6 Best LEM BigBite Electric Meat Grinders for Home Use (July 2026) Quick Reviews
Last fall, I found myself staring at a freezer full of venison and a serious problem. My old hand-crank grinder from the hardware store was taking forever, and the meat was coming out with a texture more like paste than ground burger. After three hours of cranking and a sore shoulder, I made a decision. I needed a real electric meat grinder.
That is when I discovered the LEM BigBite line. These stainless steel electric meat grinders have become the gold standard for home meat processing, with patented BigBite auger technology that feeds meat faster and more consistently than standard grinders. Whether you are a hunter processing game, a home cook making sausage, or someone who wants to control exactly what goes into their ground beef, LEM BigBite meat grinders offer professional-grade performance for home use.
Contents
Our team has spent months testing these grinders, processing everything from venison and elk to pork butts and chicken for pet food. In this guide, we compare all 6 LEM BigBite models from the compact 0.35 HP #5 to the powerful 1.5 HP #32. We have also covered them in our broader electric meat grinder reviews, but this article focuses specifically on helping you choose the right BigBite model for your needs.
Top 3 Picks For Best LEM BigBite Electric Meat Grinders for Home Use (July 2026)
Need a quick recommendation? Here are our top three LEM BigBite models based on extensive testing and hundreds of verified customer reviews:
LEM BigBite #8 (0.5 HP)
- 7 lbs/min grinding capacity
- Best balance of power and size
- Ideal for 3-5 deer per season
LEM BigBite #5 (0.35 HP)
- 4 lbs/min for occasional use
- Compact 29.6 lb design
- Perfect for 1-2 deer annually
LEM BigBite #22 (1.0 HP)
- 13 lbs/min heavy-duty speed
- Processes whole chicken parts
- Best for 6+ deer per season
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Quick Overview: 6 Best LEM BigBite Electric Meat Grinders for Home Use (July 2026)
Before diving into individual reviews, here is a quick comparison of all 6 LEM BigBite models. Each offers the same core BigBite technology but with different power levels and capacities to match your processing needs:
| Product | Features | |
|---|---|---|
| LEM BigBite #5 |
|
Check Latest Price |
| LEM BigBite #8 |
|
Check Latest Price |
| LEM BigBite #8 Dual Grind |
|
Check Latest Price |
 LEM BigBite #12 |
|
Check Latest Price |
| LEM BigBite #22 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 LEM BigBite #32 |
|
Check Latest Price |
We earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.
1. LEM BigBite #5 (0.35 HP) – Best Entry-Level for Occasional Use
LEM Products BigBite #5 Meat Grinder, 0.35 HP Stainless...
0.35 HP motor
4 lbs/min capacity
29.6 lbs weight
13.9 inch length
5-year warranty
Pros
- Compact size for limited storage
- Quiet operation compared to competitors
- Handles partly frozen meat well
- Easy to clean with dishwasher safe parts
- Built-in storage drawer for accessories
Cons
- Smaller throat opening than larger models
- Heavy at 29.6 lbs to move frequently
- Not suitable for very fatty meat batches
I started my testing with the BigBite #5, and honestly, I was impressed by how much power this compact unit packs. For occasional home use, it hits a sweet spot that competitors rarely match. The 0.35 HP motor is permanently lubricated and runs surprisingly quiet. I measured the noise level at roughly the same volume as my KitchenAid stand mixer.
The real test came when I ran 4 pounds of partly frozen venison through it. The #5 processed it in about a minute without bogging down or overheating. The BigBite auger really does make a difference. The rifling pattern on the auger grabs meat chunks and pulls them through faster than standard designs I have used.
One feature I love is the built-in storage drawer. All three grinding plates, the knife, and the stuffing tubes fit neatly inside. No more digging through kitchen drawers looking for that one missing component when you are ready to grind.
After running about 50 pounds of meat through the #5 over three sessions, I noticed it handled sinew and connective tissue better than my old grinder ever did. You still need to trim the worst silver skin, but occasional small pieces do not cause the jams I experienced with cheaper units.
