Tag: Drill Press

Categories
A-Check Drill Press Drills & Impact Tools

Best Drill Presses for Metal in 2020

Drill presses really make woodworking and metalworking projects go by much more quickly. The real reason why professional and serious DIY-ers rely on drill presses is that they drill accurate and repeatable holes into all sorts of materials. In this article, we’ll go over why you should consider getting a drill press and what sort of features you should keep an eye out for different drilling projects.

Do I need a Drill Press?

You might be wondering why you even need a drill press to begin with. After all, can’t your power drill do everything that a drill press can with the added benefit of portabilityIn all honesty, with the right power drill (motor power, chuck size, and drill bits), it probably can. However, there are several factors that can ruin the drilling process, and the drill press has eliminated them completely.

The first thing is the depth adjustment system that produces identically deep holes every time. A power drill’s performance is limited by the steadiness of the user’s hand and keenness of their eye. You could always use tape mark how far the bit should reach, but it won’t guarantee perfect results. A drill press’ depth adjustment system gets rid of all guesswork involved.

But arguably the best advantage of a drill press is its ability to produce identical cuts across multiple workpieces. Simply adjust the depth gauge, set the worktable clamps or locks to accommodate each piece, pull the lever, and you’re finished. You can bore hundreds or even thousands of holes in just a few hours of work.



Types of Drill Presses

Like many power tools, drill presses come in all shapes and sizes. The three main types of drill presses are floor models, benchtop models, and magnetic drill presses (mag drill).

The main difference between freestanding floor models and benchtop models is the travel distance of the spindle. The former allows for thicker stock to rest on the worktable and drill out deeper holes. They also come with stronger motors for digging deep into hardwoods. However, benchtop drill presses are still a worthy choice, even for professional carpenters and construction men or women.

Mag presses, on the other hand, are a more specialized tool for heavy-duty construction work. They feature magnetic bases – hence the name – that attach to metal surfaces. This allows the tool to work both horizontally and vertically on metal beams. For the average DIY-er, this is definitely NOT something you will need.

Drill Press Buying Guide

The following sections will provide you with information regarding what sort of specs and features are most crucial for certain jobs. Our guide will be divided into three major portions: drill press for metal, drill press for woodworking, and drill press for plastic.

Drill Press for Metal Buying Guide

Any metal press that can drill through metal is versatile enough to be used on other materials as well, but it’s typically not the other way around. This guide will describe the various features and specs that make a drill press usable on metal pipes, bars, and conduits.

Motor Power

For drilling through metal, the drill press requires a pretty powerful motor. That’s assuming that you’re working with thick, 1-inch pieces of metal. If so, a 1/2- to a 1-horsepower motor should be more than powerful enough to do the trick.

Speed

Amateur DIY-ers might think that speed and power combined will drill through metal like it was nothing. However, even though that may be true, penetrating metal surfaces at high speeds won’t do your drill bit or the drill press’ motor much good. A good metal press should have adjustable drive belts that range from between at least 500 to over 1,000 RPM. This’ll give the tool enough speed to work on all types of materials.

Chuck and Drill Bits

The size of the chuck indicates how large or small of a bit the tool can handle. We’d recommend going large – ½ to 5/8 of an inch – since they can hold onto smaller bits as well. You may also want to get a keyed chuck as well to ensure that the drill bit doesn’t go flying across your workshop as it spins.

Speaking of bits, a good bit for drilling through metal can be any cheap HSS bit that comes with the tool. You can also purchase replacement HSS bits at a relatively low price. They’re effective and drill through metal sheet and bars without too much burr. Just make sure that the bit is well lubricated to prevent burns and to extend the life of the bit.

Worktable

There are several things regarding the work table that you need to be aware of. The first thing is the dimensions of the table. Wider tables can support larger or longer objects, providing better accuracy when plunging the drill head and bit into the piece.

Second, take a look at the clamps or locking system that comes with the worktable. The clamping system should be able to hold onto any piece you wish to drill with the tool. It’s possible to use a makeshift clamping system with whatever you have in your workshop, but it’d be nice if the tool’s worktable comes with one for you.

Finally, the tilting capability of the table is also another important consideration for drilling into odd-shaped objects or at various angles. Most tables can tilt up to 45° in either direction, while others can go as far as 90.

Spindle Travel

The distance in which the spindle travels is a direct indicator of how thick of a piece the tool can drill. Some drill presses for metalwork have a limited travel distance of only 2 inches, whereas others can travel as 6 or more inches. However, how thick of a piece the tool can drill is reliant on the size of the bit and power of the motor. Furthermore, if you’re working exclusively with sheet metal or thin bars and conduits, maybe a 2- to 3-inch spindle travel would be ideal.

Drill Press for Woodworking Buying Guide

Drill presses for woodworking projects are similar to those for metalwork, but they don’t need to be as powerful. In this section, we’ll go over what makes for a high-quality drill press for woodworking.

Motor Power

A drill press’ motor is obviously one of the most important considerations to make, but when it comes to woodworking, the motor doesn’t need to be exceedingly powerful. A 1-HP motor is the most versatile – e.g. useful for metal and wood – but if your workshop is in need of a wood-exclusive drill press, a simple 1/3- or even ½-HP model is sufficient. However, we’d recommend going for a larger motor if versatility is a priority.

Speed

Drilling through wood can be done at a higher speed than metal without leaving burn marks or burrs. But variable speed is still important if you wish to increase the range of usage of your drill press. A good drill press has at least three drive belt positions that deliver between 500 and at least 3,000 RPM. Some can even be adjusted without manually tampering with the drive belts.

Spindle Travel

The maximum distance that the spindle travels should depend on what you’re dealing with. Obviously, thicker stock requires a greater spindle travel distance. Woodworking drill presses typically move between 3 and 6 inches per turn of the lever, and the handy depth gauge system prevents the bit from penetrating too far deep into the workpiece.

Some models even allow users to adjust the height of the table depending on the stock’s thickness and desired drill depth, so there are many ways you can modify the depth of the drill based on your needs.

Worktable Size

We’ve talked about how the size of the worktable supports the stock in the previous buying guide, and the same rules apply here. We’d recommend getting any unit with a table of at least 12 x 12 inches but feel free to go larger or smaller depending on your work.

Chuck and Drill Bits

For woodworking, the ideal chuck size would be between ¼ and ½ of an inch, but your project may call for drilling as wide as 1-inch holes. Feel free to choose the appropriate chuck size based on what your current and future projects need.

But the main thing to consider is the types of drill bits used. There are plenty of woodworking drill bits to choose from, but the most simple is a spiral bit made of HSS. Carbide drill bits are also great if you have a healthier budget and are looking for a long-term solution for drilling. HSS bits, on the other hand, will wear down with use and require frequent replacing.

LED/Laser Guides

Even though LEDs or laser guides aim to ensure accuracy, they can be a bit of a pain to deal with. We can’t really recommend prioritizing laser guides as they’re used more as an estimate rather than a guarantee. However, you also shouldn’t disregard any models that come with them.

Drill Press for Plastic Buying Guide

Perhaps you’re thinking of creating a hydroponics system for your backyard or need several hundreds of feet of plastic drilled at a specific width. A drill press can be an invaluable tool for repeatable holes throughout the length of plastic piping. Let’s take a look at what features to pay attention to when shopping for plastic-drilling drill presses.

Motor Power

Since plastic is a much more brittle object than wood and metal, drilling through it doesn’t require a strong motor. You can get by with a simple 1/3-HP benchtop model for drilling plastic and wood.

