The number on a meat grinder is the size of its head and plate, not its motor. Plates and knives are sold by number, so it also tells you which replacement parts fit. For home use, #8 and #12 are the sizes that matter.
Sizes and typical output
| Size | Plate diameter | Typical output | Suits |
|---|---|---|---|
| #5 | 2⅛ in | 1–2 lb/min | Attachments, small electrics |
| #8 | 2½ in | 2–3 lb/min | Most home grinders |
| #12 | 2¾ in | 4–5 lb/min | Deer, big batches |
| #22 | 3¼ in | 9–12 lb/min | Elk, hogs, several deer |
| #32 | 3⅞ in | 15+ lb/min | Butcher shops |
Why plate size matters more than watts
A bigger plate has more holes, so every turn of the auger pushes more meat through. That's why LEM can rate a half-horsepower #8 at 7 pounds a minute while a budget grinder claiming thousands of "peak" watts manages 3 to 4.
Which size to buy
- #5 or attachment: a few pounds of burger at a time. KitchenAid metal grinder.
- #8: regular grinding, sausage and a deer a year. LEM #8 BigBite.
- #12: 25 pounds or more at a sitting. LEM #12 BigBite.
- #22: elk, hogs, several deer. LEM #22 BigBite.
Questions
Is a #10 the same as a #12?
Many makers use the same plate diameter for #10 and #12, about 2¾ inches. Check before buying plates.
Can I put a bigger plate on my grinder?
No. The plate must match the head size.
