Reply To: Drill press purchase

[tmac1956]

All:

Regarding a general work drill press…

I have the option of buying either a Craftsman 15″ or a Jet 15″ drill press and I could really use some guidance. Here are the general specifications and prices:

Craftsman ($359.99):
Product Description:
Take your DIY woodworking projects to the next level with the Craftsman 15” Laser Drill Press. Cutting holes in steel, aluminum, wood, plastics and more has never been easier than with the Craftsman 15″ Laser Drill Press. Smooth turning at high speed and high torque spindle settings, this drill press moves fluidly from project to project helping you get more done with laser precision on every job. So whether you’re kicking up saw dust, cutting slots for a mortise-and-tenon frame, twisting out metal shavings while drilling bolt holes or giving that carving a super smooth finish with a sanding drum, you’ll always get long-lasting and accurate operation. Perfect as a bench top or temporary jobsite accessory, this drill press is designed for sharp consistent results.

Made with a rigid frame and positioned on a sturdy steel post, the Craftsman 15” Laser Drill Press uses a powerful 3/4 HP motor to spin anywhere between 240 and 3470 revolutions per minute, so it can power through metal and rip through wood with speed and accuracy. And featuring a fast swapping depth adjustment along with both X and Y axis pin point positioning, it delivers the finesse that precision machining requires. A solid addition to any bench, this tool is adjustable, adaptable and built to last.

•Solid steel and cast iron construction
•Rugged heavy duty construction for vibration free operation
•3/4 HP motor
•16 spindle speeds 240 to 3,470 RPM, 5/8 in. chuck
•Spindle travel 3.23 in.
•Round cast iron table 11.42 in. diameter
•Laser guide and LED work light
•Heavy-duty cast iron base measure 18.11 in. x 11.02 in.
•Includes 5/8 in. chuck key and allen wrenches
•Warranty: 1-year, 90-day guarantee

Jet: ($579.00
Product Description:
JET 354401. Features: Cast iron head. Large quill allows greater accuracy. Head casting features a permanently lubricated ball bearing spindle assembly, using four heavy duty ball bearings in an enclosed quill for longer life. Table tilts 45 degrees. Large ground steel column diameter for maximum head and table support. Hinged metal belt and pulley cover. Accurate depth stop displays inch/mm and has a quick set bolt fast. 5/8-in Drill chuck and arbor.

Features
•Cast iron head
•Large quill allows greater accuracy
•Head casting features a permanently lubricated ball bearing spindle assembly, using four heavy duty ball bearings in an enclosed quill for longer life
•Table tilts 45 degrees
•Large ground steel column diameter for maximum head and table support
•Hinged metal belt and pulley cover
•Accurate depth stop displays inch/mm and has a quick set bolt fast
•5/8-in Drill chuck and arbor

It looks as thought the quality of the Jet is better, but it doesn’t appear to have the laser positioning system.

Additionally…
Would there be any benefit in buying a 3-way drill press vise for either of these?

Thanks!
tmac