Craftsman Professional 3/4 hp 17" Drill Press (22901)

Features that are hard to find! February 03, 2012

Some of the things I really like are:

1) You can set the handle at a number of angles. This allows an easier set up for repetitive cuts and/or easier set up from table to drill bit.

2) Drill depth of 4 7/8" is among the best of its class/price range.

3) Lower end drill speed of 215 RPM's is also one of the slowest of the price group. This is great for steel or 2 inch wood bits.

4) The table is large with expandable support. There is a nice lip around the table to allow you to clamp your piece to the table.

Things i don't like:

1) The base is uneven and is hard to keep stable.

2) The laser set up is cheap and hard to adjust. As you adjust the table, you need to adjust the laser.

3) Fit and finish is not the best.

Overall, this drill press is very nice. It has plenty of power for tough drilling applications and can be purchsed at a great price. I have not had any problems with the motor/belt locks that others have spoke of. It seems like the newer design has taken care of that problem.

Have had for many years, always worked excellent December 29, 2011

Had one since it came out and it's been great! December 29, 2011

I purchased this drill press about five years ago when it first came out.  I've used it on average every other day the entire time.  Other than replacing one belt (that I wore out by not paying attention to it's tension), it's performed flawlessly.  I use mine to drill blocks of wood, mostly with 1" or larger forstner bits.  It may not be as accurate as some very critical folks may want, but this drill press totally delivers what I need.  The price is great compared to others in the same size and capability as well.

Well designed and easy to use May 17, 2011

Well designed and easy to use drill press. The adjustable handle is very nice as it allows the operator to start or end the drilling handle where comfortable (especially useful for repeated processes). I had no problems with adjusting the belts for different speed settings. Not sure I completely agree with the speed chart settings, but thats half the fun of getting to know your equipment and operating habits. Only reason for 4 stars instead of 5 is that this was manufactured in China unlike the rest of my Craftsman stationary power tools. My Craftsman radial arm saw from the 1950s is the oldest of these tools, was made in the USA, has had three owners (passed down in family), and nothing replaced. If this drill press lasts half as long then I would give it the 5 stars, but I am skeptical given the lack of quality in many other products from China. Sorry Craftsman, but you'll have to earn that last star over time... Overall I have been happy with all my Craftsman purchases hand-tools, power tools, bench, and stationary tools which account for most of my tools. The few times I was unhappy with a purchase, Sears/Craftsman took care of the issues straight-up with no hassle. Craftsman's tools are not industrial grade in most cases, but for a home workshop you can not beat the general durability, quality, availability, and value. I believe most home-owners and light industrial shops would be happy with this purchase.