The best drill press for metal can be used for many different things, including milling rings, shaping systems, and cutting pipes. You will also experience the flow and the erratic speed.
Anyhow, drilling metal is a laborious job that needs the drill press’s strength. Instead of cutting the material, a piece may snag it and twist or discard it. And between you, the material, and the drill, you suffer the most trauma.
Naturally, you will comprehend the difficulty while using a hand drill for particularly demanding work that requires drilling numerous holes with different widths, depths, and angles.
You may have completed a project. You might still think of some projects that you haven’t yet completed. But I’m pleased with how my drill press produced the end product.
Table of Contents
Best Drill Press for Metal
Regular saws, hammer drills, and drills are extra common instruments in the workshop that won’t receive the same kind of love and care as a traditional drill press. For a few days, you might choose to have the exact and depth press, but making the proper decision is important.
Additionally, drill presses come in a variety of sizes and forms with practically identical filtration possibilities. But today, I’ll discuss the top 8 metal drill presses. Enjoy!
1. Shop Fox W1848: Best Floor Standing Drill Press for Metal
- The Shop Fox W1848 is propelled by a 3/4 HP engine with a maximum RPM of 3050.
- Weighing 122 pounds and having dimensions of 24 inches by 15 inches by 63 inches, this floor drill press for metal has a reliable and stable structure.
- This drill press has 12 different speed settings, which gives it much-needed versatility.
- Depending on the size of the workpiece, you can adjust the tilt and height of the table to a 90-degree angle to the left and right.
- Two dust ports were included in the construction of this drill press since it was made specifically to be used as a sander.
The W1848 offers exceptional value for the money. It offers excellent performance, has many uses, and is durable. It is therefore a necessary tool in almost every workplace.
Additionally, it includes a 3/4 HP motor with variable speed that has 12 settings ranging from 250 to 3,050 RPM.
The Shop Fox W1848 is a very adaptable piece of workshop machinery thanks to these and other features; to learn more about it, continue reading.
What we like:
We were amazed by the W1848’s construction quality. Additionally, the unit’s table is roomy and has adjustable settings, so every workpiece may be fitted as best it can be. Additionally, the drill’s 3/4 HP engine quickly cuts through a variety of materials and offers the user a choice of 12 distinct speed settings.
What we didn’t like:
A number of customers claim that the product’s instructions are unclear. The process may be challenging for those who have never built this kind of power equipment previously.
2. WEN 4208T: Best Benchtop Drill Press for Metal
- For accurate and reliable drilling, it features 2-inch shaft travel and easy-to-read, lockable sequential depth settings.
- The JT33 spindle taper and keyed chuck accept bits with a diameter range of 1/20 to 12 inches (1.5 to 13 mm).
- You can manually change your speed to 740, 1100, 1530, 2100, or 3140 RPM by moving the belt placement on the two spindles.
- Clamps and vises may easily be added to the slotted table, and the base of the unit features holes for insertion into a bench or work stand.
- Finally, the 2.3-amp induction motor uses ball bearings to assure balanced, smooth operation even at high speeds.
For drilling a variety of materials, including wood, metal, plastics, etc., the WEN 4208 8′′ 5 Speed Drill Press is an essential tool.
Unexpectedly, the 8-inch swing on this top bench drill press for metal is included. The drill in this package, which has five speeds, functions flawlessly. The tool’s holes are also precise and great. Cast iron construction guarantees the frame’s durability and solidity. The device is a 12-inch keyed chuck.
The WEN 4208 is suitable for use with a portable stand and has the required mounting holes for a work-bend.
What we like:
This machine has integrated key storage and is excellent for beginners. The largest chunk size is 13 mm, and the spindle travel can taper up to two inches. The machine has five different speed settings as well. Starting at 740 RPM, the speed range extends to 1100 RPM, 1530 RPM, 2100 RPM, and 3140 RPM. The tool also includes a size column of 3/4.
What we didn’t like:
Some users contend that this metal drill press is less versatile than the other, however, the majority of reviews present a different image.
3. SKIL 3320-01 Floor Drill Press for Metal
- This power tool’s 3.2-Amp motor and 1/3 HP make it more suited for drilling wood than metal.
- The table and foundation are both rather substantial and robust, being made primarily of cast-iron metal, which is durable and strong.
- Using the table handle, the table angle can be changed left and right from 0 to 45 degrees.