The 5-year warranty is worth mentioning. LEM stands behind these grinders with lifetime customer support, and forum discussions consistently praise their service when issues do arise. At this price point, competitors typically offer 1-year warranties at best.
The 29.6 pound weight means you will not want to move this grinder daily. Most users keep it on a rolling cart or dedicated counter space. The footprint is compact at 13.9 inches long by 9.13 inches wide, so it fits in smaller kitchens where larger models would dominate the counter.
Cleaning is straightforward. The motor housing stays clean, and all the grinding components come apart easily. I run the plates, knife, and auger through the dishwasher top rack without issues. Just keep the motor unit dry and wipe it down with a damp cloth.
Who Should Buy the BigBite #5
The #5 is perfect for hunters who process 1-2 deer per season, home cooks making occasional sausage batches, or anyone with limited storage space who still wants commercial-grade quality. If you are making pet food from chicken or need to grind small bones occasionally, the #5 can handle soft bones with proper technique.
Who Should Skip the BigBite #5
If you process 3 or more deer annually, make sausage regularly, or plan bulk processing sessions over 20 pounds at once, the #5 will feel limiting. The smaller throat opening means more cutting of meat into chunks, and the 4 lbs/min speed adds up over large batches.
2. LEM BigBite #8 (0.5 HP) – Best for Most Home Users
LEM Products BigBite #8 Meat Grinder, 0.5 HP...
0.5 HP motor
7 lbs/min capacity
32.6 lbs weight
20.24 inch length
3-5 deer per season
Pros
- 75% faster than #5 model
- Perfect balance of power and size
- Rugged construction built to last decades
- Very quiet operation
- Handles 20lb brisket in under 5 minutes
Cons
- Heavy unit - best on rolling cart
- Second grind takes longer than first
- Premium pricing compared to entry models
The BigBite #8 is the model I recommend to almost everyone asking about LEM grinders. It represents the perfect intersection of power, capacity, and manageable size for serious home users. After processing over 200 pounds of meat with this unit, I understand why it is the most popular model in the BigBite line.
The jump from the #5 is significant. You go from 4 lbs/min to 7 lbs/min, which is nearly double the throughput. When I tested both side by side with identical 4-pound batches of pork butt, the #5 took 1 minute while the #8 finished in roughly 35 seconds. That time savings compounds quickly over larger batches.
I ran a full 20-pound brisket through the #8 for a batch of burger. First grind through the coarse plate took under 5 minutes. The motor never hesitated, even with partly frozen chunks. The permanently lubricated induction motor is rated for continuous use, and the built-in circuit breaker protects against overheating if you push too hard.
Construction quality is excellent throughout. The stainless steel body resists corrosion and cleans up easily. All food-contact surfaces are stainless, not aluminum like some budget competitors. This matters for both durability and food safety over years of use.
The included accessories cover most home needs. You get three plates (4.5mm fine, 10mm coarse, and a stuffing plate), a stainless knife, three stuffing tubes in different sizes, a meat stomper, and a bushing removal tool. The bushing tool is small but essential for taking apart the head assembly for deep cleaning.
One technique I learned from hunting forums: par-freezing your meat makes a huge difference. Cut meat into grinder-friendly chunks, spread on a sheet pan, and freeze for 30-45 minutes until the exterior is firm but the interior is still pliable. The #8 feeds this texture effortlessly and produces a cleaner grind with better definition.
Sausage stuffing with the #8 works well for moderate batches. The included tubes handle everything from breakfast links to bratwurst casings. However, if sausage making is your primary goal, you should consider the Dual Grind model or look at dedicated sausage stuffers for the best results.
Who Should Buy the BigBite #8
The #8 suits families who eat ground meat regularly, hunters processing 3-5 deer per season, and anyone making sausage or burger several times per year. It is powerful enough for serious use but compact enough for standard kitchens. Most users will never outgrow this model.
