Which press of these 3?

[Greg Parrish]

I know there was a recent drill press thread but it was looking at different presses.

Im trying to pin down a replacement for a grizzly model that is going away tomorrow. Wanting something that is more geared around wood working with a more stable base, larger flat table, and less run out. Tired of having to always adjust my bit sizing to get a more accurate hole.

Anyway, I’m trying to decide between the new Powermatic PM2800B, the Delta 18-900L or the Nova Voyager. All 18” models. All with plus and minus.

The nova has lots of electronics which worry me about longevity. The Powermatic has the speed adjust setup that seems to give mixed reviews about vibration issues. The delta is the most basic design but I keep reading concerns about future parts.

So, is long term future parts on a drill press a major concern? Is worry about the nova electronics panel crazy? Is the Powermatic over hyped and not worth the extra cost?

i would like to be able to keep this press going the next 25 to 30 years so I want a reliable press with low run out. I also don’t want an old press that requires restore. so any help on the above 3 presses? Thanks.

[Mark Bolton]

i would like to be able to keep this press going the next 25 to 30 years so I want a reliable press with low run out. I also don’t want an old press that requires restore.

I'd say your shot on the 25-30 years thing dependant on the amount of use. I'd be looking in the used industrial market if I wanted any tool that would hold reasonable tolerance for anything remotely close to 20 years. There are likely tons that wouldnt require restoration but none in your list will be in that class. The Nova may be the best of the lot but even that is a stretch.

[Greg Parrish]

I'd say your shot on the 25-30 years thing dependant on the amount of use. I'd be looking in the used industrial market if I wanted any tool that would hold reasonable tolerance for anything remotely close to 20 years. There are likely tons that wouldnt require restoration but none in your list will be in that class. The Nova may be the best of the lot but even that is a stretch.

Well, I realize it may not last that long but it’s the mindset I’m using as I’m replacing and upgrading some things in my shop. It’s a hobby. Unless I win the lottery, I have another 20 years or so at my real job. So, the equip will not see heavy use like a pro or even serious retired hobbiest. Regardless, I don’t want to have to replace anytime soon and I’m trying to purchase items this time around that help me avoid the upgrade bug as long as possible too.

The nova seems like it may be my best bet and it’s the middle of the three price wise with the rebate too but that electronic control panel worries me regarding longevity.

[Mark Bolton]

I think you know you can cut the green paint out for the long haul other than for very light use. The yellow paint has an implied perception of "the gold standard" but its only an implied standard and isnt. The Nova absolutely has the risk of techno failure. For the amount of hobby use a drill press will likely see, any heavy old school belted drill press (even a newer model) would do what any of us do daily for years. I probably use our drill press once a week in a full time shop. Runout is unfortunately a crap shoot in the low end market. You may get a keeper, you may get a lemon. You'll never know til its in your shop.

I wouldnt have a problem risking the electronics but if I really wanted robust, strong, longevity, I'd be looking in the used industrial market and may well land on something cheaper than any of the three than doesnt need anything other than a bit of time with a rag and some degreaser, and will run for 150 years in hobby use.

[glenn bradley]

To answer your question among the three you list, I think any of them would serve you well. The PM 2800B is said to have addressed the disappointing problems with the 2800. The Nova has a lot of cool features (which you don't have to use) and is coming from a company that has been offering variable speed woodworking machines since 2001. The Delta is the most basic machine. It has a very cool table with features similar to my Delta; forward and backward tilt as well as the standard side-to-side, flat outer edge for easier clamping. I added an aftermarket table to mine but, you wouldn't have to.

[Van Huskey]

One thing that is rarely mentioned is the Voyager is the only one with a split head design, which is exceedingly rare these days. The mechanical and electrical side of the Nova looks excellent for the long haul (compared with new presses up to 2k) but the question is the longevity of the electronics. The only thing one can do is look at the history of the control electronics in their lathes, which seems to be remarkably good. The motors are simple and the press has fewer moving parts. If I were t buy a new pres today it would be the Voyager but I am not really that worried about a DP lasting me 20 years, whether it breaks or not it is likely I will have 2-3 more in that time frame because I tend to move machines in and out.

