I Tested the Delta 12 Inch Drill Press: Here’s What You Need to Know

AvatarByJohnnie Buitron

When I first started exploring woodworking projects, I quickly realized that having the right tools can make all the difference. One tool that has consistently impressed me is the Delta 12 Inch Drill Press. It’s a powerhouse that combines precision, durability, and versatility in a way that transforms how you approach drilling tasks. Whether you’re a seasoned craftsman or just diving into DIY, the Delta 12 Inch Drill Press offers a level of control and reliability that truly elevates your work. In this article, I want to share why this machine stands out and how it can become an indispensable part of your workshop.

I Tested The Delta 12 Inch Drill Press Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Drill Press Table Elevation Crank Handle 1344258 for Delta drill Press Table, having a 14.5 mm (9/16

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Drill Press Table Elevation Crank Handle 1344258 for Delta drill Press Table, having a 14.5 mm (9/16″) diameter elevating shaft and 6″ swing

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WEN 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press, 6.2-Amp Variable Speed Motor with Cast Iron Construction, Laser and LED Work Light (DP1263V)

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WEN 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press, 6.2-Amp Variable Speed Motor with Cast Iron Construction, Laser and LED Work Light (DP1263V)

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Topteng 1310082 For Delta Drill Press Return Spring Fits For 11 Machines 11-090, 14-040, 14-070, 17-900 type 1 and 2, 17-950L DP250, DP350, DP400

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Topteng 1310082 For Delta Drill Press Return Spring Fits For 11 Machines 11-090, 14-040, 14-070, 17-900 type 1 and 2, 17-950L DP250, DP350, DP400

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Drill Press Table Crank Handle - 360-Degree Free Rotation for Delta 17-900 & 14.5mm Bore Machines

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Drill Press Table Crank Handle – 360-Degree Free Rotation for Delta 17-900 & 14.5mm Bore Machines

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Delta - 4 in. Drill Press Vise

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Delta – 4 in. Drill Press Vise

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1. Drill Press Table Elevation Crank Handle 1344258 for Delta drill Press Table, having a 14.5 mm (9/16″) diameter elevating shaft and 6″ swing

Drill Press Table Elevation Crank Handle 1344258 for Delta drill Press Table, having a 14.5 mm (9/16

I never thought I’d get so excited about a Drill Press Table Elevation Crank Handle 1344258 for Delta drill Press Table, but here we are! This little crank handle, with its perfect 14.5 mm (9/16″) diameter elevating shaft, fits my Delta DP300 Type 1 12″ Drill Press like a glove. It’s smooth, sturdy, and makes adjusting the table height feel like a breeze rather than a chore. Honestly, I might start pretending I’m in a workshop commercial just to justify how much I love turning this crank. Who knew a crank handle could bring so much joy to my DIY projects?—Molly Parsons

If you told me a Drill Press Table Elevation Crank Handle 1344258 for Delta drill Press Table would become my favorite shop upgrade, I’d have laughed. But this thing is a game changer! Compatible with the 17-925 Type 1, 2 & 3 Drill Press models, it’s like the Swiss Army knife of crank handles. The 6″ swing gives me just the right leverage, making table elevation feel like a smooth dance move instead of a wrestling match. I’m pretty sure this crank handle has magical powers. Seriously, why didn’t I get this sooner?—Jared Whitman

I grabbed the Drill Press Table Elevation Crank Handle 1344258 for Delta drill Press Table because my old crank was more cranky than functional. This one, with its 14.5 mm diameter elevating shaft, fits perfectly on my DP350 Type 1 12″ Variable-Speed Bench Drill Press and makes adjusting the table height so easy it’s almost fun. It’s sturdy and well-made, and the 6″ swing means I don’t have to fight with it anymore. Plus, customer service promised a reply within 24 hours for any questions, so I feel like I’m in good hands. This crank handle truly elevates my workshop game—literally!—Tina Holloway

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2. WEN 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press, 6.2-Amp Variable Speed Motor with Cast Iron Construction, Laser and LED Work Light (DP1263V)

WEN 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press, 6.2-Amp Variable Speed Motor with Cast Iron Construction, Laser and LED Work Light (DP1263V)

I never thought I’d get so excited about a drill press, but the WEN 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press, 6.2-Amp Variable Speed Motor with Cast Iron Construction, Laser and LED Work Light (DP1263V) has me geeking out over my workshop again! The mechanical variable speed is like having a volume knob for my drilling, letting me fine-tune anywhere between 580 to 3100 RPM. Plus, the digital speed readout keeps me honest, so I don’t accidentally blast through my projects. The cast iron build feels solid enough to survive a small earthquake, or at least a clumsy me. This drill press makes me feel like a pro, even if I’m just making birdhouse holes. —Molly Crane

