If you regularly need to drill holes through wood and metal and a handheld power drill is slowing you down, a drill press could be the answer. These stationary tools are large, powerful, and can drill numerous holes without needing to be reconfigured.
High-quality drill presses can bore holes in wood, metal, and plastic with speed and precision. However, these tools are large and among the most expensive you are likely to buy, so it is important to choose carefully.
To help you find the best drill press for your needs, we have reviewed 10 of the leading products that are currently available. We chose these drill presses for their size, type, power, reliability, and versatility.
- 360-degree swivel head
- 2 hp motor
- 31-inch wide work table
- 12 speeds
- Built-in light
- Easy-to-reach on/off safety switch
- Depth stop
- 45-degree bevel worktable
- Onboard key storage
- 3.12-inch spindle travel
- Table extends to 17 inches
- Digital speed display
- 90-degree tilting table
- 12 speeds in a wide range
- Cushion-grip quill handles
- Portable at 8 pounds
- Maximum 8,500 RPM
- Micro-drill
- 90-degree tilting table
- Can be used as a sander
- 12 speeds
- Simple and beginner-friendly
- Very portable at 2.2 pounds
- Affordable
- Professional grade
- 16 speeds
- 6-inch quill stroke
- 12 speeds
- Emergency shut-off
- Threaded depth gauge
Review Methodology: At Sensible Digs, we pride ourselves on our thorough and hands-on analysis of drill presses. Each product is carefully evaluated based on specific criteria including performance, design, and user experience. Our experts compare and rank these tools based on factual, quantitative data gathered from rigorous testing and reviews. We assess key factors that influence your decision-making, such as power, precision, durability, and ease of use. Our findings offer insight into what sets a certain drill press apart from its competitors, based on professional, first-hand experience. This in-depth research and evaluation process ensures that we provide you with the most accurate, trustworthy information to help you choose the best drill press for your needs.
The Best Drill Presses of 2024
At a glance, drill presses all have relatively similar designs but there are some important differences from model to model. We have reviewed 10 of the leading products to help you find the best drill press for your workshop, chosen for their power, size, versatility, and any extra features they have.
Jet JMD-18 350018 Milling/Drilling Machine
Best Drill Press for Milling
This Jet milling and drilling machine is an ideal tool for milling. It has a powerful 2-horsepower, 230-volt motor, which means it is suitable for working with the toughest materials.
A hinged belt is far quicker and easier to replace. In addition to its strong motor, this drill’s large work table measures 9.5 inches by 31.75 inches, so it is suitable for the majority of home drilling tasks.
It also has easy-to-read depth gauges and a 360-degree swivel head for greater versatility. This will make it much easier to drill a wide range of holes without needing to pick up your workpiece.
What We Like
360-Degree Swivel Head
The ability to swivel your workpiece by 360 degrees means you will be able to drill a far greater range of holes. It also increases the variety of angled cuts you can make.
2 Horsepower Motor
Most drill presses have 0.75 horsepower motors, so a 2-horsepower motor will help you drill through harder materials. This also makes this machine ideal for milling.
Large Work Table
The extra-large work table increases the size of the projects you can work on and makes the tool more versatile overall.
What We Don't Like
Expensive
This drill is one of the most expensive we have looked at, so it is probably only an option for professionals or hobbyists with a very generous budget.
Specialist Capabilities
This machine’s milling ability requires specialist knowledge and is unlikely to be of much use to a casual user.
Product Specs
| Table size (inches) | 9.5 x 31.75 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 42.5 x 39.75 x 43.5 |
| Weight | 739 pounds |
| Horsepower | 2 |
| Speeds | 12 |
| Warranty | 2-year |
| Price | $$$$ |
Our Ratings
User Experience
Jet JDP-20MF 354170 Floor Drill Press
Best Floor Drill Press
This 20-inch Jet floor drill press has a powerful 1.5-horsepower motor that can tackle even the toughest materials.
It is very versatile, with 12 spindle settings that provide a maximum speed of 4,500 RPM. This means it can adapt to drilling more delicate materials, despite its strong motor.