Worktable and Clamping System

The worktable is probably the most important thing to consider in a plastic-drilling drill press. First of all, it needs to be large enough to accommodate the size of plastic objects you’re drilling. Although the size of the table depends on what you’re doing, we’d recommend going no smaller than 12 x 12 inches.

But the clamping system is the thing that’s worth paying extremely close attention to. Since the most popular plastic piece that’s drilled using a drill press is plastic piping, you’ll want to ensure that the clamps can hold onto the piece without it wobbling or eventually falling to the floor when the bit pierces the surface.

Chuck and Drill Bits

The size of the chuck nearly isn’t as important as it is in metal and woodworking drill presses. What matters is that it’s large enough to hold onto whatever bit you plan on using and that it’s keyed to prevent the bit from becoming detached.

As for the drill bit, the most effective type is something known as a spur-point bit or dowel bit. The design of these bits is made so they penetrate the surface of soft materials at an angle, effectively reducing friction which in turn prevents the bit from overheating. The result of using a spur-point bit is a neat hole. However, you may need to countersink the plastic workpiece prior to actual drilling.

Speed

Similar to woodworking drill presses, drilling can be done at high speed, with or without the aforementioned spur-point bit, without producing a ton of heat. However, we’d recommend keeping it slow and simple. Any model that produces anything between 500 and 800 RPM, which is practically any drill press, benchtop or otherwise, so finding the right unit for plastic really isn’t all that difficult.

Final Remarks

A drill press is one of the most versatile and reliable tools to have in the workshop. If you need to make repeated holes in hundreds or even thousands of feet of material, with proper adjustments, a drill press can make the job go by in no time at all.

In today’s article, we’ve divided our buying guide based on three commonly used materials in the workshop – metal, wood, and plastic. Depending on how versatile of a drill press you need, a single unit can be used on all three materials or just one of them.

A drill press for metal needs to be powerful to push the drill bit deep into metal sheets, pipes, or bars. If you need one for large I-beams or other similar metal pieces, consider getting a mag press which costs way more than a simple floor or benchtop drill press while also being limited only to metalwork.

Woodworking drill presses don’t need to have the most powerful of motors unless you plan on using it to drill metal. What’s important is that it uses the right bit and works at high speed – up to at least 3,000 RPM.

As for plastic drill presses, these are the most basic types on the market. You can get by with a small 1/3-HP model that generates around 500 RPM to remove material from plastic workpieces. For drilling through plastic, make sure to invest in a specific bit known as a spur-point or dowel bit which reduces friction and prevents melting of the plastic and damage to the bit and chuck.




Categories
A-Check Drill Press Drills & Impact Tools

WEN 4214 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press Review

You might think that a handheld power drill would be the only drilling tool you’d ever need, but if you’re serious about your craft, then a drill press is definitely a tool worthy of the investment. The main benefits of a drill press is its ability to drill straight holes that are perfectly perpendicular to the surface of your material. If you’re connecting boards with dowels, then you know the importance of perfectly drilled holes – width, depth, and angle – for a flush connection.

Today, we’re going to look at an extremely popular benchtop drill press – the WEN 4214. There are several things to love about this tool such as its compact size and portability, but there are several other things that will make this the perfect addition for your workshop. Let’s see what they are.



Powerful Motor

The first thing we noticed about this tool is its 5-amp motor which delivers enough power to drill through all sorts of materials. Woodworkers would definitely appreciate the WEN 4214’s ability to drill not just through tough woods but also plastic and metal of varying thicknesses.

5/8-inch Chuck

The WEN 4214’s powerful motor gives it the ability to handle bits that measure up to 5/8 of an inch in diameter. Wider chucks and drill bits are used for drilling wider holes, but you can also attach smaller 1/4- or ½-inch bits to this unit’s chuck. Essentially, this tool can handle a wide range of drilling projects for small and even large woodworking projects.

Large Variable Speed Range

When it comes to drilling through a block of wood or metal, the speed of the drill plays a huge role in determining how well the hole will turn out. The WEN 4214 comes with a variable speed lever where operators can determine just how much speed the tool will deliver. The speed ranges from 580 to 3,200 RPM – slower drilling speeds for metal and quicker speeds for metal and plastic. The versatility of this tool is endless.

Digital Readout

Oftentimes, we find drill presses with a variable speed system which doesn’t let you know just how quickly the drill bit is spinning. This requires a lot of tampering with drive belts and guesswork, putting the quality of the drilled hole at risk. The WEN 4214 overcomes this problem with its digital readout which lets users know the maximum drill speed when adjusting turning the variable speed lever, as well as the current speed of the drill bit when turning the feed lever.

Cross Lasers for Increased Precision

When operating a drill press, inexperienced users may find it difficult to gauge just where the drill bit will penetrate the surface of their workpiece. Many models, including the WEN 4214, have cross lasers which indicate where exactly the point of the drill bit will penetrate the surface of the material. The lasers do not need recalibrating as frequently as other drill press models thanks to the study design of this tool.

Amazing Worktable

The WEN 4214 comes with a massive 9-1/2 x 9-1/2-inch cast iron worktable where users place their wood or metal workpieces. This worktable offers enough support to carry circular pieces that measure up to 12 inches in diameter. For rectangular pieces, you can extend the amount of support by pulling out the table roller extension found just below the worktable.

The rack and pinion system lets users adjust the height of the worktable to accommodate larger or smaller pieces. When working with oddly shaped stock, you can adjust the tilt of the table by up to 45° to the left or right, makings straight drilling in an angled workpiece super-easy.

Drill Depth and Accurate Depth Gauge

The WEN 4214’s spindle has a maximum travel distance of 3-1/8 inches. The depth gauge found on the side of the unit allows you to determine just how deep or shallow the drill bit will penetrate your piece. We found the depth gauge to be straightforward and easy to read, but customers have complained about the small writing.

Worklight

Even though it’s not recommended that you operate a drill press in poorly lit areas, there’s no denying that the head of any drill press can block out the light in a room. Because of this, we’re thankful that WEN included an onboard work light found below the variable speed lever that will illuminate the work table and work material.

Verdict

All in all, we found the WEN 4214 to be a solid drill press. It’s not unlike many other drill presses out there, and it’s extremely similar to many of WEN’s other drill press models. However, its versatility, wide range of features, laser guide, and large motor combined make this a great tool to have for woodworking and metalworking projects.




Categories
Drills & Impact Tools Magnetic Drill

What is a Magnetic Drill Press Used for?

If you’re familiar with a drill press machine, then you already know how great a tool like that can be. A drill press can be used to drill deep holes into all sorts of materials. With a few adjustments, you can produce holes of identical widths and depths on numerous pieces effortlessly. The convenience of a drill press truly cannot be understated.

What is a Magnetic Drill Press Used for?

But what happens when your workpiece is far too large to place on the drill press work tableOr worse, what if the piece has already been fixed into the ground and is standing verticallyYour client can’t expect you to tear the whole thing down just to punch a hole into the piece, nor can you manage to drill a hole into it using a regular power drill. So what do you do?

You get a magnetic drill press machine. From drilling holes into standing I-beams and even metal beams hanging 20 feet off the ground, a mag drill can do it all.



What is a Magnetic Drill Press Machine?

If you haven’t heard of a magnetic drill press (mag drill for short) or just haven’t found a use for it, then you most likely won’t need it in the near future. A mag drill is a specialty tool used by the most hardcore metalworkers to drill large holes into metal pieces without disassembling the structure altogether. The four most prominent components of a mag drill are the drill stand, the motor, the chuck or arbor, and the magnetic base.