[Greg Parrish]

One thing that is rarely mentioned is the Voyager is the only one with a split head design, which is exceedingly rare these days. The mechanical and electrical side of the Nova looks excellent for the long haul (compared with new presses up to 2k) but the question is the longevity of the electronics. The only thing one can do is look at the history of the control electronics in their lathes, which seems to be remarkably good. The motors are simple and the press has fewer moving parts. If I were t buy a new pres today it would be the Voyager but I am not really that worried about a DP lasting me 20 years, whether it breaks or not it is likely I will have 2-3 more in that time frame because I tend to move machines in and out.


Thanks. It looks like a really nice press provided the key pad on front holds up. I’m leaning that way.

[Van Huskey]

Thanks. It looks like a really nice press provided the key pad on front holds up. I’m leaning that way.

Those membrane switch pads all come down to quality. I have seen them die early and also work until the metal or poly dome wore completely through from constant use. The haptic feedback is useful in a loud environment like a shop often is. They have also been using these on lathes for years and I have not seen any reports of failure and one would expect they are using the same OEM for the membrane switches.

There is no question that each of these DPs have their own special risks for long term viability.

[glenn bradley]

Thanks. It looks like a really nice press provided the key pad on front holds up. I’m leaning that way.

$200 rebate through Rockler till the end of September . . .

[Jim Becker]

Of those you mention...all good tools...I'd take the Nova in a heartbeat if my budget allowed it. The variable speed and capacities are awesome and they have long-term prior experience with the same technology with their lathes. It's not a purely new effort for them.

[Nick Decker]

$200 rebate through Rockler till the end of September . . .

Acme has the rebate, too, so it's probably available through other dealers as well.

[Larry Frank]

I have had my Nova for over a year now and extremely happy with it. The split head design is great and no quill slop. The 6" stroke is very handy.

Before, I never used to change speed because it was a pain with the belts. Now, I change speeds every time I change bits because it is so easy.

Expensive..yes but well worth it.

[Nick Decker]

Larry, several of the reviews I've read mention that you can't use bits 1/8" or smaller in the Voyager. True?

[Carl Beckett]

One upgrade I like on any drill press is a keyless chuck. More important convenience wise than not having to switch belts for speed. You can pick one up used from the machinists section on CL.

This gives a very wide range of bit sizes (and no key required!)

Something like this as example:

https://www.amazon.com/Albrecht-70090-C130-J33-Classic-Keyless/dp/B003V89X1U

[Tom Dixon]

Larry, several of the reviews I've read mention that you can't use bits 1/8" or smaller in the Voyager. True?

Yes it is true. I just bought a small chuck for my Nova Voyager that I put in the lager chuck when I need tiny bits. Generally I never need the full 6" stroke with tiny bits.
https://www.dewalt.com/products/accessories/tool-accessories/impact-driver-and-drill-accessories/quick-connect-38-impact-chuck/dw0521

The other alternative is to just replace the standard chuck with one that allows smaller bits. I've read several posts on various forums where folks have done that for various reasons. Me, I didn't see it as necessary when a $30 second chuck will do.

I love my Nova Voyager!

[Nick Decker]

Thanks, Tom. Your solution seems reasonable.

I've been moving toward the Voyager for some time, and I may be getting close to the brink. About the only thing stopping me is spending that kind of money on a tool I only need once every few months.

[Greg Parrish]

I’m leaning towards the nova too but with a nicer chuck swapped in. That said, I’m going to try to put my hands on one in the next week or two to make sure I like it. Rebate runs till end of month and I need to get my shop rearrange further along before I can order it anyway. Thanks for all the input.

