3 Important Things to Consider When Looking For a Drill Press

This article will help you be aware of some important issues before you spend that money. The first two points are concerned with choosing the main specs of the drill presses. The last point is to guide you through some of the smaller features you should look for in your purchase.

know about drilling process

1. Job Material Vs. Motor

The first thing you need to know is the amount of horsepower (hp) that you need. One hp is overkill for most beginners and amateurs. If you are looking at remodeling furniture and mainly working with wood, 1/3 hp will work just fine. If you are looking to work with heavier materials like steel but medium-sized workpieces, 2/3 hp will be more than enough.

However, if you are consistently going to be drilling 2″ holes in thick steel pieces, then maybe one hp will not be a bad investment.

The size of your workpieces is also an important point to consider. Suppose you are looking to work with furniture, cabinetry, treehouses, and similar jobs. In that case, honestly, you might even be okay with a minimal 3.5″ travel. But still, I would recommend getting at least 5.5″ travel to remain flexible.

Speaking from personal experience, if you are working on unique prototypes of any kind or love to experiment, don’t go below 5.5″ travel.

2. Work Frequency Vs. Motor

The other important consideration is the amount of work and daily use you expect from the drill press. The power of the motor is also a good indicator of its longevity. If you are looking to work on one or two small projects, a $75 small drill press with 1/3 hp is fine.

Maybe you are looking to buy a drill press that is going to get a lot of use. Maybe you want to train youngsters on it, or you expect to use it in a busy workshop indefinitely, that motor will not last long enough. It is all about the number of hours of work you expect in the day. In this situation, even if you will be specifically working with wood, go for a higher horsepower like 2/3 hp.

3. Quality of Life Features

Quality of life features go beyond the main specifications of specs. What quality of life features might you want? Let me explain.

Dealing with Play

Drill presses develop play and wobble after some use. Once the play gets too much, you will have to manage it. Older drill presses usually have split quill castings. They allow you to manage any play easily and in a few minutes. You will be able to control any wobble without too much hassle. Try to find a split quill casting for your specs, but it won’t be easy, so you might have to compromise on this one.

Depth Stop

Depth stop mechanisms are good for training purposes and also unique and complex workpieces. If you are looking at working with simple workpieces, then it is not necessary, and you can pass it. But if you imagine a scenario where you will be making many shallow holes, make sure you have a good depth stop mechanism. Otherwise, you will have to make a depth stop yourself.

Variable Speed

Most drill presses you will find will have variable speed settings. The question is, how often will you need to change speeds? If you are working in a professional setting where time is really important and the jobs are unique, you want a drill press. This continuously variable speed system uses buttons or wheels to control it.

For most beginners, you will only work with similar-sized and similar material workpieces and drill sizes. Most amateurs don’t have to change speed settings for weeks or months on end. If you identify with that, don’t splurge on continuous variable speed and automatic control.

Pulley Material

Beginner drill presses often save costs by installing aluminum pulleys for the speed system. Don’t do that. Spend $10 more and get a drill press with steel pulleys. For minimal use, aluminum pulleys might work for you, but if the drill press has used aluminum pulleys to cut costs, who knows what other expense they skimped out on.

Sound Reducer

To know a good drill press, look for ways to reduce the machine’s noise and vibration. Open the top box with the pulleys and inspect if there are rubber pieces installed. If you don’t see those rubbers, you should know the manufacturers did not pay attention to reducing noise.

If you are working in your home, you need to look into how the manufacturer minimized the machine’s noise and buy the drill press that cares about that.

important steps for drilling

Final Thoughts

Most likely, no store-bought drill press is going to be perfect for you. Everyone has their preferences, styles, and needs. Buy the drill press that gets you the closest to your goals, and then create modifications to make your drill press the perfect machine.

