9 best 8 variable speed bench grinders

An 8 variable speed bench grinder is a power tool used for various grinding, sharpening, and shaping tasks in metalworking, woodworking, and other applications. Here's some information about these tools:

  1. Size and Specifications:

    • The "8" in the name refers to the diameter of the grinding wheel, typically 8 inches in size.This size provides a larger grinding surface for more efficient work.
    • Variable speed means the grinder offers adjustable speed settings, allowing users to choose the right speed for different tasks.
  2. Motor Power and Speed Control:

    • The bench grinder is equipped with an electric motor that powers the grinding wheels.
    • Variable speed control allows the user to adjust the speed of the wheels to suit the specific material or task. Different materials or tasks may require varying grinding speeds for optimal results.
  3. Grinding Wheels:

    • The grinder typically comes with two grinding wheels, one on each side. These wheels can vary in grit and composition based on the intended use.
    • Coarse grit wheels are used for shaping and rough grinding, while finer grit wheels are suitable for sharpening and finishing.
  4. Applications:

    • Bench grinders are versatile tools used for sharpening tools like chisels, knives, drill bits, and more.
    • They can also be used for deburring, removing rust, shaping metal, and polishing various materials.
  5. Safety Features:

    • Bench grinders often have safety features such as eye shields and spark deflectors to protect the user from flying debris and sparks during grinding.
    • Proper safety precautions, including wearing safety glasses and hearing protection, are essential when using a bench grinder.
  6. Stability and Mounting:

    • These bench grinders are designed to be mounted securely on a workbench or stand for stability during operation.
    • A stable mounting ensures safe and efficient use of the grinder.
  7. Maintenance and Care:

    • Regular maintenance, such as inspecting the grinding wheels for wear and dressing them when necessary, is crucial for optimal performance.
    • Keeping the grinder clean and properly lubricated also extends its lifespan.
  8. Accessories and Attachments:

    • Some bench grinders may come with additional accessories or attachments, such as tool rests and wheel dressing tools, to enhance their versatility and usability.

When selecting an 8 variable speed bench grinder, it's important to consider factors such as motor power, wheel size and composition, speed control, and safety features to ensure it meets your specific grinding needs and preferences.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best 8 variable speed bench grinders on the market
  

Delta Power Tools 23-197 8-Inch Variable Speed Bench Grinder

Delta

Based on 490 reviews Check latest price

Product description

8 in. Variable Speed Grinder with two different grit wheels for sharpening and grinding. It also features a flexible work light, cast iron base for durability, and full size safety shields.

Motor: 5 AMP, 120 Volt, 1 Phase



Shaft Diameter: 5/8 in.



Wheel Dimensions: 8 in.Diameter x 1 in. Thick



Wheel Speed: 2,000 to 3,400 RPM



Wheel Grit: 36 and 60 Grit Wheels



Cord Length: 6 feet



Assembled Depth: 11 in.



Assembled Width: 16 1/2 in.



Assembled Height (not including light): 12 1/2 in.



Base Dimensions: 7 1/2 in. Depth x 9 3/4 in. Width

  • Variable speed control offering you convenience and versatility in your grinding, sharpening, buffing and polishing operations
  • Upfront variable speed dial allows you to easily control speeds from 2,000 RPM to 3,400 RPM
  • Features a 5 Amp induction-type motor for powerful performance
  • Incorporates 36 and 60 Grit Wheels for sharpening and grinding
  • The left hand tool rest has a drill bit rest milled into the surface so you'll get the correct angle on the tip at all times
  • Two piece tool rests are independently adjustable to compensate for wheel wear and to achieve different angles
  • Water tray to help keep workpiece cool while grinding

User questions & answers

Question: Can the guards be removed to allow for polishing larger items
Answer: Guards are removable, I would not recommend any type of grinding with them removed though. Be careful.
Question: Can I use this for polishing brass
Answer: I have no idea. I don't know if you can get a polishing wheel on this thing.I know that you can't use an 8" wire brush,stalls instantly because no clearance from the guard. Manufacturer should have advised. Not crazy about this product. If it wasn't so much trouble to return,would have done so immediately.
Question: do you have to buy wheels separate or does it come with two
Answer: It comes complete with the 2 wheels and ready to use after attaching the shield and supports to the body. Easy project. I am very pleased with the grinder.
Question: what is the length of the arbors
Answer: The arbor is 2" long without the back washer on the motor side. Also, the diameter is 5/8".

