Last Updated on 2021-03-16 by Harry Masterton
The best bench grinder for woodworking – the top 6 reviewed for lathe tool and chisel sharpening to best under $100, best under $50 and the best variable speed
Using a grinder on tools and components is something that has been around for centuries. Larger grinding machines used to be powered by groups of people or animals. Smaller versions that could be powered by a person using a peddle came closer to today's bench grinder designs.
The Best Bench Grinder For Woodworking – The Top 5 Reviewed
The modern versions of the bench grinders often have two wheels on each end of the tool's housing. Each wheel consists of various abrasive materials. These abrasives clean, polish and sharpen your chisels, lathe tools and planer knives.
If there is one thing that will catch you by surprise as a woodworker as you develop and progress into your hobby is the energy and time required to maintain your tools. That includes having to buy items that will used to keep cutting edges sharp. The best bench grinder for woodworking will save you time and ensure you enjoy your hobby and of course produce wonderfully finished projects.
Quality bench grinders include adjustable speed settings. This feature allows you to match the rotations per minute to the wheel's speed rating. You mustn't exceed a wheel's speed as it can explode, destroying the wheel and possibly your grinder. Also, the debris from a broken wheel will injure or kill you.
In A Hurry? – Go Straight To Our Best Bench Grinder Reviews In The Following Categories
- The Best Bench Grinder For Sharpening Chisels
- The Best Bench Grinder For Sharpening Lathe Tools
- The Best Bench Grinder Under $100
- Best Variable Speed Bench Grinder
- The Best Bench Grinder Under $50
- Best Budget Variable Speed Bench Grinder
Another important feature, especially when sharpening tools, is the table. A good bench grinder will provide a large enough surface to support the blade and allow you to adjust its angle to the wheel's surface. Supporting the tool as you grind a bevel on the cutting edge provides consistency and keeps you safe.
The bench grinder's motor should not be an issue, as today's market offers products with enough power for most woodworker's needs. An upgrade to motor size could prove beneficial if you work with a lot of metal in your woodshop, however. A shop that produces light workloads on a grinder might get by on a smaller motor.
The Best Bench Grinder For Woodworking – Selecting Your Grinding Wheels
Grinding wheels can add a lot of variety to the types of work you can do with your benchtop machine. Not all wheels are the same, however. Options available include:
- Grey Corrundum: Can also be made from low-grade Aluminum-Oxide. Needs to be dressed regularly, overheats materials, and is not a good choice for High-speed steel.
- Pink/Red/White Aluminum-Oxide: Pink/Red also includes chromium-oxide for added durability. The white wheel stays cool and is reasonably priced compared to other wheels.
- Grey Microcrystalline: Rigid and intended for rough work. Runs cooler and needs less regular maintenance.
- Cubic Boron Nitride: CBN runs cooler and sharpens better than other wheels. You can grind on the edges or face, and it will last longer than other types (it does not require dressing either).
The Best bench Grinder For Woodworking – High End Professional Grinders
Jet 577102 JBG-8A 8-Inch Bench Grinder
Reccomended for: Jet's 557102 JBG-8A will work well in shops that need the best bench grinder for sharpening chisels.
Our reviews of the best bench grinder for woodworking begins with the 557102 JBG-8. It makes use of an eight-inch wheel and has a 5/8-inch spindle size. You will find larger wheels easier to work with if you do not swap between abrasives often.
Jet 577102 JBG-8A Features
Jet uses strong materials that will provide durability and rigidity while you work. That includes the housing as well as the table and shields. These features make it the best bench grinder for sharpening chisels, where a good wheel can take advantage of this professional-grade benchtop unit.
Another feature that helps to make this the best bench grinder for sharpening chisels is the guards for the wheel and sparks. The High-Carbon Steel used in most chisels will wear down grits and generate sparks during the grind. These accessories will handle the volume generated by an eight-inch wheel, keeping debris contained and protecting you and your shop.
Jet 577102 JBG-8A – Things We Like
- Jet designed the grinder to last. Durable materials and a well-structured design should last a lifetime if properly cared for.