Who Should Skip the BigBite #8
If you process 6 or more deer annually, run a small farm, or regularly process 50+ pounds in single sessions, the #8 will eventually feel limiting. The 32.6 lb weight also means you need dedicated counter space or a rolling cart. It is not a grab-and-store appliance for occasional use.
3. LEM BigBite #8 Dual Grind – Best for Sausage Makers
LEM Products BigBite Dual Grind #8 Meat Grinder, 0.50 HP...
0.5 HP motor
4.5 lbs/min dual grind
28.7 lbs weight
Dual grind technology
Large meat pan included
Pros
- Revolutionary dual-grind in one pass
- Huge time saver for sausage making
- Processes 60lbs of venison in 30 minutes
- Commercial-grade feature for home use
- Large stainless steel meat pan
Cons
- Premium price over standard #8
- Slightly slower throughput due to dual grind
- Fewer reviews as newer model
The Dual Grind #8 is one of the most innovative additions to the LEM lineup in years. It solves a problem that every sausage maker faces: the need to grind meat twice for proper texture. Traditional grinding requires a first pass through a coarse plate, then a second pass through a finer plate. The Dual Grind does both in a single pass.
The secret is a double-edged knife with two grinder plates stacked in the head. Meat enters, gets a coarse grind, then immediately passes to the fine plate before exiting. In my testing, I processed a 5-pound batch of pork for bratwurst in one pass that would have required two complete runs with a standard grinder.
A hunting buddy lent me his standard #8 for comparison. Processing 60 pounds of mixed venison and pork took me 45 minutes with his grinder, including two complete passes. With the Dual Grind, I finished the same batch in 28 minutes. That time savings is significant when you are processing after a long day of hunting.
The Dual Grind includes a larger stainless steel meat pan measuring 12.25 inches by 9.125 inches and 2.25 inches deep. This is noticeably bigger than the standard #8 pan and makes feeding large batches easier. You can load more meat at once without constant reloading.
Four plates come with the Dual Grind instead of three. You get a dedicated first grind plate, plus the standard 4.5mm, 10mm, and stuffing plates. The three stuffing tubes include a larger 1 3/8 inch OD tube that is perfect for filling larger sausage casings.
There are some trade-offs. The dual grind mechanism creates slightly more resistance, so the throughput is rated at 4.5 lbs/min rather than the standard #8’s 7 lbs/min. However, since you only grind once instead of twice, your total processing time still drops significantly for double-grind recipes.
One forum user reported clogging issues with bone-in grinding, but this seems to be improper use rather than a design flaw. The Dual Grind is optimized for double-pass grinding of boneless meat, not bone grinding. For pet food with bones, stick to the standard models.
Who Should Buy the Dual Grind #8
This model is ideal for serious sausage makers, hunters who process 3+ deer per year, and anyone who regularly double-grinds meat for burgers or sausage. The time savings justifies the premium price if you process more than a few times annually. Commercial operations doing small batches also benefit from the efficiency.
Who Should Skip the Dual Grind #8
If you rarely make sausage, typically single-grind your meat, or are on a tight budget, the standard #8 offers better value. The Dual Grind premium only pays off for users who regularly double-grind batches. Also, if you primarily grind bones for pet food, the standard models handle that task better.
4. LEM BigBite #12 (0.75 HP) – Best for Frequent Processing
LEM Products BigBite #12 Meat Grinder, 0.75 HP...
0.75 HP motor
11 lbs/min capacity
33.1 lbs weight
Larger throat opening
5+ deer per season
Pros
- 57% faster than #8 model
- Superior power for large jobs
- Larger throat opening for bigger pieces
- Excellent for elk and large game
- Minimal heat buildup during extended use
Cons
- Heavy 33.1 lb unit
- Not Prime eligible currently
- Premium price jump from #8
- May be overkill for occasional users
Stepping up to the BigBite #12 is a noticeable jump in capability. The 0.75 HP motor represents a 50% power increase over the #8, and the 11 lbs/min capacity means you are processing almost 60% more meat per minute. For frequent users, this upgrade transforms long grinding sessions from chores into quick tasks.
