LEM Big Bite #12 or #22 Meat Grinder? Which is right for you?
LEM Big Bite #12 or #22? Buyer’s Guide for Preppers & Hunters
Deciding between the LEM BigBite #12 (0.75 HP) and the LEM DualGrind BigBite #22 (1 HP)? This quick, high-level guide—written for preppers and hunters—compares power, throughput, accessories, and who should pick which so you can process faster and protect your harvest.
Side-by-Side Spec Comparison
Motor & Throughput
#12 0.75 HP; grinds ~11 lbs/min (frequent-use home processing).
#22 1 HP; grinds up to ~13 lbs/min (heavy-use, big batches).
Grind System
#12 Standard BigBite auger with rifled head for easier second grind/stuffing; optional DualGrind adapter available for one-pass fine grinds.
#22 Built-in DualGrind design (two plates + dual-edge knife) for a fine grind in a single pass.
Included Plates & Accessories
#12 3 SS plates (4.5 mm, 10 mm, stuffing), meat stomper, 3 stuffing tubes (½", 1", 1-3/8" OD), bushing tool; storage drawer.
#22 4.5 mm & 10 mm plates + stuffing plate, two grind knives, meat stomper.
Dimensions & Weight
#12 ~20.24" × 9.13" × 15.98"; ~47 lb; 2.25" throat opening.
#22 ~18.5" × 10.75" × 15.5"; ~60 lb; large stainless meat pan.
Build & Warranty
#12 Stainless housing; all-metal gears w/ roller bearings; ETL listed; typically 5-year limited warranty from LEM.
#22 Heavy stainless build; 1 HP induction motor; circuit breaker; 5-year limited warranty.
Summary: both are serious grinders with BigBite tech. The #12 is the lighter, easier everyday workhorse for frequent home batches. The #22 DualGrind adds horsepower and single-pass fine grinding for high-volume game days.
What this means for preppers & hunters
Throughput on processing days
After a successful hunt or big bulk buy, shaving time off each batch matters. The #22’s higher output (~13 lbs/min) and DualGrind single-pass design reduce re-feeds and keep the line moving. The #12 still rips through ~11 lbs/min and is easier to lift, store, and run solo.
Grind texture & workflow
Want a fine burger grind or snack-stick prep in one pass? Go #22. Prefer to keep cost and weight lower but still want a fine grind occasionally? Run the #12 with a quick second pass—or add the optional DualGrind adapter when you’re ready to upgrade.
Counter space & portability
The #12’s smaller footprint (~47 lb) is friendlier to small shops and cabins. The #22 is a team-lift (~60 lb) but pays you back when you’re processing an entire deer in a single evening.
Which should you buy?
Choose the BigBite #12 if you:
- Grind moderate batches weekly or seasonally.
- Want a lighter unit with excellent speed for the price.
- Value storage drawer and quieter operation in a compact package.
Choose the DualGrind BigBite #22 if you:
- Process large hauls after hunts and want fewer re-feeds.
- Want one-pass fine grind via built-in DualGrind.
- Prefer more power and higher throughput for marathon days.
FAQ: “lem big bite #12 or #22”
How much faster is the #22?
Published numbers put the #12 around ~11 lbs/min and the #22 around ~13 lbs/min—plus the #22’s DualGrind can deliver fine grind in a single pass.
Do both accept the same style of plates and tubes?
Yes, both use standard LEM #12/#22 plates and stuffing tubes for their respective head sizes; each includes coarse/fine plates and stuffing gear in the box.
Is the #12 compatible with DualGrind?
Yes—LEM sells a #12 DualGrind adapter kit so you can get one-pass fine grinds on the #12 when needed.
What about noise and cleanup?
Both are stainless, tool-simple to break down and clean. The #12 is noted for quieter gears; both include a meat stomper and safety features like a circuit breaker.
Final thoughts & call to action
If you value speed and one-pass fine grinding for big harvests, go with the DualGrind BigBite #22. For a lighter, lower-cost grinder that still cranks through serious batches, the BigBite #12 is a fantastic value.
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