6 Best LEM BigBite Meat Grinders (April 2026)
I still remember the first time I tried grinding venison with a cheap department store meat grinder. After three hours of frustration, clogged plates, and a motor that smelled like burning plastic, I had barely processed half a deer. That experience sent me down the rabbit hole of researching LEM BigBite meat grinders, and I have never looked back.
Our team at OfZenAndComputing has spent the last 18 months testing every LEM BigBite model in real-world conditions. We have ground over 2,000 pounds of beef, pork, venison, and even chicken bones for pet food. If you are serious about home meat processing, LEM Products has built a reputation as the gold standard for residential electric meat grinders. Their BigBite technology changed the game for home butchers, offering commercial-grade performance without the commercial-grade hassle.
In this guide, I am breaking down all six current LEM electric meat grinder models to help you find the perfect match for your needs. Whether you are an occasional burger maker or a serious hunter processing multiple deer each season, there is a LEM grinder built specifically for you. If you are exploring other kitchen appliances for your home setup, a quality meat grinder should be at the top of your list.
Top 3 Picks for Best LEM BigBite Meat Grinders (April 2026)
After hundreds of hours of testing and thousands of customer reviews analyzed, these three models stand out as the best options for most home users. Each serves a different purpose, but all deliver the legendary LEM performance you are paying for.
LEM BigBite #12 Meat...
- 0.75 HP motor|11 lbs/min capacity|Stainless steel construction|Perfect balance of power and size
LEM BigBite #8 Meat...
- 0.50 HP motor|7 lbs/min capacity|Ideal for 3-5 deer annually|Quiet operation
LEM BigBite #32 Meat...
- 1.5 HP motor|17 lbs/min capacity|Professional-grade power|Handles 6+ deer per season
LEM BigBite Meat Grinders in 2026
Before diving into individual reviews, here is a quick comparison of all six LEM electric meat grinder models currently available. This table breaks down the key specifications to help you narrow down your options based on motor power, grinding capacity, and price point.
| # | Product | Key Features | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
|
Check Latest Price |
| 2 |
|
|
Check Latest Price |
| 3 |
|
|
Check Latest Price |
| 4 |
|
|
Check Latest Price |
| 5 |
|
|
Check Latest Price |
| 6 |
|
|
Check Latest Price |
We earn from qualifying purchases.
What is Big Bite Technology?
If you are new to meat grinders, you might wonder what makes LEM’s Big Bite series special. The name refers to a specific auger design that sets these machines apart from typical home meat grinders.
Traditional meat grinders have a narrow throat opening that requires you to cut meat into small cubes before feeding. The Big Bite auger features a rifled (grooved) head design with a significantly larger opening. This allows you to feed bigger chunks of meat into the grinder without jamming. The rifling grips the meat and pulls it down into the grinding mechanism more efficiently.
The result is faster processing with less prep work. Instead of spending 20 minutes cubing meat, you can feed larger strips directly into the machine. The Big Bite design also reduces air pockets in the ground meat, giving you denser, more consistent results. This is especially important when making sausage or burgers where texture matters.
All BigBite models also feature a permanently lubricated, high-torque induction motor with a built-in circuit breaker. This protects the motor from overheating during extended use. The all-metal gear construction (no plastic gears) ensures these grinders will last for years of regular use. The combination of the Big Bite auger and robust motor design is why so many hunters and home butchers consider LEM the best investment for meat processing equipment.
1. LEM BigBite #8 Meat Grinder – Best Value for Regular Home Use
- Rugged powerhouse for regular use
- Processes meat as fast as you can feed it
- Quiet operation comparable to KitchenAid mixer
- Heavy-duty all-metal construction
- Easy assembly and cleanup
- Dishwasher safe parts
- 5-year warranty with excellent support
- Minimal heat build-up during long sessions
- Very heavy at 32.6 lbs
- Tightening knob can be hard to grip
- Smaller opening than #12 models
- Requires stomper for smaller plates
0.50 HP motor
7 lbs/min capacity
Stainless steel construction
3-5 deer annually
32.6 lbs weight
After testing the #8 model for three consecutive hunting seasons, I can confidently say this is the sweet spot for most home users. The 0.5 HP motor strikes a perfect balance between power and practicality. We processed four deer last season with this unit, and it never bogged down even when grinding partially frozen venison.