Product features

Adjustable Safety Shields

Full-size safety shields are clear and have thumb screws for easy adjustment.

Powerful Motor

Features a 5 Amp induction-type motor for powerful performance.

Variable Speed Control

Upfront variable speed dial allows you to easily control speeds from 2,000 RPM to 3,400 RPM for a fine level of control.

Cast Iron Base

Sturdy cast iron base for increased durability and reduced vibration. Built in water tray to keep work piece cool while grinding.

WEN 4280 5-Amp 8-Inch Variable Speed Bench Grinder with Work Light

WEN

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Remember when you spent all that money replacing dull rusty tools? From deburring ragged edges to cleaning objects to sharpening blades, the WEN 8-Inch Variable Speed Bench Grinder with Work Light is the ideal companion for any workshop. These machines allow for simple resuscitation of dull blades, scissors, screwdrivers, and more. Compact yet powerful, the WEN 8-Inch Variable Speed Bench Grinder provides reliability even in the face of the most difficult tasks. Our package includes two 8-inch by 1-inch wheels: an 80-grit wheel for material removal and general purpose grinding and a coarse 36-grit wheel for faster material removal. With our quiet 5-amp motor, expect quick startups and smooth performance. Change the variable speed anywhere from 2000 to 3400 RPM with the simple turn of a knob. The faster speeds are ideal for deburring unwanted material and rust removal while the lower speeds help achieve a precise sharp edge to knives and tools. Built with you in mind, our design makes wheel guard removal as simple as possible for easy wheel changes. The included eye guards can adjust to prevent them from interfering with your project while the flexible work light helps to illuminate your grinding for an increase in accuracy and precision. And because its a WEN product, your 8-Inch Variable Speed Bench Grinder comes backed by a two year warranty, a nationwide network of skilled service technicians and a friendly customer phone line. No need to waste anymore money on new tools. The WEN 8-Inch Variable Speed Bench Grinder with Work Light revives all of your tools back to their sharp original state. Remember when your blades could actually cut through something? Remember WEN.

  • 5-amp variable speed motor goes anywhere from 2000 to 3400 RPM
  • Slower speeds maximize precision while high speeds help with fast material removal
  • Includes an 80-grit and a 36-grit 8-inch by 1-inch grinding wheel
  • Flexible work light helps keep your workpiece illuminated during operation
  • Sturdy cast iron base with mounting holes prevents wobbling and walking

User questions & answers

Question: What is differences/advantages for a variable speed verses a slow speed
Answer: The advantage to having a variable speed is two fold: The slower speed is generally used for sharpening and honing while the higher speed is for removing material faster and buffing/polishing with a polishing wheel or wire wheel. The slower speed creates less friction and therefore less heat while the higher speed (with a grinding wheel) creates more heat.
Question: what is the arber size for 8 inch grinder
Answer: 5/8
Question: How much HP
Answer: 5 amps x 115 volts = 575 watts. 1 hp is around 745 watts, so it works out to be a bit more than 3/4 hp.
Question: My grinder did not come with the wheel removal tool as it was susposed to. Will someone tell me what size it is so I can remove the bent stone
Answer: The stone isn't bent, its the mandrel washers that are on both side of the wheel that are not true. Mine are the same way. I tried to contact WEN, never got a response

Product features

WEN 4280 5 Amp 8" Variable Speed Bench Grinder with Work Light

Remember when you spent all that money replacing dull rusty tools? From deburring ragged edges to cleaning objects to sharpening blades, the WEN 8-Inch Variable Speed Bench Grinder with Work Light is the ideal companion for any workshop. These machines allow for simple resuscitation of dull blades, scissors, screwdrivers, and more. Compact yet powerful, the WEN 8-Inch Variable Speed Bench Grinder provides reliability even in the face of the most difficult tasks.

With our quiet 5-amp motor, expect quick startups and smooth performance. Change the variable speed anywhere from 2000 to 3400 RPM with the simple turn of a knob. The faster speeds are ideal for deburring unwanted material and rust removal while the lower speeds help achieve a precise sharp edge to knives and tools.

Built with you in mind, our design makes wheel guard removal as simple as possible for easy wheel changes. The included eye guards can adjust to prevent them from interfering with your project while the flexible work light helps to illuminate your grinding for an increase in accuracy and precision.

