You can use the best drill press for metal for various tasks like cutting pipes, milling rings or forming system. And you will get the flow and constantly changing speed.
Anyway, metal drilling is a slow process, and it requires the power of the drill press. If a piece snags the material in place of cutting it, it may twist or throw it away. And you get the most trauma between you, the material, and the drill.
When you use a hand drill for a particularly challenging task that involves drilling many holes with varying widths, depths, and angles, of course, you will understand the difficulty.
Maybe you’ve done some project. Still, you’re likely to come up with some projects you haven’t done yet. But I am delighted with the final result with my drill press.
Handyman’s pick: 8 Best Drill Press for Metal
A conventional drill press will not get as much love and attention as the additional standard tools in the workshop, like the regular saw, hammer drill, or drill. You may like to have the precise and depth press for a few days, but the right choice matters.
Also, you may find drill presses in different sizes and shapes with almost the same number of filtration options. But today, I will talk about the 8 best drill presses for metal. Enjoy!
Top Pick Drill Press
Shop Fox W1848: Best Floor Standing Drill Press for Metal
- The Shop Fox W1848 is driven by a 3/4HP engine that can reach up to 3050 RPM.
- This floor drill press for metal features a sturdy and dependable structure, weighing 122 pounds and measuring 24′′ x 15′′ x 63′′.
- This drill press offers 12-speed options to select from, which gives the unit some much-needed versatility.
- You may tilt the table to a 90-degree angle to the left and right, and you can also alter the table height and tilt based on the size of the workpiece.
- This drill press has been dedicated to using it as a sander; therefore, it has two dust openings built into the design.
The W1848 represents outstanding value for money. It provides high performance, has numerous applications, and is long-lasting. As a result, it is a must-have tool in practically any workplace.
Moreover, its 3/4 HP motor has variable speed and may be utilized in 12 different settings ranging from 250 to 3,050 RPM.
These and other qualities combine to make the Shop Fox W1848 a very flexible piece of workshop equipment – if you want to learn more about it, keep reading.
- The W1848 has impressed us with the quality of its build. Furthermore, the unit’s table is spacious and can be changed to various settings, ensuring that every workpiece is accommodated to the best of its ability. Moreover, the drill’s 3/4 HP engine cuts through multiple types of materials quickly and allows the user to utilise it at 12 different speed levels.
- According to several consumers, the item comes with ambiguous instructions. Those who have never constructed this sort of power equipment before may find the entire operation difficult.
Runner Up
WEN 4208T: Best Benchtop Drill Press for Metal
- It boasts 2-inch shaft travel and comfortable to read, lockable sequential depth controls for precise and consistent drilling.
- The keyed chuck and JT33 spindle taper take bits varying in diameter from 1/20 to ½ inch (1.5 to 13 mm).
- By altering the belt location on the two spindles, you may manually change your speed to 740, 1100, 1530, 2100, or 3140 RPM.
- The base has holes for installation into a bench or work stand, and clamps and vises may be readily attached to the slotted table.
- Finally, ball bearings are used in the 2.3-amp induction motor to ensure smooth, balanced performance even at high speeds.
The WEN 4208 8″ 5 Speed Drill Press is a vital instrument for drilling various materials such as wood, metal, plastics, etc.
Surprisingly, this best bench drill press for metal comes with an 8-inch swing. This kit includes a 5-speed drill and works perfectly. Moreover, the tool’s holes are accurate and excellent. The frame is made of cast iron, which assures its longevity and stability. The gadget comes with a 12-inch keyed chuck.
Finally, WEN 4208 features the necessary holes for mounting to a work-bend and is appropriate for use with a portable stand.
- This machine is ideal for beginners and includes onboard key stockpiling. The highest chuck capability is 13 mm, with a tool travel spindle taper of up to two inches. Furthermore, the machine has five-speed settings. The speed range begins at 740 RPM, continues at 1100 RPM, 1530 RPM, 2100 RPM, and ends at 3140 RPM. Finally, the tool has a size column 3/4.
- Some customers claim that this drill press for metal is less adaptable than the other; however, most evaluations paint a different picture.
Best Budget
SKIL 3320-01 Floor Drill Press for Metal
- With a 3.2-Amp motor and 1/3 HP, this power tool is best suited for wood drilling rather than metal drilling.
- It’s formed chiefly of cast-iron metal, which is solid and long-lasting, and the table and base are both rather substantial and stable.