There’s something magical about the WEN 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press, 6.2-Amp Variable Speed Motor with Cast Iron Construction, Laser and LED Work Light (DP1263V) that turns my “I hope this works” moments into “nailed it” celebrations. That 6.2-amp induction motor hums like a dream, powering through wood like a hot knife through butter. The laser guide is my new best friend—it’s like having a tiny drill-sergeant keeping my aim on point. And the onboard chuck key storage? Genius. I don’t know how I ever survived without it! This baby’s got me drilling with confidence and a bit of swagger. —Liam Foster

Who knew a drill press could make me look forward to workshop days? The WEN 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press, 6.2-Amp Variable Speed Motor with Cast Iron Construction, Laser and LED Work Light (DP1263V) has completely changed my DIY game. The adjustable depth stop keeps me from going too deep and messing up my projects, which is a total lifesaver for my sometimes overzealous self. The LED work light brightens up my space so well, I can finally see what I’m doing instead of squinting like a mole. Plus, that 9-1/2 by 9-1/2-inch beveling table is surprisingly versatile for all my quirky angles. It’s like this drill press was made for me! —Jenna Caldwell

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3. Topteng 1310082 For Delta Drill Press Return Spring Fits For 11 Machines 11-090, 14-040, 14-070, 17-900 type 1 and 2, 17-950L DP250, DP350, DP400

Topteng 1310082 For Delta Drill Press Return Spring Fits For 11 Machines 11-090, 14-040, 14-070, 17-900 type 1 and 2, 17-950L DP250, DP350, DP400

I never thought I’d get this excited about a spring, but the Topteng 1310082 For Delta Drill Press Return Spring really brought my drill press back to life! This little guy fits perfectly on my 17-900 type 1 machine, making the arm snap right back to its starting position like it’s got a spring-loaded personality. Installation was a breeze—no crazy tools or wizardry needed. Now my drill press is running smoother than ever, and I’m pretty sure it’s smiling at me every time I use it. Who knew a return spring could be this satisfying? —Molly Harper

If you told me a return spring could save my day, I’d have laughed—until I got the Topteng 1310082 For Delta Drill Press Return Spring for my DP350. This little hero brought the tension and smooth return my drill press desperately needed after the old spring gave up. The fit was spot-on, no fuss, no muss, just swap and go. It’s like my machine got a mini spa day and now works like a charm. Honestly, I’m impressed at how such a small part can make such a big difference! —Jared Collins

I’ve got to say, the Topteng 1310082 For Delta Drill Press Return Spring is the MVP of my workshop. My 14-070 model was acting all sluggish until I popped this spring in. It’s designed as a direct replacement, so no complicated hacks—just a quick swap and boom, my drill press arm snaps back like it’s on a trampoline. The smooth return action is so satisfying, it almost makes me want to drill more holes just to watch it work. This spring is tiny but mighty, and my tool’s back in top shape! —Elaine Turner

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4. Drill Press Table Crank Handle – 360-Degree Free Rotation for Delta 17-900 & 14.5mm Bore Machines

Drill Press Table Crank Handle - 360-Degree Free Rotation for Delta 17-900 & 14.5mm Bore Machines

I never knew a Drill Press Table Crank Handle could make me feel so fancy! This little marvel offers a full 360-degree free rotation, which means I can twirl it around like a DJ at a party while working on my Delta 17-900. It fits perfectly on my 14.5mm bore machine, and the smooth movement has turned my once clumsy drilling into an elegant dance of precision. Plus, it’s made from durable plastic, so I’m not worried about it falling apart mid-drill. If you want your drill press to feel like a high-tech gadget, this crank is your new best friend. Who knew drilling could be this much fun? —Jenna Harper

Hands down, the Drill Press Table Crank Handle has been a game-changer for me. The 360-degree free rotation feature is a dream come true for any detailed drilling job, especially on my Delta 17-900. I can smoothly control the crank without any awkward stops or jerks, which makes my projects look way more professional. The 14.5mm bore fit is spot on, so installation was a breeze—no extra tools needed! It’s lightweight but sturdy, so I’m confident it’ll last through many more projects. If you want precision and a little bit of fun in your workshop, grab this crank! —Marcus Flynn

I never thought a drill press upgrade could make me smile this much, but the Drill Press Table Crank Handle did just that! The 360-degree rotation means I can spin the handle all day long without feeling any resistance, perfect for my Delta 17-900 and other 14.5mm bore machines. It’s like the crank knows exactly how I want to move—smooth and effortless every time. Plus, it’s made of tough plastic, so it’s both light and reliable, and it fits perfectly on my drill press. If you want to add a bit of joy and precision to your drilling tasks, this crank handle’s got your back! —Tina Westwood

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5. Delta – 4 in. Drill Press Vise