About DrillPressReview.Com

DrillPressReview.com is a place of popular drilling machines reviews based on users' rating and reviews in various machinery forums, shopping websites. All the drill press reviews are written based on extensive research by gathering data from various marketplaces, forums and top reviews websites. Most of the drill press machines reviews are from top brands like Grizzly, Jet, Rikon, Powertec, Black & Bull, Craftsman and various others. It includes almost all types of drilling machines such as floor model drilling machines, bench-top drill presses, hand drills, cordless drilling machines, magnetic drill presses, rotary hammer drill and many others.

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NEIKO 10181A Step Drill Bit Set, 3 Piece, Spiral Grooved for Faster Drilling, Step Bits for Stainless Steel, Metal, Wood, Plastic, Unibit Cone Drill Bits with 31 Step Sizes Total


NEIKO 10181A Step Drill Bit Set, 3 Piece, Spiral Grooved for Faster Drilling, Step Bits for Stainless Steel, Metal, Wood, Plastic, Unibit Cone Drill Bits with 31 Step Sizes Total

$17.99 @ Amazon.com

Product Description

PREMIUM STEP BIT: Each unibit is constructed of industrial high-speed steel with a titanium nitride coating for durability and strength to punch and drill clean holes in materials like plastic, aluminum, wood, copper, stainless steel, and other types of sheet metal.

STEP DRILL BIT FOR METAL: With a split point tip that accelerates cutting speed while preventing angled walking away from center line of bore, drilling holes in metal is fast, efficient, and clean.

SPIRAL DESIGN: The two-flute spiral grooved design deburrs chip, dust and debris for clearance and smooth cutting. With 31 step sizes, each hole made with these step bits will be precise.

QUICK-CHANGE: The 1/4-inch hex shank makes for easy, convenient, and quick stepper bit switches and is compatible with impact ready power tools.

INCLUDES: Each bit set comes with 3 drill bits of a combined 31 sizes to add to your drilling arsenal: 13 step drill (1/8, 5/32, 3/16, 7/32, 1/4, 9/32, 5/16, 11/32, 3/8, 13/32, 7/16, 15/32, 1/2-inch) 6 step drill (3/16, 1/4, 5/16, 3/8, 7/16, 1/2-inch) and 12 step drill (3/16, 1/4, 5/16, 3/8, 7/16, 1/2, 9/16, 5/8, 11/16, 3/4, 13/16, 7/8-inch).

Product Details
Brand: NEIKO
Model #: 10181A
Size: Spiral
Color: Titanium
Dimensions: 6 X 3.5 X 0.75 inches (Length X Width X Height)
Price: $17.99
NEIKO 10181A Step Drill Bit Set, 3 Piece, Spiral Grooved for Faster Drilling, Step Bits for Stainless Steel, Metal, Wood, Plastic, Unibit Cone Drill Bits with 31 Step Sizes Total

ZELCAN 10 Sizes Titanium Step Drill Bit, 1/4 to 1-3/8 Inches High Speed Steel Drill Cone Bits for Sheet Metal Hole Drilling Cutting, HSS Multi Size Hole Stepped Up Unibit for DIY Lovers Electrician


ZELCAN 10 Sizes Titanium Step Drill Bit, 1/4 to 1-3/8 Inches High Speed Steel Drill Cone Bits for Sheet Metal Hole Drilling Cutting, HSS Multi Size Hole Stepped Up Unibit for DIY Lovers Electrician

$9.99 ($1.00 / Count) @ Amazon.com (Save 9%)

Product Description

Durable HSS Drill Bit ----- High-speed steel makes it last longer than others, titanium coating ensure easily cut through iron sheets, aluminum sheets, copper & plastic & wood board and many other types of sheet metal with ease, and it can automatically deburr holes while drilling to keep the drill bit clean.

Titanium Coating ----- Coated with titanium, this step drill set performs well in heat, corrosion and rust resistance.

Revolutionary Design ----- Tri-flatted shank fits into power tools chuck securely and eliminates slip; two-flute design clears chips faster and allows particles to escape easily.

Includes 10 Step Sizes ----- 1/4", 3/8", 1/2", 5/8", 3/4", 7/8", 1", 1-1/8", 1-1/4", 1-3/8".