This drill is also user-friendly thanks to its built-in work light that will illuminate the material you are drilling. It has a keyed chuck for extra security, so you won’t need to worry about it slipping.
What We Like
12 Speeds
A wide range of different speed settings increases the versatility of this drill press significantly. This means you can use it to work on materials with various grades of hardness.
Built-In Light
The drill’s built-in light will improve the visibility of your workpiece, helping you drill more accurately without the need for an additional light source.
Safety Switch
The drill’s safety switch is located at the front of the drill press, so it is easy to reach in case of an emergency.
What We Don't Like
High Price
Jet drill presses are very high quality but this is reflected in their high prices. If you can afford it, this is an excellent drill, but it will probably be a better option for professionals rather than DIY enthusiasts.
Limited Maneuverability
This is a floor-standing drill press, so it is designed to be a stationary tool. Once in position, it is not easy to move without assistance.
Product Specs
| Table size (inches) | 18.6 x 16.1 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 58 x 27 x 13 |
| Weight | 282 pounds |
| Horsepower | 1.5 |
| Speeds | 12 |
| Warranty | 2-year |
| Price | $$$$ |
Our Ratings
Personal Perspective
WEN 4208T 5-Speed Benchtop Drill Press
Best Drill Press for Metal
This WEN drill has five speed settings ranging from 740 to 3,140 RPM, so you can adjust it to cater to most materials including wood, plastic, and metals. It can also be used for various other materials thanks to its high speed and two-inch spindle travel.
It has an adjustable depth stop that will help you drill to the same depth as many times as you want, ideal for bulk drilling. Another feature that makes it suitable for a wide range of projects is its ½-inch keyed chuck, which will help it accept various drill bits.
What We Like
Depth Stop
Thanks to the depth stop, you can set your desired drilling depth to suit the project at hand. This allows you to drill numerous matching holes without needing to measure them manually.
45-Degree Bevel Worktable
The beveling worktable can be adjusted 45 degrees to the left or right. This will ensure you have precisely angled holes which will make a joiner’s work much easier.
Onboard Key Storage
There is onboard storage for your chuck key, so you shouldn’t misplace it. A missing chuck key can bring any drilling project to a halt, so this is a very helpful feature.
What We Don't Like
Basic Drill Press
This is a good drill press but it is relatively basic. It isn’t very well suited to hard materials or more delicate ones such as glass. It is also less precise than higher-end models, so don’t expect millimeter-accurate drilling.
Product Specs
| Table size (inches) | 6.5 x 6.5 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 7.5 x 22.9 x 11 |
| Weight | 34.2 pounds |
| Horsepower | 0.33 |
| Speeds | 5 |
| Warranty | 90 days |
| Price | $ |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
WEN 4214 Variable Speed Drilling Machine
Best Overall Drill Press
This WEN drill press has variable speed settings, so it can be customized to suit whichever material you are working on. These speeds range from 580 to 3,200 RPM, so the drill is suitable for fragile materials as well as tough ones.
The table can be angled to 45 degrees for drilling joints. The drill’s linear depth lock will enable you to make numerous holes to the same depth, while the 3.12-inch spindle travel will help you penetrate thicker pieces of material.
WEN has added a digital display that gives you a much clearer picture of what your drill is doing at any given moment. This removes much of the guesswork that can be involved with drilling.
What We Like
Spindle Travel
This model has a spindle travel of 3.12 inches, which will allow you to drill through thicker workpieces than usual.
Table Extension
The table can be extended to a maximum of 17 inches to accommodate larger workpieces.
Digital Speed Display
Speed is an important part of accurate drilling, which is why this drill press has a digital display. It will give you a much better sense of how your drill is performing at all times.
What We Don't Like
Build Quality Issues
Some of the materials used in the construction of this drill are of lesser quality when compared to high-end drill presses. This is not surprising given its very low price, but it is something to keep in mind.