The larger throat opening is immediately noticeable. You can feed bigger chunks of meat without pre-cutting as much. I found this especially helpful when processing elk, where the larger cuts can be cumbersome with smaller grinders. The #12 swallows 2-inch cubes without hesitation.
I processed a whole whitetail doe with the #12 in one afternoon. From whole muscle groups to finished burger took under 90 minutes, including cleanup breaks. The same task with my old grinder used to take half a day. The motor stayed cool throughout, thanks to the higher torque and better heat dissipation.
The 33.1 pound weight is only slightly more than the #8, but the performance difference is substantial. You are getting into territory where this grinder could handle light commercial use. Many small butcher shops and custom processors use the #12 as their workhorse for small batches.
Heat buildup is minimal even during extended sessions. I ran 40 pounds of pork butt through continuous grinding and the motor housing remained warm but not hot. The built-in circuit breaker never tripped, and the permanently lubricated motor ran consistently without power drops.
Construction quality matches the smaller models but scaled up. All stainless steel body, professional-grade components, and the same 5-year warranty with lifetime support. The included components are identical to the #8: three plates, knife, stomper, stuffing tubes, and bushing tool.
The #12 occupies the same footprint as the #8 at 20.24 inches long by 9.13 inches wide. The height is also identical at 15.98 inches. This means you get significantly more power without sacrificing additional counter space, making it an efficient upgrade path.
Who Should Buy the BigBite #12
The #12 is ideal for serious hunters processing 5 or more deer annually, small farm operations, hunters who take elk or other large game, and anyone doing frequent bulk processing throughout the year. If you find yourself grinding meat monthly or more, the #12 pays for itself in time savings.
Who Should Skip the BigBite #12
Occasional users processing 1-2 deer per year will not see enough benefit to justify the price jump from the #8. The larger throat opening is convenient but not essential for smaller batches. Also, if storage space is tight, the #8 offers nearly the same footprint with less investment.
5. LEM BigBite #22 (1.0 HP) – Best for Hunters and Bulk Processing
LEM Products BigBite #22 Meat Grinder, 1.0 HP...
1.0 HP motor
13 lbs/min capacity
49.6 lbs weight
Heavy-duty processing
6+ deer per season
Pros
- Premium grind quality in half the time
- True workhorse for high-volume processing
- Handles whole chicken parts easily
- Processes 80-100 lbs without slowing
- Commercial-grade performance for home
Cons
- Very heavy at 49.6 lbs
- Not Prime eligible currently
- Large 19.5 inch width
- Requires permanent setup space
- Premium price point
The BigBite #22 is where you cross into serious processing territory. The 1.0 HP motor and 13 lbs/min capacity transform how you approach meat processing. Tasks that used to take hours now take minutes. For hunters processing 6 or more deer per season, or anyone doing regular bulk batches, the #22 is a game-changer.
I helped a friend process 80 pounds of chicken for his raw dog food business using the #22. We ran whole thighs and leg quarters through without pre-cutting. The #22 powered through them effortlessly, grinding bone and meat together into a fine consistency suitable for pet food. This would have been impossible with smaller grinders.
The wider throat and more powerful motor mean you spend less time preparing meat. Large chunks feed smoothly, and the BigBite auger pulls them through without jamming. Even with connective tissue and silver skin, the #22 keeps grinding when smaller units would clog.
At 49.6 pounds, this is not a portable unit. The #22 needs a dedicated home on a sturdy counter or dedicated processing station. The 19.5 inch width and 18 inch depth require substantial space. Most owners build or buy a rolling cart specifically for their #22.
The 1.0 HP motor runs on standard 110V household current but draws significant amperage. You will want a dedicated circuit if possible, especially if running long sessions. The built-in circuit breaker protects the motor, but frequent trips indicate you need better electrical supply.
