A drill press is a fixed machine that rotates a cutting tool and feeds it into a workpiece. To use one safely, follow the specific machine’s manual, secure the bit and stock, lock the table, remove the chuck key before startup, and use a speed suited to the material, hole size, and cutting tool. Never hold the workpiece by hand while drilling.
What a drill press does
A drill press holds and rotates a bit while the operator lowers it into material. Compared with a handheld drill, its fixed setup can help guide a hole, but the controls, guards, speed settings, and adjustment method vary by model. OSHA describes drill-press hazards and safeguards for woodworking machines; CCOHS covers metalworking machines. Neither replaces the instructions for your machine or applicable workplace training.
How to set up and use a drill press
- Read the owner’s manual. Confirm the machine’s operating procedure, guards, speed controls, and permitted work. Use the press only if you are trained for the machine and task.
- Install the bit with the machine off. Choose a bit suitable for the material and hole. Seat its shank in the chuck; do not clamp the chuck onto the bit’s cutting portion. Tighten the chuck as directed by the manual.
- Remove the chuck key. Take it out before starting the machine. A key left in the chuck can be thrown when the press starts.
- Set and lock the table. Position the table for the workpiece and intended hole, then lock it using the machine’s controls. Keep required guards in place and functional.
- Secure the workpiece. Use an appropriate clamp, vise, or fixture to prevent the stock from catching and spinning. Do not hold it by hand while drilling. A hold-down fixture is preferable where the setup allows one.
- Choose the speed for the setup. Use the chart on the press or the owner’s manual, taking account of the material, hole size, and cutting tool. Do not rely on a universal RPM rule. For metalworking, CCOHS advises lubricating the bit as appropriate.
- Start and feed steadily. Keep hands and loose items away from rotating parts. Lower the bit at a steady rate without forcing it. When drilling metal, reduce pressure as the bit approaches breakthrough.
- Stop before handling the work. Wait for the machine to stop before measuring, adjusting, or removing the bit. Clear chips with a brush, rake, or vacuum—not your hands.
Safety checks before starting
- Wear suitable eye and face protection for the material and operation.
- Tie back long hair and remove jewelry, ties, gloves, and loose clothing that could become caught in rotating parts.
- Check that the chuck key is removed, the table is locked, the workpiece is secured, and guards are in place.
- Keep clear of the rotating chuck and bit, exposed drive components, flying chips, and hot swarf.
- Do not adjust the machine or measure the work until the spindle has stopped.
These precautions reflect guidance from CCOHS’s metalworking drill-press fact sheet (last revised November 27, 2024) and OSHA’s woodworking drill-press eTool. Follow the rules, training, and guarding requirements that apply to your workplace as well as the machine manual.
How to choose a drill-press speed
There is no single speed that suits every drill press, bit, material, and hole. CCOHS advises using material-appropriate practice and not forcing the drill; the University of Waterloo’s shop procedure likewise says to adjust speed to the material and bit. Check the speed chart on your actual machine and its manual. If they do not cover your setup, get guidance from a qualified supervisor or the machine’s manufacturer rather than guessing.
The Tool Desk
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- Features a 2.3A induction motor, an 8-inch swing, and a 2-inch spindle travel
- Includes a 1/2-inch keyed chuck and onboard key storage
- Operates at 5 different speeds: 750, 1100, 1500, 2100, or 3200 RPM
- 6.5 by 6.5 inch height adjustable worktable bevels up to 45 degrees in each direction
- Measures in at 23 inches tall with a 7 by 11-inch base
For metal, use suitable lubrication when called for by the material, bit, and machine instructions. Feed smoothly, and ease pressure near breakthrough to help maintain control.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Workholding and other useful equipment
A drill-press vise or suitable clamps help keep stock from spinning if the bit catches. Select workholding that fits the workpiece and machine setup; no single vise, clamp, or bit is right for every job. Suitable drill bits and protective eyewear are also task-dependent, so check compatibility with the material and the press before use.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Versatile drilling capabilities. Suitable for straight or angled drilling, drilling on the edge of a board, on walls or on round stock.
- Attaches to all 3/8" and 1/2" cordless drills. It also includes a 3/8" capacity chuck with key.
- Multiple drilling angle settings of 45, 60, 75, and 90 degrees. Each setting locks into place ensuring total accuracy.
- Self-Centerting base to accommodate drilling any round stock up to 3" inches in diameter.
- Portable Drill Press Alternative. Compact and lightweight design allows you to achieve drill press precision anywhere without the bulk of a stationary drill press.
Rank #3
- Features a 6.2-amp induction motor, a 12-inch swing, and a 3-1/8-inch spindle travel
- Adjust the mechanical variable speed anywhere from 580 to 3100 RPM
- Digital speed readout displays current RPM of the machine for maximum precision
- Measures in at 16.8 by 13.5 by 36.6 inches in size with a weight of 85 pounds
- Includes a class IIIA 2.5mW laser, overhead light, adjustable depth stop, table roller extension, beveling 9-1/2 by 9-1/2-inch work table, 5/8-inch capacity keyed chuck, a chuck key with onboard storage, and a two-year warranty
Rank #2
- POWERFUL 6.2 AMP INDUCTION MOTOR—Power through wood, metal, and other materials
- 5-SPEED SYSTEM—Take advantage of 5 speeds from 610 to 2800 RPM for different material types
- LASER ALIGNMENT SYSTEM—Precisely execute drilling maneuvers
- ADJUSTABLE DEPTH STOP—Ensures accurate and consistent depth during drilling
- ADJUSTABLE TABLE HEIGHT—Provides easy depth control
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