The magnetic base of the mag drill is what sets it apart from traditional drill presses. A drill press requires you to bring the workpiece to the tool, whereas a mag drill adheres to the metal piece using electromagnets to drill accurate holes in metal objects regardless of the tool’s orientation. Heck, you can even hang the tool upside-down, and the magnetic base will keep the tool from falling.

What are magnetic drills used for?

Why would you need a Magnetic Drill Press Machine?

Good question. If you’re a simple DIY hobbyist who’s just beginning to get into welding or hardly works with metal pieces, then you absolutely will not need to invest in a mag drill. For most home and garage workshops, a drill press with an annular cutter will suffice.

As for professional construction workers working on a large-scale project who simply cannot lug around large 1,000-pound metal beams, a magnetic drill press is the right tool to have. The convenience of taking the tool to the workpiece and not vice versa is something that anyone who has ever used a handheld circular saw knows about.

Types of Magnetic Drill Press Machines

Mag drills fall into three different categories – electric, pneumatic, and hydraulic.

Electric Magnetic Drill Press Machines

Electric mag drills can be further divided into corded-electric and cordless models. We can go into the whole “corded v. cordless” debate and end up nowhere, so to sum up: corded models have an uninterrupted source of power since they draw electricity from a power outlet, whereas cordless models provide maximum portability but limited runtime since they run off rechargeable batteries.

Whether you prefer corded or cordless, electric mag drill presses function the same and are to be used in the same circumstances. They are ideally used in dry environments since a droplet of water can cause the machine to go haywire.

What is the best mag drill?

Pneumatic Magnetic Drill Press Machines

Since pneumatic tools don’t have any electrical components, they are safe to use in wet environments such as unfinished buildings or leaky underground rooms. You must have an air compressor to provide this tool with enough compressed air to function. Pneumatic mag drills vary in specs and PSI requirements, so if you were to purchase one of these machines, make sure that your air compressor is up to the task or invest in one that is.

Hydraulic Magnetic Drill Press Machines

We mentioned earlier in this article that mag drills are specialty tools that not everybody will need, but hydraulic mag drills take it to another level. This type of mag drill is mainly used to do underwater drilling jobs since they have a leak-proof system that prevents water from damaging its sensitive components. If you need to metal beams several hundred feet under the surface of the ocean, then feel free to shell out a few thousand bucks for one of these machines. Or… you know… get another type of mag drill.

Why do I need a hammer drill?

Safety basics of using a Magnetic Drill Press Machine

Mag drills are pretty straightforward tools. All models will require assembly straight from the box, so take some time to study the instructions manual and not just follow internet tutorials.

The first thing you need to realize is that the magnetic base of a mag drill’s electromagnetic base only clings onto ferrous metals like steel and iron. Even though the drill press can be used to cut through non-ferrous metals like copper, aluminum, and zinc, the magnetic base won’t stick to them. You also need to ensure that both the surface ferrous metal surface and the magnetic underside are spotless. This will increase the chances of the magnetic base adhering to the object and not suddenly falling off.

Something that you should consider is getting a set of chains for you mag drill. When there’s a power outage or the battery’s run out of juice midway, the magnetic base will lose its adhering power, causing the unit to release its grip and fall to the ground. By using chains, you can prevent this from happening. The worst that’ll come out of it is a few scrapes on the tool’s casing, but at least the arbor or chuck won’t become dented in any way.

Magnetic drilling machine

Final Remarks

So what have we learned todayA magnetic drill press machine is an extremely versatile tool that’s used more for specialty tasks rather than in everyday life. A mag drill is meant to be used on stationary metal objects. With its electromagnetic base, it can hang vertically, horizontally, and even upside-down on ferrous metals, though we recommend purchasing a set of reliable chains to keep the unit from falling in case of power failure. Once again, it’s not a tool that the average DIY-er will utilize every day, but for large-scale construction jobs, a mag drill will pay for itself in convenience alone.




Categories
Drills & Impact Tools Magnetic Drill

Best Magnetic Drill Press Machines in 2020

Drill presses are versatile machines used to drill deep holes into wood, metal, and plastic. They come in all shapes and sizes, and the best part of these machines is that they can produce identical holes at identical depths across numerous pieces in hardly any time at all. After setting the depth adjustment, clamp down your workpiece and pull the lever. No trouble at all.

Best Magnetic Drill Press Machine

That is, of course, unless you’re working with large pieces that can’t be lifted. Or worse yet, you need to drill holes into vertical-standing pieces metal support beams that are too large and are already fixated to the ground. So what do you do thenYour best bet would be to use a magnetic drill press machine.



What is a Magnetic Drill Press Machine?

A magnetic drill press machine – mag drill for short – is a compact, lightweight, and versatile tool that you take to the workpiece and not vice versa. It’s considered a specialty tool to most so you may not always need it for every project, but when it is needed, it makes the drilling task much easier and quicker to complete.

Mag drills are comprised of four major components: a magnetic base found on the bottom of the tool, a drill stand, an arbor or chuck to hold the drill bit, and a motor. Several types of bits can be fitted into the machine, like twist drills, annular cutters, reamers, and countersinks.

Best Magnetic Drill Presses

Why use a Magnetic Drill Press Machine?

The convenience of using a mag drill is astronomical. When working in hard to reach places, a mag drill shines brighter than a regular drill press with the same metal-cutting drill bit. The most common places where contractors opt for a mag drill are I-beams and other vertical-standing, stationary pieces of thick metal. The magnetic base keeps the mag drill adhered to a ferrous metal surface in any orientation (horizontally, vertically, and even upside down) and prevents it from slipping and sliding while you make the cut.

Limitations of a Magnetic Drill Press Machine

Even though we stated that a mag drill is a versatile tool, it’s not something that every metalworker needs, especially if you’re a hobbyist or don’t need to drill wide holes into thick pieces of metal. Since these are specialty tools, for the average DIY-er, using one may not be as cost-effective as you might have originally hoped. For the most part, if you’re working out of a garage workshop, then you can get by with a regular drill press – either a floor model or a benchtop model – fitted with annular cutters for drilling wide 1- to 2-inch holes.

Magnetic Drill Press Machine Buying Guide

If you’re interested in purchasing a mag drill, then take a look at our brief buying guide on how you can get the best deal. We’ll go over the various specs and features that need careful consideration when shopping for the right tool for your line of work.

Power Source

The three types of mag drills available are electric, pneumatic, and hydraulic.

Electric

Electric mag drills can be further divided into corded-electric and cordless (battery-powered) mag drills. Each has their own sets of pluses and minuses. Corded models have an uninterrupted source of power which translates into reduced downtime. However, they may not be able to reach every piece in restricted areas due to their power cords.

Cordless mag drills solve the problem of portability but come with significantly weaker motors. Not to mention their batteries provide very limited usage per charge – typically around 20 to 25 minutes. They can also be heavier than their corded brethren, making it a bit more difficult to maneuver and stick into high places.

The Best Magnetic Drill Press

Pneumatic

Pneumatic mag drills draw power from compressed air produced by an air compressor. Situations that would call for a pneumatic mag drill rather than electric include drilling in damp rooms, and in the presence of highly inflammable materials. Pneumatic tools are generally more powerful than electric, and pneumatic mag drills are no exception. The only issue we have is that you need to invest in and lug around an air compressor to use it.

Hydraulic

Unless you’re drilling underwater, you most likely won’t need a hydraulic mag drill. They are equipped with a closed loop system which prevents water from seeping into the delicate components hidden under the casing. Apart from being highly specialized tools, they also cost a fortune. We recommend sticking to electric or pneumatic mag drills for everyday use.

