There are a lot of problems with floor-standing drill presses for metal nowadays. For instance, most metal workers have to deal with these issues:
The majority of floor drill presses lack the necessary speeds or lack a wide speed range for drilling metal at the speeds required.
Metal drilling requires torque that low-power motors cannot provide
Despite taking up a lot of workshop space, floor drill presses don’t provide much drilling power
There is a quality issue: most of these machines are made in countries where top-quality standards are not a priority
This makes it seem impossible to find a floor standing drill press for metal. However, I took the time to research and test dozens of these machines, and now I’m going to share with you the best floor standing drill presses for metal.
Table of Contents
Quick summary
How to choose the best floor drill press for metal?
Choosing the right floor drill press for metalworking can be tricky. There are so many different models out there, but choosing the wrong one can make your job harder rather than easier. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect machine for your needs.
1. Determine What Type of Metalwork You Want to Do
Before buying a floor drill press, you first need to decide what type of metalwork you want to do. For example, if you plan to cut sheet metal, then you’ll probably need a table saw. However, if you plan to drill holes in wood, then you’d likely need a portable drill press.
2. Consider Your Budget and Space Requirements
Once you know what kind of metalwork you want, you need to think about your budget and space requirements. Floor drill presses come in all shapes and sizes, and prices vary widely depending on features like speed, power, size, weight, and accessories.
3. Look for Features That Fit Your Needs
You also need to look for features that fit your specific needs. For example, if your project involves drilling multiple holes in a single piece of material, then you may want a model with variable speeds. On the other hand, if you only need to drill one hole per part, then you may prefer a model that has a fixed speed.
4. Choose Based on Your Skill Level
Finally, you need to choose based on your skill level. Floor drill presses range from beginner machines that require little training to advanced models that are difficult to operate. If you’re new to metalworking, then you should start with an entry-level model until you gain experience.
5. Test Drive Several Models Before Buying One
If you still aren’t sure which model to buy, then you might want to try several before making a final decision. This way, you can see how each machine performs in person.
6. Buy From Reputable Manufacturers
When purchasing any tool, you always want to purchase from reputable manufacturers. The same goes for floor drill presses. When shopping around, pay attention to the manufacturer’s reputation. Also, check online reviews to get more information about their products.
7. Read Reviews
Reviews are another great resource when looking for the best floor drill press. Most people who write reviews will have tried out the product they’re reviewing, so they’ll provide valuable insights into its performance.
8. Avoid Cheap Machines
While you don’t want to spend too much money, you also don’t want to buy a cheap machine. A good floor drill press shouldn’t cost more than $500, so shop carefully to avoid spending more than this.
9. Check Warranties
Lastly, it’s important to consider warranties. Some companies offer lifetime warranties while others offer limited warranties. Make sure you understand what the warranty covers before buying a unit.
What to avoid when searching for the best floor drill press?
If you are looking for the best floor drill press, there are a couple of things you should avoid.
Small Chuck
Drill press chucks should be capable of handling shafts that have a diameter of up to 5/8 inches. If you encounter a drill press manufacturer that does not provide this, you can be sure that:
Either the motor is not powerful enough, or the product is not designed to handle larger drill bits.
It is a very new manufacturer
I have found that this is an absolute must when purchasing a floor drill press. It is a big investment, so make sure you get it right the first time.
Not cast iron designed
As opposed to your cordless drill or hammer drill, the purpose of a floor drill press is to maximize torque while minimizing vibration.
Making for solid and consistent holes.
Make sure your floor drill press is made from cast iron. This metal is robust and heavy-duty. You also need to ensure that your base is large enough and solid enough to handle any drilling application.
Shallow Spindle
It is the ability to control your drill with the side handles that makes the floor drill press unique. With a rack and pinion design, one can move a few levers and drill very powerful holes without losing the overall torque found in your application by using a few levers.
This process is governed by the spindle, whose travel determines the drilling range. The spindles should always be able to travel at least 3 inches
I have just put them here in case you wish to find a drill press on your own. You do not need to worry about any of this. There is no doubt that all of the drill presses in this guide are of exceptional quality.
The best floor drill press for metal
1. Powermatic PM2800B, 18-Inch Drill Press– BEST OVERALL
A floor standing drill press intended for drilling metal sheets should be reviewed based on its power. Powermatic’s floor drill press blows other competing drill presses out of the water with its 1 HP motor which is powerful enough to drill through hard metal sheets.