Product Specs
| Table size (inches) | 9.5 x 9.5 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 13.5 x 36.63 x 16.75 |
| Weight | 89 pounds |
| Horsepower | 0.66 |
| Speeds | Variable |
| Warranty | 2-year |
| Price | $$ |
Our Ratings
First-Hand Impression
Grizzly Industrial G7944 14-Inch Floor Drill Press
Best Versatile Drill Press
With 12 speed settings, you can customize this Grizzly Industrial drill press to suit any drilling task. It will be at home in any workshop, thanks to its versatility and heavy-duty construction.
It also boasts a ¾-HP motor which is quite powerful considering the unit’s slim design. When combined with the 90-degree tilting table, this will allow you to complete various tasks easily.
It is easy to adjust thanks to its crank handle, which will allow you to move the cast-iron table up and down without having to hold its weight yourself.
What We Like
90 Degree Tilting Table
The tilting table is one of the standout features of this drill press. It can tilt 90 degrees to the left and right, making it a great option for projects that require angled holes.
This table is made of precision-ground cast iron, so the crank handle that adjusts it is very helpful. It operates the vertical pinion movement, so you won’t need to move it up and down by hand.
12 Speeds In a Wide Range
12 different speed settings are already generous but the wide range really stands out. It can be used from 104 to 3050 RPM, so it excels at cutting delicate materials as well as tougher ones. This drill covers all bases in terms of speed.
Useful Features
This drill has an extensive list of helpful features. It has built-in lighting that will provide excellent visibility even if the drill is in the shade.
The table locks for safety and there is a threaded depth gauge and depth stop. The cushion-grip quill handles make it more comfortable to use, which you will appreciate if you need to use this drill for extended periods.
What We Don't Like
Belts Don’t Fully Tighten
The belts seem quite cheap and don’t tighten fully. Even with belt dressing, some customers found that they slipped. This causes the drill to vibrate during use, which can impact your precision.
Product Specs
| Table size (inches) | Not specified |
| Dimensions (inches) | 57 x 20.5 x 10.5 |
| Weight | 171 pounds |
| Horsepower | 0.75 |
| Speeds | 12 |
| Warranty | 1-year |
| Price | $$$ |
Our Ratings
User Experience
Proxxon 38128 TBM Bench Drill Machine
Best Small Drill Press
Proxxon may not be a household name on the level of Delta and WEN, but that doesn’t mean this drill is ineffective. As it is a micro-drill, it excels at drilling small holes, so it is a great option for working with jewelry and other delicate tasks.
It has 3 speed settings and an 8.5 x 4.75-inch table with an adjustable fence for greater accuracy and stability. It is small and light enough to take wherever you need it, so it is great if you want a change of scenery.
Spinning at a maximum of 8,500 RPM, this drill can work remarkably fast.
What We Like
Portable
It weighs just over 8 pounds, so you can easily transport this drill press to job sites or anywhere else you want to use it.
Maximum 8,500 RPM
It may be compact, but this drill still has a very wide range of speed options. The 3 speeds are 1,800, 4,700, and 8,500 RPM.
What We Don't Like
Size
At just over 12 inches, this drill’s small size makes it a great option for intricate work. However, it will limit you to smaller workpieces.
Price
While it is cheaper than some drills we have looked at, it is still quite expensive for a small unit. It is more expensive than some full-size drill presses.
Product Specs
| Table size (inches) | 8.5 x 4.75 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 12.6 x 9.45 x 5.12 |
| Weight | 8.05 pounds |
| Horsepower | 0.115 |
| Speeds | 3 |
| Warranty | 2-year |
| Price | $$ |
Our Ratings
Personal Perspective
Shop Fox W1848 Oscillating Drill
Best Drill Press for Woodworking
This Shop Fox oscillating drill press is ideal for woodworkers because it can also be used with sanding attachments to give the holes you drill a smoother finish. If you want your work to be as neat as possible, this press will help you accomplish that.
It has a standard 0.75 horsepower motor that provides 12 different speed options. These speed settings range from 250 to 3050 RPM, so this drill can be used for a variety of different tasks and materials.
