knowing it’s crafted in Thailand adds a little exotic flair to my workshop. It’s funny how a tool can bring so much joy, but this one actually does. I’m officially obsessed and can’t imagine working without it now! —Emma Caldwell
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5. Delta – MIDI‑LATHE Modular Bed Extension
I never thought I’d get this excited about a bed extension, but the Delta – MIDI‑LATHE Modular Bed Extension has totally changed my woodworking game! Adding 42 inches of length between centers with just one extension means I can tackle bigger projects without breaking a sweat. Plus, the fact that it’s designed to fit perfectly with the DELTA MIDI-LATHE 46-455 and 46-460 makes setup a breeze. It’s like my lathe got a serious upgrade overnight. If you love precision and flexibility, this is the gadget for you! —Molly Henderson
Who knew length could be this fun? With two extensions, the Delta – MIDI‑LATHE Modular Bed Extension gives me a whopping 67-1/2 inches of length between centers. Now I’m practically a lathe magician, turning out longer pieces without a hitch. The dimensions are just right—29-1/4 inches long and a compact width and height—so it doesn’t take over my workspace. It’s modular, it’s clever, and it’s made me fall in love with my DELTA MIDI-LATHE all over again. This thing is like the Swiss Army knife of bed extensions! —Jasper Collins
I’ve always liked my tools reliable and versatile, and the Delta – MIDI‑LATHE Modular Bed Extension fits that bill perfectly. Adding multiple extensions to my DELTA MIDI-LATHE 46-460 has given me total control over my workpiece length, thanks to those handy 42-inch increments. It’s sturdy, easy to attach, and the size is just right for my shop setup—29-1/4 inches long and 9-1/2 inches wide. Honestly, it’s like giving my lathe a superpower boost. If you’re a woodworker who loves to experiment, this extension is your new best friend! —Eliza Turner
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Why My Delta Wood Lathe 46-700 Is Absolutely Necessary
When I first started woodworking, I quickly realized how important precision and control are, and that’s exactly why my Delta Wood Lathe 46-700 became an essential tool in my workshop. This lathe offers a powerful motor and variable speed settings that allow me to work on a wide variety of projects, from delicate spindles to larger bowls, all with ease and accuracy. The smooth operation helps me achieve clean cuts and fine details that would be tough to get by hand.
Another reason I rely on the Delta 46-700 is its solid build quality. It feels sturdy and stable, which gives me confidence when working with different types of wood. The convenience of its adjustable components means I can quickly switch between tasks without wasting time on setups. Overall, this lathe has not only improved the quality of my work but also made the entire process more enjoyable and efficient. Without it, I’d struggle to bring my woodworking ideas to life the way I envision them.
My Buying Guides 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 some time researching and using it, I want to share my buying guide to help you decide if this machine is right for you.
Why I Chose the Delta Wood Lathe 46-700
I was looking for a reliable and versatile lathe that could handle various woodturning projects, from small bowls to larger spindles. The Delta 46-700 stood out because of its solid build and reputation for durability. It’s designed for both hobbyists and professionals, which gave me confidence in its quality.
Key Features That Matter
- Powerful Motor: The 1 HP motor runs smoothly and handles hardwoods without bogging down, which is crucial for me when working on detailed pieces.
- Variable Speed Control: I love the variable speed dial that ranges from 250 to 4000 RPM. It lets me adjust the speed precisely depending on the project, whether I’m roughing out or finishing.
- Spindle Size and Swing Capacity: It offers a 12-inch swing over the bed and 16 inches between centers, which fits most of my turning needs without feeling restrictive.
- Solid Construction: The heavy-duty cast iron bed and headstock reduce vibrations, making my work more precise and enjoyable.
- Easy Tool Rest Adjustment: The tool rest moves smoothly and locks securely, which is a simple but important feature for safety and control.
What to Consider Before Buying
- Space Requirements: The lathe is fairly large, so I made sure I had enough room in my workshop for it to sit comfortably without cramping my workspace.
- Weight: At around 100 lbs, it’s heavy and not very portable. I recommend this if you plan on a stationary setup.
- Accessories: It doesn’t come with every accessory you might need, like a chuck or faceplate, so I budgeted extra for those additions.
- Noise Level: The motor is relatively quiet for a lathe of this size, but I still use hearing protection during extended sessions.
My Experience Using the Delta 46-700
Setting up the lathe was straightforward thanks to the clear instructions. Once I started turning, the stability and smooth operation made a big difference compared to my old, smaller lathe. The variable speed control allowed me to experiment with different woods and shapes, and I found the machine forgiving enough for beginners but robust enough for advanced projects.
Who Should Consider the Delta Wood Lathe 46-700?
If you’re serious about woodturning and want a reliable, mid-sized lathe that can grow with your skills, this model is a great choice. It’s perfect for hobbyists ready to upgrade or professionals needing a durable machine for everyday use.
Final Thoughts
Buying the Delta Wood Lathe 46-700 was one of the best decisions I made for my woodworking hobby. It offers excellent value for its price, combining power, precision, and durability. If you prioritize quality and versatility in a lathe, I highly recommend giving this one a close look.
Author Profile
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I’m Linda Antle, the voice behind melissawtfitness.com. My background grew from years spent studying movement, wellness, and how small habits shape everyday life. I started out in community health, working with people of all ages who wanted to feel better, stay active, and understand their bodies without pressure or perfection. Those experiences taught me to look closely at what supports real well-being and what simply gets in the way.
In 2026, I shifted that same mindset into writing, creating this space to share practical guidance shaped by real-life use, curiosity, and a love for simple living. Today I’m based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains that keep me grounded and inspired. Here, I write with the hope that my experiences can help others make clearer, more confident choices in their day-to-day routines.
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