- Its five predetermined speeds, which range from 570 to 3,050 RPM, make it far too ideal for drilling metal.
- This drill press is reasonably compact and won’t take up much space on your work surface at 15.2 x 21.8 x 9.8 inches.
Even though Skil is best known for its portable saws, it today sells a wide range of goods. The Skil 3320-01 drill press is one of these gadgets that has done well on the market.
The SKIL 3320-01 Drill Press contains a 5-speed (570 to 3050 RPM) motor, a 3.2 amperage motor, a LaserX2 2 Beam laser rangefinder, and a 0° to 45° L & R tilting workpiece surface, and a fully functional system.
Most importantly, it has acquired Claus certification, which indicates that each component has been deemed appropriate for use in the workplace and that all parts have been certified by the cSAus organization.
What we like:
This product is reasonably priced and features a wide range of variable speed control settings, from 570 to 3,050 RPM. It has a sturdy metal construction. It is additionally simple to use and customize. The table may be tilted 45 degrees on the right and left sides.
What we didn’t like:
Some customers find it’s 1/2″ chuckling to be too small for a quarter; a 1″ Chuck would have been a better option for this model.
4. WEN 4214: Drill Press for Metal
- It produces identical torque over the entire speed range, which extends from 580 to 3200 RPM.
- Wen 4214 has a sturdy cast-iron table that is 9-1/2″ x 9-1/2″ and can be moved 45 degrees to the left or right, so slopes are not an issue.
- The Wen 4214 comes with a laser guidance system that enables users to drill flawlessly with the help of the laser.
- It has an adjustable chuck that enables users to produce the appropriate results regardless of the size of the hole.
- A 2-year warranty and a 90-day business repair guarantee are included with this item.
Overall, if you’re looking for the best floor drill press for metal that can work with a variety of materials and sizes, the Wen 4214 is a great choice. In order for you to get the most out of this device, this Wen 4214 review will go over some of the most crucial aspects.
The worktable also angles to the left and right at 45 degrees. and methods for maintaining consistently accurate right angles. On the other hand, the drill’s digital readout, which is powered by LEDs, displays the speed.
Additionally, the powerful motor of the Wen 4214 adjustable speed drill press perfectly drills plastics, wood, metals, and other materials. Finally, the spindle journey on this Wen drill press is lengthy.
What we like:
This gadget is strong enough to withstand prolonged use and can handle a sizable amount of weight. Accurate targeting is also made easier by its laser light. The cast-iron work table is also a large piece. Its speed alone adds to the hole’s depth. Last but not least, laser-guided drilling increases efficiency and speed.
What we didn’t like:
This drill may be too expensive for some people to afford. Furthermore, the speed vibration may cause it to make some noises.
5. JET J-2500: Best Floor Standing Drill Press for Metal
- A variable belt with 16 different speed settings, ranging from 200 RPM to an astounding 3,630 RPM, is driven by a 3/4 HP (9.0 Amp) engine.
- With a 360-degree rotation and a 45-degree tilt on both sides, it is completely adjustable.
- This drill can work with mild steel up to 12 inches thick and cast iron up to 5/8 inches thick.
- Because the drill press is around 63′′ tall, the user can operate it without bending over or exerting themselves.
- It has a strong frame with a base that measures 11′′ x 19-1/2′′ and offers the best balance and stability possible when in use.
The JET J-2500 features a sizable work surface and flexible drilling capabilities. It is driven by a variable speed, 4.5/9.0A, 3/4HP motor (about 200 to 3630 RPM). Simple drills can be built on a variety of materials, especially metals, and are suited for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
The piece measures 54′′ × 20′′ x 10.5′′ and weighs 167 pounds. Its hard-steel frame, which makes the machine incredibly durable and resistant to mechanical injury, is its main component, as was previously said.
The normal 5/8′′-long chuck is present on both sides, and the spindle travels rather deeply with a 3-1/4′′ quill stroke.
What we like:
A sizable work surface with several flexible and adjustable features is provided by this equipment. At work, you’ll also notice absolute steadiness and equilibrium. It enables variable speed control for technical needs. It also comes with a one-year accessory warranty and a two-year limited warranty.
What we didn’t like:
The absence of functional light and digital speed reading capabilities will not significantly affect daily use.
6. BILT HARD: Best Drill Press for Metal Work
- A diameter of 11.41 inches and a 45-degree left and right bevel on its movable worktable allow for drilling at various angles.
