Comprehensive Review of Jet JDP-17MF Floor Drill Press with 16 Speeds and Work Light

Description

Highlights of the Jet 17-Inch Floor Drill Press

Testing the Jet 17-Inch Floor Drill Press, Model JDP-17MF on a range of woodworking tasks quickly showed me its strengths. The 16-speed settings allow me to match the drilling speed precisely to the material and bit size, which is a huge advantage for different projects, from soft pine to hardwoods. The 3/4-horsepower motor offers enough power to handle demanding cuts without bogging down. I’ve also enjoyed the quick-release, crank-operated worktable, which smoothly adjusts height and can tilt 45 degrees left or right. This flexibility makes angled drilling much easier than on other machines I’ve used. The built-in work light is handy for those times when my shop lighting isn’t enough, especially when working on intricate details.

• 16-speed range from 200 to 3,630 RPM for versatile drilling
• Quick-release, crank-operated adjustable worktable with ±45° tilt
• Powerful 3/4 HP motor capable of running on 115V or 230V
• Built-in work light enhances visibility during detailed work

Drawbacks I Noticed While Using It

Despite its many perks, this drill press has some quirks that caught my attention. The overall weight of nearly 190 pounds makes it quite a beast to move around, so it demands a dedicated spot in the workshop. Also, I found the absence of an included light bulb for the work light a minor annoyance; a small thing, but it means one more trip to the hardware store. The depth stop adjustment, while useful, feels a bit fiddly compared to other models with digital readouts or finer calibration. The metal belt and pulley cover, although sturdy, requires a bit of muscle and time to open and adjust speeds, which interrupts workflow slightly during frequent speed changes.

• Heavy and not easily portable
• Work light bulb not included
• Depth stop adjustment could be more user-friendly
• Speed changes require opening the belt cover manually

How the Design and Build Quality Hold Up

The industrial-style design speaks to serious woodworkers and professionals. The cast iron and steel materials give this drill press a solid, no-nonsense feel that resists vibration and wobbling. The large 13-3/4 inch worktable offers ample space for clamping and supports various jigs and vises thanks to its X-pattern mounting grooves. I appreciated the adjustable tension spindle return spring, which made repetitive drilling less tiring by ensuring the spindle returned smoothly after each stroke. The front-mounted on/off switch is easy to reach and adds a layer of safety, especially when working with others around.

The quick adjustment motor mount under the hinged cover is a smart touch, letting me change spindle speeds relatively fast once I got the hang of it. Overall, this machine’s sturdy construction inspires confidence for heavier-duty tasks, and it’s clear that durability was a priority in its design.

User Experience and Versatility in the Workshop

Having this drill press in my workshop changed the way I approach drilling projects. The 16 different spindle speeds cover everything from delicate pilot holes to aggressive drilling, which means fewer tool changes and more efficient work. The ability to tilt the table ±45 degrees is something I found incredibly useful for bevel cuts or angled holes. My coworker, who’s more into metalworking, mentioned that the MT-2 spindle taper compatibility is great for using a wide range of tapered bits.

The depth stop with dual nut locking makes it easier to get consistent hole depths, crucial for doweling or mortise work. However, I did have to adjust the tension on the spindle return spring a couple of times to get the feel just right for my drilling pace. The built-in light socket—though missing the bulb—definitely improved visibility when working on darker materials or in shadowed corners.

Competitive Options in the Market

Comparing this floor drill press to other popular models like the Delta 18-900L or the Powermatic PM2800, a few things stand out. The Jet model offers more speed options than the Delta, which is limited to fewer speeds, giving it an edge in versatility. However, the Powermatic machine generally boasts slightly smoother operation and digital depth readouts, features absent here. Where the Jet drill press shines is in its robust build and quick-release table adjustment, which some competitors either lack or do less efficiently.

The 5-year limited warranty is competitive and on par with others in this category, providing peace of mind. Some rivals come with larger tables or more powerful motors, but they also cost significantly more. For someone prioritizing speed versatility and a solid worktable, this drill press is a strong contender despite some minor inconveniences.

Value for Money: Is It Worth the Investment?

Considering the price point relative to features and durability, this drill press offers a solid value proposition. The combination of a powerful 3/4 HP motor, 16-speed settings, and a heavy-duty worktable packed with useful features like the adjustable spindle return spring and depth stop makes it a worthy investment for serious hobbyists and small shops. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, the build quality and versatility justify the cost.

If you’re looking for a machine that balances power, precision, and adjustability without breaking the bank, this drill press provides bang for the buck. The ability to plug it into either 115V or 230V outlets adds to its flexibility, especially if your workspace setup changes or expands.

Features That Stand Out in Daily Use

Daily use revealed several positive features that make this drill press a dependable tool. The quick-release clamp on the worktable saves time when repositioning or changing angles, which kept my workflow smooth. The X-pattern grooves on the table let me mount fences and accessories securely, adding to the drill press’s versatility for custom jigs. I also liked the adjustable tension on the spindle return spring, which is a thoughtful touch for anyone doing repetitive drilling.

The belt and pulley cover’s hinged design is practical for maintenance and speed changes, though it takes some getting used to. The depth stop’s quick-set bolt allows for fast adjustments, ensuring consistent hole depths, which is critical in cabinetry or furniture making. The drill chuck and key included in the package mean you’re ready to start drilling as soon as it’s set up.

Shortcomings That Can Affect Some Users

Despite its many strengths, there are some areas for improvement. The drill press’s substantial weight means it’s not suited for those who need a portable solution or have limited workshop space. The lack of a work light bulb in the box was a minor inconvenience that caught me off guard. Also, the manual speed changes via belt and pulley adjustments could be considered outdated for those used to electronic speed controls.

The depth stop mechanism, while functional, lacks the precision of digital models, which might be a drawback for users who require exact depth readings. Additionally, the spindle return spring requires careful tension adjustment to avoid either sluggish or overly rapid return, which may be tricky for beginners.

• Heavy and stationary design limits portability
• Manual belt speed adjustments interrupt workflow
• No included bulb for the work light
• Depth stop lacks digital precision

Using this drill press taught me that it’s a solid, reliable machine with a few quirks. It’s best suited for those who value robust construction, multiple speeds, and a versatile worktable over the latest digital features or lightweight portability.

Additional information