What We Like
90-Degree Tilting Table
Many drill presses have 45-degree tilting tables, but Shop Fox has taken things further by allowing the table to tilt 90 degrees. This will greatly expand your range of drilling angles.
Sander
When you have finished drilling, you can attach the sanding drum to quickly convert your drill press into an oscillating sander. This means you can drill holes and finish them with the same tool.
12 Speeds
Having 12 speeds means you can adjust the pace to suit whichever material you are working on. You can work at a low speed with increased torque to drill through harder materials.
What We Don't Like
Damage on Delivery
Many customer reviews say the packaging for delivery is inadequate, allowing the parts to rattle and resulting in damage to the drill press.
Build Quality Issues
Shop Fox drill presses are not cheap, yet many reviews mention loose-fitting or poorly made parts. This tool is manufactured overseas, presumably to save money.
Product Specs
| Table size (inches) | 12.38 diameter |
| Dimensions (inches) | 24 x 15 x 63 |
| Weight | 122 pounds |
| Horsepower | 0.75 |
| Speeds | 12 |
| Warranty | 2-year |
| Price | $$$ |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
SE 3-Speed Mini Drill Press
Best Budget Drill Press
If you are looking for a good drill press on a tight budget, this SE model is well worth considering. You can buy it several times over for the cost of some of the most expensive drill presses we have seen during our research.
This SE mini drill press has a work table size of 9.56 by 9.56 inches. Its 3 speed options are 5,000, 6,500, and 8,000 RPM.
It is quite basic in terms of features but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. While experienced drill press users might want something more advanced, it is ideal for beginners who want to get to grips with the tool.
What We Like
Ideal For Beginners
If you want a drill press that is simple to operate and easy to learn, this is a good option. It might be too simple for more advanced users, but its simplicity means it won’t overwhelm people who don’t have much experience.
Portable
At just 2.2 pounds, you can easily pick this drill press up and carry it to wherever you want to work. This also means it is easy to store if you have limited space in your workshop.
Price
This is one of the cheapest drill presses we have seen. You could buy it twice for less than it would cost you to buy some of the other drills we have reviewed.
Product Specs
| Table size (inches) | 9.56 x 9.56 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 20.5 x 13.1 x 17.1 |
| Weight | 2.2 pounds |
| Horsepower | 0.125 |
| Speeds | 3 |
| Warranty | 3-year (includes 1-year extension if registered) |
| Price | $ |
Our Ratings
First-Hand Impression
Delta 18-900L Laser Drill Press
Best Industrial Drill Press
Delta is a true household name and one that you probably know if you have spent any time in workshops or DIY stores. The company has been manufacturing tools for about a century.
This large laser drill press has an oversized table with a fence and T-slots to grip the workpiece. The table also pivots 90 degrees left and right, as well as forward by 48 degrees, so you will be able to drill at a wide range of different angles.
It has 16 different speed settings, which is a very impressive amount for any drill press. There is also a work light and a dual laser gauge to ensure your work is as accurate as possible.
What We Like
Professional Grade
With features including a micro-adjustable depth stop and an oversized table, this is a true high-end drill press that will be at home in industrial settings.
16 Speeds
You are unlikely to see more than 16 speed settings on a drill press. You will be able to choose exactly the right speed for any task you are working on.
High Drilling Capacity
The 6-inch quill stroke means you will be able to drill through thick material, which can be invaluable in an industrial setting.
What We Don't Like
Expensive
This is a high-end industrial drill with numerous extra features, which is reflected in its price. It isn’t the most expensive drill press of its type that we have seen but it still costs a lot of money.
Poor Customer Service
Delta scores poorly when it comes to customer service. Many customers have complained that they struggled to get any help when they encountered problems.
Product Specs
| Table size (inches) | 20 x 14 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 59 x 30.5 x 13 |
| Weight | 261 pounds |
| Horsepower | 0.75 |
| Speeds | 16 |
| Warranty | 5-year |
| Price | $$$$ |
Our Ratings
User Experience
Grizzly Industrial G7943 Heavy-Duty Benchtop Drill Press
Best Heavy-Duty Drill Press
Precision is important but sometimes you need a tool that has the durability and power required for the toughest drilling jobs. With a wide range of speeds, this Grizzly model is that kind of tool.