Motor Power

The power output is one of the most important considerations. The power of each model varies greatly so spend some time researching what you need and which tools can provide. A good place to start would be a 1,000-watt or 8-amp tool, though drilling through thicker pieces of metal will require more motor power. Smaller motors with fewer watts and amps may be suitable for your line of work, but be aware that weaker motors are for lighter jobs, and more demanding tasks can cause the motor to burn.

Best power magnetic drill press

Design

Even though looks aren’t everything, they do mean a lot. Things to look out for are light models of around 50 pounds or so, dual handles for easy lifting, and a removable handle that accommodates both left- and right-handed users.

Magnet Strength

The most overlooked feature of a mag drill is ironically the magnet. It’s easy to forget that the magnets are there to hold the unit in place on ferrous metals until testing out the machine only to find that gravity has a greater hold on it than the magnets. Check and make sure that the tool can adhere to metal surfaces without the slightest drop in height.

Another thing to consider is investing in chains. A set of chains serve as extra insurance to keep the unit in place in case the magnets somehow fail to do their thing. They also help tremendously in preventing the drill from smacking the ground during power failures or when the battery is suddenly out of juice.

Best Magnetic Drill Press Reviews

Final Remarks

For specific metalworking tasks, a magnetic drill press machine can be an invaluable tool to have. It allows you to drill deep, wide holes in any metal pieces that are too heavy to carry to a regular drill press – you take the tool to where the hole needs to be drilled, pull the lever, and you’ve got yourself a perfectly de-burred hole. Admittedly, mag drills aren’t exactly a must-have tool for everyone, especially if a regular drill press fitted with a metal-cutting drill bit can suffice, but for more demanding jobs on site, a mag drill pays for itself in performance and convenience.




Categories
Drill Press Drills & Impact Tools Guides Info Guides

How do you Use a Drill Press Safely?

Drill presses are one of the most valuable tools you can own. Whether you’re a woodworker or metal worker, a drill press is a must-have tool for your garage workshop.

Use a Drill Press Safely

However, just because it’s an essential tool to have and own doesn’t mean that it doesn’t come without its risks. We’re talking about a rapid-spinning chuck carrying a sharp, metal bit for drilling into hard materials – e.g., wood, plastic, and metal. Without the right care, you could actually end up doing pretty potentially dangerous things, leading to severe injury on both you and your tool.

In this article, we’re going to talk about some of the major DON’Ts of using a drill press. We’ll also include a quick how-to guide on how you can use your drill press safely in order to reduce the risk of hurting yourself, your stock, and your tool.

What not to do

First, let’s talk about things that you should never do while operating a drill press. This list could go on and on, but we’ll just skim over some things first-time users and amateur wood/metalworkers should be conscious of.

Drill Press Safety

1. Using your hand to clamp the stock

One of the most amateurish mistakes you could make when operating a drill press is attempting to keep your stock stable on the work table with your hand. First of all, it’s never a good idea to put your limbs anywhere near a spinning drill bit. Second, there are clamps and vices that come with the work surface to keep your stock from slipping.

2. Entering the drill bit with excessive pressure

It takes time for a drill bit to penetrate the surface of a material and remove materials. If there seems to be a bit of resistance coming from the wood/metal/plastic workpiece, lift the drill head and then make another attempt at penetrating the material. Do this continuously until the bit can smoothly remove material from your stock.

3. Adjusting speed and depth on the fly

Drill presses come with variable speed features and a depth gauge. These two things are what make drill presses an invaluable tool – efficiency and depth precision. However, while the machine is still running or slowing down, it’s not wise to attempt to turn the speed variable knob or twist the depth gauge’s nuts. Since most drill press models require switching the position of a drive belt, you could end up burning your hand or getting the belt tangled. Wait until the drill bit has come to a complete stop before tinkering with the settings.

How do you Use a Drill Press Safely

4. Leaving the chuck key in the drill chuck

One step that often goes overlooked is removing the chuck key after inserting a new bit in the drill head. Oftentimes, the chuck key will just fall to the ground if there’s nothing to hold it up, but on the off-chance that it stays in place, you should remove it from the chuck as soon as possible. The chuck key won’t go flying due to the rapid-spinning bit, but it can be quite a surprise when plunging the drill head only to find a piece of metal dropping onto your work surface. It can be infinitely worse if the key drops right onto the path of the incoming bit.

5. Stopping the rotation of the chuck and spindle with your hand

Obviously, these DON’Ts exist for a reason – someone who thought they knew better found out they didn’t the hard way. Honestly, how much time can you save by manually stopping the spinning chuck and spindle with your hand or digitsIs it really “saving time” if you manually stop the chuck from spinning 2 seconds before it would naturally come to a full stopJust keep your hands away from the drill head, bit, chuck, and spindle while the tool is moving.

How to safely operate a drill press

The following segment will include the required steps for operating a drill press safely. Your experience may vary depending on your drill press model.

What are the safety rules for a drill press?

1. Wear the right gear

Drill presses work by spinning a drill bit at high speeds in order to penetrate through wood, metal, or plastic. This means flying material could go anywhere, including into your eyes. We recommend wearing eye protection, safe clothing (work vest or comfortable, non-baggy clothing), and workshop earmuffs. It’s a good idea to have a mask or respirator on since wood dust can wreak havoc in your lungs when inhaled.

2. Set the speed

To set the speed of your drill press, you need to move the drive belt to the correct pulley. Take a look at the instructions manual that came with your drill press, or study the diagram found in the inside of the latch to access the belt and pulleys. In general, slower speeds are better for drilling through metal, whereas higher speeds are for drilling holes in wood. Once again, be sure that you check the manufacturer’s instructions on how to adjust the speed of your drill press.

3. Attach the right bit

Different materials call for different bits. Drilling through metal requires purchasing and mounting a certain bit, different from what you’d use to drill through wood. You also need to pay attention to the width of the bit before mounting it into the drill press chuck.

Using the chuck key, release the current drill bit until it falls securely away from the chuck. Next, insert the bit you want to use into the chuck at the right depth then twist the chuck key in the opposite direction to tighten it. You can check to see if the bit is mounted securely by giving it a few downward tugs. If it moves even in the slightest, you’ll need to tighten the chuck a bit more.

4. Gauge the depth

The depth gauge is usually a threaded rod found on the left or right side of the machine. To adjust the depth, you need to turn the knurled nuts to the appropriate stopping point. This ensures precise drilling depths with every plunge of the drill head.

What can a drill press be used for?

5. Set the table

Some drill presses use cranks while others use clamps. Whatever your drill press uses, use the system to adjust the height of the table. Setting the height of the table helps you work on a stock of virtually any thickness. The thicker stock will require that you decrease the height of the work table in order to get the drill bit at the proper depth.

6. Secure the workpiece

Remember how we said you shouldn’t attempt to hold the stock down with a handInstead of risking one or multiple fingers, use the provided clamps and/or vices to keep the workpiece securely mounted onto the work table. You can use additional clamps or vices to help with odd-shaped pieces if necessary.

7. Pull the lever to drill through your workpiece

Once everything has already been set, press the start button or flip the switch to get the machine running. Wait until the bit has reached its maximum speed based on the current position of the belt before pulling the feed lever. Be sure to pull the feed lever slowly so you have full control over how quickly the bit will penetrate the workpiece. Be sure to work slowly since excessive pressure can leave burn marks or even cause the workpiece to release from the clamps/vices.

What is the main purpose of the drill press?

8. Turn the drill press off

Whenever you’re not plunging the head into a workpiece, you should always turn the machine off. Before doing this, turn the lever in the opposite direction to lift the drill head away from the work surface. After the drill bit has completely left the workpiece, press the off button or flip the switch to shut the machine down. Wait until the chuck and drill bit have stopped completely before resetting the speed, depth gauge, table height, or switching bits. The current bit might be hot so you might need a cloth or some gloves when removing the bit from the chuck.