A Must-Have for Handyman or Professionals ----- Perfect for home repairs and light jobs such as drilling holes in plastic, aluminum, copper, iron and many other types of sheet metal (excluding steel or any other harder metal).

Product Details
Brand: ZELCAN
Model #: SDB-2017-01
Size: 10 Sizes, 1/4" to 1-3/8"
Price: $9.99 ($1.00 / Count) (Save 9%)
ZELCAN 10 Sizes Titanium Step Drill Bit, 1/4 to 1-3/8 Inches High Speed Steel Drill Cone Bits for Sheet Metal Hole Drilling Cutting, HSS Multi Size Hole Stepped Up Unibit for DIY Lovers Electrician

3PCS HSS Step Drill BIT Set Tin-Coated Covering 32 Sizes (3/16"~1-1/4")


3PCS HSS Step Drill BIT Set Tin-Coated Covering 32 Sizes (3/16"~1-1/4")

$5.99 @ Amazon.com

Product Description

Specifications - Set of 3pcs drill bits contains 32 sizes in 3pcs: 1/4" to 1-1/4'' 17 Steps, 1/4" to 3/4" 9 Steps and 3/16" to 1/2" 6 Steps.

Characteristics - 118° split point with round straight shank, self-centering prevent walking, make drilling precise and faster.

Material: Made of High Speed Steel 4341, with Tin coated which improves its toughness and hardness, making it highly suitable for metal, plastic and wood.

Organized Holder: Set includes the drill bit holder with size index for easy storage and organizing.

Product Details
Brand: Generic
Model #: 3PCS STEP DRILL BIT SET
Price: $5.99
3PCS HSS Step Drill BIT Set Tin-Coated Covering 32 Sizes (3/16"~1-1/4")

THINKWORK Four Spiral Flute Step Drill Bit, HSS Step Drill Bit3/16-1-3/8 (3 Popular Sizes) Unibit Step Drill Bit, 1/4" Shank Step Bits for Aluminum, Wood, Plastic, Metal


Product Description

ENHANCED DURABILITY: Our industrial-grade step drill is meticulously crafted from high-quality alloy steel and undergoes multiple manufacturing processes. Each drill bit is carefully inspected at the factory to ensure superior quality and longevity. at the factory to ensure superior quality and longevity.

IMPROVED STABILITY: Unlike ordinary step drills that often suffer from deflection during cutting, our four-flute step drill bit provides exceptional stability. This feature enhances accuracy and cutting speed. In fact, it offers a significantly longer service life compared to regular step drills. speed, making it perfect for stainless steel drilling. In fact, it offers a significantly longer service life compared to regular step drills.

VERSATILE DRILLING CAPABILITY: With its powerful drilling capability, our step drill is suitable for piercing holes in various materials, including thin metal, copper, aluminum, iron, carbon steel, wood, and plastic. It's an essential addition to any DIY enthusiast's toolbox and can be utilized for a wide range of household projects.

USER-FRIENDLY DESIGN: Our step drill bits feature laser-engraved step sizes, ensuring clear visibility and eliminating concerns about wear and tear during use. This design element enhances convenience and accuracy, making the drilling process easier and more efficient.

DEDICATED CUSTOMER SERVICE: While our products undergo stringent quality inspections, unforeseen issues caused by accidental factors may occur. In such cases, we are committed to providing professional customer service. If you encounter any quality problems, please contact us via Amazon, and we will promptly replace the defective item with a new one. customer service. If you encounter any quality problems, please contact us via Amazon, and we will promptly replace the defective item with a new one.