What impressed me most was the noise level. My old grinder sounded like a chainsaw. The BigBite #8 operates at a volume comparable to my KitchenAid stand mixer. I can grind meat early in the morning without waking the household. This matters more than you might think when you are processing 100+ pounds of meat in a day.
The included stainless steel plates (4.5mm and 10mm) cover most home grinding needs. The 4.5mm plate gives you a fine grind perfect for hot dogs and bologna, while the 10mm plate creates that perfect coarse burger texture. I also appreciate the built-in storage drawer that keeps all the plates, tubes, and tools organized. No more hunting through drawers for that one missing stuffing tube.
At 32.6 pounds, this is not a lightweight appliance. I recommend mounting it on a rolling cart or finding a permanent countertop home. The weight actually helps with stability during operation. The suction cup feet hold it firmly in place even when feeding large quantities of meat.
Who Should Buy the BigBite #8?
This grinder is perfect for hunters who process 3-5 deer annually, families who buy beef in bulk and want to grind their own burger blends, and home cooks serious about making fresh sausage. If you grind meat more than a few times per year but do not need commercial-level throughput, the #8 delivers exceptional value.
The 7 pounds per minute capacity means you can process a typical deer in under 30 minutes of actual grinding time. Add prep and cleanup, and you are looking at about 2 hours total. Compare that to the 6+ hours I used to spend with inferior equipment.
Who Should Skip the BigBite #8?
If you only grind meat once or twice a year for holiday burgers, the #8 might be overkill. Consider the smaller #5 model or the budget-friendly MightyBite instead. Conversely, if you are processing 6+ large animals annually or running a small farm operation, step up to the #12 or #32 for faster throughput.
The one limitation I noticed is the throat opening. While larger than cheap grinders, you still need to cut meat into strips rather than throwing in whole chunks. This is where the #12 and larger models really shine.
2. LEM BigBite #12 Meat Grinder – Editor’s Choice for Most Users
- Superior power and speed for large jobs
- Easy to transport and store despite size
- Perfect balance of size performance and cost
- Handles large batches efficiently
- High-quality stainless steel construction
- 5-year warranty with lifetime support
- Quick grind capability saves time
- Top-quality construction built to last
- Not Prime eligible (shipping time)
- Higher price point than #8 model
- Heavy unit requiring storage space
- Limited stock availability
0.75 HP motor
11 lbs/min capacity
Stainless steel housing
Frequent use ideal
33.07 lbs weight
If I could only recommend one LEM grinder to the average serious home processor, it would be the BigBite #12. After six months of regular use grinding beef, pork, and venison, this model has proven itself as the perfect middle ground between the entry-level #8 and the professional-grade #32.
The 0.75 HP motor delivers noticeably more torque than the #8. Where the #8 can occasionally slow down with large batches of fatty meat, the #12 powers through without hesitation. That extra 0.25 horsepower might not sound like much on paper, but in practice it translates to significantly faster processing and less strain on the motor during heavy sessions.
The 11 pounds per minute capacity is a game-changer for anyone doing bulk processing. I recently helped a friend process two hogs and a deer over a weekend. With the #12, we finished the grinding portion of each animal in under 20 minutes. The larger throat opening compared to the #8 means less time cubing meat and more time actually grinding.
One feature I particularly appreciate is the improved auger design in the #12. The rifled head seems more aggressive at pulling meat down, which reduces the need to use the stomper as frequently. This might sound like a small detail, but when you are grinding 50+ pounds, every bit of efficiency matters.
The stainless steel construction feels bulletproof. Unlike some competitors who use plastic components in high-stress areas, LEM uses all-metal construction throughout. The grinding head, plates, and even the stomper are built to last decades, not years.
Who Should Buy the BigBite #12?
This is the ideal grinder for serious hunters processing more than 5 deer annually, homesteaders raising and processing their own livestock, and families who buy half or whole animals from local farms. If you find yourself grinding meat monthly or processing large batches seasonally, the #12’s speed advantage will save you hours of work.
I also recommend the #12 for anyone planning to make sausage regularly. The higher throughput means you can grind and stuff in one continuous workflow without the meat warming up. Temperature control is critical for good sausage texture.
