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.

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ZELCAN HSS 5PCS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set with Automatic Center Punch for Sheet Metal with Aluminum Case, 50 Sizes in 5 High Speed Multiple Hole Stepped Up Steel Bits for DIY Lovers


ZELCAN HSS 5PCS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set with Automatic Center Punch for Sheet Metal with Aluminum Case, 50 Sizes in 5 High Speed Multiple Hole Stepped Up Steel Bits for DIY Lovers

$25.99 @ Amazon.com

Product Description

HSS Steel Construction ----- High-speed steel construction for longer cutting edge life even at extreme temperatures.

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

Automatic Center Punch ----- Delivers an automatic, high-impact, spring-loaded strike when pressed against surface, adjustable cap regulates striking force.

50 Size In 5 ----- The bits set includes five standard step drill bits that can replace 50 individual drill bits.

A Must-have for Handyman or Professionals ----- Perfect for home repairs and light jobs such as drilling holes in plastic, aluminum, copper and many other types of sheet metal.

Product Details
Brand: ZELCAN
Model #: SDB-2017-06
Size: 50 Sizes, 1/8" to 1-3/8"
Color: Step Drill Bit with Center Punch
Price: $25.99
ZELCAN HSS 5PCS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set with Automatic Center Punch for Sheet Metal with Aluminum Case, 50 Sizes in 5 High Speed Multiple Hole Stepped Up Steel Bits for DIY Lovers

ZELCAN Step Drill Bits, HSS 5PCS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set, 50 Sizes in 5 High Speed Steel Unibit Drill Bits Set for Sheet Metal with Aluminum Case, Multiple Hole Stepped Up Bits for DIY Lovers


ZELCAN Step Drill Bits, HSS 5PCS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set, 50 Sizes in 5 High Speed Steel Unibit Drill Bits Set for Sheet Metal with Aluminum Case, Multiple Hole Stepped Up Bits for DIY Lovers

$22.99 @ Amazon.com

Product Description

Extreme Durability: Cobalt high speed steel drill bits along with the titanium coating ensures extreme durability, will stay new and shiny for years to come.

Different Sizes of Holes Can Be Drilled: Different sized shanks ensure compatibility with 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2 in. chuck sizes. You are capable to drill holes in different sizes which can meet your normal needs.

Smooth Drilling: Non-walking drill tip provides fast and smooth drills on steel sheets, aluminum sheets, wood board, plastic board etc. (the board must be smaller in thickness than the height of step drill bits).

Use Center Punch to Mark the Spot: Please mark the spot that you are to drill for easier drilling and improved drill bits life.

Keep Your Step Drill Bits Well Organized: All the bits come in a well-organized case for easy transport and storage.

Product Details
Brand: ZELCAN
Model #: CO-Z SDB-0000
Color: Dark Bronze
Dimensions: 4.33 X 1.57 X 6.1 inches (Length X Width X Height)
Price: $22.99
ZELCAN Step Drill Bits, HSS 5PCS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set, 50 Sizes in 5 High Speed Steel Unibit Drill Bits Set for Sheet Metal with Aluminum Case, Multiple Hole Stepped Up Bits for DIY Lovers

ZELCAN Step Drill Bit Set, 5PCS Four Spiral Flute Step Bits for Metal, 50 Sizes Titanium-Coated HSS Drill Bits with 1/4" Hex Shank for Stainless Steel Aluminum Wood Plastic


ZELCAN Step Drill Bit Set, 5PCS Four Spiral Flute Step Bits for Metal, 50 Sizes Titanium-Coated HSS Drill Bits with 1/4" Hex Shank for Stainless Steel Aluminum Wood Plastic

$33.99 ($6.80 / Count) @ Amazon.com (Save 26%)

Product Description

Handle Drilling Tasks with Ease: With four sharp cutting blades, ZELCAN's step drill bit set ensures swift, smooth drilling, effortlessly cutting through steel, aluminum, copper, and other tough materials like a hot knife through butter!

Titanium-Coated HSS Build: Crafted from robust high-speed steel with a titanium coating, our drill bits ensure superior hardness for faster cutting through harder materials while withstanding high temperatures and cutting forces, ensuring lasting performance.

50 Sizes Comprehensive Drill Bit Set: Our 5-piece step bit set caters to diverse drilling needs, with diameters ranging from 3/16" to 1/2" (6 steps), 1/8" to 1/2" (13 steps), 1/4" to 3/4" (9 steps), 3/16" to 7/8" (12 steps), and 1/4" to 1-3/8" (10 steps).

