Delta Power Tools 23-196 6-Inch Variable Speed Bench Grinder
Best for
Best for the home shop
Amazon rating
Amazon aggregate, one input among many in the Verdict Score
Based on 2 trusted sources
Current price
$99.00
Updated Jun 27, 2026 · 1 min read
Sources behind this verdict
6 reviewers weighted by source trust
The consensus
What reviewers found
Synthesized across the trust-weighted source mix below.
Across the reviewers we read, the Delta 23-196 is a familiar, name-brand 6-inch variable-speed grinder that suits general home-shop duty. Verified-purchase reviews (246 ratings at 4.5) and retailer listings highlight the cast-iron base, two grits for sharpening and grinding, and a built-in water tray to keep workpieces cool. Variable speed and a long-standing brand reputation make it a comfortable choice for someone outfitting a general-purpose bench.
What reviewers liked
- Variable speed plus a cast-iron base and water tray for general home-shop tasks
- Recognized Delta brand with a solid verified-purchase rating (4.5 over 246 reviews)
- Two grits included for both sharpening and grinding
Where it falls short
- r/woodworking owners report notable vibration traced to out-of-balance factory wheels
- Only a 2.5-amp 6-inch unit, limited for heavy material removal
- Best performance may require replacing the factory wheels
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Across the reviewers we read, the Delta 23-196 is a familiar, name-brand 6-inch variable-speed grinder that suits general home-shop duty. Verified-purchase reviews (246 ratings at 4.5) and retailer listings highlight the cast-iron base, two grits for sharpening and grinding, and a built-in water tray to keep workpieces cool. Variable speed and a long-standing brand reputation make it a comfortable choice for someone outfitting a general-purpose bench.
The most important caveat comes from high-trust community threads. In r/woodworking, owners of this exact tool report significant vibration, with the consensus diagnosis being out-of-balance factory grinding wheels rather than a defective motor; several note that swapping the wheels resolves it. This mirrors a broader r/Tools pattern that cheap factory wheels are the usual culprit behind grinder vibration. It is a fixable issue, but buyers should budget for better wheels and possibly a dressing.
Weighing the positive verified-purchase sentiment against the documented vibration complaints, the trust-weighted verdict is a capable home-shop grinder that benefits meaningfully from upgraded wheels. As a 6-inch unit it is best for sharpening and light grinding rather than heavy stock removal.
- 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 2 1/2 Amp induction-type motor for powerful performance
- Incorporates two different grits for sharpening and grinding
- The left tool rest has a drill bit rest milled into the surface so you'll get the correct angle on the tip at all times
This Delta 8 inch bench grinder (Model# 23-880) is for sale for $30 near me, wondering if anyone is familiar with this model and/or if it's a good deal.
My guess is that one or both of the grinding wheels are out-of-balance. Try changing them out? I have the same tool and no vibration.
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“Tool Review: Delta 6” bench grinder - Model 23” · 196
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