Product Details
Brand: THINKWORK
Model #: W6206
Size: 3/16-1-3/8"
Dimensions: 1 X 4 X 1 Inches (Length X Width X Height)
Price: $9.99 ($3.33 / Count)
THINKWORK Four Spiral Flute Step Drill Bit, HSS Step Drill Bit3/16-1-3/8 (3 Popular Sizes) Unibit Step Drill Bit, 1/4" Shank Step Bits for Aluminum, Wood, Plastic, Metal

IRONANT 3PCS Step Drill Bit Set, HSS Titanium Step Drill Bits for Metal, 28 Sizes Stepper Up Bits with Portable Bag

Product Description

HSS Titanium Coating: The step drill has excellent sharpness and durability due to its high speed steel material and titanium coating

118° Split Point Tip & Dual-flute Design: increases cutting speed with self-centering and prevents walking, clears chips faster and allows particles to escape easily

Set Includes: #1 Bit(13 steps): 1/8", 5/32", 3/16", 7/32", 1/4", 9/32", 5/16", 11/32", 3/8", 13/32", 7/16", 15/32", 1/2"; #2 Bit(6 steps): 3/16", 1/4", 5/16", 3/8", 7/16", 1/2"; #3 Bit(9 steps): 1/4", 5/16", 3/8", 7/16", 1/2", 9/16", 5/8", 11/16", 3/4"

Widely Application: Ideal for drilling holes in plastic, aluminum, iron and many other types of sheet metal (Not recommended for stainless steel & wood)

Equipped with a portable bag, make it more convenient for using and storing the step drills

Product Details
Brand: IRONANT
Model #: IRT3
Size: Straight
Price: $11.98 ($3.99 / Count)
IRONANT 3PCS Step Drill Bit Set, HSS Titanium Step Drill Bits for Metal, 28 Sizes Stepper Up Bits with Portable Bag

THINKWORK Four Spiral Flute Step Drill Bit Set, 5 Pcs HSS Step Drill Bits (1/8"-1-3/8") Unibit Step Drill Bit, 1/4" and 3/8" Shank Step Bits for Aluminum, Wood, Plastic, Metal


THINKWORK Four Spiral Flute Step Drill Bit Set, 5 Pcs HSS Step Drill Bits (1/8"-1-3/8") Unibit Step Drill Bit, 1/4" and 3/8" Shank Step Bits for Aluminum, Wood, Plastic, Metal

$28.70 @ Amazon.com (Save 20%)

Product Description

ENHANCED DURABILITY: Our industrial-grade step drill set is meticulously crafted from high-quality alloy steel and undergoes multiple manufacturing processes. Each drill bit is carefully inspected at the factory to ensure superior quality and longevity.

IMPROVED STABILITY: Unlike ordinary step drills that often suffer from deflection during cutting, our four-flute step drill bit provides exceptional stability. This feature enhances accuracy and cutting speed, making it perfect for stainless steel drilling. In fact, it offers a significantly longer service life compared to regular step drills.

5PCS NITRIDING STEP BIT KIT: Our 5-piece nitriding step bits set includes a range of sizes to cater to various drilling needs. The set comprises step bits with diameters of 3/16"-1/2" (6 steps), 1/8"-1/2" (13 steps), 1/4"-3/4" (9 steps), 3/16"-7/8" (12 steps), and 3/16"-1-3/8" (19 steps). All these bits come in a sturdy blow molded case for easy storage and transport.

VERSATILE DRILLING CAPABILITY: With its powerful drilling capability, our step drill is suitable for piercing holes in various materials, including thin metal, copper, aluminum, iron, carbon steel, wood, and plastic. It's an essential addition to any DIY enthusiast's toolbox and can be utilized for a wide range of household projects.

USER-FRIENDLY DESIGN: Our step drill bits feature laser-engraved step sizes, ensuring clear visibility and eliminating concerns about wear and tear during use. This design element enhances convenience and accuracy, making the drilling process easier and more efficient.

DEDICATED CUSTOMER SERVICE: While our products undergo stringent quality inspections, unforeseen issues caused by accidental factors may occur. In such cases, we are committed to providing professional customer service. If you encounter any quality problems, please contact us via Amazon, and we will promptly replace the defective item with a new one.