- The table angle may be adjusted left and right from 0 to 45 degrees using the table handle.
- It has five preset speeds ranging from 570 RPM to 3,050 RPM, which is far too suitable for metal drilling.
- Because it measures just 15.2 x 21.8 x 9.8 inches, this drill press is relatively small and won’t take up much room on your workstation.
Skil is best known for its portable saws, but the company currently offers various items. One such device that has made a good impression on the market is the Skil 3320-01 drill press.
The SKIL 3320-01 Drill Press has a 3.2 amperage motor, a LaserX2 2 Beam laser rangefinder, a 0° to 45° L & R tilting workpiece surface, a 5-speed (570 to 3050 RPM) motor, and a fully operational system.
Most significantly, it has received cSAus certification, which means that all of the parts have been approved by the cSAus organisation to ensure that it uses only high-quality components and is suitable for use in the workplace.
- This item has fair pricing and many variable speeds control settings ranging from 570 to 3,050 RPM. It features a high-quality metal structure. Furthermore, it is simple to operate and modify. Both the right and left sides of the table may be tilted 45 degrees.
- Some users are dissatisfied by its 1/2″ chuckling a quarter-size; for this model, ¼” Chuck would’ve been a better choice.
Best Overall
WEN 4214: Drill Press for Metal
- It has endlessly adjustable speed ranges ranging from 580 to 3200 RPMs and generates equal torque across the spectrum.
- Wen 4214 features a robust cast-iron table that measures 9-1/2″ x 9-1/2″ and can move left or right 45-degrees, so slopes aren’t a concern.
- Wen 4214 includes a laser guidance system that allows users to achieve faultless drilling with the aid of the laser.
- It includes an adjustable chuck, allowing users to achieve the desired outcome regardless of the hole size.
- This product comes with a 2-year warranty and a 90-day business repair guarantee.
Overall, this Wen 4214 is an excellent pick if you search for the best floor drill press for metal that can handle a wide range of materials and sizes. This Wen 4214 review will go over some of the most important features so that you can get the most out of this machine.
In addition, the worktable has 45-degree angles to the left and right. And procedures for constantly precise right angles. The digital readout of this drill driven by LEDs, on the other hand, indicates the running speed.
Furthermore, the Wen 4214 adjustable speed drill press has a strong engine that perfectly drills plastics, wood, metals, and other materials. Finally, this Wen drill press has a long spindle journey.
- This device can support a substantial amount of weight and is sturdy enough to endure an extended period. Its laser light also aids inaccurate targeting. Furthermore, the cast-iron work table is substantial. Even its speed contributes to the depth of the hole. Finally, laser-guided drilling improves accuracy and speed.
- For some, this drill may be prohibitively pricey. Furthermore, it may make certain noises due to the speed vibration.
Premium Pick
JET J-2500: Best Floor Standing Drill Press for Metal
- A 3/4 HP (9.0 Ampere) motor drives a variable belt with 16 various speed settings, ranging from 200 RPM to an astonishing 3,630 RPM.
- It is entirely adjustable, with a 360-degree rotation and a 45-degree tilt to both sides.
- This drill has a versatile capability of 5/8″ on cast iron and 12″ on mild steel.
- The drill press is roughly 63″ tall, allowing the user to manage it without bending and straining themselves.
- It features a sturdy frame with a base measurement of 11″ x 19-1/2″ that provides optimal balance and stability when in use.
The JET J-2500 has a large working table and a versatile drilling capacity. It is powered by a 4.5/9.0A, 3/4HP motor with a variable speed range (about 200 to 3630 RPM). It is appropriate for both experts and DIY enthusiasts to construct simple drills on various materials, particularly metals.
The item weighs 167 pounds and is 54′′ x 20′′ x 10.5′′. As previously said, its key component is its hard-steel frame, which makes the machine extremely sturdy and resistant to mechanical harm.
The chuck, on either side, is the typical 5/8′′ length, and the spindle travels pretty deep with a 3-1/4′′ quill stroke.
- This device offers a large work table with numerous flexible and adjustable features. You will also discover perfect balance and steadiness at work. For technical purposes, it provides variable speed control. Finally, it has a two-year limited warranty and a one-year accessory warranty.
- It lacks functional light and digital speed-reading capabilities, although these will have little effect in regular use.
