Drill press under $150 sugesstions

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Goblin13

Joined
Dec 26, 2016
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Hi, I'm new to knife making and would like to get a bench top drill press. I have searched reviews for days and can't find a consensus on a good drill at this price. All the brands Wen, Ryobi, Craftsman, HF, Skill, etc. all seem to have as many bad reviews as good ones. I have looked at the Grizzly G7942 baby drill press for $118 but can't find any good feedback on it. I know, many think HF is a four letter word, but many think they are ok for drilling pin holes. HF 8" press is on sale for $49 right now so I was thinking of getting it. Any help is greatly appreciated.

Thanks!
 
I'd keep an eye out on Craigslist for a used machine. You could probably find a couple of bench tops for that budget, or even a decent floor model. If your set on getting new, I'd say any of the big box store options are pretty comparable for price. As for the HF presses, a lot of makers start off with those, and while you're certainly not getting a pro level machine, it ought to make holes.
 
My son has a HF benchtop drill press. Like others have said, it's not a commercial or professional tool but it gets the job done. No issues with it, so far. It's close to 1 year old. For occasional use, I'd say it's worth the price.
 
Thanks, I checked craigslist here and just a lot of over priced craftsman, like in stores new, and large floor models for big $. Member,"knife to a gun fight", I like the Bible verse, Amen on that!
 
If you can find something that runs slow (150 rpm) that is good... but otherwise the HF press is $50 this week!
 
Anything in that price range will be basically the same for performance no matter whos name it bears.
But you might look close at the various motor & speed specs, type of chuck, etc.
Those details however slim, may indicate the "better" machine.
 
Everyone thanks for the help, I going to go with the HF. Looks like all the ones in my price range are about the same.
 
Thanks for the input, I went with the 5 speed 8" HF drill press. Just put on my first scales and the 1/8" holes were tight on the pins with no noticeable run out. Could not be happier with this $49 purchase.

Thanks again!!!!!
 
Goblin13 said:
Just put on my first scales and the 1/8" holes were tight on the pins with no noticeable run out.
Click to expand...
Get a number 30 drill bit for the 1/8 inch pins. It's a few thousands over 1/8 inch and will give you a good fit when you go to epoxy the pins in. I think you are near me as I saw that old band saw you asked about on my local Craigs List. A good local source for numbered and lettered drill bits here is Bruce Watkins supply. You might want to get a letter "F" bit for 1/4" pins.
 
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