The Best 20 Craftsman Drill Presses: Expert Reviews

A drill press is an essential tool for any workshop, offering precision and consistency that hand drills simply can't match. This roundup compares the top Craftsman drill presses available today, helping you find the right machine for your projects.

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Reviews

Rikon 34" Floor Radial Drill Press

The Rikon drill press brings serious drilling power to your workshop with its 1/3 HP motor, while its radial design lets you swing the drill head 360 degrees for quick angle changes. Its heavy cast iron build and precise rack & pinion system make it a tough, reliable addition to any collection, though some users have found the price steep.

Central Machinery 8" Bench Drill Press

This versatile drill press handles everything from precise woodwork to metal projects with its sturdy 1.3 horsepower motor and adjustable 5-speed system. The compact bench mount design fits neatly into any workshop while the included built-in light and 45-degree table tilt make it incredibly practical for various tasks. With a generous 3,070 RPM top speed and accurate depth stop gauge, this drill press delivers both power and precision for serious DIY enthusiasts.

Grizzly G9969 Radial Drill Press

Craftspeople with ambitious projects will appreciate the Grizzly G9996 Radial Drill Press's remarkable versatility, from its hefty industrial build to its precise 45-degree tilting capabilities. The 1HP motor smoothly drives 12 spindle speeds between 140 and 3050 RPM, while the uniquely designed swivel post brings the spindle incredibly close to the column for tight work. The machine's versatile design, featuring 20.5" of vertical travel and 45" of arm swing, paired with its sturdy construction and practical depth stop feature, makes it a reliable companion for both custom furniture makers and metalworkers alike.

Grizzly G7947 12-Speed Floor Drill Press

This floor-standing drill press combines 12 speeds and 1-1/2 HP power for serious drilling tasks, with precise T-slotted tables and versatile voltage options. Built in an ISO 9001 certified factory and backed by CSA certification, it delivers industrial performance for your workshop.

Bench Top Drill Press

This versatile drill press combines precision with practicality, featuring a robust 1/3hp ball bearing motor and durable cast iron construction. The five-speed operation allows quick adjustments for different materials, while the smooth rack-and-pinion movement and adjustable depth stop ensure repeatable results. The built-in tilt table and sturdy base prevent movement during use, making it a reliable choice for both hobby and professional projects.

Grizzly T33960 15" Drill Press

This floor-standing drill press packs serious industrial-grade features into a surprisingly precise package. The variable-speed motor lets you dial in exactly the right RPM for any job, while the built-in LED light and DRO display keep you comfortable and accurate throughout your project. Safety's top priority with that micro-switch chuck guard and automatic shutdown - because every shop needs a reliable tool that protects its operators.

Rikon 30-230 17-inch Floor Drill Press

Crafted from solid steel and cast iron, this 17-inch floor drill press delivers exceptional durability for demanding drilling tasks. The precise rack and pinion table height adjustment system allows for consistent hole placement, while the 16-speed range ensures optimal RPMs for various materials. The generous 200-pound capacity and generous 55-inch length provide the workspace needed for large projects.

Grizzly G7948 12-Speed Floor Drill Press

This powerful 1-1/2 HP drill press builds precision into every detail with its MT #4 spindle taper and 4-3/4-inch travel, while the cast iron table and base offer rock-solid stability for your toughest projects. The built-in light helps illuminate your workspace, and the threaded depth stop lets you set consistent hole depths with ease. The cushioned grip quill handles make quick work of changing drill bits, and the 12-speed motor handles everything from light pilot holes to heavy-duty metalwork with ease.

Craftsman 17-inch 16-Speed Floor Drill Press

This powerful drill press combines precise 16-speed control with a durable 2 HP motor, while its cast-iron table and 3-5/32" spindle travel ensure accurate drilling from any angle. The included work light and comprehensive tool set make it a practical choice for home workshops, though its professional-grade features and ISO9001 certification suggest it's built for serious craftsmanship.

Grizzly T33961 17" Floor Drill Press

This 17-inch floor drill press offers precise control with its DRO display and Class II laser alignment aid. The Reeves drive system provides versatile speed adjustment between 200 to 2200 RPM, while the rack-and-pinion table elevation ensures smooth height changes. Safety features include a microswitch-activated chuck guard and built-in LED lighting to enhance visibility during use.