Features:

  • 5-amp variable speed motor goes anywhere from 2000 to 3400 RPM
  • Slower speeds maximize precision while high speeds help with fast material removal
  • Includes an 80-grit and a 36-grit 8-inch by 1-inch grinding wheel
  • Flexible work light helps keep your workpiece illuminated during operation
  • Sturdy cast iron base with mounting holes prevents wobbling and walking

JET IBG-8VS 8" Variable-Speed Industrial Grinder (578208)

Jet

Based on 29 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The JET heavy-duty 1-HP 8" variable-speed industrial bench grinder is engineered with a full casted body and loaded with safety innovations. The exclusive motor stop will reduce RPM speed from 3,600 to 0 in less than 20-seconds bringing the grit wheel to a complete stop.

  • RAPID STOPPING: Brake Resistor will reduce RPM speed from 3,600 to 0 in less than 20 seconds.
  • SAFETY: Large eye shields and cast iron wheel guards.
  • VERSATILITY: 36-grit and 60-grit grinding wheels.
  • DUST COLLECTION: Two round dust ports and T-connector with 2-1/2" OD.
  • CSA/CUS CERTIFIED

User questions & answers

Question: is there a 115 volt version available
Answer: Yes, Although the shafts are short so you will be working close to the housing, unlike the unit designed for buffing.
Question: Is this thing 220v? Keeps tripping my outlets
Answer: I sent two of these back. Not only does it trip a GFCI outlet or breaker, but there is serious (and dangerous) current leakage onto the case of the grinder. To test this, I defeated the ground wire and put my voltmeter on the case of the grinder and measured the voltage to ground. While operating the grinder, the voltage on the case ranges from 90 to 150 volts DC depending on speed. You will get a significant shock if you touch it without a functioning ground wire. This is the reason that the GFCI trips - there is significant currant leakage through the case to the ground wire. I consider this to be a serious and dangerous defect, and cannot believe that this machine passed basic UL testing. I would definitely not recommend this grinder until this problem is fixed.
Question: Can I remove the metal guards and grinding wheels and then add buffing wheels and turn it into a buffer when needed
Answer: Yes, it would be useful. With the variable speed rheostat it has a wide range of uses. Just have to choose the correct type of wheel for your application. The factory wheels are 40 and 60 grit I believe.
Question: Why is it tripping my gfa outlets
Answer: It will take up to a 1" wide wheel.

Ironton 8in. Variable Speed Benchtop Grinder - 3/4 HP, 2,000-3,400 RPM

Based on 44 reviews Check latest price
  • Powered by 3/4 HP, 5 Amp 110V motor
  • Variable speed adjustment dial delivers 2,000–3,400 RPM to match speed to application
  • Adjustable eye shield for safe operation
  • Built-in water cooling tray and wheel dresser
  • Includes 8in. 60 grit aluminum oxide wheel, 8in. wire wheel, wheel dresser, and light bulb

User questions & answers

Question: What is the guarantee
Answer: No, actually minimal noise.
Question: Grindig week on both ends
Answer: Ironton grinders are made by Northern Tool Company out of Minnesota. They have been in business since 1981.
Question: Is this grinder louder than one with a typical induction motor
Answer: I had the same problem. I threw the cheap piece of junk in the garbage.
Question: where is it made
Answer: no, it's not and it is really cheap and has no power. I don't recommend buying it.

Product features

Features + Benefits

  • Powered by 3/4 HP, 5 Amp 110V motor
  • Variable speed adjustment dial delivers 2,000–3,400 RPM to match speed to application
  • Adjustable eye shield for safe operation
  • Built-in water cooling tray and wheel dresser
  • Includes 8in. 60 grit aluminum oxide wheel, 8in. wire wheel, wheel dresser, and light bulb
  • Cast iron base provides stability and reduces vibration
  • Flexible worklight illuminates work area
  • Accepts 8in. grinding wheels with 5/8in. arbor

BUCKTOOL 8-Inch Bench Grinder Professional Power Tools Dual Speed Cast Iron Base TDS-200DS