[Nick Decker]

I've noticed that the Nova does go on sale fairly often, usually $100 off.

[Van Huskey]

As an indication of the digitally controlled variable reluctance creeping into woodworking Rikon showed a DVR powered bandsaw at IWF. It appears to be coming from the same OEM based on looks. The take away is another company seems to have accepted its long term viability, as I mentioned before the issue is the electronics side since the motors themselves are very old tech and extremely simple as electric motors go. You also are taking out the belts and pulleys which are potential mechanical failure points.

I didn't play with the Rikon bandsaw since it is extremely rare I cut non-wood products.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YgftdIF6Mno

[Greg Parrish]

Decided to try the Nova after more reading and everyone’s comments. Thanks.

Happened to go onto the Acme Tools website last night and they have a Labor Day sale listed that gets up to 15% off with multiple item purchase. I ordered the Nova Voyager, with Nova fence and Nova magnetic light which managed to get me 10% off and the max of $150 off. All 3 items for less than the drill itself. They have free lift gate shipping shipping and they are an authorized dealer so they qualify for the $200 rebate also. Seemed like a good deal.

[Nick Decker]

Excellent, Greg, and no sales tax. I've made several large purchases through Acme and have been happy with their service.

[Greg Parrish]

Excellent, Greg, and no sales tax. I've made several large purchases through Acme and have been happy with their service.

Thanks. Me too. Got my Supermax 19-36 drum sander from them most recently.

[Bill Adamsen]

Congratulations Greg ... that is going to be a great tool for the long haul. Were I replacing my Reeves drive Clausing I would definitely consider either the Nova or PM ... they both look like great machines.

[Nick Decker]

Plus, according to one of the customer reviews I read, it casts a shadow on the wall that looks like ET! :)

[Julie Moriarty]

Anyway, I’m trying to decide between the new Powermatic PM2800B, the Delta 18-900L or the Nova Voyager. All 18” models. All with plus and minus.
Fine Woodworking did a tool test in October of 2015. They rated the Delta 18-900L Best Overall. There was no Powermatic DP in the test. IIRC, an earlier test gave top honors to a PM DP.

In the 10/15 test, Bill Peck said the Delta 18-900L was a no-brainer for best DP. It had the most quill travel, a big table that tilts in both directions, the fastest and easiest speed changes, a quick-adjust depth stop and quill lock, an effective head-mounted laser pointer and plenty of power and accuracy.

Others in the test were Central Machinery 39955; General International models 75-260 M1, 75-500 & 75-700 M1 VS; Grizzly models G7947 & G7948; Porter Cable PCB660DP (Best Value); and Rikon models 30-236 VS and 30-240.

[Greg Parrish]

Fine Woodworking did a tool test in October of 2015. They rated the Delta 18-900L Best Overall. There was no Powermatic DP in the test. IIRC, an earlier test gave top honors to a PM DP.

In the 10/15 test, Bill Peck said the Delta 18-900L was a no-brainer for best DP. It had the most quill travel, a big table that tilts in both directions, the fastest and easiest speed changes, a quick-adjust depth stop and quill lock, an effective head-mounted laser pointer and plenty of power and accuracy.

Others in the test were Central Machinery 39955; General International models 75-260 M1, 75-500 & 75-700 M1 VS; Grizzly models G7947 & G7948; Porter Cable PCB660DP (Best Value); and Rikon models 30-236 VS and 30-240.


Ive seen that test but it doesn’t have the nova or newer Powermatic in the comparison. I think the delta was tops at that time. Now it has to compete with the other two. I honestly strongly considered it as it was the cheapest of the 3 but not by a whole lot after the nova rebate. I didn’t ultimately want to mess with belt changes. The grizzly I just parted with had them and it was a pain. I think the deltas process is better due to an automatic belt tension system but still a pain. The Powermatic has a reeves drive system which seems to get hit or miss reviews. Anyway, tough choice and I was initially thinking any of the 3 would work but I think the Nova will be a nice choice assuming I get a good copy.