Quick Release & Tapered Edge Design: The 1/4" hex shank and quick-release slot ensure secure connections and easy changes. The four-spiral flute design effectively evacuates chips from the hole, reducing the likelihood of clogging and improving drilling efficiency.

Easy Organization & Identification: Our step drill bits for metal come with a handy storage case, ensuring effortless organization and portability for all your drilling tasks. Clear size markings on each bit allow for quick identification.

Product Details
Brand: ZELCAN
Size: 50 Sizes, 1/8" to 1-3/8"
Dimensions: 4.92 X 1.97 X 6.3 inches (Length X Width X Height)
Price: $33.99 ($6.80 / Count) (Save 26%)
ZELCAN Step Drill Bit Set, 5PCS Four Spiral Flute Step Bits for Metal, 50 Sizes Titanium-Coated HSS Drill Bits with 1/4" Hex Shank for Stainless Steel Aluminum Wood Plastic

WORTURE 5PCS Step Drill Bit Set with Automatic Center Punch, HSS Titanium Coated Unibit Step Drill Bits, 50 Sizes Step Bits for Metal, Aluminum, Wood, Plastic, with Storage Case


WORTURE 5PCS Step Drill Bit Set with Automatic Center Punch, HSS Titanium Coated Unibit Step Drill Bits, 50 Sizes Step Bits for Metal, Aluminum, Wood, Plastic, with Storage Case

$19.99 ($4.00 / Count) @ Amazon.com (Save 5%)

Product Description

Durable and Sharp: Constructed with high speed steel(HSS) and Titanium coating for excellent abrasion, heat, corrosion and rust resistance performance

118° split point tip of the drill bit increases speed, minimizes walking. 2 straight flutes design provides better chip removal. Laser engraved numbers provide positioning assistance for precise drilling

Automatic Center Punch: Mark a slight indentation to keep the step bit in place for easier drilling

50 sizes of the step drill set ranging from 1/8" to 1-3/8" can meet most engineering or DIY needs. Comes with an aluminum box for convenient and organized storage

A must-have for drilling holes in plastic, aluminum, copper and many other types of sheet metal

Product Details
Brand: Worture
Model #: step-5
Size: 6 Pcs
Price: $19.99 ($4.00 / Count) (Save 5%)
WORTURE 5PCS Step Drill Bit Set with Automatic Center Punch, HSS Titanium Coated Unibit Step Drill Bits, 50 Sizes Step Bits for Metal, Aluminum, Wood, Plastic, with Storage Case

IRONANT Step Drill Bits, 5PCS Spiral Grooved HSS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set, 50 Sizes High Speed Steel Step Bits for Metal with Aluminum Case


IRONANT Step Drill Bits, 5PCS Spiral Grooved HSS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set, 50 Sizes High Speed Steel Step Bits for Metal with Aluminum Case

$23.99 @ Amazon.com

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 & Spiral Dual-flute Design: increases cutting speed with self-centering and prevents walking, clears chips faster and allows particles to escape more easily

50 Sizes in 5 Pcs: The step drill bit kit includes 5 standard pieces with totally 50 sizes for versatility, enough for your DIY needs

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

Equipped with a well-organized case, make it more convenient for using and storing the step drills

Product Details
Brand: IRONANT
Size: Spiral
Price: $23.99
IRONANT Step Drill Bits, 5PCS Spiral Grooved HSS Titanium Step Drill Bit Set, 50 Sizes High Speed Steel Step Bits for Metal with Aluminum Case

Step Drill Bit Set, 3PCS HSS Titanium Coated High Speed Steel Step Bits Covering 28 Sizes (1/8"-3/4") for Wood, Plastic, Sheet Metal with Portable Bag, Nice Gift for DIY Lovers


Step Drill Bit Set, 3PCS HSS Titanium Coated High Speed Steel Step Bits Covering 28 Sizes (1/8"-3/4") for Wood, Plastic, Sheet Metal with Portable Bag, Nice Gift for DIY Lovers

$8.99 @ Amazon.com (Save 10%)

Product Description

【Premium Quality】: Made of High Speed Steel with Titanium Coating, ensures excellent durability and sharpness, provide longer cutting edge life.

【Multi-hole sizes】: This Unibit Step Drill Bit Set contains 28 sizes in 3pcs: 1/4" to 3/4'' 9 Steps, 1/8" to 1/2" 13 Steps and 3/16" to 1/2" 6 Steps, Supplied with a portable fabric bag.