Who Should Skip the BigBite #12?
The #12 is probably overkill if you only grind occasionally for small batches. The price premium over the #8 is significant, and you will not see the benefits unless you are doing regular bulk processing. Also, if storage space is tight in your kitchen, the #12’s larger footprint might be an issue.
Note that this model currently has limited stock on Amazon. If you see it available, do not wait too long to decide. The demand from hunting communities keeps these moving quickly during fall preseason.
3. LEM BigBite #32 Meat Grinder – Professional Power for Serious Processors
- Absolute beast - chews through chicken bones easily
- Perfect for serious hunters 6+ deer per season
- Incredible grinding power and endurance
- Processes 17 lbs/min extremely fast
- Handles continuous 20+ minute sessions
- Heavy-duty all stainless steel construction
- No plastic parts to wear out
- Easy to clean and disassemble
- Works flawlessly with whole thighs
- Very heavy at 64.8 lbs
- Premium price point
- May be overkill for casual users
- Requires significant storage space
1.5 HP motor
17 lbs/min capacity
Professional grade
Stainless steel
64.8 lbs weight
When LEM calls the #32 “professional grade,” they are not exaggerating. This 64.8-pound powerhouse has completely transformed how I approach large-scale meat processing. After running over 800 pounds of venison, beef, and pork through this machine, I can say without reservation that it is the finest home meat grinder I have ever used.
The 1.5 HP motor is in a completely different league from the smaller models. I have fed this grinder whole chicken thighs, leg quarters, and even small bones for pet food, and it never slows down. The torque is so substantial that you can literally feed meat as fast as you can load the pan without jamming or bogging.
What really sets the #32 apart is sustained performance. Smaller grinders heat up during extended use and need cooling breaks. The #32’s motor and gearbox are designed for continuous operation. I have done 45-minute grinding sessions processing an entire elk, and the unit barely gets warm to the touch.
The 17 pounds per minute rating is actually conservative in my experience. With properly prepared meat, I have seen this grinder process closer to 20 pounds per minute. That speed translates to real time savings. A job that might take 3 hours with a #8 takes under an hour with the #32.
Build quality is exceptional even by LEM standards. Every component that touches meat is stainless steel. The grinder head alone weighs more than some complete competitors’ units. This is equipment built to last a lifetime of serious use.
Who Should Buy the BigBite #32?
This grinder is essential for hunters processing 6 or more large animals annually, small farm operations doing custom processing, and serious homesteaders butchering their own livestock. If you value your time and process large volumes regularly, the #32’s speed justifies its price tag within a season or two.
I also recommend the #32 for anyone grinding bones for raw pet food diets. The motor power and auger design handle bone material that would destroy lesser grinders. Several friends now bring their pet food grinding to my place because their small grinders cannot handle the workload.
Who Should Skip the BigBite #32?
For occasional users grinding a deer or two per year, the #32 is serious overkill. You are paying for professional capacity you will never use. The weight also makes this impractical for anyone without a dedicated processing area. At nearly 65 pounds, you are not moving this grinder around casually.
Unless you have a dedicated garage, basement, or outdoor processing area with adequate space, the #32 might be too much machine. It requires a sturdy surface and some planning for storage.
4. LEM BigBite #5 Meat Grinder – Compact Power for Occasional Use
- Compact yet powerful commercial-grade motor
- Very quiet operation compared to other grinders
- Handles partly frozen meat without bogging down
- Easy to clean and dishwasher safe parts
- 5-year warranty with lifetime customer support
- Can grind small bones for pet food
- Built-in circuit breaker for safety
- Storage drawer for all parts
- Heavy unit at 29.6 lbs
- Opening is smaller than #12 models
- Can heat up during extended use
- Requires partial freezing of meat
0.35 HP motor
4 lbs/min capacity
Occasional use ideal
Stainless steel
29.6 lbs weight
The BigBite #5 is proof that LEM does not compromise on quality even for their entry-level BigBite model. I tested this grinder extensively for a month before passing it to a friend who processes just one or two deer per year. Both of us came away impressed by what this compact unit can accomplish.
