Replies

1. 
   john_c2 | Dec 22, 2020 01:23pm | #1

   I've never used that particular tool. Many years ago I had another brand, and it was less than useless. Because of that experience, I'd never own one again.

   My 2 cents.

2. 
   bilyo | Dec 22, 2020 02:32pm | #2

   I guess I would not be as emphatic as John. Like John, I had a similar one years ago. It was better than hand held for drilling straight holes but is not a replacement for a drill press. The portability aspect can be nice. I definitely don't think the $150 or $220 ones are worth the money. Put it toward a drill press. If I though that I needed something portable to supplement the drill press, I might consider the $50 one. However, you might find one on ebay or Craigslist for less. Some folks might even give you one.

3. 
   _mj_ | Dec 22, 2020 03:54pm | #3

   I've got one and pull it out maybe once a year, usually for a pilot hole on an angle. Last time I used it was to add another iron collar to my bench for a Record #145 holdfast. I just used it to get a straight pilot hole for the forstners to follow. Sometime the work can't go to the drill press.

   With all that said, get a drill press. That thing is no substitute.

4. 
   mikefm101 | Dec 22, 2020 06:48pm | #4

   Drill press even if you have to save money for one.

   Unless all you do are large slabs that cannot go on a press.

   Drill press will allow repeat settings for hole placement, wider array of bits, more powerful, better for small parts and probably a few more things I cannot think of.

   Mike

5. 
   steambent | Dec 22, 2020 06:59pm | #5

   I have a small shop (corner of the garage) and do have one of those. It’s good for drilling out mortises at an angle where accuracy isn’t paramount but it’s no drill press.

   Save up and get the drill press.

6. 
   geedubbee | Dec 22, 2020 08:39pm | #6

   I can only report my experience in trying to find one for dad (who has a drill press???). We tried Milescraft, Rockler, Wolfcraft, and a couple of 'also-rans'. None were enough more accurate than free hand to make them worth the hassle. The Rockler we tried was just like the Wolfcraft so this does not apply to their new one. However, at $150 I would pick up a baby DP instead.

7. 
   elmaduro | Dec 22, 2020 11:35pm | #7

   I would pass on the disposable drill guide and instead go for a Gator and then a real drill press.

   
8. 
   IrishBill_NY | Dec 23, 2020 08:29pm | #8

   Thanks to all, I’m looking at a Wen drill press now, for not much more than the drill guide....