Shop Fox 1 HP Floor Drill Press Review

What Makes the Shop Fox 1 HP 17in Floor Model Drill Press Stand Out?

The Shop Fox 1 HP 17in Floor Model Drill Press isn’t just another power tool; it’s a cornerstone investment for any serious woodworker, metal fabricator, or DIY enthusiast. This drill press promises precision, power, and durability, making it a standout in a market flooded with less capable machines. I was immediately drawn to this model due to its robust construction and the promise of handling larger, more demanding projects.

My personal quest to upgrade my shop equipment led me to the Shop Fox. I was tired of my benchtop drill press struggling with thicker materials and larger diameter holes, a common scenario when working with reclaimed lumber and creating custom metal brackets for outdoor gear storage. This Shop Fox model seemed like the ideal solution.

Upon unboxing, the sheer size and weight of the Shop Fox 1 HP 17in Floor Model Drill Press conveyed an immediate sense of quality. The cast iron construction felt solid and well-machined, and the smooth operation of the controls spoke to the attention to detail during manufacturing. The built-in light was a welcome addition, immediately highlighting Shop Fox’s commitment to user experience.

I considered the Delta 18-900L and the Powermatic PM2800B before settling on the Shop Fox. While both are excellent machines, the Shop Fox offered a compelling balance of power, features, and price, making it the most sensible choice for my specific needs. The Morse Taper #3 spindle was also a significant selling point, allowing for a wider range of tooling options without the need for adapters.

My first impression was one of excited anticipation. I knew this machine would be a game-changer for my projects, enabling me to tackle tasks I previously couldn’t even attempt. I was eager to put it to work and see if it lived up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting Shop Fox 1 HP 17in Floor Model Drill Press to the Test

First Use Experience

My first project with the Shop Fox 1 HP 17in Floor Model Drill Press involved drilling accurate pilot holes for lag bolts in a series of thick oak beams for a new workbench. I set it up in my workshop, ensuring it was securely anchored to the floor for stability. The 1 HP motor effortlessly powered through the wood, creating clean, precise holes with minimal effort.

I also experimented with drilling through some steel plates. Even with cutting fluid, my old drill press would chatter and struggle. The Shop Fox handled the steel with remarkable stability, making clean cuts without excessive vibration, a testament to its rigid construction and closely spaced spindle shaft bearings. The built-in light proved invaluable, providing clear visibility of the cutting area.

The drill press was easy to use, although familiarizing myself with the depth stop mechanism took a few minutes. The rubber-coated quick-adjust handles provided a comfortable and secure grip, making adjustments quick and easy. I experienced no issues during the initial use and was immediately impressed by its power and precision.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Shop Fox 1 HP 17in Floor Model Drill Press continues to perform flawlessly. I’ve used it extensively for both woodworking and metalworking projects, ranging from drilling small dowel holes to creating large-diameter openings for ventilation systems. It has held up incredibly well.

Despite the demanding tasks, there are no significant signs of wear and tear. The cast iron table and base show no signs of rust or corrosion, and the spindle runs smoothly and quietly. The only maintenance required has been occasional lubrication of the moving parts and cleaning of the table surface.

Cleaning is straightforward. I simply wipe down the machine with a damp cloth and apply a light coat of oil to the table to prevent rust. The Shop Fox has significantly outperformed my previous drill press, providing greater power, precision, and reliability. I can now tackle projects with confidence, knowing that my equipment won’t be a limiting factor.

Breaking Down the Features of Shop Fox 1 HP 17in Floor Model Drill Press

Specifications

• The Shop Fox 1 HP 17in Floor Model Drill Press boasts a 1 HP aluminum finned motor, providing ample power for a wide range of drilling applications. This larger motor size is important because it reduces the likelihood of bogging down when working with harder materials or larger diameter bits.

• It features a Morse Taper #3 spindle, which is ideal for larger direct-mount bits and offers superior holding power compared to smaller tapers. This means less slippage and more efficient drilling, especially when using larger forstner bits or hole saws.

• The machine’s construction incorporates solid cast iron, enhancing stability and reducing vibration during operation. This stability is crucial for achieving precise and accurate results, as it minimizes movement and deflection during drilling.

• The precision-ground table provides a smooth and flat surface for workpiece support, ensuring consistent drilling depth and accuracy. The smooth surface allows for easy movement of jigs and fixtures.

• It includes sealed ball bearings for smooth and reliable spindle operation, reducing friction and extending the machine’s lifespan. Sealed bearings require minimal maintenance and contribute to quieter operation.

• It features rubber coated quick-adjust handles, allowing for comfortable and precise control of the spindle feed. These handles provide a secure grip and allow for fine adjustments, improving accuracy and control.

• A built-in light illuminates the work area, improving visibility and accuracy. The integrated light makes it easier to see the workpiece and cutting tool, even in dimly lit workshops.

Performance & Functionality

The Shop Fox 1 HP 17in Floor Model Drill Press excels in delivering consistent and accurate drilling performance. It tackles both wood and metal with ease, providing smooth and clean holes.

Its strengths lie in its robust construction, powerful motor, and precise controls. These features work together seamlessly to provide a superior drilling experience. The only area for potential improvement might be the addition of a digital readout for spindle speed, although the current pulley system is easy enough to adjust.

This drill press meets and exceeds my expectations. It offers professional-grade performance at a reasonable price, making it an excellent investment for any serious woodworker or metalworker.

Design & Ergonomics

The Shop Fox 1 HP 17in Floor Model Drill Press features a robust and functional design. The heavy cast iron construction provides a solid and stable base, while the ergonomic controls ensure comfortable and efficient operation.

The machine is relatively user-friendly, although some may find the initial setup and pulley adjustment process slightly daunting. However, the included manual provides clear instructions, and the learning curve is minimal.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its solid cast iron construction and high-quality components, the Shop Fox 1 HP 17in Floor Model Drill Press is built to last. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional lubrication and cleaning. The sealed bearings minimize the need for frequent maintenance, and the durable finish resists rust and corrosion.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Shop Fox 1 HP 17in Floor Model Drill Press comes with a standard chuck and a built-in work light. The Morse Taper #3 spindle allows for compatibility with a wide range of drilling accessories, including forstner bits, hole saws, and chuck upgrades.

The drill press is also compatible with aftermarket accessories such as laser guides and digital depth stops. However, the drill press does not come with any stock accessories of this nature.

Pros and Cons of Shop Fox 1 HP 17in Floor Model Drill Press

Who Should Buy Shop Fox 1 HP 17in Floor Model Drill Press?

The Shop Fox 1 HP 17in Floor Model Drill Press is perfect for serious woodworkers, metal fabricators, and DIY enthusiasts who require a powerful and precise drilling solution. It is also well-suited for small machine shops and cabinet shops.

Individuals who only require occasional drilling for light-duty tasks may find this drill press to be overkill. A smaller, less expensive benchtop model may be more appropriate. A must-have accessory is a quality set of drill bits, and a sturdy mobile base would make moving this heavy machine around the shop much easier.

Conclusion on Shop Fox 1 HP 17in Floor Model Drill Press

The Shop Fox 1 HP 17in Floor Model Drill Press is a well-built and capable machine that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. It offers a compelling value proposition, providing professional-grade features at a reasonable price.

The Shop Fox drill press is certainly worth the investment. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a powerful, accurate, and durable drilling solution. Upgrade your shop today and experience the difference a quality drill press can make!