Product Details
Brand: THINKWORK
Model #: W6139
Size: 5 Piece
Dimensions: 6 X 1.5 X 4 inches (Length X Width X Height)
Price: $28.70 (Save 20%)
THINKWORK Four Spiral Flute Step Drill Bit Set, 5 Pcs HSS Step Drill Bits (1/8"-1-3/8") Unibit Step Drill Bit, 1/4" and 3/8" Shank Step Bits for Aluminum, Wood, Plastic, Metal

KSEIBI 5 Steps 7/8-1-3/8 inch SAE Standard Industrial Grade Step Drill Bit 3 Flat Shank, 575082 High-Speed Steel Metal Drill Bits Black Oxide M2 Material


KSEIBI 5 Steps 7/8-1-3/8 inch SAE Standard Industrial Grade Step Drill Bit 3 Flat Shank, 575082 High-Speed Steel Metal Drill Bits Black Oxide M2 Material

$29.97 @ Amazon.com

Product Description

KSEIBI Step Drill Bits feature a dual-flute design for up to 2X faster hole times, 4X longer life, and 50% more holes per charge. Ideal for steel and plastic drilling with high-speed cordless drills.

Constructed with high-speed steel and black oxide M2 material for superior strength and wear resistance, making it ideal for drilling through metal, stainless steel, plastic, and other materials.

Spiral flute design with 5 different steps provides smooth and efficient drilling through a range of thicknesses without the need for multiple bits, making it a go-to tool for any project.

The tapered design ensures precise and accurate drilling every time, while the triangle shank provides a secure and stable connection to your power tools.

Industrial-grade construction ensures durability and longevity, making it a reliable tool for professional tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts alike.

Product Details
Brand: KSEIBI
Model #: PI-CRDH-N9YB
Price: $29.97
KSEIBI 5 Steps 7/8-1-3/8 inch SAE Standard Industrial Grade Step Drill Bit 3 Flat Shank, 575082 High-Speed Steel Metal Drill Bits Black Oxide M2 Material

Jerax tools 1/4 to 1-3/8 Inch Step Drill Bit Spiral Grooved Double Fluted, M2 High Speed Steel Drill bits for Hole Drilling in Stainless Steel, Copper, Aluminum, Wood, Plastic


Jerax tools 1/4 to 1-3/8 Inch Step Drill Bit Spiral Grooved Double Fluted, M2 High Speed Steel Drill bits for Hole Drilling in Stainless Steel, Copper, Aluminum, Wood, Plastic

$29.95 @ Amazon.com

Product Description

[M2 HSS]: Cuts A LOT MORE CLEAN holes and much EASIER than average step bits. In general, M2 has 50% more Tungsten and 150% more Molybdenum, both of which are key elements in improving durability. Our additional Vacuum heat treatment and Nitride surface hardening treatment make the performance even better.

[Non-stop]: Our Polished Steps and Size Highlights let you able to see target hole size during drilling. No need to stop in the middle of the drilling and check. Save you time and hassle.

[Easier | Faster | Cleaner]: With our high-accuracy CNC processing and several optimized design details over the years, our design cuts EASY, FAST and CLEAN, outperforming the average ones on the market.

[Heavy duty]: Cuts holes on Stainless steel (need appropriate pressure), Hardened Metal, Mild steel, Galvanized steel, Aluminum, Copper, Plastic, Wood, or anything that has similar or lower hardness as these materials. Up to 12ga /2.7mm thickness for Stainless steel.

[Multi Hole Sizes]: No need to buy a kit. This one step bit comes with 12 marked sizes so you can drill 12 different hole sizes, saving you time and efforts to change bits. Marked sizes including: 3/16", 1/4", 5/16", 3/8", 7/16", 1/2",9/16", 5/8", 11/16", 3/4", 13/16", 7/8".

