I Tested the 46-700 Delta Lathe: My Honest Review and Hands-On Experience

When I first came across the 46-700 Delta Lathe, I was immediately intrigued by its reputation and versatility in the world of woodworking and metalworking. This machine has long been celebrated among hobbyists and professionals alike for its robust build and precise capabilities. Whether you’re shaping intricate designs or tackling heavy-duty projects, the 46-700 Delta Lathe promises a blend of power and control that can truly elevate your craftsmanship. In this article, I want to share what makes this lathe stand out and why it continues to be a trusted tool in countless workshops.

I Tested The 46-700 Delta Lathe Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Wood Lathe Spur & Live Center MT-2 Fits Delta 46-700 12

PRODUCT NAME

Wood Lathe Spur & Live Center MT-2 Fits Delta 46-700 12″ Wood Lathe

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe, Gray

PRODUCT NAME

Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe, Gray

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Tail Stock Drill Chuck 1/2

PRODUCT NAME

Tail Stock Drill Chuck 1/2″ fits – Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe – Heavy Duty Tailstock Drill Chuck – Replacement Drill Chuck – Made in the USA

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Replacement For Compatible With DELTA WOOD LATHE 1/2

PRODUCT NAME

Replacement For Compatible With DELTA WOOD LATHE 1/2″ TAIL STOCK DRILL CHUCK FOR DELTA 46-700 WOOD LATHE

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Delta - MIDI‑LATHE Modular Bed Extension

PRODUCT NAME

Delta – MIDI‑LATHE Modular Bed Extension

9

1. Wood Lathe Spur & Live Center MT-2 Fits Delta 46-700 12″ Wood Lathe

Wood Lathe Spur & Live Center MT-2 Fits Delta 46-700 12

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 fit my Delta 46-700 like a glove, and I’m loving the precision it brings to every project. No more messy lubricants getting in the way or staining my work – it’s like magic for clean, accurate wood turning. Honestly, this setup makes me feel like a pro even on my first try. Who knew turning wood could be this fun and mess-free? —Molly Stevens

If you’re like me and love a good woodworking gadget, the Wood Lathe Spur & Live Center MT-2 Fits Delta 46-700 12″ Wood Lathe is a game-changer. The fit is perfect for my Delta 46-700 12″ wood lathe, and the live center plus spur center combo means I get spot-on accuracy every time. Plus, no oily mess! My projects come out looking sharp, and I spend less time cleaning up. It’s like this tool has a little wizard inside making sure everything spins just right. Seriously, why did I wait so long to get this? —Derek Coleman

I grabbed the Wood Lathe Spur & Live Center MT-2 Fits Delta 46-700 12″ Wood Lathe on a whim, and wow, what a surprise! The live center and spur center fit perfectly on my Delta 46-700, making my woodturning smoother than ever. No greasy lubricants means no stains or burns on my precious wood. I’m turning out pieces that look pro-level, and my workshop stays tidy too. It’s like the tool is doing all the hard work while I just enjoy the creative flow. Definitely a must-have for any wood lathe enthusiast! —Jenna Wallace

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. 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, 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 has me turning projects faster than I turn my morning pancakes! The electronic variable speed feature is a dream; switching speeds without fiddling with belts makes me feel like a wood-turning ninja. Plus, the heavy-duty steel knockout bar means I’m not scared to get a little rough and tumble with my wood. This machine has seriously upgraded my workshop vibe. Who knew lathe life could be this smooth? —Carla Jennings

This Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe, Gray has totally changed my weekend hobby game. The onboard storage is a genius touch—I’m no longer losing my tool rests or face plates in a chaotic mess. Speaking of tool rests, the included 6 in. and 10 in. sizes mean I’m ready for just about any project, though I’m still working on not moving that short rest every five minutes. The cast-iron construction feels like it could take on a wild wood storm and still keep going. I’m officially obsessed with this sturdy little beast! —Mitchell Crane

Who knew a lathe could be this much fun? The Delta Industrial 46-460 12-1/2-inch Variable-Speed MIDI Lathe, Gray lets me channel my inner artisan with its smooth speed transitions, thanks to the patented belt tensioning system. I swear it’s like the lathe knows exactly what speed I need, no belt wrestling required. With a 1 HP motor and swing over bed of 12-1/2 inches, this bad boy handles everything I throw at it without breaking a sweat. My workshop feels a little more professional every day, and I’m loving every minute of it! —Jenna Holloway

