Drilling is a crucial process in metalworking, as it allows for creation of holes and precise shapes in metal materials. To achieve optimal results, it is essential to have the right tool for the job – and when it comes to drilling through tough metals, a regular drill may not cut it.
This is where a specific tool, like a drill press for metal, comes into play. This document will discuss the best drill press options available for metalworking and factors to consider when purchasing one.
Top 3 Floor Drill Presses
1. Powermatic PM2800B Floor Standing Drill Press for Metal
Specifications:
This drill press is a top-of-the-line option for metalworking, with its powerful 1HP motor and variable speed control ranging from 250 to 3000 RPM.
The floor-standing design allows stability and precision, while the digital RPM readout ensures accurate speed selection.
Key Features:
- 1 HP motor
- Variable speed control
- Heavy-duty cast iron construction
- 20-inch swing and 6-inch drilling depth
- LED lights for visibility
- Digital readout for accuracy
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
2. Sunex 5000A 16-Speed Floor UL/CSA Drill Press
Specifications:
This floor-standing drill press is a great option for heavy-duty metal drilling. Its 16-speed settings and 3/4 HP motor can easily handle tough materials like steel and cast iron. The Sunex 5000A also features an adjustable table that can tilt up to 45 degrees, allowing for versatile drilling angles.
Must Read: Is Milwaukee better than Dewalt?
Key Features:
- 3/4 HP motor
- 16-speed settings
- Adjustable table with a 45-degree tilt option
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
3. JET JDP-17 716300 Floor Standing Drill Press for Metal
Specifications:
This floor-standing drill press boasts a powerful 1-1/2 HP motor and 16 speeds for precise drilling. Its cast iron construction provides stability and durability. At the same time, the built-in work light and laser guide ensure accuracy in every project. The JET JDP-17 also has an adjustable table that can tilt up to 45 degrees.
Key Features:
- 1-1/2 HP motor
- 16-speed settings
- Cast iron construction
- Built-in work light and laser guide
- Adjustable table with 45 degree tilt option
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Top 3 Benchtop Drill Presses
1. Wen 4214 T 12
Specifications:
For those looking for a more compact option, the Wen 4214 T is a great choice. It features a 2/3 HP motor and variable speed control, making it suitable for drilling through various metal materials. The worktable can also be adjusted to tilt up to 45 degrees, allowing for versatile drilling angles.
Must Read: How to Test Electric Fence With Multimeter
Key Features:
- 2/3 HP motor
- Variable speed control
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
2. JET JDP-15B
Specifications:
Another compact option is the Jet JDP-15B, which features a 3/4 HP motor and 16-speed settings. Its heavy-duty cast iron construction provides stability while drilling. The built-in work light and laser guide ensure accuracy in every project. The worktable can also be tilted to 45 degrees for versatile drilling options.
Key Features:
- 3/4 HP motor
- 16-speed settings
- Cast iron construction
- Built-in work light and laser guide
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
3. Wen 4208T
Specifications:
The Wen 4208T is a budget-friendly option for smaller metal drilling projects. It features a 1/3 HP motor and five-speed settings, making it suitable for softer metals like aluminium and copper. The worktable can also be adjusted to tilt up to 45 degrees.
Key Features:
- 1/3 HP machine
- Five-speed settings
- Adjustable work table with a 45-degree tilt option
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Top 3 Magnetic Drill Press for Metal
1. Milwaukee 4272-21 13A
Specifications:
The Milwaukee 4272-21 is a top choice for those needing a magnetic drill press. It features a powerful 13A motor and variable speed control, with an adjustable work table that can tilt up to 45 degrees. The magnetic base provides stability while drilling through metal materials.
Key Features:
- 13A motor
- Variable speed control
- Magnetic base for stability
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
2. Milwaukee 4274-21 13A Magnetic Drill Press
Specifications:
Another top choice for a magnetic drill press is the Milwaukee 4274-21. It boasts a powerful 13A motor and variable speed control, with an adjustable work table. The magnetic base provides stability while drilling through metal materials, and the built-in coolant system keeps the drill bit cool during use.
Also Check: How To Use A Drill Press?
Key Features:
- 13A motor
- Variable speed control
- Magnetic base for stability
- Built-in coolant system
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
3. Dewalt DWE1622K 10A Magnetic Drill Press
Specifications:
The Dewalt DWE1622K 10A Magnetic Drill Press is a powerful and versatile tool designed specifically for metalworking. This drill press is compact and lightweight, making it ideal for use in small spaces or on job sites.
One of the key features of this drill press is its powerful 10-amp motor that can deliver up to 350 RPM of speed.
This allows for quick and efficient drilling through tough metals such as steel, iron, and aluminium.
In addition to its power, the Dewalt DWE1622K offers a strong magnetic base that provides stability and accuracy during use.
The base has a maximum holding force of 2600 pounds, ensuring your workpiece stays securely in place while you work.
This drill press has a 4-inch drilling capacity and a depth adjustment system that allows for precise drilling depths to enhance precision. This makes it easy to achieve consistent results every time.
Key Features:
- 10-amp motor with up to 350 RPM speed for powerful drilling through metal
- Magnetic base with a maximum holding force of 2600 pounds for stability and accuracy
- 4-inch drilling capacity and depth adjustment system for precise drilling depths
- Quick change chuck system for fast and easy bit changes without additional tools
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Factors to Consider When Purchasing One of These drill Presses:
- Power: The motor’s power is important, especially for heavy-duty metal drilling projects.
- Speed settings: Different metal materials may require different speeds, so having various options can be beneficial.
- Adjustable work table: An adjustable work table allows for versatile drilling angles and better precision.
- Construction: Look for a drill press with a sturdy and durable construction, such as cast iron.
- Additional features: Built-in work lights, laser guides, and coolant systems can make your drilling projects easier and more precise.
- Price: Consider your budget when selecting a drill press. A higher price may mean more power and additional features, but budget-friendly options are also available.
Conclusion
When it comes to metal drilling, having the right drill press can make all the difference. Consider your specific needs and budget when selecting a project drill press.
Whether you go with a floor or benchtop option or opt for a magnetic drill press, many great choices are available to help you achieve precise and accurate results in your metal drilling projects. So, choose wisely, and happy drilling!