- A drill press, a 5/8″ keyed chuck and key, hex wrenches, and assembling tools are all included in the set.
- It can be set to any speed between 220 and 3600 RPM and has 16 operational variable speeds.
- Pre-drilled holes on the base of the device allow for bench or work stand attachment.
- Within 90 days of the purchase date, BILT HARD offers a warranty that entitles you to a replacement, a return, or a refund.
If you’re looking for the greatest industrial floor drill press for metal that a battery can power, BILT HARD has you covered. For professional and home usage, the BILT HARD 13-inch floor drill press contains a 6.6-ampere induction motor that can cut through plastics, wood, metal, and other materials.
Additionally, it has spindle travel of 3-1/8 inches and a 13-1/4-inch arm. With 16 different settings, you can drill through the material at the exact speed you desire. Its variable speed runs between 220 and 3600 RPM. No matter the material, it also provides adjustable depth for precise depth drilling.
What we like:
A motor with 3/4 HP is included. As a result, this tool may work with many materials, including plastic, metal, and wood. Because it is made of cast iron, this item will last for a very long time. It also has an astounding 16 operationally changing speeds! It comes with tools for assembly and a 90-day warranty.
What we didn’t like:
Despite the fact that the majority of reviews paint a different picture, some users claim that the engine heats up quickly.
7. WEN 4210: Best Budget Drill Press for Metal with Laser
- This WEN drill press has a 3.2 Amp motor, which is more powerful.
- One locking stop is provided for the spindle travel (2-14), and the chuck may accommodate different kinds of bits.
- Additionally, it offers 5-speed changes between 570 and around 3050 RPM for better performance.
- The spindle handles on this model are surrounded by a soft rubber-plastic material that is easy to hold and an excellent metal combination.
- It has a lot of flexibility in the work thanks to its capacity to swivel to the two sides at a 45-degree angle.
The WEN 4210 Drill Press has many advantageous qualities. The impressive features of the machine are the chuck mechanism, worktable, and performance of the cunning driller. It’s also quite easy to create a hole accurately. The device can be used for woodworking.
The 3.2 Amp motor is included with this WEN drill press type. In other words, you can choose to work with it for a variety of projects because it can handle a variety of projects.
Comparably light (54.4 Lbs) is the weight of the drill press. As a consequence, you will have no issue positioning the machine on your counter or shifting it from one location to another.
What we like:
Even for beginners, operating this drill press is simple and straightforward. It has sufficient power to easily drill through thin metal sheets and wood. Additionally, it offers a great price-to-performance ratio and is competitively priced. For flexibility, it offers a variable speed range of 600 to 3,100 RPM. Finally, it has a high-quality metal structure.
What we didn’t like:
You must manually adjust the belt tension in order to change the speed. But it’s not a big deal at all!
8. Powermatic: Metal Working Drill Press
- The Powermatic PM2800B is a tough drill that can handle any task you throw at it thanks to its strong 15.0 AMP (1.0 HP) inductive motor.
- The model was made by Powermatic using cast iron, lightweight aluminum, and ABS plastic, which produced a strong build.
- The Powermatic PM2800B has variable speed settings that let customers choose a speed range between 250 and 3,000 RPM.
- It features a fence and a table that can be customized, and you can change the width of the table from 14 to 30 inches.
- The device has two LED lights as well as laser navigation.
The Powermatic puts a lot of effort into being the drill press that is easiest to use on the market. The Powermatic drill press’s simplest drill press model to date is one of its key selling points.
With a 1-hp motor, a sizable cast-iron table, and a reliable, useful fence, this machine is a powerhouse. The table is 20 inches wide and 14 inches deep, and it has a 12-inch. ledge without ribs all the way around, perfect for clamping.
To put it simply, the PM2800B offers your store simplicity and absolutely outstanding usability.
What we like:
It can perform demanding tasks because of its powerful engine. A dual-LED light and a twin laser navigation system are also included. The bench, table, and motor speed adjustments make it more versatile. Additionally, a digital RPM readout option is provided for simple speed control.
What we didn’t like:
It occasionally makes a loud noise that vibrates, according to some users. It is not a major problem, though.
