Having decided to search for lower-priced, full-height drill presses that might be a good choice for a home shop, I came up with nine 15-in. to 17-in. models to review.

To evaluate and compare them, I noted the condition of each after shipping and the ease of assembly. I looked at chuck-to-post distance, table size, overall height, motor rating, speeds, length of quill stroke, finish, and stability. I tested the accuracy of each machine out of the box: runout on the chuck and spindle-to-table perpendicularity. Finally, I looked at noise level, vibration, table-height adjustment, speed changes, depth adjustment, quill-return tension, and the presence or absence of a quill lock.

The largest machine tested, at 275 lb., the Grizzly had a chuck that was difficult to turn at times, even after a thorough cleaning. Also the spring-loaded safety pin in the chuck key was stiff and tended to kick itself out of the chuck if not held firmly in place. The Grizzly had a longer quill stroke than most but still not the 6-in. capacity I prefer.

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The saw has two speeds: 3,280 sfpm (surface feet per minute) for wood and 1,515 sfpm for soft metals and some plastics.

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