I am in the market for 20″ drill press and am currently considering the grizzly, delta and craftsman models. As I have no experience with any of them I would like to hear from any one who may be able to help make a decesion. Any input good or bad would be welcome.
Thanks Jerry
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When I bought my 20" Craftsman, it was essentially the same machine as the Delta: it was made in the same Taiwanese factory and most of the parts were interchangeable. The same could be said (at least at that time, roughly 12 years ago) for several of the off-brands for sale around town; usually the differences were with the table, the motor, and cosmetics (level of finish, covers, etc.).
My decision to buy the Craftsman was mostly driven by the fact they put one on sale at 40% off at the Workshop Show coupled with the fact it was well-finished and had an American-built, 1 hp motor. I've had it for over 12 years and it's performed very well; but then, my friends with Deltas all say they're happy too.
Phill Giles
The Unionville Woodwright
Unionville, Ontario
I have a Delta 17" floor model that I'm happy with. It's qorked flawlesly for 6 or 7 years.
My only complaint with it is that I wish it had a work light built in. I had to rig up a swinging lamp so I could see things I was drilling.
Avoid cliches like the plague.
A friend has the Craftsman. It has a lot of run out and it's under powered. They replaced it with a Delta. The Craftsman just sits and collects dust.
I have the Delta and no complaints. Ditto on the work light. Rigged mine with a light and a floor pedal style on and off switch. Leaves both hands free for buisness and instant off if you have a problem.
Check out Harbor freight they have floor model drill presses at great prices,I bought one 20 yrs ago & never had a bit of trouble with it. http://www.harborfreight.com
ToolDoc
Jerry
I'm not going to recommend anything specifically as so many out there are made overseas in the same factory, just with different names and slightly different specs. Two very important features to look out for are a bar style depth stop and a lockable quill. Way too many come with the rotary style depth stop that is....really, really bad. (I don't like to use foul language) and no way to lock the quill. Personally, I think you would be better off buying a used old U.S. built machine or even an old Bridgeport mill for the same bucks. Plenty out there.
Jon