A Drill press’ capabilities aren’t only limited to woodworking. There are a few models potent enough to penetrate metal of varying depths. Not only do these models have stronger motors, but also sturdier frames and wider worktables. In short, they have been made more resistant for this type of job.
In this article, we'd like to highlight what the best drill press for metal is. Since a majority of consumers prefer owning power tools with versatility and a wide range of uses, we believe this sub-category to be extremely popular among both professionals and beginners.
Thus, if you're currently seeking a similar instrument, we hope our insights can further simplify the selection process.
Drill Press For Metal Comparison Table
drill press | features | editor's rating | |
|---|---|---|---|
1. WEN 4210T 10-Inch Drill Press with Laser | - Has a 3.2-AMP motor that delivers an estimated 3,100-AMP of drilling speed - An X-Pattern laser improves you precision when cutting to minimize unforced errors | 4.2/5.0 | |
2. SKIL 3320-01 10-Inch Drill Press | - A 0.5-inch chuck is well-matched with larger bits that deliver more stable holes - Comes with a 3-year warranty package that saves you both time and money | 4.1/5.0 | |
3. WEN 4214 12-Inch Variable-Speed Drill Press | - Variable controls allow you to choose the exact speed for precisely for every task at hand - Well-built with cast-iron to augment resistance and prevent it from getting damaged | 5.0/5.0 | |
4. Small Benchtop Drill Press | - Yields up to 8,500-RPM of power that’s great for piercing through metal - Weighs only 13-lbs making it easy to transport, even with just one hand | 4.0/5.0 | |
5. WEN 4208 8-Inch Speed Drill Press | - Produces 3,140-RPM despite having such a low price point - Built with a 0.5-inch chuck and onboard storage to help you organize things better | 3.0/5.0 | |
6. WEN 4212 10-Inch Variable-Speed Drill Press | - Has a wide RPM range that stretch from 530 all the way to 3,100 - Assembled with a cast-iron frame and other strong materials to maintain the integrity of its frame | 4.3/5.0 | |
7. Shop Series RK7033 10-Inch Drill Press | - Boasts of the most influential 6.2-AMP motor that rips through any material - Has a larger height capacity that works well with all kinds of materials | 4.4/5.0 |
Drill Press for Metal Reviews
1. WEN 4210T 10-Inch Drill Press with Laser
Those only beginning their metalwork journey should find the WEN 4210T 10-Inch Drill Press with Laser as a viable option. Though not equipped for hardwearing projects, it is still fully capable of handling everyday projects and simple repairs at home.
This unit comes with a solid 3.2-AMP induction motor that produces between 600 to 3,100-RPM of torque. Users can select any of the five pre-installed speed settings and manage them by simply twisting the spindles.
The same is true for its height and table placement. Both of these have been made more flexible to service larger and more vigorous sheets of metal. Moreover, this tool has a built-in X-pattern laser for better guidance when drilling. It specifies where exactly the bit must target, leading to more accurate movements all around.
Best of all, the WEN 4210T 10-Inch Drill Press with Laser is moderately-priced, making it an ideal starter option. There may be cheaper alternatives out there, but few will offer as much as value this.
Pros
Cons
2. SKIL 3320-01 10-Inch Drill Press
Visually, the SKIL 3320-01 10-Inch Drill Press might look average or ordinary, but this couldn’t be farther from the truth. It delivers solid drilling strength for different functions and is capable of boring through thick plywood or metal sheets.
Just like the previous item, it, too, is powered by 3.2-AMP, though its maximum torque speed is only 3,050-RPM. Still, the insertions created remain as precise as other more advanced models – if not more. Moreover, the 5-speed system likewise allows users to select specific functions for each task requirement.
Additionally, the SKIL 3320-01 10-Inch Drill Press has other functions worth mentioning too. These include an X2 2-Beam laser, a larger 0.5-inch keyed chuck and a worktable that tilts up to 45-degrees. Every single one of them works to make your life a little bit easier.
As such, we would recommend this unit to new metalworkers, trainees, or even professionals looking for a secondary tool. Its affordable price and comprehensive warranty package suggest the company will always prioritize your best interests. Thus, having the option to buy this would mean investing in something truly remarkable.
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3. WEN 4214 12-Inch Variable-Speed Drill Press
The WEN 4214 12-Inch Variable-Speed Drill Press is the most multidimensional mid-tier model in its series, not only in terms of price but also the functionality. Almost every facet has been enhanced to help users with more complicated problems.
For example, its induction motor is now more dominant at 5-AMPs. Both the spindle and tabletop are likewise bigger. There’s even a roller extension installed to help support extra-large workpieces and a clamp to hold it down. These should all be beneficial for users regularly working on metal.
Furthermore, manufacturers have added a digital readout screen that displays your current speed, even when this is changed. Veering away from manual adjustments – for both height and depth settings – is a huge leap forward and will undoubtedly make user's lives much more convenient. We’re glad that WEN eventually decided on including this innovation.
In terms of cost, this product seems slightly expensive for new consumers. Thus, we feel it is better suited for seasoned operators or specialists. However, when you consider everything the WEN 4214 12-Inch Variable-Speed Drill Press offers, it sums up to be a good investment after all.
