question about drill press

YotaOnRocks

YotaOnRocks

Well-Known Member
Joined
Jul 17, 2007
Location
Madison
Threw out old one when I moved now it is time for a new one. What brand/size do you all recommend. We always used jets at work I know they take a beating. But I wont use it often though maybe couple projects a year so I was wondering if I should get a nice/expensive one or if I should just get a cheapo.
 
Well, I'd definitely avoid the super cheapos (e.g. Harbor Freight). You can't trust them to have a straight bore, nor to last.
I have a basic Craftsman that is easily years old, have no clue. My parents got it at a yard sale, and my bro and I have used it off and on for many years. Just maybe 9 speeds (2 gears, 3 pulleys each) and it does everything I need to.

I'd think your best bet would be to keep an eye out for a used one. if taken care of, this is teh kind of thing that can last a very long time. Pretty simple machine, really.
 
I have the mid size HF floor model. They put it on sale for around $220 all the time. I've used the hell out of it for over 4 years, it's made thousands of tube notches. Chuck is not real true, no other problems except the $1 on/off switch. I have never taken it off the slowest speed. IMO the faster speeds are useless.

Otherwise, find a good used one.
 
I've got a kobalt I believe from Lowe's. The beauty of working there and getting things marked down to nothing. I've only used it a couple times, but I can tell you this thing kicks ass.
 
x2 on the HF, I wish it was slower, and ya ok, its not a 100% precisions tool.. Mine was also ~$200 on sale few years back.. I'd hardly say craftsman is a better tool these days..
 
I have the delta 17-965. I bought it for $400 about 5 or 6 years ago but I see they are now up to $550-$600. The chuck runs pretty true and the lowest speed is 215 rpm but I'm not sure it's worth the extra money.
 
Craigslist.com
 
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