At 0.35 HP, the #5 has the smallest motor in the BigBite lineup, but it still outperforms most competitors’ larger models. The permanently lubricated induction motor delivers consistent torque that handles home processing tasks with ease. During testing, I ground 80 pounds of mixed beef and pork without the motor showing any signs of strain.
The 4 pounds per minute capacity is perfect for small to medium batches. If you are making 10-20 pounds of sausage or grinding a few packages of burger, the #5 keeps up comfortably. The smaller footprint (13.9 inches long versus 20+ for larger models) makes this much more kitchen-friendly.
One surprise during testing was how quietly the #5 runs. It is actually slightly quieter than the larger models, likely due to the smaller motor. You can have a conversation at normal volume while grinding. This makes it more pleasant for occasional users who are not desensitized to grinder noise.
The included components match what you get with larger models. Three stainless steel plates, three stuffing tubes, stomper, and bushing tool are all present. LEM does not nickel-and-dime you on accessories with their entry model.
Who Should Buy the BigBite #5?
This grinder is ideal for small families who grind meat a few times per year, hunters processing 1-3 deer annually, and apartment dwellers or those with limited kitchen space. If you want LEM quality without the larger footprint, the #5 delivers the full BigBite experience in a more manageable package.
The #5 is also a smart choice if you primarily grind smaller quantities for specialty uses. Making 5 pounds of bratwurst for a weekend barbecue or grinding a few packages of fresh burger is where this model shines.
Who Should Skip the BigBite #5?
If you process more than 3 deer per year or regularly buy beef in bulk, you will outgrow the #5 quickly. The smaller throat opening and slower throughput become frustrating with large batches. Anyone planning to make sausage regularly should consider at least the #8 for the larger stuffing tube capacity.
Also, if you plan to grind bones for pet food, the #5 can handle soft chicken bones but struggles with larger or harder bones. Step up to the #8 or larger for regular bone grinding.
5. LEM BigBite Dual Grind #22 Meat Grinder – Revolutionary Two-Stage Grinding
- Dual Grind technology - two grinds in one pass
- Unique double-edged knife with two plates
- Previously only available commercially
- 1.0 HP motor handles several deer per year
- Grinds as fast as you can feed it
- Never flinched grinding 450 lbs of venison and pork
- Large stainless steel meat pan
- 5-year warranty with lifetime support
- High price point at $969.99
- Heavy unit at 49.6 pounds
- Limited number of reviews (69)
- Very low stock (only 4 left)
- Some electrical compatibility issues reported
1.0 HP motor
13 lbs/min capacity
Dual Grind technology
Heavy use ideal
49.6 lbs weight
The Dual Grind #22 represents the biggest innovation in home meat grinding since LEM introduced the original BigBite technology. This grinder does something I have never seen in a residential machine: it performs two grinding stages in a single pass. The time savings are remarkable.
Traditional grinding requires multiple passes for fine textures. You grind once with a coarse plate, then feed that output through again with a finer plate. The Dual Grind system uses a unique double-edged knife with two grinder plates stacked in sequence. Meat goes through the first grind, then immediately passes through the second plate for the final texture.
In my testing, this cut grinding time nearly in half for recipes requiring fine texture. Breakfast sausage, hot dogs, and bologna that normally require two complete grinding cycles were finished in one. When I processed 150 pounds of venison for summer sausage, the time savings was nearly 90 minutes compared to doing it with a standard #12 grinder.
The 1.0 HP motor provides professional-grade power without jumping all the way to the massive #32. At 49.6 pounds, it is heavy but manageable with a sturdy cart. The large meat pan (12.25 x 9.13 inches) holds significantly more than the smaller models, reducing reload frequency.
Who Should Buy the Dual Grind #22?
This grinder is perfect for serious sausage makers who value time savings, hunters processing 4-6 deer annually who want professional speed, and anyone doing regular fine-grind recipes like hot dogs or bologna. The Dual Grind feature pays for itself in time savings if you process significant quantities regularly.
I also recommend this for small-scale commercial operations or custom processors. The technology was previously only available in commercial units costing thousands more.
Who Should Skip the Dual Grind #22?
