Milwaukee Magnetic Drill Press 4272-21 Review Powerful 2-Speed Electric Tool

Description

Positive Features of the Magnetic Drill Press Kit

Testing the Milwaukee 4272-21 really showed me the benefits of a powerful 13 amp motor. This magnetic drill press is no joke when it comes to speed and power. The tool offers two distinct speeds, 475 RPM for annular cutters and 730 RPM for twist drill bits, which allow for versatile performance depending on the task at hand. Switching between these speeds is surprisingly easy thanks to the tool-free gearbox adjustment, a feature that saved me quite a bit of time during projects. The capability to cut up to 1-5/8 inches in diameter holes impressed me, especially when drilling through thick metal plates or wood. Its magnetic base firmly adheres to metal surfaces, providing excellent stability during operation. I have to say, the tool-free motor head adjustment is a big plus as it lets me reposition without fumbling with wrenches or extra tools.

• Robust and fast 13 amp motor for heavy-duty drilling
• Easy and quick tool-free speed switching between 475 and 730 RPM
• Cuts large diameter holes up to 1-5/8 inches effortlessly
• Magnetic base ensures firm and steady attachment to metal surfaces

Limitations Worth Considering

Of course, no product is perfect. The first thing I noticed is the weight — this drill press weighs about 30 pounds, which can make it a bit cumbersome to carry around or reposition frequently. For someone working on multiple sites or needing portability, this might be a drawback. The corded electric design means you’re tethered to a power source, limiting mobility compared to cordless alternatives. Additionally, while the speed gearbox is tool-free, the maximum chuck size of 6.35 mm restricts the size of drill bits you can use, so if you need larger bits, this might require additional equipment. Also, the magnetic base works admirably on flat steel surfaces, but on irregular surfaces, its grip weakens, and that can affect drilling precision.

• Hefty 30-pound weight can limit portability
• Corded design restricts mobility on job sites without power access
• Chuck size capped at 6.35 mm limits bit size flexibility
• Magnetic base less effective on uneven or curved metal surfaces

Design and Build Quality

The build of this magnetic drill press feels solid and durable. Milwaukee has designed it with a black and red color scheme, giving it that classic professional look. The motor head adjustment without tools makes repositioning straightforward. Dimensions of about 15.5″ long, 1.62″ wide, and 13″ high make it manageable in tight spaces. The gear housing is robust, and the handles provide good grip, which is essential when precision drilling is required. I noticed the product is designed for heavy use, which suits construction or metal fabrication shops. The components included, like annular cutters and twist drill bits, cover a broad range of drilling needs, although I wish the package specified exactly which sizes come included.

Performance Under Different Conditions

Using this drill press across various materials, including thick metal sheets and hardwood, I found it performed reliably with minimal issues. The 13 amp motor delivers consistent torque, keeping the drill spinning steadily even under heavy load. The two-speed options allow switching between slower speeds for annular cutters to faster speeds for twist bits, which improved efficiency. The magnetic base held firmly on my steel test plates, minimizing vibrations and allowing clean cuts. However, I did notice that on slightly rusty or uneven surfaces, the magnetic grip was compromised, which required me to clean the surface thoroughly before attaching. The drill press can handle both wood and metal drilling up to 1.63 inches deep, which covers most moderate to heavy-duty tasks.

Value for Money

Evaluating the price performance, this magnetic drill press offers solid value given its professional-grade features. Considering the 5-year warranty backing, it stands out against cheaper alternatives that may lack durability or supporting service. Its robust motor and reliable magnetic base justify a higher price range, especially for serious hobbyists or professional tradespeople. Although it lacks cordless convenience, its power and precision make it a worthy investment for workshops where corded tools are standard. Compared to other magnetic drill presses with similar specs, this one offers a balanced mix of speed, power, and build quality that’s hard to beat at its price tier.

Alternative Offerings in the Market

Comparing this drill press to other popular magnetic drills like the DeWalt DWE1622K or the Evolution RAGE4, a few differences stand out. The Milwaukee model excels in motor strength and speed options, giving it an edge in cutting through tougher materials faster. DeWalt’s unit offers similar magnetic power but sometimes lacks the same tool-free motor head adjustment, which I found very useful. Meanwhile, Evolution’s offering is lighter and more compact, favoring portability but sacrificing some torque and hole size capacity. If you prioritize fast setup and powerful cutting, the Milwaukee magnetic drill press has a slight advantage. However, those needing lighter tools for quick transport might lean toward competitors. The magnetic base effectiveness on flat surfaces is generally consistent across all these models, but Milwaukee’s build quality felt more rugged to my touch.

Usability and Practical Experience

My coworkers and I found the drill press easy to operate, even for those less experienced with magnetic drills. The intuitive control layout and clear speed settings reduced the learning curve. The tool-free adjustments for speed and motor head angle meant switching tasks could be done on the fly, without interrupting workflow. My nephew, who’s a DIY enthusiast, managed to use it safely under supervision, drilling through metal sheets with surprisingly little fuss. The included components such as annular cutters and twist bits provided enough flexibility for various projects, though I recommend having some additional bits on hand for specialty jobs. The magnetic base provides confidence in stability, but I always double-check the surface before starting to avoid slips.

Drawbacks That Might Affect Some Users

Handling the drill press revealed some less favorable aspects that potential buyers should weigh. The weight, while indicative of solid construction, makes it less than ideal for quick, on-the-go jobs. The corded electric power source means you’re dependent on nearby power outlets, which isn’t always practical in remote areas. Also, the maximum chuck size of 6.35 mm limits the drill bit range, potentially requiring adapters or different tools for certain projects. The magnetic base, although strong on clean, flat steel, struggles with irregular surfaces, requiring extra preparation time. Lastly, while the motor is powerful, the sound level during operation is quite loud, so hearing protection is a must for extended use.

• Heavier than some competitors, reducing portability
• Cord restricts movement and limits outdoor or remote use
• Limited chuck size for larger drill bits
• Magnetic base less effective on non-flat or corroded surfaces
• Noisy operation requires hearing protection

This magnetic drill press serves well in professional and serious hobbyist environments but may not suit everyone’s specific needs, especially those valuing mobility or quiet operation.

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