- You get larger spark guards. The shields cover a wider path, shielding you from sparks from larger wheels and sparks from wheel edges.
- Dust vents are properly located on the wheel guards. A bottom-positioned vent requires less suction force than vents located higher up.
Jet 577102 JBG-8A – Not So Good
- It has a bigger price tag when compared to other bench grinders. The cost is something that may be an issue for first-time shoppers or those on a budget.
- There is no working light built into the housing on this grinder. You would expect extras like that for the price that you will pay for it.
BUCKTOOL TDS-200C4HL 8-Inch Bench Grinder
Reccomended for: If you are a woodturner, the TDS-200C4HL is the best grinder for sharpening lathe tools in your shop.
4.7 out of 5.0 stars
The best bench grinder for woodworking reviews continues with this eight-inch grinder. It provides you with two power options rated at 1725 or 3450 RPM speeds. That will allow you to operate more wheel types safely, especially the cooler running designs like the cubic boron nitride that provide the sharpest edges on chisels.
BUCKTOOL TDS-200C4HL Features
Any power-tool considered the best grinder for sharpening lathe tools needs to allow you to adjust the table for the proper grinding angles. You can set the table at angles from 0 to 45 degrees to the wheel. That will make the proper bevel on most woodworking tools.
The best grinder for sharpening lathe tools uses a low-speed induction motor. It is rated at 3/4 horsepower and will drive heavier CBN wheels while providing a consistent speed.
A 5 3/8-inch x 8-inch base offers a smaller footprint on your bench, and the mounting holes will keep it secure once installed.
BUCKTOOL TDS-200C4HL – Things We Like
- This product runs at two different speeds. A lower speed is a good addition for use on many wheels.
- Its wider 1 1/2-inch wheel guard works well with CBN wheel designs. That is a nice feature that provides coverage over a larger selection of grinding wheels for your lathe chisels.
- A safety switch covers the on/off button. A key prevents the grinder from being used without it.
BUCKTOOL TDS-200C4HL – Not So Good
- One spark shield is frosty out of the box. The magnifier spark shield is frosted on nearly half of its surface.
- Rubberized foot pads do little to eliminate vibration. They might reduce vibration to the table, but they will not reduce vibration between the wheel and table.
The Best Bench Grinder For Woodworking – CBN Wheel Recommendation
World Of Wood CBN Wheel
The power tools on the list of the best bench grinder for woodworking are only as good as the wheels that are attached to them. Of the various types available, Cubic Boron Nitride (CBN) wheels are considered the best particular for sharpening tools.
World of Wood offers this 8-inch wheel with a 5/8-inch arbor. That will allow you to install it in larger bench grinders with the power to rotate it.
What makes this a good CBN grinding wheels woodturning is the material itself. It is second in hardness only to diamonds, but it will last much longer than a diamond can. That makes it a good choice for woodworkers performing maintenance on their blades and chisels.
Another consideration for this CBN grinding wheels woodturning chisel sharpening features is the ability to maintain its face and edge. CBN does not interact with iron chemically. That allows this wheel to remove material quickly with less wear on the wheel's surface. This wheel should last you for years and it will not require dressing to flatten the face.
- 180 grit is good for High-Speed Steel (HSS). This makes it a great choice for sharpening chisels and plane blades.
- Designed to operate at 1,800 RPMs, but can also run at 3,600 RPMs. It will work effectively and safely on more grinders.
- It has a price tag that is bigger than some grinders reviewed here. The quality this wheel offers comes at a higher price point.
The Best Bench Grinder For Woodworking – Grinding Jig
Oneway Wolverine Grinding Jig
Another non-grinder entry in this best bench grinder for woodworking group of reviews is this grinding jig by Oneway. A sharpening jig allows you to position the chisel or blade and hold it in place. Novice woodworkers and those new to grinders will appreciate the time saved by using one. If you're a serious woodworking hobbyist or rabbinate making professionals you will appreciate the Wolverine Grinding Jig's accuracy and versatility.
4.6 out of 5.0 stars
The Wolverine is ideal for sharpening wood turning tools as it offers you two bases. A more traditional base will allow you to sharpen smaller chisels and plane blades. It also includes a longer jig that holds the base of the chisel while you sharpen the blade.