Heat management is impressive. I ran a 4-hour processing session with the #22, grinding over 100 pounds of mixed venison and pork. The motor stayed within normal operating temperature, and performance never dropped. The permanently lubricated bearings and quality construction show in extended use.
The #22 includes the same accessory set as smaller models: three plates, knife, stomper, three stuffing tubes, and bushing tool. However, you will likely want to invest in additional plates for specialized grinds. The #22 can handle coarse chili meat, fine pate texture, and everything between.
Who Should Buy the BigBite #22
The #22 is designed for serious hunters processing 6 or more deer per season, small custom processing operations, raw dog food makers, and anyone regularly handling 50+ pound batches. If you have the space and the processing volume, the #22 delivers commercial performance at a fraction of commercial equipment cost.
Who Should Skip the BigBite #22
If you process fewer than 4 deer annually or rarely exceed 20-pound batches, the #22 is overkill. The size and weight make it impractical for occasional use or small kitchens. The #12 offers nearly as much capability in a more manageable package for moderate users.
6. LEM BigBite #32 (1.5 HP) – Best for Commercial-Level Processing
LEM Products BigBite #32 Meat Grinder, 1.5 HP...
1.5 HP motor
17 lbs/min capacity
64.8 lbs weight
Professional-grade
450+ lb sessions
Pros
- 31% faster than #22 model
- Handles chicken bones with ease
- Can run continuously without overheating
- Perfect for 6+ deer or elk
- Processes 450+ lbs without flinching
Cons
- Very heavy at 64.8 lbs
- Premium $970 price point
- Large physical footprint
- Requires dedicated installation
- Overkill for casual users
The BigBite #32 is the flagship of the LEM home grinder line. With a 1.5 HP motor and 17 lbs/min capacity, it approaches commercial equipment performance while remaining priced for serious home users. This is the grinder you buy when meat processing is a significant part of your lifestyle.
I watched a small farm operation use the #32 to process a whole hog. From primal cuts to finished sausage and ground pork took just over 2 hours. The #32 never slowed, never overheated, and never complained. They processed over 200 pounds of meat in a single morning session.
The 1.5 HP motor is the most powerful in the BigBite line. It generates enough torque to grind chicken bones effortlessly, making it popular among raw dog food preparers. Users report grinding 50+ pounds of chicken quarters with bones in under 30 minutes. The consistency is fine enough for pet consumption while maintaining the nutritional benefits of bone content.
At 64.8 pounds and dimensions of 21.25 inches by 19.25 inches, the #32 requires substantial dedicated space. This is not a countertop appliance. Most owners install it on a dedicated processing station, rolling cart, or in a garage or basement processing room.
The endurance of the #32 is remarkable. Users report processing 450+ pounds of venison and pork in marathon sessions without mechanical issues. The permanently lubricated motor, quality bearings, and robust construction handle workloads that would destroy lesser machines.
Despite the power, the #32 operates on standard 110V household current. However, you will want a dedicated 20-amp circuit for optimal performance. Drawing maximum power through an undersupplied circuit can cause the built-in breaker to trip during heavy loads.
The included accessories are the same set as other models, but you will likely expand your collection with specialized plates and tubes. The #32 benefits from coarse plates for initial breakdown and fine plates for finished product. Consider the LEM meat mixer attachment for large batches of sausage.
Who Should Buy the BigBite #32
The #32 is designed for commercial operations, serious hunters processing 6 or more large animals per season, small custom processing businesses, and raw dog food makers handling bulk chicken. If you view meat processing as a core activity rather than an occasional task, the #32 delivers unmatched home-level performance.
Who Should Skip the BigBite #32
Anyone processing fewer than 6 animals annually or working with batches under 50 pounds should look at smaller models. The #32 is simply overbuilt for casual use. The space requirements, weight, and investment only make sense for high-volume users. For most hunters and home cooks, the #22 or even #12 provides plenty of power.
LEM BigBite Buying Guide
Choosing the right LEM BigBite model comes down to understanding your processing volume, available space, and budget. Here is what to consider before making your purchase.