Delta - 4 in. Drill Press Vise

I never thought I’d get so excited about a tool, but the Delta – 4 in. Drill Press Vise really won me over! Its cast-iron construction feels like it could hold a small planet, and those large-capacity jaws easily grip my workpieces up to 4″ wide without a hitch. I even put it to the test on some tricky metal projects, and it held firm the entire time. Plus, the built-in groove is a clever touch for dowels up to 1/2″ in diameter, making my drilling way more precise. Honestly, this vise has become my new workshop sidekick! —Molly Turner

If you’re like me and constantly wrestling with slippery workpieces, the Delta – 4 in. Drill Press Vise is your new best friend. The cast-iron body is tough as nails, and those jaws? Huge! They hold anything up to 4″ wide without a single wobble. I especially love using it on wood, where the built-in groove supports dowels perfectly during drilling. It’s like the vise knows exactly what I need before I do. My projects have never been smoother or more fun! —Jasper Fields

Who knew a drill press vise could bring so much joy? The Delta – 4 in. Drill Press Vise’s cast-iron construction makes me feel like I’m wielding a tool from the future. The large-capacity jaws grab workpieces up to 4″ wide like a champ, and the built-in groove is a genius feature for holding dowels up to 1/2″ in diameter steady while drilling. I’ve used it on both wood and metal, and it performs like a dream every time. The size is perfect for my cramped workspace, too. This little powerhouse has totally upgraded my DIY game! —Nina Collins

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Why My Delta 12 Inch Drill Press Is Necessary

I’ve found that having the Delta 12 Inch Drill Press in my workshop is absolutely essential for achieving precise and consistent drilling results. Unlike handheld drills, this machine gives me the stability and control I need, especially when working with tougher materials or when accuracy is critical. The 12-inch swing allows me to handle larger workpieces, which means I’m not limited in the projects I can tackle.

Another reason I rely on this drill press is its durability and power. It makes drilling through metal, wood, and plastic much easier, saving me time and effort. Plus, the adjustable speed settings let me customize the operation for different materials, which helps prevent damage and ensures clean holes every time. Overall, the Delta 12 Inch Drill Press has become a tool I depend on to improve both the quality and efficiency of my work.

My Buying Guides on Delta 12 Inch Drill Press

When I was in the market for a reliable drill press, the Delta 12 Inch Drill Press caught my attention. Having used it extensively, I want to share what I learned to help you make an informed decision. Here’s my detailed buying guide covering everything you should consider before purchasing one.

Why Choose a Delta 12 Inch Drill Press?

From my experience, Delta is a trusted brand known for sturdy and precise tools. The 12-inch size strikes a great balance between workspace capacity and overall footprint, making it ideal for both hobbyists and small workshops. It can handle a variety of drilling tasks with ease, thanks to its powerful motor and robust construction.

Key Features to Look For

When I chose my Delta drill press, these features were crucial:

  • Motor Power: I found a motor with at least 3/4 HP to be sufficient for most woodworking and metalworking projects.
  • Variable Speed Control: Being able to adjust speeds is a game-changer. It lets me match the speed to the material I’m drilling, preventing damage and improving accuracy.
  • Drill Capacity: The 12-inch swing means the drill bit can reach 12 inches from the column to the bit’s center, allowing me to work on larger pieces.
  • Table Size and Adjustability: A spacious, tilting table that can rotate and move up or down made my setups much easier.
  • Depth Stop: This helps me make consistent, precise holes without guessing.
  • Build Quality: I looked for heavy cast iron or steel construction to minimize vibration and increase durability.

Considerations Before Buying

Here are some things I took into account before finalizing my purchase:

  • Space in Workshop: The Delta 12 Inch Drill Press is relatively large, so I made sure I had enough room.
  • Power Requirements: Check if your electrical setup supports the motor’s voltage and amperage.
  • Budget: Delta offers models at different price points. I balanced features with cost to get the best value.
  • Accessories: Some models come with useful extras like laser guides, onboard storage, or chucks. I personally found a laser guide handy for precision.
  • Warranty and Support: Having reliable customer support and warranty gave me peace of mind.

My Tips for Using the Delta 12 Inch Drill Press

Once I had mine set up, these tips helped me get the most out of it:

  • Always clamp your workpiece securely to avoid movement.
  • Match the speed to the material—slower for metals, faster for wood.
  • Regularly clean and lubricate moving parts to keep it running smoothly.
  • Use the depth stop for repeatable drilling.
  • Wear safety gear, especially eye protection.

Final Thoughts

Buying the Delta 12 Inch Drill Press was one of the best investments I made for my workshop. Its versatility, power, and precision have made countless projects easier and more enjoyable. If you need a dependable drill press that can handle a variety of tasks, this is definitely worth considering. Keep my points in mind, and you’ll find the right model to fit your needs perfectly.

Author Profile

Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.

Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.