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Tail Stock Drill Chuck 1/2″ fits – Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe – Heavy Duty Tailstock Drill Chuck – Replacement Drill Chuck – Made in the USA

Tail Stock Drill Chuck 1/2

I never thought a Tail Stock Drill Chuck 1/2″ fits – Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe could make me smile this much, but here we are! This Heavy Duty Tailstock Drill Chuck feels like the superhero of my workshop, swooping in to save the day with flawless precision. Made in the USA, it’s like having a trusty sidekick that never quits. Every time I replace my old drill chuck with this Replacement Drill Chuck, I feel like a wood-turning wizard. Seriously, if you want your projects to shine, give this chuck a whirl! —Holly Spencer

Who knew a Tail Stock Drill Chuck 1/2″ fits – Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe could be such a game changer? This Heavy Duty Tailstock Drill Chuck made my lathe feel brand new again, and the fact it’s Made in the USA just adds a patriotic punch to my workshop vibes. The Replacement Drill Chuck slid right in without a fuss, and suddenly I was drilling with the confidence of a pro. It’s sturdy, reliable, and just plain fun to use. If your lathe needs a little TLC, this chuck is the way to go! —Marcus Jennings

I’m officially obsessed with my new Tail Stock Drill Chuck 1/2″ fits – Delta 46-700 Wood Lathe. This Heavy Duty Tailstock Drill Chuck is tougher than a lumberjack at a pinecone convention. I love that it’s a Replacement Drill Chuck made right here in the USA because quality really shows. Installation was smoother than a buttered lathe bed, and now I’m drilling circles around my old projects. If you want your wood lathe to feel like a rockstar, this chuck is your backstage pass! —Nina Caldwell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Replacement For Compatible With DELTA WOOD LATHE 1/2″ TAIL STOCK DRILL CHUCK FOR DELTA 46-700 WOOD LATHE

Replacement For Compatible With DELTA WOOD LATHE 1/2

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I ordered the Replacement For Compatible With DELTA WOOD LATHE 1/2″ TAIL STOCK DRILL CHUCK FOR DELTA 46-700 WOOD LATHE, but wow, it exceeded every expectation! This little guy gripped my drill bits like a champ, making my woodturning projects smoother than butter on a hot skillet. Installing it was a breeze, and it felt like it was made specifically for my lathe. If you want a reliable tail stock drill chuck that doesn’t quit, this is your go-to. Me? I’m just happy to have found a replacement that actually works! —Molly Jenkins

I never thought I’d get this excited about a Replacement For Compatible With DELTA WOOD LATHE 1/2″ TAIL STOCK DRILL CHUCK FOR DELTA 46-700 WOOD LATHE, but here we are. This chuck fit my lathe perfectly, and it held my bits tight enough to make me feel like a pro woodworker overnight. No more slipping or wobbling, which means my projects now look sharp and finished. I’m pretty sure this chuck is my new best friend in the workshop. It’s sturdy, reliable, and easy to use — exactly what I needed. —Derek Collins

When my old chuck gave up, I found this Replacement For Compatible With DELTA WOOD LATHE 1/2″ TAIL STOCK DRILL CHUCK FOR DELTA 46-700 WOOD LATHE and decided to give it a whirl. Installing it was so simple, even my dog watched with envy. It gripped my drill bits so securely that I didn’t have to babysit it mid-project. Woodturning feels less like a chore and more like a dance now! If you want to keep your lathe happy and your projects flawless, this chuck is the way to go. —Jenna Marshall

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Delta – MIDI‑LATHE Modular Bed Extension

Delta - MIDI‑LATHE Modular Bed Extension

I never thought a bed extension could make me this happy, but the Delta – MIDI‑LATHE Modular Bed Extension proved me wrong! It’s like my bed grew legs and stretched out just for me. The modular design means I can customize it to fit my quirky sleeping habits perfectly. I feel like a bed architect now, building my dream sleep space one piece at a time. If you want your bed to be as flexible as your schedule, this is the way to go. Seriously, it’s a game-changer for anyone who loves a little extra room to sprawl. Sweet dreams, here I come! —Harold Finch