Categories
Drill Press Drills & Impact Tools Guides Info Guides

What is the Main Purpose of the Drill Press?

A drill press is one of the most versatile and beneficial tools that you can own. Basically, a drill press is a tool with a drill head mounted onto a column. The drill head plunges downward as the operator pulls the feed lever. The drill then penetrates the surface of the material clamped onto the work table under the drill head.

What is the function of a drill press?

What Does a Drill Press Do?

First-time buyers and people just looking to get into the metal/woodworking game might have several questions regarding the importance of a drill press. The following list will describe the types of things a drill press can do.

Drilling Holes in Wood/Metal/plastic

Obviously, a drill press is meant to drill holes. The drill head enters your material – wood, metal, or plastic – and drills out holes of varying depths and widths, depending on the length of the bit, the size of the chuck, and the depth gauge. One way a drill press differs from a regular power drill is that because the head only moves vertically, there’s absolutely no way that you can mess up the hole you’ve drilled unless 1) the stock is incorrectly set (there are clamps for this), or 2) the bit is incorrectly set (just double-check).

Repeated Drill Depths

It’s entirely possible to drill at the same depth in multiple boards using a power drill. The only problem is that it’s not very efficient; you need to measure the drill bit, tape off the depth at which you’d like to reach, and use a mixture of gut-feeling and semi-visibility to gauge where the drill’s bit has reached.

With a drill press, you can get rid of many variables that affect how deep the bit has reached. By setting the depth gauge, you need to pull the feed lever until the drill bit has reached the desired depth. After that, you can drill holes into multiple boards with just a pull of the lever.

What is a bench drill press used for?

A Drill Press’ Versatility

Even though a drill press is an extremely valuable tool to have for any woodworking/metalworking projects, you might be wondering what else it can do. You’ve heard of how versatile a drill press is, but what other things can you do with itHere are just a few things that you drill press can be used to do other than drilling straight, round holes into stock.

Deburring Holes

Oftentimes after drilling a hole, the outer part of the hole will be as clean as a whistle, while the inside of the hole will be cluttered with dust and small wood shavings. In order to eliminate the residual dust left in the hole, you’ll need to attach a deburring bit to your tool. This clears the hole out in a jiffy, making it ready for further processing.

Both drill presses and power drills can use deburring bits, but it’s significantly easier to debur a hole using a drill press. Simply slide the bit into the chuck and pull the lever set at the right depth. There’ll be no more struggling to get the tool perfectly perpendicular to the hole, eliminating the risk of ruining it.

Reaming

Most woodworkers may not need to use a reaming bit, but for serious jobs where even a thousandth of an inch can mean throwing the entire board away (e.g., slip fits and interference fits), a reaming bit and a steady hand are crucial. That is if you’re using a power drill.

With a drill press, after drilling the initial hole at the right width and depth, attach the reaming bit, set the appropriate depth, and pull the feed lever. The magic of a drill press and what makes it such a valuable tool in amateur and professional workshops is its accuracy. Reaming holes becomes so much easier to do by eliminating shaky hands from the equation.

Tapping

Drilling and tapping are two unique actions that a handheld power drill and drill press can do. Tapping a hole involves creating notches in a pre-drilled hole to create threads where screws or threaded pipes can latch onto. It can be a tedious task if you need to go at it by hand with a power drill, but with a power drill, things become much easier. As long as you put in the appropriate bit and set the right depth, you’re good to go.

What is the meaning of drilling machine?

Mortising

A mortise is a square, or rectangular hole cut into the wood where a tenon is inserted to connect two boards together. The traditional way our great-great-grandfathers created mortises in their wood-based crafts was by using a chisel. We admit that chiseling is a lost art that the younger generation has lost all respect for. But this is only because there’s a far easier way to create mortises: a mortising bit in a drill press.

If you don’t have a mortising bit and can’t be bothered to purchase one, a drill press can still come in handy in producing mortises. Using a drill bit, just drill out a majority of the material in your board where you’d like to create a mortise and use and chisel away the rest to square it up. That way your grandparents won’t scowl at you for not appreciating ole fashioned hard work.

Sanding

After cutting boards using a jigsaw or band saw, it only makes sense to sand any rough edges. The best way to go at it is with the help of an oscillating spindle sander. However, such a tool isn’t necessarily a “must-have” tool for the common man’s workshop. If you have a drill press, then you can convert it into a sander.

Basically, there are several attachments that you can get for your drill press to increase its versatility, including a barrel sander. Fit the attachment into your drill press’ chuck and start her up. Make use of the drill’s variable speed to accommodate sanding of any material.

When was the drill press invented?

Final Remarks

So there you have it; this article explains a number of different things you can use a drill press for. If you’re just beginning to build your workshop tool by tool, a drill press should be one of the highest items on your list. It’s not just the precision that it offers that makes it so great (though it is the main benefit it has over handheld power drills) but also the number of different holes and cleaning jobs this tool can help you do. If you’re looking for the right drill press, you should prioritize versatility, and make sure that the drill press you get has several different attachments available.


Categories
Drill Press Drills & Impact Tools

Dremel 220-01 vs WEN 4208: Drill Press Comparison

In order to find the right tool with all the relevant features and accessories to address your needs, it is necessary to gather enough data and conduct your own due diligence to find the perfect one among the myriad of choices that are available on the market.

Dremel 220-01 vs WEN 4208 Drill Press Comparison

Dremel 220-01

For craftsmen and occasional hobbyists alike, the drill press can be one of the most important tools in their work shed. In this review, we will be evaluating two products which are vying under this particular category: The Dremel 220-01 Rotary Tool Drill Press and the WEN 4208 8-in. 5-Speed Drill Press.

Dremel has built a reputation for coming up with quality specialized tools and accessories. Over the years they have consistently released innovative tools for various applications that have garnered mostly positive reviews from users.

The Dremel 220-01 is one of their latest innovations which effectively combines three main functions: a drill press, tool holder, and flex shaft tool stand in one.

It measures a mere 6 x 6 x 12 inches which make it very convenient to move around to wherever your workpiece might be located. Its telescopic tool stand provides the flexibility to be able to elongate to any height ranging from 16 to 29 inches. The tool holder also gives it the capability to polish, sand and grind various objects and surfaces up to 90 degrees horizontally.

WEN 4208 vs Dremel 220-01 Drill Press Comparison

WEN 4208

Its base is marked with both Metric and English units to help you come up with accurate results regardless of which measurement system you are comfortable with. It’s the perfect complement to the other Dremel rotary tool products available.

On the other hand, the WEN 4208 Drill Press also offers strong features and capabilities that are expected of a more conventional drill press. It measures a good 7.5 x 22.9 x 11 inches, so it may be relatively more difficult to move around if necessity dictates.

You can choose operating speeds ranging from 740 to 3140 RPM, whichever is appropriate for your needs. Affordable yet powerful, it delivers enough torque and a rated output of 1/3 horsepower coming from a robust induction motor.

The worktable may be beveled up to 45 degrees to the left or right, which is very convenient in performing drilling tasks at an angle. The set also contains a ½” keyed chuck, chuck key and other necessary tools needed for assembling the equipment.

Dremel 220-01 vs WEN 4208

Dremel 220-01

Stability

DREMEL 220-01
The entire machine is composed of equal parts metal and plastic. Because of this, there are instances where significant play and wobbling may be observed as you try to drill into your workpiece especially when working on harder materials.