It has a tilting table that pivots 90 degrees left and right. It also has a 14-inch swing and a steel drilling capacity of 0.75 inches, so it is versatile as well as tough.
It also features a work light for improved visibility, but you will need to purchase a bulb separately.
What We Like
12 Speeds
The speeds range from a gentle 104 RPM up to a rapid 3,050 RPM. As always, more speed options mean greater versatility.
Emergency Shut-Off
The shut-off button sits front and center on the unit. It will be easy to see and use in case of an emergency.
Threaded Depth Gauge
The special threaded depth gauge means you can wind the gauge to your required depth and lock it in place with the locking nuts.
What We Don't Like
No Mount Holes
The table has no mount holes, which will limit your ability to mount clamps, vices, and fences.
High Price
For a tabletop press, this model is not cheap. It is made of robust materials, but it is still quite expensive for what it is.
Product Specs
| Table size (inches) | 11.38 x 11.38 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 33 x 20 x 12 |
| Weight | 142 pounds |
| Horsepower | 0.75 |
| Speeds | 12 |
| Warranty | 1-year limited |
| Price | $$$ |
Our Ratings
Personal Perspective
| Product | Best | Table size (inches) | Dimensions (inches) | Weight | Horsepower | Speeds | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jet JMD-18 350018 Drilling Machine | Milling | 9.5 x 31.75 | 42.5 x 39.75 x 43.5 | 739 lbs | 2 | 12 | 2-year |
| Jet JDP-20MF 354170 Floor Drill Press | Floor Drill Press | 18.6 x 16.1 | 58 x 27 x 13 | 175 lbs | 2 | 12 | 2-year |
| WEN 4208T 5-Speed Benchtop Drill Press | Metal | 6.5 x 6.5 | 7.5 x 22.9 x 11 | 34.2 lbs | 0.33 | 5 | 90 days |
| WEN 4214 Variable Speed Drill Press | Overall Choice | 9.5 x 9.5 | 13.5 x 36.63 x 16.75 | 89 lbs | 1 | Variable | 2-year |
| Grizzly Industrial G7944 | Versatile | N/A | 57 x 20.5 x 10.5 | 171 lbs | 0.75 | 12 | 1-year |
| Proxxon 38128 TBM Bench Drill Press | Small Drill Press | 8.5 x 4.75 | 12.6 x 9.45 x 5.12 | 8.05 lbs | 0 | 3 | 2-year |
| Shop Fox W1848 Oscillating Drill | Woodworking | 12.38 D | 24 x 15 x 63 | 122 lbs | 0.75 | 12 | 2-year |
| SE 3-Speed Mini Drill Press | Budget Pick | 9.56 x 9.56 | 20.5 x 13.1 x 17.1 | 2.2 lbs | 0.125 | 3 | 3-year |
| Delta 18-900L Laser Drill Press | Industrial | 20 x 14 | 59 x 30.5 x 13 | 261 lbs | 0.75 | 16 | 5-year |
| Grizzly Industrial G7943 Benchtop Drill Press | Heavy-Duty | 11.38 x 11.38 | 33 x 20 x 12 | 142 lbs | 0.75 | 12 | 1-year limited |
What Is a Drill Press Used For?
A drill press is a stationary tool used to make holes in wood, metal, and plastic. They can accommodate a wide range of attachments, which means they are also suitable for countersinking and counterboring. The most common drill presses in non-professional settings are benchtop models, with larger floor drill presses better suited for industrial work.
Drill presses are typically found in workshops and on production lines in factories because they are precision tools that significantly speed up the drilling process. They can also deliver a level of accuracy that most users would struggle to replicate with a hand drill.
Here are some of the most popular uses of drill presses:
- Drilling Large Diameter Holes: Drill presses generate more power and torque than hand drills, so they can drive larger bits and accessories into various materials.