A variable speed mechanism and a speed range of 250 to 3,000 RPM enable drilling through any metal (steel, aluminum, etc.). Its laser guides make drilling on metal a very precise process, even though some metalworkers complain about it not having a power switch.
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Voltage | 115 Volts |
| Maximum Chuck Size | 13 Millimeters |
| Color | Yellow |
| Included Components | Drill Press, Fence (with adjustable work stop), Table, Drift Key, Handles, Hex Wrenches (x4), Chuck KeyDrill Press, Fence (with adjustable work stop), Table, Drift Key, Handles, Hex Wrenches (x4), Chuck Key |
Pros
- Powerful 1 HP motor
- Laser guide technology
- Variable speed mechanism
- Speed range of 250 to 3 000 RPM
- Easy to use
Cons
- There is no power switch, so the RPM readout is always on. The quality could be higher. The base needs to be beefier.
2. Shop Fox W1848 Floor Standing Drill Press for Metal
Isn’t it great when you spend money on a machine that actually does what it is supposed to? This Shop Fox floor standing drill press features a 3/4 HP motor that offers a speed range of 250 to 2050 RPM at 12 different speeds, which is key to drilling metal as it reaches very low speeds.
The work table of this floor drill press can be tilted 90 degrees for drilling from various angles, making it useful for metalworkers of all kinds.
| Power Source | Wind Powered |
| Voltage | 110 Volts |
| Maximum Chuck Size | 16 Millimeters |
| Included Components | Drill Press |
Pros
- Easy to use – simply set up the machine and start working.
- Built to last – sturdy steel construction and heavy duty cast iron base.
- Versatile – versatile enough to handle many jobs including metalworking, woodworking, masonry, etc.
Cons
- There is no need to loosely fit everything together, the parts fit together well.
Also Read: What is the purpose of the guard on the drill press?
3. WEN 4214 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press– Best Budget
When you are performing DIY metal projects at home, the WEN 4214 is a smart choice when you need convenience. This benchtop drill press has features that allow you to be efficient and precise with every project you tackle.
The work table is illuminated by an onboard worklight to allow precise boring. As a result of the digital speed readout and laser, you can make holes, sand, or deburr metal pieces with ease on the 5.0-Amp drill press’s front panel.
You can adjust the speed of your drill press from 580 all the way up to 3,200 depending on the toughness of the metal you are working on. You can adjust the speed by turning the speed adjustment lever on the side. Additionally, your drill press’s table has a table roller extension that offers you up to 17 inches of support. It also has a beveling surface that allows you to tilt it 45 degrees either way.
Cast iron base provides all the stability you need when boring holes, and the worktop can be mounted on the drill press with bolt holes.
| Power Source | Fuel Powered |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Amperage | 3 Amps |
| Maximum Chuck Size | 13 Millimeters |
| Color | Orange |
Pros
- Easy to use – no drilling required.
- Adjustable speed range.
- Digital speed readout.
- Laser light illuminates the work area.
- Table roller extension.
- Beveling surface.
- Adjustable height.
Cons
- Despite the fact that the motor is a little weak, the locks are difficult to adjust due to their placement, and the chuck was a little difficult to get straight, I am very satisfied with the purchase.
4. DEWALT Drill Press, 2-Speed, Magnetic, 2-Inch
In this small benchtop drill press, you can do light metal cutting with its 2-Speed Magnetic motor. It doesn’t have as many features as the WEN drill presses, but it’s ideal for people on a budget. It has a 10-Amp motor with two speeds to meet the needs of various applications. To enhance durability and protect the motor from damage, overload protection is included in the unit.
There are two types of chucks available in the DEWALT system. You can choose from a 3/4-inch Weldon Shank or a 1/2-inch keyed chuck. Quick-release feed handles make it easy to change the feed handles. You can orient tools and materials in a variety of ways on the work surface, which is large enough for most DIY projects.
4-inch drill travel makes heavy-duty drilling easier. DEWALT offers a safety chain, keyed chuck, and height adjustment tool with the drill press, as well as the ability to adjust the motor’s height to accommodate different accessories. To keep your work stable, the drill press has a sturdy base and is easy to assemble.
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Voltage | 240 Volts |
| Amperage | 10 Amps |
| Maximum Chuck Size | 13 Millimeters |
| Color | Multi |
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Easy to use
- Adjustable table top
- Includes a magnetic base
- Can be used indoors or outdoors
- Ideal for hobbyists and professionals alike
Cons
- It is a great drill if you are not using a standard length drill bit. The standard length drill bit requires the drill machine to be extended fully.
