Delta Power Equipment Corporation introduced two new bench grinders this week. The larger of the two is the 8-inch Model 23-199, which features a patented tool-less quick change nut and tool-less wheel cover so you can swap out or change grinding or polishing wheels quickly and easily. TheDelta 23-199 8-inch Benchtop Grinder runs at variable speed and has a front-mounted speed dial to dial the grinder in from 2,000 to 3,400 RPM. The Model 23-199 also features a cast iron base to give it more stability and holding power and which also serves to reduce vibration during use. Four rubber feet are also included to help prevent movement. The full-size clear safety shield utilizes thumb screws for easy adjustment. Based on how impressed we were during our Delta Unisaw review, we had high hopes for this bench top grinder.
Delta 23-199 8-inch Benchtop Grinder Features
The Delta 23-199 8-inch Benchtop Grinder comes with a 36-grit coarse wheel for grinding, a 60-grit friable wheel for sharpening, and a diamond wheel dresser. The white sharpening wheel is used for sharpening tools and chisels. Its tool rest has a drill bit rest milled into the surface so you should be able to get the correct angle on the tip at all times. The two-piece tool rests are also independently adjustable to minimize wheel wear and provide a variety of angles.
One feature we have mixed feelings about, having used grinders in not-so-great locations, is the integrated work light. The 40-watt bulb isn’t included and, well, it’s incandescent. LED is the way to go here, but a good LED would definitely bring the price of the grinder up by around $25… and some people may not want to pay for that. The light has a separate on/off switch and uses a flexible goose neck for positioning it in any direction you’d like.
Delta’s 8-inch Bench Grinder features a 5-Amp induction motor to handle the toughest tasks. And while the motor seems tough, it’s also backed by a 5 year warranty, which makes it seem like an even better deal… The price, you ask? $170 – and that’s the retail. Shop around and you may find it for a bit less than that. Delta’s new grinders are available at various woodworking distributors and retailers.
