building a workshop in my basement... need a drill press... been looking at Home Depot/Lowes and they seem to have a Ryobi model that looks like a snap-tite palstic/diecast model. i've heard good stories from Delta owners... i'm looking for a smaller/light load bench top model <$300 and looking for suggestions. current contenders are Delta or Craftmen any/all thoughts would be appreciated. will be working with aluminum sheet and wood for the most part.
Any idea on what hp the Craftsman press has? Out of the two I'd go with the Craftsman. It just looks sturdier and better built.
You can't go wrong with Delta or Jet, if you have the cash to spend. My Jet tools have lasted forever (20 years plus) and I can always source parts if needed. But why buy new? Anything American made from the last three decades would be an excellent tool. You can pick up an older shop tool built for a 90% duty cycle or better that will run more true, more powerful, and last a lifetime. Craigslist yourself a Bridgeport for the price of that shiny new white-enameled Delta.
If you buy a smaller table-top model, you will regret it when something you need drilled doesn't fit. Floor models have a larger 5/8 chuck, and a lot moor room for the part. I say go with what's cheapest, and get a cross-slide vise for it. They really save time on positioning the part. +1 on craigslist. There's tons of decent drill presses available.
thanks for the replies... i've gotten my hands on my brother's old delta 12" drill press... need to clean it up and oil it here and there... but still works...