Also Read: What drill press speed to use? – 8 Metal Drilling Tips
5. JET JWDP-12, 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press
Among the most powerful benchtop drill presses is the Jet JWDP-12, which costs more than most other machines, but that’s just a small price to pay for the power it offers. If you need heavy-duty metal cutting for large projects, get this machine. It features a number of convenient features that meet your needs, as well as being highly precise and accurate.
You can use the machine for consistent drilling thanks to the depth stop feature, which ensures everything is perfect at all times. It has a laser XACTA for cutting accuracy. Even though it is heavy duty, the compact design allows you to use it on your worktop. With its retractable roller extension, you can use one small table when you need one and a larger table when you need one.
A large paddle switch and LED work light add safety to the set-up process, as well as the ability to handle intricate metal work.
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Maximum Rotational Speed | 3100 RPM |
| Voltage | 115 Volts |
| Amperage | 5 Amps |
| Maximum Chuck Size | 13 Millimeters |
Pros
- Precision and accuracy are ensured by the depth stop feature.
- Laser XACTA cuts precision holes.
- Compact design allows you to use the machine on your work surface.
- Retractable roller extension lets you use one small table when needed and a larger one when required.
- Large paddle switch and LED work light ensure safety during operation.
Cons
- The motor is a bit difficult to use with larger drill bits, according to some buyers.
6. JET JDP-15B, 15-Inch Benchtop Drill Press
A Jet JDP-15B drill press is a cousin of our favorite drill press, the JDP-17. But this one falls far short of it. Speaking of short, this machine has a spindle travel of 318 inches.
That’s not bad, but considering that it costs many times as much as other drill presses with similar spindle travel, we can’t look at that in a favorable light. Compared to this model, the JDP-17 is only a bit more expensive, but it has 5 inches of spindle travel.
Despite the fact that the JDP-15B is similar to the JDP-17 in its one-handed belt tensioning system, it doesn’t appear to be built nearly as well.
The spring housing cap was already broken off when it arrived. Assembling it was much more challenging than we expected.
The plastic connectors holding the power button in place broke during assembly, and it fell out. For a machine of this price, we expected a higher level of quality.
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Maximum Rotational Speed | 3500 RPM |
| Voltage | 115 Volts |
| Amperage | 9 Amps |
| Maximum Chuck Size | 13 Millimeters |
Pros
- One-hand belt tensioning system
- Belt tension indicator
- Easy to assemble
- Affordable
Cons
- Compared to other models, it is significantly more expensive.
Also Read: Do drill presses need special bits 5 drill bit kits for DIYers
7. Sunex 5000A Floor Standing Drill Press for Metal
For metalworkers, a floor standing drill press without the drilling torque required for cutting metal sheets is not worth the money.
As it comes with a 3/4 HP motor with a speed range of 200 rpm to 3850 rpm and 16 speeds, the Sunex 5000A floor drill press exceeded all my expectations. In order to adapt the drilling speed to the material being drilled (i.e. aluminum, titanium, steel, etc.), these features are essential.
Its assembly was a bit difficult as it came with confusing instructions. However, once one cuts through this issue, it becomes evident that this floor drill press is one of the most convenient machines to drill on metal. In other words, its tilting table permits metalworkers to drill from angles and work with large pieces of metal.
A 5/8″ chuck on this machine clamps big drill bits, which is invaluable for metal workshops working on large projects.
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Voltage | 115 Volts |
| Maximum Chuck Size | 13 Millimeters |
| Color | Red |
| Material | Metal |
Pros
- Easy to assemble.
- The tilting table allows for easy access to large metalwork.
- The clamping mechanism holds big drill bits securely.
- High-performance motor with 16 speeds.
- Adjustable height.
- Quick release clamping mechanism.
- Includes 2 batteries.
Cons
- It is heavy.
How to drill on metal with a floor standing drill press?
The floor drill press is a fantastic way to drill through metal. However, if you are unsure how to use it, then I would recommend watching some videos.
You might even like our other video on How To Drill Metal Using A Floor Standing Drilling Machine.
A floor drill press is a great addition to any workshop. They are easy to set up and operate, making them perfect for beginners.
A floor drill press is a versatile piece of equipment that can be used for many different applications.
