Drill Press
Best Drill Press for Metal
BEST DRILL PRESS FOR METALS
Metalworking has come a long way in the past few decades. If you're looking to buy a new drill press, you've probably been overwhelmed by all the options. There are a lot of different brands and models to consider, so it can be tough to know where to start. To help narrow down your search, I've put together this guide on some of the best drill presses for metal on the market:
Best Overall: DeWalt DWE1622K Drill Press
The DeWalt DWE1622K 2-Inch Drill Press is an excellent choice for users who need a drill press with a larger capacity and also want to work on projects where the motor is not an issue.
The 1-1/8 HP motor provides plenty of power for most drilling needs and has plenty of torque. The variable speed trigger allows you to adjust the RPM to your liking, so you can drill at a comfortable pace while still getting the desired results.
The table tilts and locks in 4 positions, which is helpful if you're working on multiple projects at once. There is also a spindle lock that keeps your workpiece secure while you are drilling holes in it.
It's powerful and easy to use. The machine comes with two speeds, 300/450 RPM, an auto-stop feature, adjustable stops, and a table that can be tilted up or down.
The workbench has a generous work surface area of 11-1/4 x 6-1/4 inches (28.9 x 16.5 cm) with storage space underneath for additional accessories or bits. The base is made of cast iron with rubber feet for added stability when working on uneven surfaces.
Moreover, this drill press has a built-in work light and comes with two drills and four spools of threading material.
Lastly, this machine is equipped with heavy-duty construction and weighs almost 100 pounds, making it very easy to use even when working on large projects.
Why it stands out
My top pick, the DWE1622K, is an impressive magnetic drill press with a potent 10-amp motor. Besides, it can drill up to 4 inches on different ferrous metals accurately and easily. The base allows you to drill different metals of up to 0.5-inch thickness.
So, if you're looking for a drill press for use on tough metals, this is the way to go. All the same, it will bite a huge chunk of your money.
DeWalt DWE1622K Pros and Cons
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This drill press also comes with a tool storage area that can hold up to 6 tools and a built-in oil reservoir you can use to lubricate your tools while drilling. The top of the machine is large enough to accommodate sheet metal, wood, or plastic materials while working on them.
Rating by Features
Easy to assemble 4.6
Accuracy 3.8
Value for money 4.3
Runner-Up: Jet J-2550 Drill Press
Jet J-2500 Drill Press has a lot of great features. It has a powerful 1,500-watt motor that can work at high speeds. The table is made of cast iron, making it durable and sturdy, so it will not break easily.
The base is made of steel so that you can use it for many years without any problems. You can set the height-adjustable bed to your preferred height, so you can always get the perfect fit for your projects.
What's more, the drill Press has many other useful features as well, including a quick-release magazine plate to make changing bits faster and easier than ever before! This model also includes an onboard storage compartment that keeps all your accessories organized and safe when not in use!
Why it stands out
The Jet J-2550 drill press is extremely versatile. It can work efficiently under both high and low speeds, hence ideal for people in different crafts.
For instance, professionals can purchase this machine due to its efficiency, versatility, and capacity to effortlessly drill through various materials like wood and metal. Again, it’s easy to use, making it an ideal choice for beginners as well.
Jet J-2550 Pros and Cons
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This drill press also comes with an extra-large 3/8" chuck that accepts bits up to 1" in diameter, so you can use it for making holes in wood and metal. The included spindle lock holds the spindle securely during use, preventing accidental rotation. This way, there's no need to worry about wandering around on its own while you're working on something else nearby!
Rating by Features
Safety 4.5
Precision 4.3
Accuracy 4.0
Value for money 4.2
Best Budget Option: SKIL 3320-01 Drill Press
The SKIL 3320-01 Drill Press is a compact machine that offers great value for money. It's a well-designed drill press with a good weight and feels, thanks to its cast iron base and sturdy steel frame. The motor runs quietly and has plenty of power for drilling holes in wood and metal.
It features a 3.2-amp motor, which is more than enough power to drill through metal and wood easily. It is also designed to minimize vibration, so it won't shake your workpiece loose when drilling into something hard.
The stand includes both lift arms and extension wings to give you more options when working on small projects like jewelry boxes or cabinets, as well as large ones like cabinets or furniture pieces. This stand also comes with a dust collection port that allows you to direct your dust away from the workpiece while drilling holes into it.
The bench top is a good height, which allows you to easily access the workpiece without getting up from your workstation or bending over uncomfortably. The large switch allows you to choose from five speeds, which makes it easy to match the speed of your drill press to the speed at which you're drilling.
The table can be folded down flat for storage when not in use, which makes it easy to keep clean and maintain. This drill press has several additional features, such as an automatic depth stop that stops drilling when it reaches the correct depth, an air tool holder for use with power tools, and a dust collection port that is designed for use with most dust collection systems.
Why it stands out
I loved the quality of this drill press. Putting it together was easy, and within a few minutes, I was done. It's properly built and feels stable, and if you have any issues, you can contact their customer support as it comes with a 3-year warranty. Besides, this is the most affordable option on this review, hence ideal for those on a budget.
SKIL 3320-01 Pros and Cons
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The included accessories comprise an automatic depth stop, an arbor lock, and a chisel rest, so you can easily set up your project before hitting the drill button and start drilling right away.
Rating by Features
Easy to assemble 4.2
Value for money 3.9
Stability 4.0
Accuracy 3.8
Conclusion
The choice you make will ultimately be up to your personal needs (is portability a must? do you need one with added power?). That said, if you're in the market for an industrial-grade metal drill press, look no further than my top pick, the Jet J-2550 Drill press.