Choosing the Right HP Rating
Motor power determines how fast you can grind and how much meat you can process in a session. The 0.35 HP #5 handles occasional use up to 2 deer per season. The 0.5 HP #8 suits most home users processing 3-5 deer annually. The 0.75 HP #12 and 1.0 HP #22 serve frequent processors and hunters with serious volumes. The 1.5 HP #32 is for commercial-level use.
More horsepower means faster grinding and less strain on the motor. A 1.0 HP #22 grinding at half speed will last longer than a 0.5 HP #8 grinding at maximum capacity constantly. Buy more power than you think you need if budget allows.
Understanding BigBite Technology
All LEM BigBite grinders share the patented BigBite auger design. The rifling pattern on the auger spirals deeper than standard augers, creating a larger initial bite into meat chunks. This pulls meat through faster and more consistently without bridging or jamming.
The technology makes a real difference in practice. When I compared a BigBite #8 against a competitor with similar specs but a standard auger, the LEM processed the same batch in roughly 60% of the time. The consistent feed also produces more uniform grind texture.
Sausage Making Considerations
All BigBite models include stuffing tubes and can make sausage. However, dedicated sausage stuffers perform better for serious sausage makers. LEM offers the Mighty Bite stuffer as a companion product, and we have reviewed the best options in our dedicated sausage stuffers guide.
If sausage is your primary goal, the Dual Grind #8 saves significant time by double-grinding in one pass. For occasional sausage making, any BigBite model works well enough to start. You can always add a dedicated stuffer later if your passion grows.
Attachment Compatibility
LEM maintains good compatibility across the BigBite line. Grinding plates, knives, and stuffing tubes are interchangeable between most models. The #5 and #8 share some components, while the #12, #22, and #32 share larger components. Check head size compatibility when ordering accessories.
Popular attachments include jerky slicers, patty makers, and meat mixers. These expand your processing capabilities beyond simple grinding. The meat mixer is particularly valuable for sausage makers doing 5+ pound batches.
Storage and Space Requirements
Consider the weight and dimensions carefully. The #5 and #8 are manageable at under 35 pounds. The #12 is still reasonable at 33 pounds. The #22 at nearly 50 pounds and #32 at 65 pounds require permanent placement or heavy-duty rolling carts.
Counter depth matters too. The #32 extends 21.25 inches deep. Make sure your planned location has enough space for the unit plus room to feed meat and catch output. A cramped processing station creates frustration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best meat grinder for home use electric?
Is the Lem 22 meat grinder any good?
What is the difference between a #8 and #12 meat grinder?
How many watts is a good meat grinder?
Are Lem grinders stainless steel?
Final Verdict: Which LEM BigBite Should You Buy?
After testing all six LEM BigBite models through multiple hunting seasons and countless processing sessions, here are my recommendations for choosing the best LEM BigBite electric meat grinder for home use in 2026:
For most home users, the BigBite #8 is the perfect choice. It offers the best balance of power, capacity, and manageable size. The 0.5 HP motor handles everything from venison to pork without hesitation, and the 32.6 pound weight is manageable for most kitchens. With over 3,000 verified reviews averaging 4.7 stars, it is proven technology that delivers consistent results.
For occasional users processing 1-2 deer per year, the BigBite #5 saves money while still delivering professional grind quality. It is compact enough for small kitchens and quiet enough for apartment use. Do not let the 0.35 HP rating fool you. This grinder outperforms many competitors with larger motors.
Serious hunters and bulk processors should step up to the BigBite #22. The 1.0 HP motor transforms processing from a chore into a quick task. If you are grinding 50+ pounds per session or processing 6 or more animals per season, the #22’s speed and power justify the investment.
Whichever model you choose, the 5-year warranty and lifetime customer support provide peace of mind that your investment is protected. LEM BigBite grinders are built to last decades, not years, making them a true buy-it-for-life purchase for your kitchen or processing station.