How to Choose the Best Metal Drill Press
Before making the finest drill press for metal work purchase, there are several factors to take into account. These are what they are:
Drilling Speed: Your drill’s speed range will define the kinds of jobs and their difficulty. The quality of the finished product is also impacted by this. Speed indicates how quickly or slowly your drill press can operate.
Swing Size: To determine the drill press’s swing size, multiply the distance between the chuck and the column holding up the workbench by two. Use the top piece of metal and the drill press to drill through the middle.
Chuck capacity: There are two different sorts of Chucks. There are keyed versions, which accomplish the same thing without requiring an additional part, and keyless versions, which can do the same thing without requiring a little wrench-like key.
Drilling Capability: This is a crucial component of a good drill press for metal. Utilization of horsepower (hp) and amperage serves as a sign of ability (amp). A motor is said to be more powerful if it has a higher horsepower rating.
Spindle Movement: Also known as quill travel, this refers to the maximum depth of the drill press’s hole. For instance, a drill with a 3′′ quill travel can go as deep as 3′′.
Laser: To increase drilling precision, certain drill presses have laser crosshairs. This feature is optional, but after you’ve tried it, you’ll be grateful for it because it gives you pinpoint accuracy without forcing you to lower the drill to see if it lines up.
Benefits of a Metal Drill Press
The most important benefit a drill press offers is precision. The drill is fixed, so you won’t have to second-guess getting a good hole every time. This is crucial while drilling metal. Metal damage cannot be repaired, in contrast to mistakes made with wood, which can be filled. That is why a metal floor drill press’s precision is so important.
Without a question, one of the strongest materials available is metal. For this reason, you require the tremendous torque and accuracy that a drill press can only offer. Without the strength of these drills, it would be practically impossible to make a hole in even thin metal.
Even if you could drill through metal with a portable or tabletop drill, you would still have to deal with burred edges. This is not ideal since, due to their sharpness, these edges provide the impression that a thing is lacking and dangerous. Fortunately, you won’t have to worry about this if you choose a premium metal power drill.
What is a Drill Press Used For?
Wood and other materials are frequently used in drill presses. You might not have much experience using a drill on any metal, despite the fact that it is growing increasingly popular. Be not too alarmed; we have all been there.
We’ll go over some tips to remember when working with metal and a drill press.
Choose a speed
The driving belt can typically be moved from one pulley to another on drill presses in order to vary the speed. In general, a pulley is smaller and spins more quickly on the chuck axis.
Similar to any cutting operation, it is generally recommended to drill metal at slower rates and wood at faster rates. Again, for manufacturer recommendations, go to your owner’s manual.
If you want to cut out circles, attach a circle cutter.
To cut a circle, fasten the workpiece to the table and attach the circle cutter. Under the workpiece, place a scrap of wood to shield the table from harm from the circular cutter. To maintain the circle cutter in place, slowly drill into the workpiece.
Try to use a step drill bit if you can.
Conical drill bits with increasing width as they advance from the tip are referred to as step drill bits. It shrinks as it approaches the bottom of the pit and grows as it descends.
As with large pieces, this is less likely to attempt to grasp the metal piece and spin it. Use normal drill bits, starting small and progressively increasing the size, if you don’t have one of them.
The table should be adjusted.
Others move freely after the clamping mechanism has been removed, while some models have a crank to adjust the table height. For the procedure, you’re about to perform, size the table appropriately.
More preferable are slower speeds.
You don’t want to drill through metal too quickly. This will generate heat, which will make the bit less functional. Start out slowly and, if required, gradually pick up the pace.
Utilize cutting oil
These are specialized lubricants that facilitate the drill’s passage through the steel and the creation of the hole. They control the temperature and increase the bit’s lifespan.
Safety Advice for Drill Presses
Never substitute any of our recommendations for the manufacturer’s instructions; always read them first. Drill presses are dangerous tools that should only be used under strict adherence to the manufacturer’s safety instructions. Take into account the following safety measures:
- Do not put your hands or fingers near the drill.
- You should always use the proper ear and eye protection while drilling.
- You shouldn’t remove wood chips or metal shavings with your hands.
- Nothing loose that could snag on the drill should be worn.
- Please refrain from making changes to the device while it is powered on or plugged in.
Maintain all necessary safety measures.
Please refrain from grabbing the workpiece with your hand. Put something in position to hold it firmly in place.