Heavy-Duty Grizzly G7943 Drill Press

This versatile drill press combines powerful performance with practical features like a built-in light and 360-degree swivel head, while the heavy-duty construction ensures it handles tough jobs with ease. Made from quality materials in an ISO 9001 certified factory, it brings serious drilling capabilities to your workshop without breaking the bank. Users appreciate its reliability and durability, though some initial setup challenges can be overcome with patience and basic tools.

Grizzly G7946 5-Speed Floor Dril Press

This versatile radial drill press packs plenty of power into its compact design, with a generous 34-inch swing range and a 45-degree tilting head that lets you drill at just about any angle. Made from tough ISO 9001-certified materials in Grizzly's own facility, it handles everything from delicate woodwork to tough metal jobs with ease. While the 1/2-horsepower motor might struggle with heavier materials like thick steel, for most DIYers this workhorse will be more than capable for all their drilling needs.

Nova 83715 16" Viking Floor Drill Press

The Viking floor model drill press packs impressive power into a surprisingly compact frame, thanks to its direct drive motor design that eliminates belt slippage and vibration. Users appreciate its quiet operation and responsive electronics, like the intuitive self-start feature and precise auto-depth gauge that prevents over-drilling. With its 12.75-inch by 12.75-inch tilting table and versatile measurement options, this drill press handles everything from fine woodworking to metalworking with ease.

Grizzly T33959 Variable-Speed Drill Press

This versatile drill press combines precise control with practical features like variable speed adjustment and built-in LED lighting. The rack-and-pinion elevation system makes height changes effortless, while the safety guard with micro switch ensures your work remains secure. The DRO spindle readout lets you monitor speed easily, making this more than just another benchtop tool—it's a smart investment for serious crafters and DIY enthusiasts.

Grizzly G0779 Tabletop Drill Press

Whether you're crafting intricate projects or precision-machining heavy metals, this drill press handles it all with remarkable versatility. Its enormous 2-15/16-inch quill and 1-1/2-inch cast-iron capacity make short work of demanding tasks, while the 360-degree rotation on both table and head gives you total control over your drilling angle. The precision-ground T-slots and versatile R-8 spindle make it incredibly practical, though some users have noted minor assembly issues that customer service addressed.

Grizzly G0794 Floor Drill Press with Laser and DRO

The G0794 drill press delivers industrial-grade performance with its powerful 3/4 HP motor and 12 speed settings ranging from 140 to 3050 RPM. Its robust construction, featuring an ISO 9001 certified cast-iron table and 3-1/4" of vertical travel, allows precise drilling through steel, fiberglass, and composite materials up to 3/4" in diameter. The digital readout and laser alignment system provide accurate measurements and setup, while the ergonomic crank handle and coolant trough enhance overall user experience.

WEN 2.3-Amp 8-Inch 5-Speed Cast Iron Drill Press

For precise drilling tasks around the home or workshop, this compact drill press delivers surprising performance for its size. The 2.3-amp motor handles everything from wood to metal with ball-bearing smoothness, while the adjustable 45-degree bevel table lets you tackle angled holes with confidence. Whether you're mounting ceiling fans, drilling pilot holes, or working with thin materials, this WEN press will handle your projects with the accuracy you'd expect from a much pricier tool.

Grizzly G7945 5-Speed Bench-Top Radial Drill Press

The Grizzly G7945 delivers serious drilling power in a practical package, with its 5-speed motor spinning between 550 and 3000 RPM to handle everything from soft materials to half-inch steel. The radial design lets you drill at angles, while the precise rack-and-pinion system and 90° tilting table give you unprecedented control over your work.

Bauer 10" 5-Speed Bench Drill Press

Craftsman drill presses have earned a reputation for their reliability and performance, and the BAUER 5-Speed Bench Drill Press delivers on those promises. With its 6.2-amp motor, this drill press effortlessly handles wood, plastic, and metal, while its precision features like the adjustable depth stop ensure your projects come out perfectly every time. The sturdy cast iron construction keeps vibrations at bay, making it a solid choice for both hobbyists and professionals who need consistent results.

