Thread: Drill press options

Originally Posted by Tonto

I guess its all to do with number of speeds but how many speeds do we use in woodworking.

It depends what bit sizes and devices you use.

If you use large hole saws or large Forstner bits you should use lower speeds. ie 200 RPM
If you do a lot of stuff with small to very small bits <3mm you should be using ~2500 rpm.

OTOH I know a bloke who uses 500 rpm for everything as he is too lazy to change belts.

if you have a VFD you can usually dial up the optimum speed without changing belts.

When something is simple and easy to use, it gets used. When it takes time and effort, shortcuts get taken.

And I'm talking about changing speeds on a drill press - there is no reason to have to faff around changing belts nowadays.

If you're after a benchtop unit, Tonto, take a look here: Bosch PBD 40 Bench drill

Interesting somehow I think Bobl has a way of watching me drill...

Midnightman, read your review and someone made the comment about not enough travel... maybe its the red, maybe its too late but if one assembles this themselves could a longer main shaft.. (the piece that holds everything up in the air) be fitted.. goodnight gentlemen see you again

There are still some very good reasons to change belts.

1/ speed controls are expensive compared to the price of drill presses.
2/ torque at low speeds ...... you simply cant not achieve the same torque from a similar size motor using any form of speed variation other than changing belts ... unless you have a lot of money.