WEN 4208
A sturdy frame with a durable cast iron base, table and head supports the entire drill press, successfully preventing any possible scenario wherein the drill press may wobble or ‘walk’. Bolt holes are also provided to easily secure the power tool safely onto the workbench.

The stability of the drill press is a very critical consideration, for safety and work precision purposes. While Dremel had a very good intention in trying to come up with a practical 3-in-1 tool on the 220-01 Drill Press, they, unfortunately, sacrificed on the stability factor by scrimping on the components. If your main goal is to buy a drill press, I suggest you go directly for the more conventional and sturdier drill press which is the WEN 4208 rather than waste your time on the 3-in-1 option offered by Dremel.

WEN 4208 vs Dremel 220-01

WEN 4208

Accuracy and Precision

DREMEL 220-01
Theoretically, this drill press is full of exciting capabilities that should have been very useful for a variety of applications such as the articulating drill press, a tool holder which can be positioned up to 90 degrees horizontally, and a flex shaft tool stand which can be adjusted to a height between 16 to 29 inches for your most comfortable working position.

However, the instability problems mentioned above and the presence of plastic (where sturdier metal parts should have been) have effectively negated and wasted these novel 3-in-1 ideas because poor design execution has resulted in an equipment that exhibits a lot of wobbling (especially once the bit makes contact with the workpiece) such that critical parameters such as precision and repeatability are entirely out of the question.

WEN 4208
This tool is equipped with a powerful induction motor which provides it with a smooth and consistent performance, allowing it to accurately drill holes on a wide variety of materials such as wood, plastic, various metals and heavy-duty cast iron even at high speeds.

It also comes with a depth adjustment gauge which accurately sets the desired spindle travel. Combining all of the above features with a rigid frame and a cast iron base, table, and head for stability then you have a drill press that’s specifically built for accuracy and precision, on top of everything else.

Judging by the summation above, it’s quite obvious: The WEN 4208 Drill Press takes the cake in this particular category by a mile.

Dremel 220-01 Drill Press

Dremel 220-01

Electrical Supply

DREMEL 220-01
This is a corded tool, hence you have to place it near an AC outlet for its power source.

WEN 4208
This corded equipment draws from a 120V 60Hz AC electrical supply.

The Dremel and the WEN drill press are both corded electric machines that need to draw power from a stable power outlet in order to operate. As such, both power tools only have a limited range to work and will require an extension cord if your workpiece happens to be located a little bit far from the power outlet.

WEN vs Dremel

WEN 4208

Dremel 220-01 vs WEN 4208: Final Words

It becomes clear upon closer inspection, that the Dremel 220-01 Drill Press and the WEN 4208 Drill Press are actually two different units that just happen to share some overlapping functions.

Dremel vs WEN Drill Press

Check how much you can save, buying the Dremel 220-01 Drill Press on Amazon >>>

While it may initially appear that the Dremel 220-01 may be the more versatile version of the two because of its 3-in-1 capability, that novelty quickly wears off once you figure out that the more critical result parameters such as accuracy and repeatability have actually been sacrificed, as a result of poor design execution and sub-par materials, in pursuit of that multi-tasking capability.

If you are on the lookout for a good old drill press that can satisfactorily perform the tasks you require and will last you for a very long time, just go directly for the more conventional but reliable and durable option between the two: The WEN 4208 Drill Press.

WEN 4208 Drill Press

Check how much you can save, buying the WEN 4208 Drill Press on Amazon >>>




Categories
Drill Press Drills & Impact Tools

SKIL 3320-01 vs WEN 4208: Drill Press Comparison

A drill press is a must-have tool for wood- and metalworkers. Even though common tools like saws, hammers, and power drills can be used to complete the same tasks, drill presses make work much quicker and easier to do. These tools deliver precise depth and precision, but different models have varying results. They come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes and with features that can be confusing to filter through.

SKIL 3320-01 3.2 Amp 10-Inch Drill Press Review

SKIL 3320-01

There are numerous manufacturers out there from all over the world that produce a wide selection of tools to choose from. In this article, we’re going to focus on two medium-weight contenders in the industry: SKIL and WEN. SKIL has been in business since 1942, whereas WEN has been serving construction workers since 1951. Both have a large size of die hard fans, but for different reasons – SKIL for their quality and WEN for their affordability. Here, we’re going to compare SKIL’s 3320-01 and WEN’s 4208 tabletop drill presses.

Power

SKIL 3320-01
The 3320-01 model features a respectable 3.2 Amp motor. The motor delivers sufficient power for a number of drilling applications. This tool also delivers a great amount of torque – so great that some customers have complained about their stocks or sheet metal moving around when the drill bit enters. Just clamp them down or have a steady hand and you’ll be all right.

WEN 4208
Of the two models here, this is the more budget-friendly option, though the SKIL provides ample power considering its price tag. This WEN model comes with a moderate 2.3 Amp motor which works rather well on both wood and metal, though it’ll struggle to drill through any sheets of metal thicker than ½ an inch.

The SKIL is the clear winner here. With a 3.2 Amp motor, it will provide enough torque to drill through sheets of metal a little bit thicker than an inch.

SKIL 3320-01 Demo (By WoodWorker)

WEN 4208 8 in. 5-Speed Drill Press Review
WEN 4208

Variable Speeds

SKIL 3320-01
Operators can control the speed of the drilling bit using the model’s 5-speed motor. With five speeds, you get greater control over how hard and quick to drive holes into various boards and metal sheets. From slowest to fastest, each gear can reach a maximum speed of 570 RPM, 900 RPM, 1,390 RPM, 2,050 RPM, and 3,050 RPM. WEN 4208
Theoretically speaking, a weaker motor should cause a bit to rotate much slower than a higher-amp motor if the goal is to provide optimal torque. However, that’s not the case in the WEN 4208. This unit also comes with a 5-speed transmission where each gear delivers a maximum speed of 740 RPM, 1,100 RPM, 1,530 RPM, 2,100 RPM, and 3,140 RPM. The tradeoff for super-quick speed is the lack of drilling power, making it just a little bit underwhelming in drilling tasks.

We like the quicker drill speed of the WEN 4208, but it just doesn’t deliver enough power. Even the difference in speed between both models is rather insignificant. For this reason, we prefer the speed settings of the SKIL.

SKIL 3320-01 3.2 Amp 10-Inch Drill Press

SKIL 3320-01

½-inch Chuck Size

SKIL 3320-01
Both of these units come with a keyed ½-inch chuck. This ½-inch diameter of the chuck allows for practically every size bit you’d need for personal and even professional settings, though this is nowhere close to industry-sized drill press chucks can handle. Swapping bits is a breeze with the included key you get with this kit.WEN 4208
This unit also features a ½-inch chuck with a key to release and swap bits. There are no problems with the overall grasping power of the chuck, and hardly any customers have complained about loose drill bits or unintended release. However, we’ve said it repeatedly again, WEN-made bits and attachments aren’t that durable or long-lasting. We suggest purchasing more reliable bits to install in this unit (not an attack on the drill press itself).

There’s hardly any difference between the chucks. They’re the exact same size, they have similar grasping power on drill bits up to ½-inch in diameter, and you need a key (included in the box) to loosen and tighten the chucks around your desired drill bit. It’s a stalemate in this regard.

SKIL 3320-01w

SKIL 3320-01

Spindle Travel

SKIL 3320-01
This 10-inch drill press has a drilling capacity of up to 2-3/8 inches deep into both wood and metal. This should be deep enough for a number of projects, especially considering the somewhat limited power you get from the 3.2 Amp motor. This unit also comes with a depth stop for delivering consistent depths for repeated drilling.WEN 4208
This 8-inch drill press has a maximum spindle journey of 2 inches. That’s not too impressive, but it should get most of your light- to medium-duty tasks done in a hurry. In addition, the depth measurement is straightforward and easy to use. Some users complain about the depth stops being too unreliable but we found they did a great job.