The jig can extend to 27-inches. That allows you to sharpen longer lathe chisels. It also adjusts so that you can use it for items with shorter handles as well.
A V-shape base cradles your chisel, keeping it from twisting when sharpening woodturning tools. You can get a flat surface quickly and easily with this feature. It also locks into place, so that the chisel will not slip away as you work.
- Oneway provides two bases with this purchase. That provides you with a standard table as well as the extended tool support jig.
- The V-arm is 27-inches long. That provides the length needed for longer handles found on lathe chisels.
- Experienced woodworkers will find less need for this jig. If you have years of experience sharpening with a grinder, you probably do not require a jig for alignment.
The Best Bench Grinder For Woodworking – Mid Price Range
DeWalt DW756 6-Inch Bench Grinder
Recommended for: Woodworkers wanting durability with the best bench grinder under 100 dollars.
The best bench grinder for woodworking does not have to cost a small fortune. DeWalt's DW756 is a durable design made from quality components. It will keep your tools sharp and can be used for other grinding or polishing applications.
DeWalt DW756 Features
The table (or tool rest) on the DW756 is just one of the features that make this the best bench grinder under 100 bucks. These surfaces are precision-machined, and they wrap around the wheel for better stability at angles other than the front only. That extra table space will come in handy with many heavy-duty applications beyond tool maintenance.
The cast iron base and housing used on the DW756 provides more than durability. It helps to reduce vibration. It is not as noisy as grinders that use cast aluminum for these components.
New users will appreciate is how easy this grinder is to adjust and use. Knobs are conveniently placed and can be manipulated without a struggle. This is another reason that it is the best bench grinder under 100 dollars.
DeWalt DW756 – Things We Like
- The spark shields are large and clear. This provides good protection and allows you to see the tool's edge easily.
- Its 5/8 horsepower can generate 3,450 RPMs. That speed will help remove material quickly, especially with the right abrasive.
- This product comes with good customer support. DeWalt provides a 90-day money-back guarantee, one year of free service, and the three-year limited warranty. DeWalt also has many service centers across North America.
DeWalt DW756 – Not So Good
- This is not the most stable design. It might be a bit top-heavy due to the small base dimensions in combination with the wheel housing.
- Extended grinding sessions might overheat the motor. That should only be an issue at busy grinding stations.
Delta Power Tools 23-197 8-Inch Bench Grinder
Recommended for: Serious users looking for the best variable speed bench grinder should consider the Delta 23-197.
4.4 out of 5.0 stars
Another feature that can make for the best bench grinder for woodworking is the ability to adjust the rotation speed. A dial allows users to run between 2,000 and 3,400 RPMs. It provides versatility and can adjust to the wheels that you install.
Delta Power Tools 23-197 Features
A five amp motor also makes this the best variable speed bench grinder as it generates the power needed for maximum rotation speeds on your eight-inch wheels. It should keep rotations near the desired speed, even when making contact with dense materials.
The best variable speed bench grinder also has a cast iron base. It is wide and deep enough to provide a stable work platform. You will not tip it over as you press into the wheel with your tool or workpiece.
The Delta Power Tools 23-197 is covered by an extensive five-year warranty. That is a good timeframe when you compare it to some of the warranties covering other grinders on this list. A product with that type of backing should help to inspire consumer confidence.
Delta Power Tools 23-197 – Things We Like
- The variable speeds that it provides. You won't get the same performance from a single or two-speed grinder.
- It includes a small water tray. This can help you keep your chisels and blades cool during longer grinding sessions.
- A drill bit rest is included in the left table. This helps keep the tip in place.
Delta Power Tools 23-197 – Not So Good
- The 23-197 requires some assembly. It can also be a bit tricky to come apart during wheel change-outs.
- Plastic knobs are used to lock down adjustments. These are more flimsy than metal knobs and could crack if too much pressure is applied to them.
The Best Bench Grinder For Woodworking – Budget Choices
WEN 4276 6-Inch Bench Grinder
Recommended for: New woodworkers or DIY'ers building their tool collection might consider this the best bench grinder under 50 dollars.
