I haven't used any lube on the Cabelas grinder I've had for about 5 years. I'm thinking all the pork fat I add acts as a lubricant?
I have the Cabelas 1 HP grinder. I didn't use any lube for the first two years, then I bought a can of the food grade silicone on a whim. I thoroughly wash the grinder after use, as I am sure everyone does, let it dry, then spray all of the metal pieces down before assembling it. I don't know if it does anything, but there is no rust, or any signs of wear on any of my parts after 5 or 6 years of 3 or 4 times a year of use. I know thats not much use, but for a couple bucks for a can of spray to protect my half a grand grinder, I will keep using it.