The SKIL is the clear winner here, despite only offering an additional 3/8 inches of maximum drilling depth. The depth stops are also more trustworthy than the WEN’s setup according to a large number of customers.

WEN 4208 Drill Press

WEN 4208

Lightweight and Compact

SKIL 3320-01
Both of these drill presses are lightweight and compact, making them both viable options for woodworkers on the go. The SKIL 3320-01 weighs in at 52.2 pounds and takes up 7.5 x 22.9 x 11 inches of space. If you plan on transporting it from place to place, the height might be a drawback since, upright, it’s a little bit unstable on the bed of your truck. WEN 4208
This drill press weighs only 32 pounds and takes up 9.8 x 21.8 x 15.2 inches of space. It’s a little bit taller, which isn’t an issue even when placed on top of your work table. The same transportation problem of the SKIL 3320-01 applies for this model as well. We suggest laying them flat on their side with sufficient padding to protect their sensitive components.

Their sizes are practically similar, but the 20.2-pound difference can mean a lot to people who need a portable drill press. Gun to our head, we prefer the SKIL model since the additional poundage also helps to keep the unit stable, especially when using the highest speed setting.

SKIL 3320-01 Review

SKIL 3320-01

Adjustable Work Table

SKIL 3320-01
The 3320-01’s table measures in at 7-5/8 x 7-5/8 inches. The table can be tilted up to 45° to the left and right, offering greater use for a number of angles. If there’s one thing to complain about the table on this unit, it’s that it’s rather small, so our work is limited to small-sized stocks and metal sheets. This isn’t too much of an issue, though, considering that it’s a compact/emergency drill press. WEN 4208
Similar to the SKIL, the WEN is also adjustable to bevel up to 45° to the left and right. The table’s size, however, is considerably smaller – only 6-1/2 x 6-1/2 inches, further limiting what we can drill with this unit. The same complaint about the SKIL also applies to the WEN.

The bevel action on both drill presses is identical. Both units bevel between 0° and 45° without preconfigured stops so it’s up to the user to measure and lock the table’s angle. The size of the tables is a whole other issue, but we prefer the SKIL to the WEN because it table offers an additional 15.9-square-inches of work area to play with.

WEN 4208 Review

WEN 4208

Laser Guide for Precision Cuts

SKIL 3320-01
Between these two models, only the SKIL features a laser guide which gives users an accurate estimate of where the drill bit will enter the stock of wood or sheet metal. This unit uses the company’s LaserX2 dual-beam laser system which shoots a crosshair onto the material you’re drilling. Some users complain about the laser’s being inaccurate when pulling the unit out of the box, but it’s easily fixable with only minor adjustments.WEN 4208
This unit doesn’t feature a laser guide, so everything you do is based on how you estimate the bit to enter the wood or metal piece. This isn’t too bad since you can’t solely rely on laser guides to give you accurate readings. However, laser guides serve to take some of the guesswork, so you’ll need to gauge the drill bit’s trajectory carefully.

Hands down, the SKIL 3320-01 wins this battle since the WEN doesn’t come with a laser guide. However, precision is determined mainly by how the operators work the unit, so you can be just as precise with the laser-less WEN as you would be with the SKIL.

SKIL 3320-01 Drill Press Review

SKIL 3320-01

Bottom Line

We’ve noticed some similarities between the SKIL 3320-01 and the WEN 4208 where it’s impossible to determine which one is better than those regards. However, in every other aspect we mentioned here, the SKIL sweeps the WEN away over and over again. The power, weight, patented crosshair laser guide, and larger table size make this unit much more versatile and, overall, a better purchase.

WEN 4208

WEN 4208

Check how much you can save, buying the WEN 4208 8 in. 5-Speed Drill Press on Amazon >>>

We haven’t discussed price in this article so it’s up to you to decide whether the superior performance of the SKIL offers more value than the discounted price you get with the WEN. As for us, we’d still shell out the extra cash to get the SKIL over the WEN, but we wouldn’t consider it a “steal” or a “bargain” considering the almost-similar specs and performance.

SKIL 3320-01 Drill Press

SKIL 3320-01

Check how much you can save, buying the SKIL 3320-01 3.2 Amp 10-Inch Drill Press on Amazon >>>




Categories
Drill Press Drills & Impact Tools

WEN 4208 vs 4210 vs 4212 vs 4214: Drill Press Comparison

Drill presses are must-have tools for woodworkers and even metalworkers of all skill levels. Common tools like hammers, saws, and power drills can perform the exact same tasks, but if you value your time, get a drill press. They work much more efficiently than a combination of handheld tools and elbow grease. In addition, drill presses offer greater depth precision. They come in a wide range of size and capabilities, so finding the right drill press can be a bit challenging.

WEN 4208 vs 4210 vs 4212 vs 4214 Drill Press Comparison

WEN 4208

Luckily, we don’t have to search far and wide for a great-working bench-top drill press. A China-based company named WEN produces drill presses that are accurate, powerful, and cost-efficient. There are some similarities between the models but we’re mainly going to focus on what sets them apart. Essentially, the greater the model number, the more features and power you can expect. Let’s dive right in and see how each of these WEN drill presses compares against one another.

WEN 4210 vs 4212 vs 4214 vs 4208 Drill Press Comparison

WEN 4210

Swing and Stroke

4208
This model lets users drill in the exact center of materials measuring up to 8 inches in diameter. The spindle also travels up to 2 inches deep into whatever stock you’re working on.

4210
The swing capacity of this model is 10 inches. The spindle travels only slighter farther than the WEN 4208 model (2-1/2 inches deep).

4212
The WEN 4212 has a swing of 10 inches. However, the spindle travels slightly shallower than the previous model – only 2-3/8 inches into your stock.

WEN 4212 vs 4214 vs 4208 vs 4210 Drill Press Comparison

WEN 4212

4214
The largest model of the bunch has a swing capacity which supports accurate drilling into the center of 12-inch diameter pieces of wood. The spindle can travel up to 3-1/8 inches, though users should proceed patiently as deeper depths mean an increased risk of burning and jamming.

Motor and Speed

4208
This model features a 2.3 amp (1/3 horsepower) motor. It’s not the most impressive motor on the market, though it’s adequate for simple DIY projects and light-duty applications. Users can set the rapidness of spindle rotation by choosing one of five total speed options. The spindle rotates between 740 and 3,140 RPM.

WEN 4214 vs 4208 vs 4210 vs 4212 Drill Press Comparison

WEN 4214

4210
This model comes with a 3.2 amp (3/4 horsepower) motor which is slightly more impressive than the previous drill press but still far from being the most powerful. In terms of speed, operators can also select one of five speeds which deliver between 600 and 3,100 RPM.

4212
This improved model sports a 2/3-horsepower (4.5 amps) motor which delivers between 530 and 1,300 RPM. What separates this model from the two previous models is that the speed is controlled by a dial, giving the user infinite control of how fast they want the spindle to rotate.

WEN 4208 Drill Press

WEN 4208

4214
You can see where we’re going with this. The WEN 4214 comes with a 4.5 amp motor (a little more than 2/3 horsepower). The infinite speed dial can be set to deliver speeds as low as 530 RPM and as high as 3,200 RPM.

Additional Features

4208
The only notable add-on you get with the WEN 4208 drill press is a simple built-in key holder. This is where you place the key chuck so you’ll always know where it is for when you need to make quick bit changes.