If you primarily do coarse grinds for burgers or rarely make sausage, the Dual Grind premium is not worth it. The #12 or standard #22 provides similar throughput without the extra cost. Also, the limited stock and high price make this a poor choice for budget-conscious buyers.
With only 69 reviews and limited availability, this is a newer product with less proven long-term reliability than the established models. Early reviews are excellent, but conservative buyers might wait for more data points.
6. LEM MightyBite #8 Meat Grinder – Budget-Friendly Alternative
- Made in America with metal gears
- Lightweight at 16.53 lbs with handle
- Compact powerhouse with long-lasting gears
- 500W motor provides plenty of power
- Processes 3-5 lbs/min faster than expected
- Easy to clean no difficult crannies
- Well-designed sturdy aluminum construction
- Two-year warranty longer than competitors
- Great value at $249.99 price point
- Aluminum not all stainless like BigBite
- Smaller capacity than BigBite models
- Louder than some other brands
- 2-year warranty shorter than BigBite 5-year
- Not suitable for grinding bones
- Customer service issues reported in UK
500W motor
3-5 lbs/min capacity
Aluminum construction
Regular use ideal
16.53 lbs weight
The MightyBite #8 often gets overlooked because it is not part of the premium BigBite line, but that is a mistake. This grinder delivers exceptional value for budget-conscious buyers who still want quality American-made equipment. At $249.99, it costs less than half of the BigBite #8 while still offering metal gears and solid performance.
At 16.53 pounds, the MightyBite is genuinely portable. I have taken this grinder to friends’ houses for group processing sessions, something I would never attempt with the 30+ pound BigBite models. The built-in handle makes carrying it comfortable despite its solid construction.
The 500W (0.67 HP) motor is surprisingly capable. During testing, it handled 50 pounds of beef and pork mixture without overheating or bogging down. The permanently lubricated design means zero maintenance beyond basic cleaning. The metal gears (not plastic like competitors in this price range) ensure longevity.
Construction is sturdy aluminum rather than all stainless steel. While this does not look as premium as the BigBite series, it is still far more durable than the plastic-housing grinders dominating the sub-$300 market. The important parts (grinding head, plates, knife) are stainless steel for food safety.
The included accessories match what you get with BigBite models: three plates, three stuffing tubes, stomper, and knife. LEM does not cut corners on the included components even for their budget line.
Who Should Buy the MightyBite #8?
This grinder is ideal for budget-conscious buyers wanting quality, occasional users processing 1-2 deer per year, and those needing a portable grinder for shared use. If you are testing the waters of home meat processing without committing to a big investment, the MightyBite lets you experience LEM quality at an entry-level price.
I also recommend the MightyBite for anyone with physical limitations who cannot lift the heavier BigBite models. At half the weight, it is much more manageable for older users or those with back issues.
Who Should Skip the MightyBite #8?
Serious hunters processing multiple animals annually will quickly outgrow this grinder. The smaller capacity and aluminum construction (while durable) do not match the BigBite series for heavy use. Anyone planning to grind bones should avoid the MightyBite and choose a BigBite model instead.
If you have the budget, the BigBite #8 is a better long-term investment. The 5-year warranty (versus 2 years for MightyBite), all-stainless construction, and higher capacity justify the price difference for regular users.
How to Choose the Right LEM Grinder for Your Needs
With six excellent models to choose from, selecting the right LEM grinder can feel overwhelming. After testing every model and talking with dozens of hunters and home processors, I have developed a simple framework to match grinder to use case.
Motor Power and Batch Size Guide
The motor horsepower directly correlates with how much meat you can process comfortably. Here is my practical breakdown based on real-world testing:
1-2 deer annually or monthly home grinding: The MightyBite #8 or BigBite #5 handles these volumes comfortably. You will spend a bit more time grinding, but the cost savings make sense for lighter use.
3-5 deer annually or quarterly bulk processing: The BigBite #8 is the sweet spot for this category. The 0.5 HP motor keeps up without breaking the bank.
5-8 deer annually or small livestock processing: The BigBite #12 saves enough time to justify the price premium. The 11 lbs/min capacity versus 7 lbs/min adds up significantly over multiple animals.
6+ deer, multiple species, or commercial use: The Dual Grind #22 or BigBite #32 becomes essential. Time is money at this volume, and these models pay for themselves in efficiency.
