Update:
LEM #8 3/8hp Big Bite Grinder is in the house! This thing is a beast! I'm in awe of the size and heft of this monster. It makes the KitchenAid mixer and grinder attachment look like a toy. It is definitely heavy duty. I did not expect it to be this big and heavy. I'm not sure where I'm going to store it.
With having only assembled it and plugged it in, I'm very happy I stepped up to the LEM Big Bite. I see this thing just going and going. But, I'm guessing I could have been very happy with the slightly less expensive LEM #5.
I'll probably pick up a couple butts next weekend for some sausage. I'll provide a full update then.
Congrats!! I told you in my earlier post you'll be amazed how well built and a nice unit it is plus u cant beat the Academy price. Now wait until you use it.
The main difference isn't just the aluminum / stainless construction, but size and design as well. The more expensive unit is heavy duty and weighs almost twice as much.
According to reviews the cheaper one has plastic gears, while the heavy duty has metal gears.. Review
I do not know as I do not have the cheaper model. Personally I would spend the extra for the heavy duty model.
Ditto MadMan