[Robert Hayward]

Almost guaranteed you will not be sorry you chose the Nova. I struggled with spending money on the Nova a year or two ago. I had a decent drill press, a Taiwan Sears floor model one that served my hobby and craft needs for most of my adult life. I saw the Nova at a wood show in Tampa and could not stop thinking about the features. I was not the least bit concerned about the electronics, it was the cost for something I did not *need*. In a weak moment during one of the $200 rebate sales I clicked the button. One of, it not the best tool purchases I have made in recent memory.

Being able to dial in whatever speed I want with the gentle twist of a knob is almost worth the cost of the Nova to me. I am still getting used to the membrane on off switches. I would rather have a traditional switch for that. Thirty some years using the Craftsman trained my hands to move to a location on the drill press head and push without thinking or looking. Over a year later I am still reaching to push a switch lever in a spot that has nothing there on the Nova. What is the saying about old dogs and new tricks ? :)

I also did not like the chuck that came with the Nova. I do a lot of modeling and frequently use numbered drill bits #1 ~ #60 a bunch of which the Nova chuck would not hold. So I spent almost as much as I saved with the rebate buying a new 5/8" chuck with smaller holding ability and a new arbor.

Bob

[Greg Parrish]

Almost guaranteed you will not be sorry you chose the Nova. I struggled with spending money on the Nova a year or two ago. I had a decent drill press, a Taiwan Sears floor model one that served my hobby and craft needs for most of my adult life. I saw the Nova at a wood show in Tampa and could not stop thinking about the features. I was not the least bit concerned about the electronics, it was the cost for something I did not *need*. In a weak moment during one of the $200 rebate sales I clicked the button. One of, it not the best tool purchases I have made in recent memory.

Being able to dial in whatever speed I want with the gentle twist of a knob is almost worth the cost of the Nova to me. I am still getting used to the membrane on off switches. I would rather have a traditional switch for that. Thirty some years using the Craftsman trained my hands to move to a location on the drill press head and push without thinking or looking. Over a year later I am still reaching to push a switch lever in a spot that has nothing there on the Nova. What is the saying about old dogs and new tricks ? :)

I also did not like the chuck that came with the Nova. I do a lot of modeling and frequently use numbered drill bits #1 ~ #60 a bunch of which the Nova chuck would not hold. So I spent almost as much as I saved with the rebate buying a new 5/8" chuck with smaller holding ability and a new arbor.

Bob

Thanks. Im thinking about replacing the check with a nicer one too but didn’t order it yet.

[richard poitras]

I also did not like the chuck that came with the Nova. I do a lot of modeling and frequently use numbered drill bits #1 ~ #60 a bunch of which the Nova chuck would not hold. So I spent almost as much as I saved with the rebate buying a new 5/8" chuck with smaller holding ability and a new arbor.

Bob

Bob what chuck / kind did you buy and were?

[Jon Nuckles]

Excellent, Greg, and no sales tax.

Not true. Although Acme is not required to collect the tax from you, you still owe it and are required to file a sales tax or use tax form. This is from the Florida Department of Revenue Consumer Information page:

Have you bought or received merchandise from out of state or through the Internet?

You Might Owe Florida Tax

Many citizens are not aware that Florida has a "use tax." Use tax normally applies to items purchased outside Florida, including another country, that are brought or delivered into the state and would have been taxed if purchased in Florida. The use tax rate for consumers who are not registered dealers is 6%, the same as the general sales tax rate.
Examples include:



Purchases made through the Internet.
Mail-order catalog purchases.
Purchases made in another country.
Furniture purchased from dealers located in another state.
Computer equipment ordered from out-of-state vendors advertising in magazines.