【Craft design】:Two-flute design enables smoother drilling and allowing for clean and professional results. 118° Split Point Tip can increase cutting speed with self-centering and prevents slipping in the drill chuck.

【1/4" Hex Shank】: Quick change 1/4" (6.35mm) hex shank, which can be easily fit into power driver, drill and press drill.

【Widely Application】: Ideal for drilling holes in sheet metal, copper, wood, aluminum and plastic. They are perfect for DIY projects, furniture making, and professional metalworking applications.

Product Details
Brand: TEWORDA
Dimensions: 5.12 X 3.54 X 0.73 inches (Length X Width X Height)
Price: $8.99 (Save 10%)
Step Drill Bit Set, 3PCS HSS Titanium Coated High Speed Steel Step Bits Covering 28 Sizes (1/8"-3/4") for Wood, Plastic, Sheet Metal with Portable Bag, Nice Gift for DIY Lovers

C&T 6-Piece Step Drill Bit Set with Automatic Center Punch, HSS Titanium High Speed Steel, 50 Sizes Step Bits for Metal, Aluminum, Wood, Plastic, with Aluminum Storage Case


C&T 6-Piece Step Drill Bit Set with Automatic Center Punch, HSS Titanium High Speed Steel, 50 Sizes Step Bits for Metal, Aluminum, Wood, Plastic, with Aluminum Storage Case

$18.99 @ Amazon.com

Product Description

【Package Include】The Set Includes: 6-step drill (3/16" to 1/2"), 1/4" to 1-3/8", 3/16" to 7/8", 1/4" to 3/4", 1/8" to 1/2", 3/16" to 1/2", 1 Automatic Centre Punch.

【Premium Material】Our HSS drill bits are reinforced with a titanium coating, which makes them harder than normal HSS bits, can reduces friction, and perform well in heat, corrosion and rust resistance.

【Precision Design】Split flute tip with a 118 degree angle, greatly improves wear resistance for long-lasting and efficient. The innovative double-flute design facilitates smoother cutting and easy evacuation of material particles, resulting in cleaner, more precise drilling operations.

【Wide Application】Our step drill bits can process holes of different diameters for metal heavy duty, iron, aluminium, brass, plastic, aluminium alloy, wood, plastic and other materials. Suitable for home DIY and general use.

【Quality Assurance】If there are any defects or problems with the product, please contact our excellent customer service team.

Product Details
Brand: C&T
Model #: C&T8-25
Dimensions: 6.5 X 5.51 X 1.88 inches (Length X Width X Height)
Price: $18.99
C&T 6-Piece Step Drill Bit Set with Automatic Center Punch, HSS Titanium High Speed Steel, 50 Sizes Step Bits for Metal, Aluminum, Wood, Plastic, with Aluminum Storage Case

ZELCAN HSS 5PCS Titanium Spiral Grooved Step Drill Bit Set with Automatic Center Punch, Unibit Drill Bits Set for Sheet Metal with Aluminum Case, Multiple Hole Stepped up Bits for DIY Lovers


ZELCAN HSS 5PCS Titanium Spiral Grooved Step Drill Bit Set with Automatic Center Punch, Unibit Drill Bits Set for Sheet Metal with Aluminum Case, Multiple Hole Stepped up Bits for DIY Lovers

$26.99 @ Amazon.com (Save 10%)

Product Description

Enhanced Durability with Titanium Coating: Our high-speed steel (HSS) drill bits, fortified with a titanium coating, offer exceptional durability and maintain sharpness even through demanding tasks. The titanium coating increases wear resistance and minimizes friction, resulting in cooler operation.

Versatile Hole Processing: Our step drill bits cater to a wide range of hole diameters, effectively eliminating the hassle of switching between multiple bits. This versatility proves invaluable for tasks involving metal, wood, and plastic, including countersunk holes.

Precision-Engineered Design: The split point tip, set at a 135-degree angle, significantly enhances wear resistance, making the drill bits long-lasting and efficient. The innovative two-flute design facilitates smoother cutting and enables easy evacuation of material particles, promoting cleaner and more precise drilling operations.

Convenient Storage Solution: Our step bit set comes complete with a purpose-designed holder featuring a size index. This inclusion ensures effortless organization and storage, preventing the bits from falling out and keeping your workspace tidy.

Comprehensive Set: This step drill bits set encompasses five commonly used sizes, granting you the flexibility to work with a wide array of materials and hole dimensions.