Bucktool

Based on 148 reviews Check latest price
  • 1/2HP dual-speed induction motor with smooth performance and steady torque at both low and high speed. Slow speed is ideal for sharpening edges of woodworking tools, high speed is ideal for quick metal removal
  • Includes 80 grit and 120 grit white aluminum oxide wheel which can reduce heat build-up
  • Two pieces of cast aluminum tool rests can independently adjustable to compensate for wheel wear and to achieve different angles
  • Sturdy cast iron base with mounting holes prevents wobbling and walking
  • A buffing wheel is provided for multipurpose polishing;It can be also installed with 8" x 5/8"wide x 5/8"shaft size brush wheel

User questions & answers

Question: will a 3/4" wide wire wheel work on this grinder
Answer: It would depend on the size of the piece that is being carved.
Question: where can i get replacement parts for a buck tool grinder
Answer: Haven't tried that
Question: Used new tds-200ds over an hour sharpening. noticed the motor became hot enough i couldn't hold my hand on it. is this normal
Answer: shaft dia.: 10mm. thanks
Question: Is wobbling more often caused by untrue wheels or an imperfect shaft
Answer: Link to 3" grinder wheels - http://www.micromark.com/SearchResult.aspx?deptIdFilter=0&searchPhrase=mini+grinders

Product features

About BUCKTOOL 8-Inch Dual Speed Cast Iron Base Bench Grinder

The BUCKTOOL 8-Inch Dual Speed Bench Grinder is the ideal companion for small workshops and for carpenters, turners, carvers, and other craftspeople working with hand tools. The machine allows for simple resuscitation of dull blades, scissors, screwdrivers, and more. Compact yet powerful, the BUCKTOOL 8-Inch double Speed Bench Grinder provides reliability even in the face of the most difficult tasks. With our quiet 3.1 AMP motor, expect quick startups and smooth performance, the best was you will have same powerful torque at low-speed compare to high speed, it's a big advantage compared to VS models. Change the speed from 1725 to 3450 RPM by simply turn the dual speed switch L to H. The faster speeds are ideal for deburring unwanted material and rust removal while the lower speeds help achieve a precise sharp edge to knives and tools. The heavy-duty cast iron base features anti-vibration rubber feet. No mistakes will be made because of vibrations. A buffing wheel is provided for multipurpose polishing.

Product Information:

120V, 60Hz, 2.1/3.1Amp motor

Wheel Size:8x1x5/8 Inch

Wheel Grit:80#/120#

Motor Speed:1725/3450RPM

Shop Fox W1840 Variable-Speed Grinder with Work Light, 8"

Shop Fox

Based on 60 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This 8" bench grinder features a 3/4 HP motor, dual aluminum-oxide grinding wheels, large eye shields and a directional LED work light. Perfect for a variety of grinding applications.

  • 3/4 HP variable-speed induction motor
  • Dual 8" Aluminum-Oxide grinding wheels
  • 5/8" grinding wheel Bore
  • Motor speed: 2000 - 3400 RPM
  • Dual adjustable aluminum work rests

User questions & answers

Question: If I am looking into knife making would this work for that
Answer: Mine is 12.125” center to center.
Question: Does this take 3/4 or 1 in wide wheel
Answer: I've used it to take the scale off if some steels using a multitool attachment. I think it should work fine with the right grit.
Question: Distance between wheels
Answer: It will come off with any water or if skin is oily
Question: Any reason this grinder would not work for small scale bronze/silver jewelry pendants? enough torque to remove initial casting "scale
Answer: No, the scar is not return.

Product features

Shop Fox W1840 8" Variable-Speed Grinder

This 8" Bench Grinder features a 3/4 HP Motor, dual aluminum-oxide grinding wheels, large eye shields and a directional LED work light. Perfect for a variety of grinding applications.

The heavy cast-iron base adds durability and vibration dampening.

The heavy-duty 3/4 HP induction motor is perfect for heavy duty grinding and sharpening operations.

Variable-Speed Dial

The W1840 Grinder features a variable speed motor with adjustments from 2000 - 3400 RPM

The variable-speed dial controls the grinding wheel speed. Turn clockwise to increase speed; turn counterclockwise to decrease speed.

Toggle Safety Switch w/Removable Key

The W1840 Grinder features an ON/OFF Switch with a disabling key. The removable safety key disables the switch to protect against unauthorized use.