If an out-of-state seller fails to collect sales tax, it is your responsibility to comply with Florida law. You must submit payment directly to the Florida Department of Revenue. (This payment is required by section 212.06(8), Florida Statutes.) You can file and pay use tax online (https://ritx-fl-sales-mailorder.bswa.net/Login.aspx), or complete an Out-of- State Purchase Return (Form DR-15MO http://floridarevenue.com/PublishingImages/pdficon_small.png (http://floridarevenue.com/Forms_library/current/dr15mo.pdf)). If the tax owed is less than one dollar, you do not have to file a return.

[Van Huskey]

Not true. Although Acme is not required to collect the tax from you, you still owe it and are required to file a sales tax or use tax form.

While true the average for states is less than 2% of use tax being reported and paid. Most people are aware of the use tax requirement but almost no one pays it, it is the entire reason states are beginning to chase the etailers and the genesis of South Dakota vs Wayfair. In the modern age you simply can't expect customers to report on the honor system especially when the burden is so onerous for the average family that makes hundreds of purchases a year online. The system was setup in a different time and even then people didn't file a use tax form for their kids Sea Monkeys or Xray glasses.

[Jon Nuckles]

I agree that it is much more efficient for states to force retailers to collect the tax if and when the courts allow them to. With the migration of sales from brick and mortar to online we will likely get to that soon. Illinois includes a use tax line on its individual income tax form and suggests a percentage of income for filers who don't keep records of their online purchases. Amazon reached an agreement with Illinois recently to collect income tax on purchases by Illinois residents. With that in place, I no longer have many online purchases on which the tax is not collected.

[Don Jarvie]

Find a used PM or Delta from the 60’s and fix it up. No need to spend big money on a DP when there’s plenty of used ones to choose from. I have a Craftsman from the 50’s and it will do everything the ones you list do. I paid 150 for it.

Some used tools are just as good as the new ones and much cheaper. An exception would be a lathe where the modern variable speed ones are better than the old ones.

[Robert Hayward]

Bob what chuck / kind did you buy and were?

https://www.ajaxtoolsupply.com/ro15ca3jtmok.html

I wanted a keyed chuck with 5/8" to 0" capacity. Proved difficult to find at the quality level I wanted, run out was a concern. Settled on the Rohm with 1/32" minimum. This will hold a #60 bit with room to spare so I am happy. Any hole I might want smaller than #60 I would use a pin vise anyway.

I cannot find the link to the place I bought the arbor, a JT3 to MT2. Do not remember why I did not reuse the arbor that came with the Nova Chuck.

Bob

[Van Huskey]

I have a Craftsman from the 50’s and it will do everything the ones you list do.


You may not be familiar with all the Voyager does. Like the modern lathes, it brings new tricks to the table, whether or not one needs or is willing to pay for those capabilities is another question.

[Clint Baxter]

Thanks. Me too. Got my Supermax 19-36 drum sander from them most recently.

Ordered the Nova Voyager drill press from Acme Tools on Friday. Was delivered today. Assembled it and am very glad with my decision to upgrade. Impressed with the size of the base and the table on it. Much larger than my previous Delta.

Clint

[richard poitras]

Thanks for the info Bob

[Van Huskey]

BTW I noticed they have a new feature (really cool to be able to update your drill press!??!) for tightening keyless chucks one handed.

Power Spindle Hold (for keyless chucks)
A new feature which has been introduced is the “Powered Spindle Hold” function which powers and holds
the spindle for 30 seconds, freeing up one hand to hold the drill bit and tighten the chuck.
NOTE: This function applies 11% of the maximum motor power to the spindle when tightening
To access the Powered Spindle Hold function, go to Menu > Advance Modes and select the Pwrd Spindle
Hold function. To activate the hold, press the button while the following screen is displayed.

http://festoolownersgroup.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=56931.0;attach=284 035;image

They also have come out with the Vulcan which is metal-centric with milling features and 3MT spindle and ER32 collet system. It runs $2500.