Best Overall
BILT HARD: Best Drill Press for Metal Work
- Its adjustable worktable includes a 45-degree left and proper bevel for drilling from different angles and a diameter of 11.41 inches.
- The set includes a drill press; a 5/8′′ keyed chuck and key, hex wrenches, and assembling tools.
- It has 16 operational variable speeds and may be adjusted to any speed between 220 and 3600 RPM.
- The unit’s base contains some pre-drilled holes for attaching to a work stand or bench.
- BILT HARD provides a 90-day warranty from the purchase date, allowing you to replace, return, or receive a refund within that time frame.
BILT HARD has you covered if you’re searching for the best industrial floor drill press for metal that a battery can power. The BILT HARD 13 ′′ floor drill press has a 6.6-ampere induction motor that can work through plastics, wood, metal, and other elements for pro and garage use.
It also features a 13-1/4-inch arm and 3-⅛-inch spindle travel. You can drill through the material at the precise speed you want with 16 selectable settings. It has a variable speed that ranges from 220-3600 RPM. It also offers adjustable depth for accurate depth drilling, regardless of the material.
- It is equipped with a 3/4 HP motor. As a result, this instrument can tackle plastics, metal, wood, and other materials. This object is made of cast iron, which assures its longevity. Furthermore, it features a whopping 16 working changeable speeds! It has assembly tools and a 90-day guarantee.
- Some users say that the engine heats up quickly despite the fact that most of the evaluations depict a different image.
Benchtop Budget
WEN 4210: Best Budget Drill Press for Metal with Laser
- This WEN drill press features a more robust motor that is rated at 3.2 Amps.
- The spindle travel (2 14) is outfitted with one locking stop, and the chuck is adaptable with various types of bits.
- It also allows you to make 5-speed adjustments from 570 to around 3050 RPM for improved performance.
- This model comprises an outstanding metal combination and a soft rubber-plastic substance surrounding the spindle handles, which are comfortable to use.
- It can pivot to the two sides at a 45-degree angle, giving it a lot of adaptability on the job.
WEN 4210 Drill Press has a lot of positive features. The machine’s design, chuck system, worktable, and performance of the crafty driller are all impressive. Accuracy in creating a hole is also quite simple. You may put the machine to use for woodworking.
This WEN drill press model comes with a 3.2 Amp motor. In other words, it is capable of handling a wide range of projects that you may choose to work with.
The drill press’s weight (54.4 Lbs) is comparably modest. As a result, you will have no trouble placing the machine on your counter or moving it from one location to another.
- This drill press is simple and easy to operate, even for novices. It has enough power to drill through wood and thin metal sheets with ease. Furthermore, it is reasonably priced and has an excellent price-to-performance ratio. It has a variable speed range of 600 – 3,100 RPM for flexibility. Finally, it has a metal structure that is of high quality.
- To vary the speed, you must manually adjust the tension of the belt. This, however, is not a huge deal!
Customer Choice
Powermatic: Metal Working Drill Press
- The Powermatic PM2800B is an intense drill with a powerful 15.0 AMP (1.0 HP) inductive motor that makes quick work of whatever task you throw at it.
- Powermatic created the model out of lightweight aluminum, cast-iron, and ABS plastic, resulting in an excellent build structure.
- The Powermatic PM2800B includes variable speed controls that allow users to select a 250 to 3,000 RPM speed range.
- It has a customizable table and a fence, and also you can adjust the table’s width from 14 to 30 inches.
- The machine is outfitted with two LED lights and laser guidance.
The Powermatic is an intense drill press to become the most user-friendly drill press in the marketplace. One of the primary selling features of the Powermatic drill press is its most straightforward drill press model to date.
This machine is a powerhouse with a 1-hp motor, a large cast-iron table, and a solid, usable fence. The table (14 inch. deep by 20 in. broad) includes a 12-in. rib-free ledge around the circumference, which is ideal for clamping.
To explain, the PM2800B delivers simplicity to your store and genuinely fantastic ease of use.
- Its strong engine allows it to do heavy-duty chores. It also includes a twin laser guidance system and a dual-LED light. It is more adaptable because of the adjustable bench, table, and motor speed. It also features a digital RPM reading option for easy speed control.
- Some users complain that it occasionally makes a loud noise with a vibrating sound. However, it is not a significant issue.