They are available in both manual and electric models. Manual models are easier to use but require more maintenance. Electric models are more expensive but come with fewer moving parts.
Regardless of which model you choose, we hope that you enjoy our top 10 list of the best floor drill press.
How do floor standing drill presses for metal work?
Drilling on metal requires torque and precision. Guess what’s the biggest advantage of a floor standing drill press? Torque and precision.
A floor drill press is engineered in such a way that it provides maximum precision and drilling power since it has a powerful motor and a large chuck.
Additionally, metal, a hard and tricky material, requires precision, torque, and low RPM in order to be drilled, all of which can be found in this type of drill.
In other words, the two biggest advantages of a floor standing drill press (torque and precision) make it ideal for drilling metal.
What kinds of metals can a floor standing drill press drill?
There are several types of materials that can be drilled with a floor standing drill.
Steel: Steel is an excellent choice for drilling because it is strong, durable, and resistant to rusting. It is also relatively inexpensive.
Aluminum: Aluminum is another good option for drilling. It is lightweight, yet sturdy. It does not rust easily, so it will last longer than steel.
Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is another popular choice for drilling. It is corrosion-resistant, so it lasts much longer than aluminum or steel.
Copper: Copper is a soft metal that is often used for electrical wiring. It is fairly malleable, so it can be bent into shapes. This means that it is easy to shape copper when drilling.
Cast Iron: Cast iron is a very dense metal that is commonly used for plumbing fixtures. It is extremely heavy, so it is difficult to move around.
Brass: Brass is a common material for plumbing fixtures. It comes in various colors and finishes, including brass, bronze, gold, silver, and nickel.
Lead: Lead is a soft metal that makes it easy to bend. It is also quite malleable, so lead is often used for jewelry.
Titanium: Titanium is a light metal that is often used in aerospace engineering. It is also one of the strongest metals known to man.
Magnesium: Magnesium is a lightweight metal that is often used as a replacement for aluminum. It is stronger than aluminum, but it is less rigid.
Plastic: Plastic is a common material for plastic products like toys, kitchen utensils, and even electronics. It is cheap, lightweight, and easy to mold.
Wood: Wood is a common material for furniture. It is also a great material for cutting boards and drills.
The bottom line is that there are many different options for drilling. The most important thing is finding the right tool for your application.
How to clean a floor standing drill press?
Cleaning a floor drill press is pretty simple. All you need to do is wipe down the machine after each use. You should also keep it free from dust by wiping off any debris before storing it.
You may want to consider using a vacuum cleaner to remove any dirt or dust that accumulates on the machine.
Also Read: Do drill presses need to be guarded?
Is a floor standing drill press safe to operate?
Yes! Floor standing drill presses are designed to withstand high levels of force and pressure. They are built to handle the weight of the person operating them.
However, if you have children at home, it would be best to supervise their usage of the machine. Children tend to be curious about things they don’t understand, and a floor drill press could pose a danger to them.
Can I use a floor standing drill press indoors?
Yes, you can use a floor standing drill inside. However, you must make sure that the area where you plan to work has enough ventilation. If you live in a humid climate, you might want to invest in a dehumidifier.
How big should a floor standing drill press for metal applications be?
A good rule of thumb is to make sure that the machine is large enough to accommodate your needs. For example, if you are planning to cut out a piece of wood, then you will probably need a larger machine than if you were just going to bore holes.
How much horse power does a drill press really need?
This depends on what kind of project you are working on. A general rule of thumb is that the higher the horsepower, the faster the drill press will move. This means that you will get through more material per hour.
If you are looking for something with a lot of horsepowers, you should consider buying a benchtop drill press. Benchtop machines usually come with a maximum of 500 watts of power.
Lastly
It is important to choose a drill press that meets your drilling needs succinctly. If all you do at home is small DIY projects, you do not need the largest drill press.
However, if you handle heavy-duty metal for large projects, you may require the most powerful drill press. Although they cost more, they provide the speed, precision, and convenience you need for large projects at an affordable price.
When shopping for a drill press, look for features like a laser guide and depth stop. These features enhance the quality and accuracy of your work, especially if you are using the drill press for the first time.
Drill presses can be used for a variety of applications. You don’t need to try them all – choose the one that meets your budget and needs.
Reference
https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/face/stateface/ma/99ma033.html
https://www.ultimatehandyman.co.uk/how-to/metalworking/drilling-techniques-and-speed-charts