BUCKTOOL 8Inch Low-Speed Bench Grinder fit CBN Wheel Professional Wobble-free Wheel Grinder, Powerful Shop Table Tool, TDS-200C4HL

Based on 42 reviews Check latest price
  • Powerful 1750RPM low-speed induction motor, Rating power 3/4Hp; Peak power 1-1/4Hp, easy to drive CBN wheel
  • Extra wide 1-1/2 Inch first-class WA grinding wheel(can work with 1-1/2 inch CBN wheel), best for carpenters, turners, carvers;Left 8" x 1" x 5/8"(shaft) 80 grit,right 8" x 1-1/2" x 5/8"(shaft)120 grit.
  • Super 3Watts LED with individual switch, great for detail sharpen
  • Angle adjustable eye shield includes one 3 times magnifying; Luxury cast aluminum tool rest can adjust from 0-45 degree
  • Cast iron base with rubber feet, vibration-free. Safety switch with key, avoid unauthorized operation

User questions & answers

Question: I was going to replace the wheels on this (because the reviews say they suck) with these two:hurricane 8" cbn 1 1/2" wide, 80 grit and 180 grit. work
Answer: It’s 9 mm
Question: Ron brown's best cbn grinding wheel 80 grit (9856) will this cbn wheel fit and work with this bucktool grinder
Answer: Yes. They need to be removed to change the 9’’ wheel. The real question is what size arbor
Question: Do you make a grinder with the option of both sides accepting 1 1/2” cbn wheels
Answer: I would not recommend using any grinder not explicitly stated for that application....so no!!
Question: Is the light battery powered
Answer: No

RIKON Power Tools 80-808 8" 1 hp Low Speed 1725 RPM Bench Grinder

Based on 62 reviews Check latest price

Product description

1 HP Low Speed Bench Grinder #80-808 is a larger size motor and will tackle the tough grinding jobs that are typical in production shops, as well as the finesse shaping and sharpening of hand tools. Tool rests on this machine are extra-large and flat, without a drill bit sharpening groove. Wheel flanges are cast metal. Grinder includes dual dust collection ports on the rear of the wheel guards.

  • Cast iron base with rubber feet reduces vibration
  • Metal wheel guards for added protection also include 31mm (1-1/4") rear dust ports for hooking up dust collectors
  • Adjustable cast metal tool rests give solid tool support
  • Includes a set of plain and a set of 2.5x Magnifying Eye Shields
  • LED Work Light

User questions & answers

Question: What kind of light bulb does it use
Answer: The center line of the arbor is 7 3/8", plus or minus.
Question: Where it made from
Answer: I have 1 1/2" CBN wheels on my grinder and I used the washers that came with the wheels supplied with the grinder which take up 1" of the arbor length - not a whole lot of thread left, but it works fine. I took the guards off because CBN wheels do not have the danger that ALOX wheels have. I've been very happy with them.
Question: what is the height form bench top to center of arbor
Answer: It is 115v it has variable speed motors that I believe would be internally inverted in voltage
Question: will a 1 1/2 inch CBN wheel fit this grinder? The 1 inch looks pretty close to the guard
Answer: It has and Induction motor and will trip a ground fault plug

Metabo - 8" Bench Grinder - 3, 570 Rpm - 4.8 Amp (619200420 200), Bench Grinders

Metabo

Based on 69 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Includes DS 200 8-in 4.8 Amp Bench Grinder - 619200420, 36P Normal Corundum Grinding Wheels, 60N Normal Corundum Grinding Wheels, Spark Protection Glasses, Work piece Support, Hexagonal Wrench.

  • No-load speed (RPM): 3,570 and Arbor size: 1"
  • Sturdy machine for industrial use and Low-noise and low-vibration, maintenance-free induction motor
  • Motor for single phase alternating current
  • Robust die-cast aluminum protective covers
  • Protective cover bayonet lock for quick and simple disc change

User questions & answers

Question: It says on metabo website120v us is that correct because it shows 240 on amazon
Answer: 3570 rpm
Question: what is the horsepower? 1/2, 3/4, 1 hp? Do grinding wheels bought in the USA fit? If not how do you get replacements
Answer: The labeling on the box says made in PRC. I have 2-8" Jet grinders,and now the metabo 8" all 3 work very well,I use them daily on steel. The important thing is to use american made wheels which are balanced. cheap wheels will make the grinders vibrate, the cheap wire wheels will through the wires, out. You get what you pay for in tools. good luck.
Question: What's the running rpm for this machine
Answer: It comes in a box.
Question: Where is this made? The ds 175 says made in PRC on the label
Answer: Upper ring has an inside diameter of approximately 7/8 inch. Definitely not 1 inch.

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