Jet JDP-17MF Floor Drill Press Review Powerful 16 Speed Versatile Woodworking Tool

Description

Positive Features of the JET 17-Inch Floor Drill Press

Trying out the JET 17-Inch Floor Drill Press, 16 Speed, 3/4 HP, 115/230V 1Ph (Model JDP-17MF) in my workshop was quite the experience. One thing that immediately stood out was the 16-speed range, from 200 up to 3,630 rpm, which gave me the flexibility to handle a variety of drilling tasks with precision. Whether working on hardwood, softwood, or metal, the variable speeds allowed perfect control over drilling speed, reducing tear-out on wood and preventing overheating on metal bits.

The quick-release, crank-operated worktable was a real time-saver. Adjusting the height and rotating the table up to 45 degrees left or right felt smooth and sturdy, allowing me to align workpieces accurately without fuss. This feature alone made repetitive drilling much less of a headache. Plus, the built-in worklight illuminated the workspace nicely, especially during those darker corners of the shop where shadows usually creep in.

The depth stop with inch/mm markings and quick set bolt proved invaluable for consistent drilling depth. I was able to set it once for a batch of parts and trust that every hole came out identical. The adjustable tension spindle return spring helped the lever snap back reliably after each stroke, which is perfect for jobs requiring repetition, like dowel making or cabinetry.

• 16 spindle speeds from 200 to 3,630 rpm
• Quick-release crank-operated, tilting worktable
• Built-in worklight for better visibility
• Accurate depth stop with dual locking nuts

Drawbacks That Caught My Attention

No product is perfect, and a few limitations with this drill press surfaced during use. The weight of the machine, around 189 pounds, makes it a beast to move. While this provides stability during operation, rearranging my workspace required some muscle or assistance, which might be a hassle for smaller shops or beginners.

The work light, while useful, does not come with a bulb included, so there was a brief delay before I could actually illuminate my workspace fully. Also, the belt and pulley cover is metal and hinged, which is great for durability, but changing speeds involves opening the cover and manually moving belts—a process that is less convenient compared to some drill presses with automatic speed control.

Another minor gripe was the lack of a more ergonomic handle design on the downfeed lever. After extended use, my hand started feeling a bit cramped. This is a small detail, but for people who do repetitive drilling for hours, it might make a difference.

• Heavy 189-pound weight limits portability
• Worklight bulb not included
• Manual belt speed changes require opening the cover
• Downfeed handle ergonomics could be improved

Versatility and Performance in Real Use

I put the drill press through various projects, from basic hole drilling in plywood to more precise metalwork tasks. The 3/4-horsepower motor delivered consistent torque without bogging down, even when drilling larger 5/8-inch holes. The MT-2 spindle taper offered compatibility with a broad range of drill bits, including tapered and straight shank types, which widened the tool’s utility.

The X-pattern mounting grooves on the table allowed me to attach a fence for accurate edge drilling, which was handy when making multiple identical holes for shelving supports. The rack-and-pinion adjustment for the table height was smooth and precise, making setup quick and easy.

One evening, I handed the drill press over to my son, who’s just starting woodworking. He appreciated the safety lockout on the start button, which gave me peace of mind knowing the machine couldn’t be accidentally started. The built-in light helped him see clearly, and he commented on how the drill press felt solid and professional compared to others he’s used.

Product Competitors in the Drill Press Market

The JET JDP-17MF stands tall among other drill presses such as the Powermatic 1150B and the Delta 18-900L. While the Powermatic offers a more powerful motor and heavier build, it comes at a significantly higher price, making the JET a more budget-conscious choice without sacrificing essential performance. Conversely, the Delta model provides excellent precision but has fewer speed options and a smaller worktable.

Compared to these, the JET drill press excels in offering 16 spindle speeds and a sizable 13-3/4-inch table with tilt and rotation, features often missing in more affordable models. The built-in worklight is a nice touch that some rivals lack, improving usability in poorly lit workshops. However, the JET’s manual belt system is a step behind some competitors’ automatic speed adjustments, which can be a deciding factor for professionals needing quick changes between speeds.

• More speed options than many competitors
• Larger adjustable worktable for versatile setups
• Better built-in lighting than similar models
• Less convenient speed change compared to automatic systems

Value Proposition: Is It Worth the Investment?

Balancing the features with the price point, this floor drill press offers solid value for money. The combination of a 3/4 HP motor, 16 speeds, and a robust cast iron construction at this price tier is compelling. For hobbyists and serious woodworkers who need a reliable, versatile drill press that handles a range of materials, it’s hard to beat.

The five-year limited warranty also adds peace of mind, suggesting the manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s durability. While the heavier weight and manual speed changes might deter some casual users, those who appreciate a dependable, industrial-style drill press will find this a worthwhile addition to their workshop.

Design and Build Quality Observations

The drill press feels solid and well-engineered. The combination of cast iron and steel materials gives it that reassuring heft and stability required for precise drilling. The hinged metal belt cover is both durable and practical, though it demands a bit of care during speed adjustments.

The column diameter of 3-1/8 inches provides excellent rigidity, preventing wobble during drilling, which is crucial for accuracy. The base footprint is substantial enough (11-1/8 by 19-5/8 inches) to keep the machine steady without overwhelming limited workspace.

While the aesthetic is industrial and straightforward, the functional design elements like the quick-release clamp on the worktable and the X-pattern grooves speak to a thoughtful approach to usability rather than just looks.

Practical Features and User Experience

Adjusting the spindle speed involves opening the hinged cover and moving the belt manually across pulleys. This might feel old-school compared to electronic variable speed controls but contributes to reliability and easy maintenance. The depth stop’s dual locking nuts made setting and locking exact drilling depths a breeze, which is a huge plus for repetitive work.

The worktable’s ability to tilt 45 degrees both left and right expanded the range of angled drilling without needing additional jigs. This feature came in handy for creating bevel cuts on dowels and angled holes for hardware installation.

The built-in worklight socket is a thoughtful addition, even though the bulb must be sourced separately. It’s surprising how many tasks become easier with just a bit of extra light focused right where you need it.

Throughout testing, the adjustable tension on the spindle return spring made a noticeable difference in how smooth the lever came back up after each plunge. This small customization option improved comfort during longer jobs.

The JET floor drill press blends industrial-grade features with user-friendly adjustments, making it a versatile tool for woodworkers and metalworkers alike. While it has a few quirks, such as its weight and manual speed adjustments, the overall package delivers solid performance, adaptability, and durability that many others in its class struggle to match.

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