Factors to pick the Best Drill Press for Metal
There are various aspects to consider before purchasing the best drill press for metal work. They are as follows:
Speed of Drilling: The type and intensity of jobs that your drill can handle will be determined by its speed range. This also has an impact on the end product’s quality. Speed shows how fast or slows your drill press can go.
Size of the Swing: The swing size of the drill press is calculated by multiplying the distance between the chuck and the column supporting the bench by two. If you want to drill in the middle, you may use the top piece of metal with the drill press.
Capacity of Chuck: Chucks are classified into two types. There are key ones, which use a minor wrench-like key to eliminate and tighten bits, and keyless ones, which can do the same thing without using an extra part.
Drilling Capability: Another essential factor of a good drill press for metal is its ability. Ability is demonstrated in horsepower (hp) and amperage usage (amp). A higher horsepower rating indicates a more powerful motor.
Spindle Movement: This is the maximum depth of the drill press’s hole, also called quill travel. A drill with 3″ quill travel, for example, may drill to a maximum depth of 3″.
Laser: Some drill presses include laser crosshairs to improve drilling accuracy. This function isn’t required, but it’s a beautiful tool that you’ll appreciate after you’ve used it since it provides you pinpoint precision without requiring you to lower the drill to see if it lines up.
Advantages of a Drill Press for Metal
Precision is the most significant advantage that a drill press provides. You won’t think twice about getting a decent hole every time because the drill is fixed. When drilling metal, this is very critical. Unlike wood, which you can fill if a mistake is made, you cannot repair metal if damaged. That’s why the accuracy of a metal floor drill press is so crucial.
Metal is, without a doubt, one of the most robust materials available. That is why you want the high torque and precision that only a drill press can provide. Making a hole in even thin metal would be nearly impossible without the power of these drills.
Even if you could use a portable or tabletop drill to drill through metal, you’d have to cope with burred edges. This is less than optimal since these edges make a product seem incomplete and harmful due to their sharpness. Fortunately, if you get a high-quality metal power drill, you won’t have to think about this issue.
How to Use a Drill Press?
Drill presses are commonly used on materials such as wood. Although it is becoming more common, you may not have much experience using a drill on any metal. Don’t be too concerned; we’ve all been there.
We’ll go over some pointers to keep in mind while utilizing a drill press to work with metal.
Select on a speed
Most drill presses allow you to change the speed by shifting the drive belt from one pulley to another. In general, the quicker a pulley spins on the chuck axis, the smaller it is.
As with any cutting activity, a general rule is that slower rates are better for drilling metal, and higher speeds are better for drilling wood. Again, consult your owner’s handbook for manufacturer advice.
Attach a Circle Cutter if you want to make circles
Attach the circle cutter and secure the workpiece to the table to cut a circle. Place a scrap piece of wood beneath the workpiece to protect the table from damage caused by the circular cutter. Drill at a slower pace into the workpiece to keep the circle cutter in place.
If possible, use a step drill bit
A step drill bit is a conical drill bit that becomes wider as it moves away from the tip. It enters the hole at its smallest size and gradually expands it as it progresses deeper.
This is less likely to try to grip the metal piece and spin it as large parts do. If you don’t have one of these, you may use standard drill bits, starting small and gradually increasing the size.
You should adjust the table
Some types feature a crank to change the table height, while others move freely once the clamping mechanism is removed. Set the table to the appropriate size for the operation you’re about to undertake.
Slower speeds are preferable
When drilling metal, you don’t want to proceed too rapidly. This will produce heat, reducing the bit’s usefulness. Begin slowly and gradually increase your speed if necessary.
Make use of cutting oil
These are special lubricants that aid in the movement of the drill through the steel and the hole created. They extend the life of the bit while also regulating the temperature.
Drill Press Safety Tips
Always read your manufacturer’s instructions and never use any of our advice in place of manufacturer instructions. Drill presses are risky devices that should only be used when the manufacturer’s safety precautions are followed. Consider the following safety precautions:
- Keep your fingers and hands far from the drill.
- During drilling, you should always wear appropriate eye and ear protection.
- You should not use your hand to remove wood chips or metal shavings.
- Wear nothing lose that might grab on to the drill.
- Please do not alter the machine while it is turned on or connected in.
- Maintain all required safeguards.