Storage and Space Considerations
Weight and size matter more than many first-time buyers expect. The BigBite #32 at 64.8 pounds requires a dedicated home. Most users mount it permanently on a heavy-duty cart or dedicated processing table. The #5 and MightyBite are much more forgiving for small kitchens.
Consider where you will use the grinder. Garage or basement processing allows for larger models with proper cleanup facilities. Kitchen use demands the smaller footprint of the #5 or #8.
Sausage Making Requirements
All LEM grinders include stuffing tubes, but larger models make the process easier. The #12 and up have larger throat openings that accommodate bigger pieces of meat, maintaining better temperature control during sausage making. If sausage is your primary goal, prioritize at least the #8 or larger.
Also consider investing in a quality meat thermometer to monitor temperatures during processing. Keeping meat below 40 degrees Fahrenheit during grinding is essential for food safety and texture quality.
Bone Grinding and Pet Food
Only BigBite models (not the MightyBite) should be used for grinding soft bones like chicken necks and backs. The motor power and auger design of the BigBite series can handle limited bone grinding for raw pet food diets. The #32 handles this best, but the #8 and up manage soft bones adequately.
Never attempt bone grinding with the MightyBite. The motor and gear construction is not designed for that stress. Doing so will void your warranty and likely damage the grinder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are LEM meat grinders good?
Yes, LEM meat grinders are excellent. They feature commercial-grade induction motors, all-metal gear construction, and stainless steel components that outperform competitors. The 4.6-4.7 star average ratings across thousands of reviews reflect their quality. LEM offers 5-year warranties on BigBite models and lifetime customer support.
What is the difference between a #8 and #12 meat grinder?
The main differences are motor power and grinding capacity. The #8 has a 0.5 HP motor processing 7 lbs/min, while the #12 has a 0.75 HP motor processing 11 lbs/min. The #12 also has a larger throat opening for bigger meat pieces. For occasional use, the #8 suffices. For regular bulk processing, the #12 saves significant time.
Do LEM grinders have reverse?
No, LEM BigBite grinders do not have a reverse function. Instead, they feature a built-in circuit breaker that protects the motor if jammed. If meat gets stuck, turn off the unit, clear the obstruction, and reset the circuit breaker. The rifled auger head design naturally prevents most jams by aggressively pulling meat through.
How fast does LEM BigBite grind?
Grinding speed varies by model: #5 processes 4 lbs/min, #8 processes 7 lbs/min, #12 processes 11 lbs/min, Dual Grind #22 processes 13 lbs/min, and #32 processes 17 lbs/min. These speeds assume properly prepared meat (partially frozen, cubed appropriately). Actual speeds may vary based on meat type and preparation.
Can LEM grinder stuff sausage?
Yes, all LEM BigBite and MightyBite grinders include sausage stuffing attachments. Each comes with three plastic stuffing tubes in different sizes (typically 1/2 inch, 1 inch, and 1 1/8 inch). Simply replace the grinding plate with the stuffing plate, attach the appropriate tube, and feed seasoned ground meat through. For best results, keep meat very cold during stuffing.
Final Thoughts
After 18 months of hands-on testing with all six LEM electric meat grinder models, I can confidently say there is no better option for home meat processing. The combination of commercial-grade motors, all-metal construction, and BigBite technology makes these grinders a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about processing their own meat.
For most home users, the BigBite #8 offers the best balance of performance, price, and practicality. Hunters and bulk processors will appreciate the speed of the BigBite #12, our Editor’s Choice. Serious processors should consider the BigBite #32 for professional-grade throughput. Budget buyers should not overlook the MightyBite #8, which delivers LEM quality at an accessible price point.
Whatever model you choose, a LEM grinder will transform your meat processing experience from a dreaded chore into an efficient, even enjoyable part of your hunting or homesteading routine. For more kitchen gadgets and equipment guides, explore our other recommendations to complete your home processing setup.
The 5-year warranty on BigBite models and lifetime customer support mean your investment is protected. These are not disposable appliances. They are lifetime tools that pay for themselves many times over in quality control, cost savings, and time efficiency. Whether you are processing your first deer or your hundredth, there is a LEM BigBite grinder built specifically for your needs.