- Drilling Holes to a Specific Depth: Most drill presses have a depth stop that will help you consistently drill holes to the same depth.
- Drilling Angled Holes: Drill presses have pivoting tables that enable you to alter the position of the workpiece to drill at an angle. This means you can drill multiple holes at the same angle without having to readjust the tool each time.
- Sanding: There are attachments that will convert your drill press into a sander. When combined with the tilting table, this will help you achieve the neatest finish possible.
- Enlarging Holes: Thanks to its extra power and torque, a drill press can accommodate larger drill bits to enlarge existing holes.
How to Choose a Drill Press
Whichever type you choose, a drill press will be a significant investment, so it is important to consider some key points before you start shopping.
Type
There are two broad types of drill presses: benchtop drill presses and floor-standing drill presses. As the name suggests, a benchtop drill press is small enough to sit on top of your workbench. Some models have holes in their bases that allow you to bolt them in place for greater stability.
Benchtop drill presses are smaller, lighter, and generally more portable. Their smaller size makes them more convenient and suitable for home DIY projects, but it also restricts the tasks they can be used for.
Floor-standing drill presses are also known as stationary drill presses. Once in position, they are fixed in place and are very stable and sturdy. These drill presses are preferred by woodworkers with a dedicated workshop, or in factories on production lines.
Quick Note
Size
When considering the size of a drill press, the most important measurements are the swing and spindle travel.
Swing determines the maximum width of stock you can place on your drill press and drill through its center. It measures the distance between the central column and the spindle, multiplied by two.
Spindle travel, or stroke distance, measures how far the bit can move up and down. Benchtop models typically have lower spindle travel, at 2 to 3 inches. Floor drill presses have a higher spindle travel, generally 5 to 6 inches.
Power
Most drill presses will have their amps and voltage listed in their specifications. To calculate the wattage, simply multiply these two numbers. The higher the wattage, the more powerful your machine is and the easier it will be to drill through harder materials. A drill press that is suitable for metalwork will have a higher wattage.
Floor models usually have more power, which is reflected in their higher wattages. They have an average rating of 1,000 watts, whereas benchtop presses have about 500 watts.
Speed
Most drill presses offer various speed options. This is essential when drilling harder materials because you will need to drill at a slower pace. Benchtop models usually offer around 5 or 6 settings, whereas floor-standing presses might have as many as 16 different speed options.
Chuck Capacity
The average drill press has a chuck capacity of 0.50 inches. There are 0.75-inch chucks available on larger, industrial drill presses. On the other hand, compact models will usually have a chuck capacity no larger than 0.25 inches.
A higher chuck capacity means your drill press can accommodate larger drill bits, which will increase the size of holes you can make.
Adjustability
Your workpiece will sit on the drill press table, which can be moved up and down. Drill presses often allow angle adjustments of 45 and 90 degrees. Some high-end units even allow for full 360-degree rotation. Check for extra features such as LED lights and laser guides to improve your drilling accuracy.
Who Makes the Best Drill Press?
WEN
WEN was founded in 1951 by Nick Anton. In the decades since the company’s creation, its product range has expanded to include drill presses, nailers, miter saws, and bench grinders.
By 2001, the company had sold over 50 million units, making it one of the leading power tool brands in North America. Although their products are now manufactured overseas, they are still excellent tools.
Skil
In 1924, Edmond Michel introduced the world’s first electric saw. He founded the Skilsaw company with his business partner Joseph Sullivan. By 1926, 2,000 electric circular saws had been produced, a sign of remarkable growth (1).
The name “Skilsaw” is often used as a generic name for all circular saws, but the company also offers many other tools.
Delta
Delta has been making power tools for a century. The company’s story started in 1919 in Milwaukee when Herbert Tautz, a German immigrant, started making hand tools. These tools soon became powered versions, culminating in the introduction of the first compound miter saw. Today, Delta is a household name in power tools.
Grizzly
Compared to some of the historic names in this list, Grizzly is the new kid on the block. The company was founded in 1998 by business partners Inge Christ and Horst Lieb with the intention of supplying Germany with affordable gardening tools. In the years since, Grizzly has expanded to producing power tools, including drill presses.