Product Details
Brand: CO-Z
Model #: SDB2021LX&TA
Price: $26.99 (Save 10%)
ZELCAN HSS 5PCS Titanium Spiral Grooved Step Drill Bit Set with Automatic Center Punch, Unibit Drill Bits Set for Sheet Metal with Aluminum Case, Multiple Hole Stepped up Bits for DIY Lovers

Step Drill Bit Set - 5 Pcs HSS Titanium Step Drill Bits, High Speed Steel Step Bits for Metal, Wood, Plastic, Step Bit, Multiple Size Hole Cutting Drilling Cone Unibit Step Drill Bit for DIY Lovers


Step Drill Bit Set - 5 Pcs HSS Titanium Step Drill Bits, High Speed Steel Step Bits for Metal, Wood, Plastic, Step Bit, Multiple Size Hole Cutting Drilling Cone Unibit Step Drill Bit for DIY Lovers

$14.99 ($3.00 / Count) @ Amazon.com (Save 6%)

Product Description

HSS Titanium Coating - Our step drill bit is adopted with high speed steel material and titanium coating, which makes the step bit harder, also the step drill has excellent sharpness and durability.

Great Dual-flute Design - The step drill bits are designed with 118° split point tip, which can improve the cutting speed while increasing the wear resistance, also the unibit step drill bit can be used for a long time. The two flute design provides a smoother cutting, and allows chips to be removed quickly. This stepped drill bit will be a great tool for DIY Lovers.

Widely Application - The step drill bit for metal can be used for drilling holes on plastic, aluminum alloy, iron, wood and many other types of sheet metal. It is better to add coolant or water when drilling. The step drill is great for home DIY or engineering use. (Not recommended for stainless steel)

Multiple Size Step Bit - The step drill bit set including 5 standard step bits, which you can drill 50 different kinds of diameter hole, which can meet your daily needs. Please mark the spot that you are to drill for easier drilling and improved drill bits life. Each step bits for metal optimally fits into power tools such as impact drill chucks securely and eliminates slip for higher efficiency of output.

100% Good After-Sale Service - All the cone drill bit come in a well organized case, which make it more convenient for using and storing the unibit. Also we are confident with the quality of step drill bit, please feel free to contact us if you have any comment about the stepper bit, we will give you a satisfactory answer!

Product Details
Brand: Aleric
Model #: AMY-67
Price: $14.99 ($3.00 / Count) (Save 6%)
Step Drill Bit Set - 5 Pcs HSS Titanium Step Drill Bits, High Speed Steel Step Bits for Metal, Wood, Plastic, Step Bit, Multiple Size Hole Cutting Drilling Cone Unibit Step Drill Bit for DIY Lovers

AIMLENTOOL HSS Spiral Groove Step Drill Bit, 12 Steps High-Speed Steel 1/4" to 2-3/8" Drill Bit for Stainless Steel, Aluminum, Plastic, and Wood, Large Multiple Hole Stepped Bit for DIY Lovers


AIMLENTOOL HSS Spiral Groove Step Drill Bit, 12 Steps High-Speed Steel 1/4" to 2-3/8" Drill Bit for Stainless Steel, Aluminum, Plastic, and Wood, Large Multiple Hole Stepped Bit for DIY Lovers

$31.99 @ Amazon.com

Product Description

HSS Titanium Coating: Our high-speed steel drill bits, fortified with a titanium coating that makes the drill bit harder than a typical HSS bit, can reduce the friction drill, and perform well in heat, corrosion, and rust resistance.

Precision-Engineered Design: Two-flute spiral grooved design deburrs chips, dust and debris for clearance and smooth cutting. The 118° split point tip drill reduces friction, pressure, and heat, making the drill bits long-lasting and efficient.

Wide Application: Our step drill bit can process different diameter holes, and can be used on materials such as metal heavy-duty, iron, aluminum, brass, plastic, aluminum alloy, wood, plastic, etc. Suitable for home DIY and general use

Quick Change: The 1/4-inch hex shank fits easily and securely into all power tools to prevent slippage and shedding during rotation.

Professional After-Sales Service: If you are not fully satisfied with our product for any reason, please contact us for a 100% refund or replacement.

Product Details
Brand: AIMLENTOOL
Price: $31.99
AIMLENTOOL HSS Spiral Groove Step Drill Bit, 12 Steps High-Speed Steel 1/4" to 2-3/8" Drill Bit for Stainless Steel, Aluminum, Plastic, and Wood, Large Multiple Hole Stepped Bit for DIY Lovers

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