Grizzly G0925 8" Benchtop Drill Press

This versatile benchtop drill press provides smooth operation with its 1/3 HP motor, capable of precise drilling from 740 to 3140 RPM. The cast iron construction and 2-inch spindle travel offer durability for various material thicknesses, while the keyed JT33 chuck ensures secure bit holding. Users appreciate its compact size and reliable performance for both everyday and specialized tasks.

Buyer's Guide

A Craftsman drill press is a precision tool that combines power with stability to create consistent holes in various materials. When selecting a drill press, several key factors will determine its suitability for your needs.

Size and Capacity

The worktable size directly affects how much material you can drill at once. Consider the diameter of the largest drill bit you'll use, as most drill presses have a maximum hole size limitation based on their tabletop dimensions. Additionally, evaluate the press's height adjustment capabilities to accommodate different workpieces.

Stability and Base Design

A heavy base ensures the drill press remains steady during use, preventing wobble that can lead to misaligned holes. Look for press models that offer adjustable feet or rubber stabilizers to level the machine on uneven surfaces, and verify that the base material provides sufficient weight and resistance to movement.

Power Source and Speed Control

Drill presses come in both electric and air-powered versions, with electric models offering greater torque for tougher materials. The top speed should match your intended applications - slower speeds are better for drilling metal, while higher speeds work well for softer materials like wood. Variable speed controls allow finer adjustment for precision work.

Safety Features and Machine Design

Key safety features include a guard system that protects the operator from flying debris and a locking mechanism that prevents accidental start-up. The drill press's design should promote good ergonomics, with easily accessible controls and a comfortable work position. Consider whether the model offers enclosed electrical components to reduce tripping hazards.

FAQ

What is a Craftsman drill press?

A Craftsman drill press is a precision tool that allows for consistent drilling of holes at precise angles and depths. It uses a vertically mounted drill bit that can be adjusted to drill into materials at a controlled rate, eliminating the need for handheld drilling.

The drill press features a sturdy base plate, a moveable worktable, and a drill head that can be raised and lowered using a handwheel. Many models include a depth stop mechanism and a fence guide for straight hole drilling.

How does the accuracy of a Craftsman drill press compare to handheld drills?

Drill presses offer significantly greater accuracy than handheld drills due to their stable base and controlled drilling mechanism. The vertical spindle design allows for consistent bit positioning, while the adjustable worktable ensures that your material remains stationary throughout the drilling process.

Handheld drills, on the other hand, can introduce variation due to operator fatigue, vibration, and lack of stable support. For critical applications requiring precise hole placement, a drill press is essential.

What types of materials can a Craftsman drill press handle?

A Craftsman drill press can effectively drill through a wide range of materials including wood, plastic, metal, and composite materials. Most models come with interchangeable bits designed for different material types, ensuring optimal drilling performance.

While drill presses can handle most common materials, their effectiveness varies with material hardness and thickness. Always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for recommended bit speeds and feed rates for specific materials.

How does the size of the drill press affect its capabilities?

The size of a Craftsman drill press impacts its maximum drilling capacity. Desktop models typically handle holes up to 3/8 inch in diameter and 2-3 inches deep, while floor-standing models can drill through materials up to 2 inches in diameter and 6-8 inches deep.

Size also affects workspace requirements and material handling capabilities. Larger presses offer more robust worktable surfaces and greater depth of cut, making them suitable for heavy-duty applications.

What maintenance is required for a Craftsman drill press?

Regular maintenance of a Craftsman drill press includes checking and tightening all bolts, cleaning the worktable and spindle, and lubricating moving parts like the handwheel and drill spindle. The drill bit should be regularly inspected for wear and replaced when necessary.

After each use, clear the worktable of debris and store the drill press in a dry environment. Periodic inspection of the electrical components (for electric models) and the spindle bearing condition is recommended to maintain optimal performance.

Are Craftsman drill presses easy to use?

While drill presses require some learning to master, they are designed with user-friendly features to help operators achieve accurate results. Most models include lock-off controls, adjustable fences, and depth stop mechanisms that reduce the risk of drilling errors.

Basic operation involves mounting the workpiece, selecting the appropriate bit, setting the depth stop, and using the handwheel to lower the bit into the material. More advanced features may require additional practice for optimal utilization.