The best bench grinder for woodworking list would not be complete without including a budget-minded model for readers who are tight on cash. The 4276 saves you money with lighter materials and a smaller 2.1 amp electric motor.
WEN 4276 Features
WEN's bench grinder uses two six-inch wheels to provide the abrasive contact. One is a 36 grit wheel for fast material removal. The 60 grit wheel is more for general purpose grinding and sharpening.
Another feature the best bench grinder under 50 uses to keep the cost down is a smaller tool rest. These are smaller than those found on other products reviewed here. They will, however, provide support as you grind on the 3/4-inch wide wheels.
The light that comes with the WEN 4276 is a pleasant addition. You can move it all over the place, and it can be turned to present the best possible light angle. These adjustments are another reason this is the best bench grinder under 50 bucks.
It will make a reasonable first-time purchase or serve as a decent back-up for your shop. It is lightweight and can be stored easily.
WEN 4276 – Things We Like
- The price is great. New woodworkers and tight budgets are better served.
- Its light is highly adjustable. You can move it around to find the best angle to shine on your work piece or tool.
- This benchtop grinder runs quietly. This could prove to be the difference-maker with a louder grinder.
WEN 4276 – Not So Good
- Building materials are not the highest quality. The plastic components will not last as long as cast aluminum.
- It does not have mounting holes in the base. This makes it more difficult to mount.
WEN 4280 8-Inch Variable Speed Bench Grinder
Recommended if you're looking for: The Best Budget Variable Speed Bench Grinder
5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Combining design features firmly places the WEN 4280 on the best bench grinder for woodworking list as the best budget variable speed bench grinder. The WEN 4280 provides users with variable speed control as well as a lower overall price tag. That will be appealing to many woodworkers.
This is the best budget variable speed bench grinder thanks to the control you have over the rotations on this five amp electric motor. It ranges from 2,000 to 3,400 RPMs under no-load conditions. That speed should not drop unless you are working with highly-dense materials or worn-out wheels.
Another stand out for the best budget variable speed bench grinder is that it uses a cast iron base. That will reduce vibration and provide a solid hold when it is bolted to your workbench or a pedestal. This base will likely outlive other components on the grinder.
Each table is wide enough to allow you to approach the wheels from side angles. That can be important when grinding chisels with tapering edges. A work light attached to an adjustable gooseneck allows you to place the light where you need it.
- It comes at a great price. You will be hard-pressed to match it when variable speeds and an eight-inch wheel are taken into account.
- Bigger water tray. They hold plenty of water and can accommodate larger blades and chisels..
- No markings on knob control. You cannot fine-tune the speed setting with this control.
If you have enjoyed the best bench grinder for woodworking review click over to our essential list of woodworking power tools
The Best Bench Grinder For Woodworking – Grinding It Down To What You Need
The best bench grinder for woodworking depends on what you need in your shop. The bench grinders we reviewed present features that can be advantageous for many reasons.
Jet's 577102 JBG-8A 8-Inch Bench Grinder allows you to grind on a professional level with power and durability that sharpening chisels will require.
The BUCKTOOL TDS-200C4HL is designed for larger wheels such as CBN grinding wheels designed to keep tools cool while sharpening. It would be ideal to use for lathe chisels and other long blades.
There is nothing that comes close to preserving the hardness of your tools like a cool running CBN wheel. The World of Wood CBN wheel stands out as a good choice for eight-inch machines with a 5/8-inch arbor.
Oneway Wolverine Grinding Jig is something that allows less-experienced users to hold long tools while they are being worked on by a bench grinder.
A smaller 6-inch grinder is available with the DeWalt DW756. You will be impressed with the power and performance of under $100.
WEN's 4276 is another six-inch wheel design, but it is priced under $50. It runs quietly and provides a highly-adjustable work light.
If you want the best variable speed control, the Delta Power Tools 23-197 provides you with that and a five-year warranty as well.
Finally, the WEN 4280 is an eight-inch design that combines variable speed control with options that lower its price substantially.
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