Benchtop Drill Press Recommendation

[TonyL]

Hi Folks:

I do drill on my lathe and have no problems. However, I would like the option of drilling on a drill press. I would like a bench top one. I have a good budget. I only drill pens blanks. I would like a model that could drill at least 5 inches deep. What do you like for a benchtop drill press?

Thanks!

 

[jttheclockman]

I am partial to Delta. Would not go any smaller than 12" Not sure if they make this model any more. (now Jet)

DELTA DP300L 12-Inch TwinLaser Crosshair Drill Press - - Amazon.com

 

[Kragax]

Make sure to read the specs. I didn't think there was a benchtop with a 5" quill travel.

 

[hcpens]

Yes, you need to read the specs, but if you are going to do a touch and feel buy, make sure you take the blank press and the longest blank in to the measure. I have a OLD Sears 12' table top drill press and my Rockler Pen Press/Drilling Jig would not work, easily to say the least.

 

[TonyL]

Thank you. I will be mindful of the specs.

 

[TonyL]

Anyone think this is good. Only a 4 inch depth and not a bench top, but price and reviews seem good. I am very open to opinions. Thanks!

Shop PORTER-CABLE 8-Amp 12-Speed Floor Drill Press at Lowes.com

 

[Dan Masshardt]

Anyone think this is good. Only a 4 inch depth and not a bench top, but price and reviews seem good. I am very open to opinions. Thanks! Shop PORTER-CABLE 8-Amp 12-Speed Floor Drill Press at Lowes.com

I've been toying with getting that one but haven't. I'm hoping for something good used eventually.

 

[TonyL]

I am trying to find their bench top version, but can't

 

[TonyL]

Bought it. We will see how it works. Thanks for everyone's feedback and advice.

 

[chrisj8221]

tony -

how is your drill press working for you?

Which do you prefer - Drill on lathe or press?

 

[vtgaryw]

I don't have any experience with that particular drill press, but I can say from experience that I've been very underwhelmed with the quality direction that Porter Cable has taken since they've "cheapened" up their designs to sell at the big box home stores.

Gary

 

[TonyL]

I have found it easier to center and drill a "perfectly" centered hole on my lathe. However, I also find it slightly more time consuming and less convenient.

I am enjoying have a dedicated drill press (with a 4 inch throw). After a month or two using it, and about 6 pens, I have not been tempted to use my lathe. That may change in the future. I also swore I would never use HSS/skew...now that is all I use and performing a demo at my Woodcraft tomorrow (I am far from an expert, but I do get very good results).

My reasons for preferring the drill press are more impatience-driven. I don't think the motivation is the right one for penturning, but it is for an impatient turner like myself.

Not the best answer, but the truth.