The 2012 Tool Guide Editors went on a search for the Heavy-Duty Benchtop Lathes to look for in 2012. Each lathe was put through a series of tests including Starting RPM, RPM w/Resistance, Speed Loss and Torque tests.
At the conclusion of testing, the Editors decided that "The Delta's power and features stand out from the crowd" and subsequently awarded the DELTA 46-460 it's coveted Editor's Choice - Best Overall Award.
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The 46-460 includes 6" and 10" Tool Rest, spur center, Chrome 3" Face Plate, tool rest base, Knockout Bar, live center, wrenches.
| Motor: 1 HP max, 120V, 60 Hz, 1 Phase | Motor Control: Electronic Variable Speed |
| Speed: 250-700, 600-1,800 and 1,350-4,000 rpm | Swing Over Bed: 12-1/2" |
| Swing Over Base: 9-9/16" | Distance between Centers: 16-1/2"; with Extension: 42" |
| Drive Spindle Thread Count: 1"-8 RH TPI Thread | Drive Spindle through Hole: 15/32" |
| Head and Tailstock Taper: #2 MT MT | Tailstock through Hole: 13/32" Self-ejecting" |
| Tailstock Spindle Travel: 2-1/4" | Tool Rest: 6" and 10" |
| Length: 36" | Width: 11" |
| Height: 17-3/4" | Weight: 97 lbs |
| Shipping Weight: NA |
DELTA will repair or replace, at it's expense, and it's option, any new DELTA machine, machine part, or machine accessory which in normal use has proven to be defective in workmanship or material, provided that the customer returns the product prepaid to a DELTA factory service center.
Get more info on DELTA's WarrantyRequirements
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Download Adobe AcrobatI have been woodturning for a number of years and this the best lathe in its class I have had the pleasure of using. The versatility of the forward and reverse option is outstanding. Variable speed ranges are exceptional and belt adjustment is superbly easy. This is the Gold Standard for Midi Lathes. Thank you Delta for producing a terrific veratile machine.
There's a new "favorite tool" in my shop!
The Delta 46-460 Midi Lathe is nothing short of superb. I have used some other mini and midi lathes in a friend's and in night classes at our local tech school, and the Delta is head-and-shoulders above competitors in the same class.
Mechanically, it is absolutely sound ... no vibration ... and is one of the best "out of the box" tool experiences I have ever had.
The head stock/tail stock centers were aligned perfectly, and the indexing spindle lock permits me to tighten my Tommy Bar chuck with one hand. The reversible motor makes sanding projects on the lathe a breeze.
Good job, Delta!
This is a great midi lathe. With 1 hp, variable speed, and reversable motor, it has most of the features a midi lathe should have. When molunted, the live centers in the headstock and tailstock lined up point on perfect. I have turned everything from small spindles to 10" bowls with no problem. Whether you use Delta's stand or build your own, just make sure it is stable, everything is level, tightened completely, and vibration will be almost non exixtant. One final note, dull tools will never "cut it".



Great lathe, very smooth startup and stop, no vibration during any operation. Variable speed is excellent as is the reverse. Overall "fit and finish" is excellent. This is the best lathe in it's class, and although it was a little higher ( very competitive though ) in price than some competitors, considering the features and quality compared to others- it is also the best value in its class.