I'm renting and have a small workroom in the basement. I want a quality, but small drill press for little projects like pinewood derby, drilling holes in brackets, etc. I had a $60 harbor freight, but the spindle and chuck wobbled- no good for small holes. I have a very nice JET or Delta (can't remember) bench top, but it's too big for what I currently need and it's in my father's shed, which in my alternative work area for heavy duty/dirty work like fab'ing, welding, etc. I need something that'll spin true for lightweight projects.
Good very compact drill press?
- Thread starter zimm17
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WWheeler
Well-known member
I picked up a little craftsman 12" I think it is (w/ led light & laser) a year or so ago when it was on sale & I had a bunch of SYW points I needed to use or lose them and I've been really impressed with it so far. It beats my old no-name press I got from Northern 15 years ago - before they started selling their current budget line, ironton I think - in every way by a mile.
Oops post cut off. How deep a throat do you need. I am talking about the distance from the column to the bit. The Proxxon is a fine tool for minature work but does it allow you to drill far enough from the edge of your project? You have to decide. I don't what is avaulable between the two. There are presses of varying quality in all sizes. Presses are sold by this dimension. Figure out what you need and Googgle 8" drill press, 10" drill press, etc. Read reviews, check it out before buying if possibile. Extend the quill all the way and feel for side play. Imports are often of poor quality. For cheap you usually get junk l.
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tool_scrounge
Well-known member
How small is small? I would consider a used Delta Homecraft 11" drill press. Compact and has a speed range good for wood. Nice quality too. It shares a lot of parts with the larger dp220 classic 14" drill press.
http://http://www.old-woodworking-tools.net/delta-homecraft-drill-press.html
http://http://www.old-woodworking-tools.net/delta-homecraft-drill-press.html
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rsanter
Well-known member
If you need small and precision then look,at getting a small desktop mill
Bob
Bob
Maui
Well-known member
I had a compact Craftsman that was built in the 1950s, all original (even the paint was perfect) that ran as smooth as silk. Keep your eyes out for a used one. You'll be much happier with a quality old drill press than a new one from the big box stores.
Maui
Maui
