If you’re looking for a drill press to use in your woodworking projects, there are a few different things you should consider before making a purchase. One of the most important things is the size and weight of the unit. You want something that is lightweight and portable so it doesn’t take up too much space in your workshop. Another consideration is the price. Whether you want an inexpensive model or a more high-end piece of equipment, there are a variety of options to choose from.
Grizzly G7944
If you’re looking for a sturdy, well made, no-nonsense drill press, the G7944 14″ Heavy-Duty Floor Drill Press is a worthy contender. It offers a variety of features, including a heavy duty cast iron table, cushioned grip quill handles, and an adjustable depth stop. Plus, the G7944 boasts a powerful 3/4HP motor and a built-in work light. Designed with a high quality JT33 keyed chuck, the machine accepts 3/64″ through 5/8″ drill bits and is capable of drilling plastic and fiberglass.
The G7944’s hefty price tag notwithstanding, the machine is a great value. In addition to the features mentioned above, the G7943 carries a hefty 142 pound weight load. To help you get the most out of your investment, the G7943’s technical support staff is US based, so you can count on a quick response when you need it. Among the best features of the G7943 are its impressively well crafted table, which can tilt 360 degrees left and right. And the good news is that the table is fully adjustable, offering a full 17 inches of clearance.
Rockwell Drill press by ShopSeries
The Rockwell Drill press by ShopSeries has a 6.2-amp motor that provides the power you need to do the job right. It also comes with a tilting table and adjustable speeds. This is a great addition to any home workshop.
When you buy a drill press, it’s important to look at the speed settings. A good range of speeds should be between 500 and 3000 RPMs. Also, the press should have fast, slow, and medium settings. These settings will help you to get a smooth drill.
Another feature to consider is the chuck. A normal drill press comes with a 1/2″ key chuck. Make sure that the chuck is cleaned before you reinstall it.
If you’re working on larger pieces of wood, you may be limited by the spindle travel. In this case, you’ll want a drill press with a spindle that is larger than 2 inches.
Jet JDP-20MF
If you are looking for a high-end drill press, the Jet JDP-20MF isn’t a bad choice. It has a couple of impressive features, including a shatterproof telescoping spindle guard and an integrated work light. The fact that it has a 1.5 horsepower motor is an added plus.
In addition to the motor, the JET 20-inch Drill Press has several other niceties, including an adjustable tension spindle return spring and a hinged metal belt cover. For convenience, the JET 354170/JDP also comes with a handy manual. However, this unit may not be the sexiest tool in its class.
This model also boasts a number of features that aren’t found on other drill presses, including a large work table, a hinged metal pulley cover, and a built-in light. Other features include a three-nut locking feature, a quick release clamp, and a rotatable table that allows you to work at different angles.
Shop Fox W1848 Oscillating Floor Drill Press
The Shop Fox W1848 Oscillating Floor Drill Press is a great combination of power, convenience and value. It is equipped with features that are suitable for a wide range of DIY projects. Some of these include a 3-1/8″ table, a special sanding spindle and a 1-16mm JT33 keyed drill chuck.
The W1848 isn’t the only floor mounted model in this category, and its competition includes the DEWALT 2-Speed Magnetic Drill Press. Both are able to handle the tough stuff, including a 10-AMP motor that can power through heavy steel.
The W1848 has a few noteworthy features, including a two-bladed oscillating spindle and a sanding table with a clearance hole for sanding. However, its biggest draw is its impressively crafted steel and aluminum components.
SKIL 3320
The SKIL 3320 drill press is a great power tool at an affordable price. Its versatility makes it a great choice for homeowners, contractors, plumbers, and masons. You can use this unit to drill holes in a variety of materials, including wood, metal, plastic, and more.
The 3320 has an adjustable depth stop, which helps you to drill down to a consistent depth. This is especially helpful for repetitive drilling operations.
Other features include a 2-beam laser, which provides accurate hole alignment. Also, the work table can tilt from 0 to 45 degrees. For added safety, there is a bump-off switch, which ensures that the drill will shut off if it hits an object.
The 3.2-amp motor provides plenty of power. While this motor is not powerful enough to handle super-hard materials, it is capable of handling thin metal sheets.
