Why Would The Delta 20" Drill Press NOT Be A Good Choice?

[Jeff Wright]

I am researching a new Drill Press. I have looked at the new Delta 20" introduced at the Atlanta show, but its availability keeps getting delayed - now sometime February or March '07. I like its 6"+ quill travel. The new Powermatic 2800 is out and available. However, the Delta 20" 70-200 has been out for a while and looks substantial. After reviewing its features below, what does it lack to be a solid addition to a woodworking shop?

20" 1HP 120/240V Drill Press Model 70-200:

Speed Range: 150-2200
Chuck Taper: Jacobs 3
Quill: Diameter - 2 7/16"
Quill Stroke: 4 3/4"
Capacities: Key chuck= 5/8"; chuck to table= 24 1/2"; chuck to base= 44"
Overall Dimensions: 67" tall; 18 1/2" wide; 34" deep
Weight: 345 lbs.
Quill Travel: 4 3/4" step pulley or variable speed
Motor: 1HP 120/240V, single phase; 60 Hz.; 1720RPM
Spindle Speeds: 150, 260, 300, 440, 490, 540, 1150, 1550, 2200
Table: Cast-iron, production type with clamping slots and coolant trough; 18 3/8" x 16 1/8"; tilt= 0 to 45 degs left and right
Column Diameter: 3 5/8"
Spindle Taper: #3 Morse Taper

Thank you for your input.

[John Schreiber]

The only problem I see with it is that it's not in my shop. If the Delta 20" has a 6"+ quill travel though, that would be really really nice.

[Jeffrey Makiel]

Jeff,
The maximum spindle speed seems a little low. Especially if you plan on doing other functions (like polishing, spindle sanding, etc) with it.

Also, if I did it again, I would buy a variable speed model that can be dialed-in versus foolin' with dirty belts. They come mostly in a 16" swing, but I've never had need for a larger swing. One good thing that the larger swing does provide is that the drill press is made beefier.

cheers, Jeff

[Dave Bureau]

I've been waiting for that 20" press also. 6" travel. digital readout, and the table tilts both ways. also has laser, and vari speed. vary large table. maybe worth the wait.

[Jeff Wright]

I've been waiting for that 20" press also. 6" travel. digital readout, and the table tilts both ways. also has laser, and vari speed. vary large table. maybe worth the wait.

Dave, do you have any idea what runout standards that new Delta saw will have? I'd hate like heck to spend the money and find out there's a lot of intolerable slop at the bit end. Of course, that goes for any drill I'd buy.

[Dave Bureau]

good question Jeff. But i have no idea. i talked to a Delta rep 2 weeks ago at a show and he said that the first ones were comming off the line now, but wouldnt see shipping till feb. if you find out anything on that runout question, please let me know.