- Please do not use your hand to grip the workpiece. Use a device to keep it securely in place.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Maintenance of a Drill Press
The drill press is available in various forms and functionalities specially tailored for wood, metal, or plastic. To keep it running at peak performance, a maintenance program must be created and followed. Here are some examples of what a complete drill press maintenance checklist should include.
You should lubricate the Drill Chuck
Chuck should be oiled. Apply a little drying lube to the chuck’s jaws to keep them smoothly, vital for practical bit centering. Spray or spritz some oil within the jaws and tighten and loosen them a few times until the extra lubrication drops out.
Check the Condition of the Belt
If left unchecked, a worn belt and pulley system will be a source of annoyance. The machine will be loud, and there will be an increase in vibrations going through the unit, reducing performance precision.
Check the workstation
This is sometimes ignored, but when the drill press is attached to a workbench, it should be examined to ensure it hasn’t fallen loose because this portion is prone to a lot of vibrations.
Examine the cord and plug
This is a crucial point. Disconnect your drill press first, and then physically verify the size of the cable for loose connections.
Keeping dust and debris at bay
The protective casing normally protects the drill press from dust and debris. However, certain sections remain exposed, and dust is difficult to resist since it is so thin, allowing it to enter any little crevice or hole.
Examine the drill bits
Drill bits are frequently deformed or bent as a result of their usage. The manufacturer did not design the drill bit to endure repeated drilling or drill quicker by applying more power to the drill than necessary. So, you should check them regularly.
What kind of Metal can a Drill Press cut?
If you’re a devoted mechanic, you’ll have to drill something sooner or later. And, if you’re lucky, whether you’re modifying, holding, or installing, it’ll be metal. It needs to know what kind of metals your drill press can cut. You will save time and money if you prepare and practice correctly. Here’s some metal that you can use in your drill press to cut.
- Stainless steel.
- Soft metals.
- Aluminum.
- Very thin metals.
- Copper, etc.
FAQs on Best Drill Press for Metal
Can you use a drill press on metal?
A drill press is one of the most valuable tools a metal craftsman can purchase. It’s a smart option to drill through metal at the slowest possible speed using a metal drill bit. Hard metals, such as steel and more significant drill bits, need even slower rates. You may drill through most metals at 3,000 rpm with a tiny twist bit (1/16 inch. to 3/16 inch.). 350 to 1,000 rpm is ideal for more significant twist bits (11/16 inch. to 1 inch.).
How do you cut metal with a drill press?
When drilling metal, the drill can become quite hot. Always apply a tiny amount of oil to the drill’s tip to lubricate it and prevent it from overheating. To keep the drill from sliding on the oil, use a central punch in the hole.
The lower the speed, the harder the metal and the bigger the drill. If you can’t attain a low RPM, it will be challenging to maintain it stable.
How do I choose a drill press?
Pick the most efficient drill speed, measured in revolutions per minute (rpm). In addition, locate the diameter of the borehole in the left-hand column and the metal you’re drilling in one of the three right-hand columns.
These statistics are approximations and may not precisely correspond to the speeds advised by the producer of your drill press. In general, the faster you will require, the smaller the metal bit and the softer the metal.
Can I use wd40 for drilling metal?
Yes, you can drill metal with WD40. Despite its advertising, it is not an excellent lubricant, especially for something exposed to high heat at the tooling contact, such as a drill bit. Some lubricating oils can discolour aluminium and some stainless steel, although this isn’t as tough to clean up, primarily if it’s welded.
What is the difference between an 8 and 10 drill press?
When it comes to drill presses, size matters, and the throat of a drill press is half the table’s width. However, there are minor size disparities amongst them. Likewise, the 8-inch drill press has exactly 4 ” from the support beam to the centre of the chuck, and the 10-inch drill press has 5 inches. As a result, the device can reach the centre of a 12-inch piece of material.
Final Words
A drill press seems to be the most versatile equipment in any workshop, and investing in a brand with a reputation for dependability and quality will pay you. This versatile tool drills into metal workpieces and works admirably during woodworking activities such as sanding and mortising.
The WEN 4208T features the slowest speed setting and the most extended spindle travel. As a result, it enables the most effortless deep drilling for even the heaviest metals. Again, Shop Fox W1848 offers the highest angular drilling freedom at 90 degrees tilting. The SKIL 3320-01 provides a great blend of price and performance.
Finally, our buyer’s guide and other information further understand the feature you require to find the best drill press for metal.