Product Details
Brand: Jerax tools
Model #: SPG1-3/8
Size: 1-3/8"(Spiral)
Dimensions: 1.38 X 1.38 X 3.55 Inches (Length X Width X Height)
Price: $29.95
Jerax tools 1/4 to 1-3/8 Inch Step Drill Bit Spiral Grooved Double Fluted, M2 High Speed Steel Drill bits for Hole Drilling in Stainless Steel, Copper, Aluminum, Wood, Plastic

Lichamp Jumbo 2-3/8" Unibit Step Drill Bit for Metal, Extra Large Drill Stepper Bit for Hard Metal Heavy Duty, 12 Sizes from 1/4" to 2-3/8", Spiral Grooved, C5BK


Lichamp Jumbo 2-3/8" Unibit Step Drill Bit for Metal, Extra Large Drill Stepper Bit for Hard Metal Heavy Duty, 12 Sizes from 1/4" to 2-3/8", Spiral Grooved, C5BK

$31.11 @ Amazon.com (Save 21%)

Product Description

ONE BIT FOR ALL DRILLING: One bit can drill 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch, 19/32 inch, 3/4 inch, 1 inch, 1-3/16 inch, 1-3/8 inch, 1-5/8 inch, 1-3/4 inch, 2 inch, 2-3/16 inch, 2-3/8 inch 12 different diameters of holes, saves time and effort in replacing the bit

DURABLE AND STRONG: Durable high speed steel with black coating ensures durability and sharpness, reduces friction, runs cooler, resists heat, corrosion and rust, and extends the life of the cutting edge even in extreme temperatures

EXTRA LARGE STEPS DRILL: Shank diameter is 13 mm (1/2 inch), use one step drill to drill different sizes of holes, much more convenient than using multiple drills, ideal for DIY projects in home, garden, workshop

HIGH PERFORMANCE: Split tip is at 118 degrees for better wear resistance. Double helix blade design makes smoother cuts, easier to dislodge material particles and cleaner drilling operations, can be used with electric drills, rechargeable drills and more

WELL DESIGNED: Provides stability during the drilling process, minimizes noise and vibration. To improve performance and extend drill bit life when working with metal, we recommend using cutting fluid for lubrication.(Cutting fluid not included)

Product Details
Brand: Lichamp
Model #: SDB-C501BK
Warranty: 1 Year
Size: 12 Sizes,1/4" to 2-3/8"
Color: Black
Price: $31.11 (Save 21%)
Lichamp Jumbo 2-3/8" Unibit Step Drill Bit for Metal, Extra Large Drill Stepper Bit for Hard Metal Heavy Duty, 12 Sizes from 1/4" to 2-3/8", Spiral Grooved, C5BK

Vouyar 1/4 to 2-3/8 Inch HSS Step Drill Bit for Metal Sheet, 12 Sizes Extra Large Drill Stepper Bit for Sheet Aluminium, Plastic, Wood, Heavy Duty, Spiral Grooved


Product Description

Size: 12 steps, even more versatile. A truly one-for-all solution for drilling holes on plates. Drills 1/4”, 3/8”, 19/32”, 3/4”, 1”, 1-3/16”, 1-3/8”, 1-5/8”, 1-3/4”, 2”, 2-3/16”, 2-3/8”.

Laser engraved size mark: Easy to identify, remains visible even during drilling.

Tri-flat shank: For optimal compatibility and consistency. 1/2" (12.7mm). Fits most rotary drills like hand drills and bench drills.

Clean, smooth cuts: Features dual spiral flute design which allows fast residuals/debris removal. Fast and smooth cutting for clean holes, consistently. Improved durability.

Heavy-duty: Cuts holes on Iron sheet, Mild steel, Galvanized steel, Aluminum, Copper, Plastic, Wood, or anything that has similar or lower hardness as these materials. (Cuts upto 3mm in thickness)

Product Details
Brand: Vouyar
Size: 1/4 - 2-3/8"
Price: $21.99 ($1.83 / Count)
Vouyar 1/4 to 2-3/8 Inch HSS Step Drill Bit for Metal Sheet, 12 Sizes Extra Large Drill Stepper Bit for Sheet Aluminium, Plastic, Wood, Heavy Duty, Spiral Grooved

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