Always adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
The drill press is offered in a variety of configurations and features designed specifically for use with wood, metal, or plastic. It requires the development and implementation of a maintenance program to keep it operating at its best. Here are a few illustrations of what a thorough drill press maintenance checklist ought to contain.
Lubrication of the Drill Chuck is required.
Chuck has to be greased. To keep the chuck’s jaws moving smoothly, which is essential for accurate bit centering, dab on a little drying lubrication. Spray or spritz some oil into the jaws, then tighten and loosen them many times to get the extra lubricant out.
Check the Belt’s Condition
A worn-out belt and pulley system will cause annoyance if left unchecked. The machine will be noisy and vibrate more intensely, which will decrease the accuracy of the performance.
Examine the desk
It’s common to overlook this, but because the drill press’s attachment to the workbench is susceptible to a lot of vibration, it should be checked to make sure it hasn’t come undone.
Check the plug and cord.
This idea is really important. Before physically checking the size of the cable for loose connections, unplug your drill press.
Keeping dirt and dust at a distance
Normally, the protective shell shields the drill press from dirt and debris. Some areas are still exposed, though, and because the dust is so thin, it may easily get inside any tiny crack or hole.
Check the drill bits.
Due to their use, drill bits frequently become bent or distorted. The drill bit was not made by the manufacturer to withstand repeated drilling or to drill faster quickly by using more power than is required. Therefore, you should periodically check them.
What kind of metal can be cut by a drill press?
If you’re a serious mechanic, you’ll eventually need to drill something. And if you’re lucky, it will be made of metal whether you’re installing, holding, or altering. It must be aware of the types of metals that your drill press can cut. If you properly plan and rehearse, you will save time and money. Take a look at this metal, which you may cut with your drill press.
- Steel is stainless.
- supple metals.
- Aluminum.
- very thin metals.
- Aluminum, etc.
A Guide to the Best Metal Drill Press
Can metal be drilled with a drill press?
One of the most valuable equipments a metal craftsman can buy is a drill press. Using a metal drill bit and drilling through metal at the slowest speed feasible is a wise choice. Even slower speeds are required for drilling into hard metals like steel and larger drill bits. A tiny twist bit (1/16 inch to 3/16 inch) can drill through most metals at 3,000 revolutions per minute (rpm). For more significant twist bits (11/16 inch to 1 inch), 350 to 1,000 rpm is appropriate.
How does a drill press cut metal?
The drill can get pretty hot when drilling metal. Always lubricate and keep the drill’s tip from overheating by dabbing it with a tiny bit of oil. Use a central punch in the hole to prevent the drill from slipping on the oil.
The harder the metal is and the larger the drill, the slower the speed. It will be difficult to keep it stable if you can’t get the RPM down to a low level.
How can I pick the right drill press?
Choose the fastest drill speed possible, expressed in revolutions per minute (rpm). Find the metal you’re drilling in one of the three right-hand columns, as well as the borehole’s diameter, in the left-hand column.
These numbers are estimates, therefore they might not exactly match the recommended speeds for your drill press. Generally speaking, the smaller and softer the metal bit is, the faster you will need it.
Can I drill metal using WD40?
Yes, WD40 works well for drilling metal. Despite what it claims, it is a poor lubricant, especially for something like a drill bit that comes in touch with hot tooling. Although this isn’t as difficult to clean up, some lubricating oils can discolor aluminum and some stainless steel, especially if it’s welded.
What distinguishes an 8 from a 10 drill press?
The throat of a drill press is half the width of the table because size matters when it comes to drilling presses. There are, nevertheless, slight differences in size amongst them. The distance between the support beam and the center of the chuck on an 8-inch drill press is exactly 4 inches, while a 10-inch drill press has 5 inches. The device may thus penetrate a 12-inch piece of material to its center.
Conclusion
The most adaptable tool in any workshop seems to be a drill press, therefore it makes sense to spend your money on a model that has a solid reputation for durability and quality. This adaptable tool performs admirably during woodworking tasks like sanding and mortising as well as drilling into metal workpieces.
The WEN 4208T has the longest spindle travel and the slowest speed setting. It consequently makes even the heaviest metals’ deep drilling the easiest possible. Again, at 90 degrees tilting, Shop Fox W1848 provides the greatest degree of angular drilling freedom. The SKIL 3320-01 offers a fantastic balance of cost and functionality.
Last but not least, our buyer’s guide and other information help you better grasp the features you need to look for in the top metal drill press.
