In Brief: Grizzly G8688 Lathe Review
The Grizzly G8688 Lathe brings a lot of power to a relatively small benchtop size. The 2.8-amp motor brings 110-volts of power to any woodworking operation. With a 12” distance between centers, this lathe is capable of handling most small to mid-sized projects with ease. Its relatively small size also makes it easy to move for optimal storage options.
Grizzly has become one of the most popular and trusted names in the power tool industry, providing a reliable line of products for sale throughout North America.
Grizzly produces a wide array of power tools.
This includes woodworking machinery, metalworking machinery, blades, router bits, batteries, chargers, circular saws, drills, grinder, combo tool kits and more.
Key Specifications of the Grizzly G8688 Mini Lathe
The Grizzly G8688 Lathe delivers a range of variable speeds starting as low as 100 RPM and going all the way up to 2500 RPM.
This allows the user to get a greater level of precision and accuracy than they would with lesser speed settings.
Even better, users can go both forwards and in reverse in all speed settings. Being able to move in both directions provides a greater ease of use and can be particularly helpful for amateur woodworkers.
The threading dial indicator makes it easier to get the precise thread size that you are working with.
This is a great feature for lesser experienced woodworkers that don’t know how to identify these specifics without the help of a dial or guide.
Even better, the chip tray allows for easier clean up and the backsplash guard helps to keep you protected.
Read the long list of Grizzly G8688 Lathe specs here :
| Specification | |
| Model Number/ Name | G8688 |
| Ideal For | |
| Volts | 110 |
| Current (amps) | 2.8 |
| Speed (rpm) | 100-2500 |
| Distance between centers (in) | 12 |
| Spindle thread (in) | 1”-8 |
| Overall dimensions | 27.75 x 11.5 x 12 |
| Weight (lbs) | 90 |
| Other Features | Tapered Roller, Cross Slide Travel |
Top Features to Look For
Grizzly G8688 Lathe delivers plenty of features for a compact, tabletop lathe that makes it a user-friendly option for woodworkers of all experience levels.
Forward and Reverse in All Speeds
Not every lathe comes with the option to cut in both directions.
The Grizzly G8688 Lathe allows users to perform lathe operations at all speeds without having to go through much in the way of changing settings. Great for users that don’t have much lathing experience.
Variable Speed Settings
The Grizzly G8688 Lathe has a ton of options to it and the variable speed is one of them.
Users can start as low as 100 RPM and work all the way up to 2500 PRM for an improved level of accuracy on all cutting operations.
Cuts Both RH and LH Threads
Some lathes do not come pre-equipped to handle both right-hand threads and left-hand threads. This can create some complications for specific projects that are tough to navigate.
This mini Lathe can handle both without much trouble making this a highly versatile lathe that can take on a number of different operations with the greatest of ease.
Power and Performance
Though benchtop lathes generally are not able to match the level of power that full-sized lathes do, the Grizzly G8688 Lathe packs a good punch thanks to the 2.8-amp motor.
Users can take on just about any small to medium-sized project with ease and can pick their own speed to match the project at hand.
Ease of Use
The Grizzly G8688 Lathe is great for amateur woodworkers.
Its compact size makes it easy for users to operate without the help of an assistant, meaning that woodworkers can complete projects on their own schedule.
Furthermore, the thread indicator makes it easier for users to get the precise threading that they need. All of this delivers a more efficient, accurate lathe experience than others on the market.
Ease of Maintenance, Repairs, and Warranty
Clean up is relatively easy for the Grizzly G8688 Lathe. Since it is a tabletop lathe, it isn’t quite as big as other normal-sized lathes meaning that the mess can be contained.
Even better, there is a chip tray that can catch stray material and the backsplash guard that can keep some of the loose material contained.
It is ideal to replace cutting components each year to prevent chipping and breaking and also to ensure that the cutting is as smooth and efficient as possible.
Warranty
Grizzly has a limited two-year warranty on each one of their power tools, including their line of lathes. The warranty is meant to cover manufacturer defects that emanate from material or manufacturing error.
If you have any questions about the warranty for Grizzly and its line of products, check out their warranty page for more information.
Price of the Grizzly G0602 Grizzly G8688
The Grizzly G8688 Lathe is about average as far as benchtop lathes in terms of price, still coming it at well under $1,000.
It delivers with variable speeds and a plethora of options that some of the other tabletop lathes on the market can’t quite match.
Users were generally pleased with the price feeling that they get an affordable lathe with plenty of options without having to break the bank.
Pros and cons of the Grizzly G8688
Here are some of the pros and cons of the Grizzly G8688 Lathe :
Pros
- User Friendly
- Lightweight
- Plenty of Features
- Variable Speed
Cons
- Benchtop only
Who Should Buy the Grizzly G8688 ?
Not every woodworker out there has a ton of shop space.
That is why the Grizzly G8688 Lathe is such a great choice. It delivers quality lathe power without having to invest in a specific space for it.
The variable speeds also allow for a greater level of precision in lathe operations.
Our Recommendation
The Grizzly G8688 Lathe is a great choice for even the most beginner of woodworkers out there. It is very easy to use, equally as easy to store, and offers a wide range of options to provide a better cutting experience.
Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
