LEM Big Bite #8 0.35 Review: Who It Fits and Who Should Skip It

What stands out

• 250-watt induction motor with a start and run capacitor for reliable power
• All-metal gears with roller bearings and a five-year factory warranty
• Stainless steel head, auger, and meat pan for hygiene and durability
• Includes two grinding plates (coarse and fine) and three stuffing tubes
• Built-in circuit breaker protects the motor from overload

Who it fits

Key specs explained for LEM #8

Motor Wattage: 250 W

This power rating indicates the electrical load the induction motor draws during operation. It suggests the unit can handle moderate continuous grinding tasks without overheating. You should compare this against lower-wattage home models that may stall under heavy loads. This spec helps you gauge whether the grinder has enough torque for dense meat cuts.

Horsepower: 0.35 HP

Horsepower measures the rotational force the motor generates. A 0.35 HP rating places this unit in the entry-level professional category. It offers more strength than basic consumer appliances but less than high-end industrial machines. You can expect steady performance for regular home butchery projects without excessive strain on the internal components.

Grinder Head Size: #8

The #8 designation refers to the diameter of the grinding plate opening. This size is standard for home and semi-pro use, balancing speed and texture control. It is smaller than #10 or #12 heads, which are reserved for commercial volume. You will find this size ideal for processing typical household meat quantities efficiently.

Housing Material: Stainless steel

Stainless steel construction provides durability and resistance to corrosion from meat juices. It simplifies cleaning and maintains a sanitary surface over time. You should compare this to plastic housings that may crack or retain odors. This material choice ensures the appliance remains hygienic and robust for long-term use in a kitchen environment.

Design and build specs

The listing describes a heavy-duty layout built for stability. The housing, head, auger, and meat pan are all stainless steel. This material choice resists corrosion and simplifies cleaning after processing raw meat. The unit weighs 36 pounds according to the specifications. This mass helps keep the grinder steady during operation, reducing vibration when grinding tougher cuts.

Dimensions are listed as 9.25 inches wide, 18 inches long, and 16 inches high when fully assembled. The motor section alone measures 7.5 by 14 by 12 inches. These proportions suggest you need a dedicated counter or table space. The handle is built into the frame for easy moving, but the size requires planning for storage.

Controls include a built-in circuit breaker for safety. The motor is permanently lubricated and induction-based, which typically means less maintenance. The Big Bite technology features a 2-inch opening in the head, allowing you to feed larger chunks of meat directly. This design reduces prep time and minimizes clogging. The finish is metallic, matching the industrial aesthetic of the all-metal gear system. You get a sturdy, no-frills tool focused on function rather than decorative appeal.

Setup and everyday use

Setting up this grinder involves assembling the stainless steel head, auger, and knife onto the motor housing. The unit weighs 36 pounds, so you will need a sturdy surface to prevent movement during operation. The Big Bite opening measures two inches, allowing you to insert large cuts of meat directly into the feed tube without pre-cutting. This feature reduces prep time significantly. You do not need to cut steaks or roasts into small cubes before grinding. The motor is permanently lubricated, which means you will not need to add oil to the gears for routine maintenance. The induction motor includes a start and run capacitor, ensuring smooth power delivery when you switch it on. A built-in circuit breaker protects the unit if the motor encounters excessive resistance. For daily use, the #8 grinder head handles moderate volumes efficiently. You will receive two grinding plates, one coarse and one fine, to adjust texture based on your recipe. The stainless steel meat pan catches the ground product directly. If you plan to make sausages, the kit includes three stuffing tubes. You can attach these to the front of the unit. Cleaning is straightforward because all food-contact parts are stainless steel. You can rinse the head, auger, and plates after each use. The heavy-duty handle on the side allows you to move the machine easily if you need to store it away. The dimensions are compact enough for most kitchen counters, but you should ensure you have enough clearance for the feed tube. The ETL certification indicates the electrical components meet safety standards for household use. You can rely on the five-year factory warranty for long-term peace of mind. The metallic finish resists stains and keeps the unit looking clean.

Before You Buy LEM Big Bite #8

You need a sturdy, level surface for this 36-pound unit. The heavy stainless steel construction prevents walking during operation, but vibration can still occur. You must check your outlet capacity. The 250-watt motor draws significant current. Ensure your kitchen circuits can handle the load without tripping breakers. You will need to store the included coarse and fine plates carefully. Keep the knife sharp for efficient grinding. Clean the stainless steel head and auger immediately after use to prevent residue buildup. This grinder sits alongside food processors in your prep arsenal. It handles meat specifically, while other appliances manage vegetables or dough. You should verify that your workspace accommodates the 18-inch length. The two-inch feed opening requires you to cut meat into manageable strips. This model suits those prioritizing durability over compact storage.

Check before you buy

• Verify your kitchen outlet can handle the 250-watt motor load.
• Ensure your counter supports the 36-pound weight without slipping.
• Confirm you have space for the 18-inch unit length.
• Check that you can store the extra plates and tubes.
• Prepare to cut meat into strips fitting the 2-inch opening.

The product at a glance

1

LEM Big Bite #8 0.35 HP Electric Meat Grinder

Best for: Durable stainless steel meat grinding

Power Source

Electric

Grinder Head Size

#8

Motor Wattage

250 W

Horsepower

0.35 HP

Housing Material

Stainless steel

Grinding Plates

2 plates (Coarse, Fine)

View on Amazon: LEM Big Bite #8 0.35 HP Electric Meat Grinder Affiliate link

The LEM Big Bite #8 is a 0.35 HP electric meat grinder with a 250-watt induction motor. It features a stainless steel head, auger, and housing. The unit weighs 37.9 pounds and includes two grinding plates for coarse and fine textures. You get three stuffing tubes and a stainless steel knife. This setup suits those needing durable metal components for regular meat processing.

Pros

• 250-watt induction motor with start and run capacitor
• Stainless steel head, auger, and housing
• Includes coarse and fine grinding plates
• Comes with three stuffing tubes
• Built-in circuit breaker for safety

Cons

• Heaviest unit on the list at 37.9 pounds
• Smallest motor horsepower at 0.35 HP
• Includes only two grinding plates

Good fit if

• You want all-metal grinding components
• You need a reliable induction motor
• You plan to stuff sausages regularly

Skip if

• You need more than 0.35 HP power
• You want a lighter appliance to move
• You require more than two plate options

Verdict: LEM Big Bite #8 Meat Grinder fits users who prioritize stainless steel durability and consistent induction motor performance over raw horsepower or extra plate variety.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• lem products w779a stainless steel alternatives
• best LEM food grinders for home use
• lem products bigbite 16 tray stainless review
• kraus stainless steel 18 in review