Review: Genesis 5-Speed Drill Press
Contents
To be honest, this drill press doesn't make a strong first impression. Its motor is small, rated at roughly 2.5 amps, where many hobby drill presses run around 3 amps or more.
Still, the Genesis 5-Speed drill press has a table that tilts up to 45 degrees, an adjustable depth stop and a cast-iron base for stability.
It has a 1/2-inch keyed chuck and comes with a chuck key and an Allen wrench.
What Are the RPM Speeds of the Genesis Drill Press?
This is a belt-drive machine with five speeds. You change speeds by moving the belt between pulleys, and the speed chart is usually printed inside the belt cover.
Use slower speeds for larger bits, hardwoods and metal. Use faster speeds for small bits in softwood.
The listed speeds are no-load speeds. The small motor can bog down or stall if the speed is too low for the bit and material, so feed slowly and let the bit cut.
The 8-inch swing means it drills to the center of a board up to 8 inches wide. The table is small, so add an auxiliary table for larger work. Bolt the base to your bench, since a light drill press can shift when you pull hard on the handle.
How Effective Is the Adjustable Depth Stop?
The adjustable depth stop lets you drill a series of holes to the same depth. Check the stop nut is tight before each run, then test on scrap.
It is easier to use this drill press with smaller bits. The 1/2-inch chuck accepts larger bits, but the small motor works hard with them.
Clamp the workpiece or use a hold-down. OSHA warns that a drill can catch loose stock and spin it, and recommends a hold-down fixture over your hands.
This drill press is UL-listed and is backed by a manufacturer's 2-year limited warranty.
Our Recommendation for the Genesis Drill Press
This drill press doesn't have the power to compete with larger benchtop models. For small holes in wood, it does the job.
For this reason, we would recommend this drill press for light hobbyist work and skill-building. Once you've outgrown it, you'll be ready to step up to a larger, more powerful drill press.
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