FAQs
Why Does My Drill Press Wobble?
One of the most common causes of a wobbly drill press is the quill. A loose quill will allow the chuck to wobble when the drill press is operating. Another possible cause is the drill press being misaligned. This is usually a result of the gearbox and motor not lining up correctly. You should also check that the drill bit is inserted in the chuck correctly.
What Does the Size of a Drill Press Mean?
The size of a drill press is determined by its swing. The swing is the distance from the central spindle multiplied by two. If your drill press has a swing of 16 inches, this means it is capable of drilling the center of a 16-inch workpiece.
You also need to consider spindle travel because it determines the depth of stock you can drill through. Spindle travel is how far the chuck can move up and down, which directly affects your maximum drilling depth.
What is a Quill Lock on a Drill Press?
A quill lock is typically a lever opposite the handles. It allows you to lower the drill press to your desired depth and lock it in place.
How Tall Should a Drill Press Stand Be?
A stand should be between 33 and 35 inches tall, including its casters, to allow you to drill comfortably and safely.
How Do You Drill an Angle With a Drill Press?
Depending on the drill press, you can probably angle your table to 45, 90, or a full 360 degrees. Set it to your required angle and lock it in place. You can raise or lower the table depending on the depth you want to drill. Bring the drill press down so the bit makes contact with the stock.
Start the drill, working slowly as the bit starts making a hole. You can make a pilot hole to improve your accuracy if you feel it is needed.
How Much Horsepower Does a Drill Press Have?
Most drill presses have motors that generate between 0.50 and 0.75 horsepower. However, there are stronger models available. Shop Fox produces a drill press with 1 horsepower, and Jet offers a drilling/milling machine with 2 horsepower.
Do You Need Special Drill Bits for a Drill Press?
Standard drill bits are designed to fit any universal chuck, so you can install any drill bit with a circular or hexagonal shaft in a drill press. While it is possible, it might not be a good idea. Some drill bits are aggressive and will grip the workpiece, making it difficult to control the drill press. The best options for a drill press are spade, brad point, and standard twist bits.
What Is the Best RPM for a Drill Press?
The best RPM for a drill press depends on the material you’re drilling and its thickness. Generally, the higher the RPM, the smoother and faster the drill job.
For metalworking, 1500-3000 RPM is suitable; for plastics and softer materials, 4000-6000 RPM will work well.
When drilling into hard materials like stainless steel or cast iron, using a slower speed, like 500-1000 RPM, to reduce heat buildup can help keep your bits in good condition.
Always consult your manufacturer’s recommendations before selecting an RPM setting.
Can I Use My Drill Press As a Lathe?
A drill press can be a lathe only when you are out of options. While a drill press may seem like the perfect tool for a lathe, it is not ideal.
The rotation of a drill press is typically not balanced – meaning that the object being turned will vibrate due to the uneven spin. The chuck on a drill press does not allow for precision turning and cannot apply pressure along the length of an item.
If you require precise cuts and an even rotation for projects like chiseling or turning wood, then a dedicated lathe would be better suited for that task.
How Much Run Out Should a Drill Press Have?
The amount of runout in a drill press can vary greatly, depending on the quality and age of the drill press.
Ideally, you should have very little to no runout when setting up a new or recently serviced drill press; most professional-grade drill presses have less than 0.005″ of odd-to-even axis runout.
On the other hand, some older models may have as much as 0.010″ or more in their design. To ensure a perfectly accurate cut, always ensure your drill press has no noticeable play before starting a project.
What Is the Most Common Cause of Accidents on a Drill Press?
Poor operator judgment is the most common cause of accidents on a drill press. Even a small mistake can have serious consequences without proper safety precautions.
Always ensure that you are aware and educated about your drill press’s operations and any additional hazards or risks associated with your specific project.
Even simple things like failing to use guards or not checking for excessive play in the chuck can lead to a dangerous situation. Make sure to always be prepared and stay vigilant when running a drill press.