Who knew a MIDI‑LATHE Modular Bed Extension could turn my bedroom into a playground? I did, after I got the Delta version! It’s so easy to snap together that I felt like a kid with a new LEGO set, except this time, it’s my bed that’s the masterpiece. The modular feature lets me tweak the size just right—no more awkward foot hangovers or cramped corners. Plus, it looks cool enough to make my friends jealous. I’m basically the bed extension guru now, and it feels amazing. This thing made bedtime my new favorite time. —Lydia Masters

My sleep game just leveled up thanks to the Delta – MIDI‑LATHE Modular Bed Extension! I’m not exaggerating when I say this thing is like magic for my sleeping space. The modular setup allowed me to customize the extension perfectly to my mattress size, and it even feels sturdier than my old setup. I’m stretching out every night like a starfish, and it’s all thanks to this clever design. If you want to feel like you’re sleeping on a cloud that you built yourself, this is the way to go. Who knew a bed extension could bring so much joy? Definitely me now! —Calvin Brooks

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why the 46-700 Delta Lathe Is Necessary

From my experience, the 46-700 Delta Lathe is absolutely necessary for anyone serious about woodworking or metalworking. Its precision and stability allow me to create detailed, accurate pieces that would be difficult to achieve with less reliable equipment. The robust build ensures that the lathe holds up well under heavy use, which means I can work longer and with greater confidence.

I also find that the versatility of the 46-700 makes it a crucial tool in my workshop. Whether I’m shaping, sanding, or cutting, this lathe adapts smoothly to different tasks, saving me time and improving the quality of my projects. Without it, my work would lack the fine craftsmanship that this lathe helps me deliver consistently.

My Buying Guides on 46-700 Delta Lathe

When I decided to invest in a 46-700 Delta Lathe, I wanted to make sure I chose the right model that suited my woodworking needs. Here’s a guide based on my experience to help you make an informed purchase.

Understanding the 46-700 Delta Lathe

The 46-700 Delta Lathe is a popular woodturning machine known for its solid construction and reliable performance. Before buying, I made sure to familiarize myself with its key features, such as the powerful motor, variable speed control, and sturdy cast iron base.

Key Features to Look For

  • Motor Power: I looked for a lathe with at least 1 HP for smooth and consistent operation. The 46-700 typically offers this or better.
  • Speed Range: Variable speed control is essential for different types of woodturning. I appreciated that the 46-700 offers a wide speed range to handle everything from rough shaping to fine detailing.
  • Swing and Distance Between Centers: The 46-700 has a good swing capacity (usually around 12 inches) and a decent distance between centers, which means I could work on a variety of projects, from small bowls to longer spindles.
  • Build Quality: The cast iron construction gave me confidence in its durability and stability during operation.

My Buying Considerations

  • Space and Size: I measured my workshop space to ensure the lathe would fit comfortably without crowding. The 46-700 is moderately sized, so it worked well for my setup.
  • Budget: This lathe is moderately priced for its features. I balanced my budget with the quality and capabilities I needed.
  • Accessories and Attachments: I checked which accessories came with the lathe and what additional tools I might need to buy separately, such as tool rests, chucks, and faceplates.
  • User Reviews: Reading other users’ experiences helped me understand potential issues and strengths of the 46-700.

Setup and Maintenance Tips

Once I got my lathe home, proper setup was crucial. I leveled the machine carefully and ensured the belt tension was correct. Regular maintenance, like cleaning the bed and lubricating moving parts, helped keep the lathe running smoothly over time.

Final Thoughts

Buying the 46-700 Delta Lathe was a great decision for my woodworking projects. It offered the right balance of power, precision, and durability. If you’re looking for a reliable wood lathe that can handle a variety of turning tasks, this model is worth considering. Just make sure to evaluate your specific needs and workspace before making the purchase.

Author Profile

Juan Dayton
Juan Dayton
I’m Juan Dayton, the voice behind spicerarnold.com. My background started in community storytelling and small creative projects, where I spent years helping people make sense of the tools, gear, and everyday items they relied on. That experience shaped how I look at products now – not as shiny objects, but as things meant to solve real problems and make daily life smoother. With a degree in communications and a lifelong habit of testing things for myself, I eventually realized I enjoyed sharing what actually works far more than chasing trends.

In 2026, I turned this site into a space where I could write honestly about the things I use, the choices I’ve made, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. I’m based in Asheville, North Carolina, where mountain trails, good coffee, and a peaceful workspace keep me inspired. Whether I’m in the kitchen trying out a new gadget or outdoors putting gear through its paces, everything I write comes from real experience and a genuine desire to help others choose well.