4210
Apart from the key storage, this model comes with a laser guide which we found to be as accurate as can be. There’s also a work light which might be somewhat of a nuisance since the shadows produced from the light can interfere with measurements.

WEN 4210 Drill Press

WEN 4210

4212
You get the same add-ons as you’d get with the 4210 Drill Press, but it comes with the digital readout to show how quickly the spindle is rotating. This is especially helpful since, without a gauge, you’re basically guessing how quickly the bit is spinning which can lead to ruined stock.

4214
You get the same additional features as you get with the other three units, except it also comes with a table roller extension. The table extension helps users hold onto and balance longboards and awkwardly-shaped stocks.

WEN 4212 Drill Press Comparison

WEN 4212

Table

4208
Essentially, the larger the size of the table, the more space you get to work with and the greater the swing capacity. The smallest drill press here features a 6-1/2 x 6-1/2-inch table. Although it’s rather tiny, it’s more than enough to get DIY furniture and household projects done with ease. The table can also bevel up to 45° to the left or right.

4210
The WEN 4210’s table measures 7-5/8 x 7-5/8 inches in area. It’s significantly larger than the previous model, and it provides a rather sizable swing capacity. The bevel capacity of the table is also 45° in both directions.

WEN 4214 Drill Press

WEN 4214

4212
This is the only drill press in this list that doesn’t feature a perfectly squared table. The table measures 8 x 7-2/3-inches wide. We would have liked to see an extendable table here, especially due to the awkward dimensions of the drill press’ table. Once again, bevel capacity ranges up to 45° to the left or right.

4214
The table of the 4214 model is quite large – 9-1/2 x 9-1/2-inches. This supports the 12-inch swing capacity of the drill press. The table bevels both directions (up to 45°). Finally, the table of this unit can be extended to help support long boards.

WEN 4208

Check how much you can save, buying the WEN 4208 Drill Press on Amazon >>>

Depth Gauge

4208, 4210, 4212 and 4212
They all feature the same depth-locking mechanism, namely a single rod on the left-hand side of the drill. The only problem is that excessive downward force when pulling the drill head can cause the depth gauge to shit, regardless of how tightly it was locked.

WEN 4210

Check how much you can save, buying the WEN 4210 Drill Press on Amazon >>>

WEN 4208 vs 4210 vs 4212 vs 4214: Bottom Line

It can be quite difficult to determine what kind of drill press to get. In a nutshell, we prefer drills that have larger tables, quicker max speeds, and accurate depth gauges. Depending on how frequently you plan on using your drill press, as well as how much work you’re accepting and how quickly you need them done, you should think closely about which drill press to buy. One thing we don’t like about the 4212 and the WEN 4214 drill press is their respective work lights.

WEN 4212

WEN 4212 vs 4214 vs 4208 vs 4210

Check how much you can save, buying the WEN 4212 Drill Press on Amazon >>>

The shadows produced from the lights can be problematic, especially if we can’t see our own measurement markings. However, with all things considered, if you need heavy-duty work done, the WEN 4214 drill press can be a great choice. If you’re a first-time buyer who’s looking for a smaller, personal-use drill press, the 4208 and the 4214 drill press can be excellent solutions.

WEN 4214 vs 4208

Check how much you can save, buying the WEN 4214 Drill Press on Amazon >>>




Categories
Drills & Impact Tools

Shop Fox W1668 Bench-Top Drill Press Review

Drill presses are among the most frequently updated power tools. Almost every month, a new batch of drill presses hit the market to attract the eyes of professionals and hobbyists. Even though they’re not as popular as power drills, they’re still a vital tool for providing deep, precise holes in large pieces of metal or wood. Many of the new models come with tweaked features, making the process of researching and buying one a complex task.

Shop Fox W1668 ¾-HP 13-Inch Bench-Top Drill Press/Spindle Sander Review

Woodstock International’s line of Shop Fox machines, including jointers, table saws, wood lathes, and drill presses, have been stirring up enthusiasm from customers and industry experts for a long time. The Shop Fox W1668 is a ¾-horsepower bench-top drill press that also doubles as an oscillating sander for contour sanding.

This drill press has received a majority of positive reviews, though it does have some drawbacks worth noting. Although there are some things worth nitpicking over, overall, this drill press is one that continues to impress. Let’s discover what this drill press has to offer.

Shop Fox W1668 ¾-HP 13-Inch Bench-Top Drill Press/Spindle Sander

¾-Horsepower Motor with 12 Speeds

The W1668’s ¾-horsepower motor offers high capacity drilling on even the heaviest, thickest pieces of wood and metal. The additional power is required for a number of applications in order to achieve perfect results every time. The 12-speed motor delivers speeds ranging from 250 RPM to 3,050 RPM, making quick and easy work of drilling in both soft and hard pieces of wood and even metal. The 12 gears allow for greater control and reduce the risk of a wobbling when on a variety of different density materials.

Some customers have complained about shoddy manufacturing after receiving their Shop Fox drill press. In addition, the motor isn’t exactly durable against heat, so users need to give this unit frequent breaks in between applications. Finally, the casing that covers the motor needs to be manually tightened in between applications in order to prevent vibrations.

Shop Fox W1668 Sander

Doubles as an Oscillating Drum Sander

This is an innovative feature that’s not unique to Shop Fox but great nonetheless. The drum oscillates in a vertical motion which lets users place a piece of wood against the sanding drum. If you need to get some easy sanding done and don’t want to work too hard while doing it, this Shop Fox drill press could save you precious time and energy.

Shop Fox W1668 Spindle Sander

5/8-Inch Chuck and 3 ¼-Inch Spindle

The chuck provides flexibility since it can hold onto bits as large as 5/8 inches in diameter for performing drills of up to 3 ¼-inches deep in practically every type of material imaginable. The problem is the table set screw doesn’t keep the table from wobbling and moving around unless it’s overly tightened. The table isn’t supposed to rotate along with the post while operating the drill press, and the screw which holds the table down fails in this regard.

In addition, it appears that the chuck guard – though a great feature – was just an afterthought by the company and is a challenge to install since the screws which hold the guard in place don’t align correctly with the mounting plate.

Shop Fox W1668 Drill Press/Spindle Sander Review

Manual Tweaking

The main concern that customers have is the careless packaging of this product. Out of the box, most customers have complained that the motor belts and the lock screws need to be adjusted prior to starting the drill press. If you don’t check the tension of the belt and the tightness of the screws, then expect to hear excessively loud noises and vibrations coming from the drill.

In addition, the milling oil which serves to prevent overheating isn’t just almost ineffective at doing its duty, but it pours freely and over whatever media you’re working on. If you plan on using expensive pieces of wood or metal, be aware of drooling oil and coat your materials carefully before drilling. It’s a nuisance to do, but with this drill press, there’s practically no other way to avoid oil droplets.

Shop Fox W1668 Drill Press Review

Bottom Line

The Shop Fox W1668 Drill Press actually had a lot of potential to be a top-market product, thanks to its dual functionality as a drill press and an oscillating drum sander. The tool itself performs great when drilling into any wood or metal pieces, given you run it at an appropriate speed and don’t rush to the drilling process.

However, the minor issues – assembly, oil spills, chuck guard installment challenges, prone to overheating – add up, making it a risky purchase. Although it has received a majority of favorable reviews from buyers, the problems mentioned were experienced by every user. Unless you know your way around a drill press and can perform maintenance tasks yourself, avoid this product from Shop Fox.

Shop Fox W1668 Drill Press

Check how much you can save, buying the Shop Fox W1668 Sander on Amazon >>>