Review: WEN 5-Speed Drill Press

Want an affordable drill press that still covers the basics for woodworking? The WEN 5-speed drill press (model 4208) is a compact 8-inch benchtop model. It includes a 1/2-inch keyed chuck and on-board key storage.

You change speed by moving the belt between pulleys. The five settings are 740, 1,100, 1,530, 2,100 and 3,140 RPM. The spindle travels 2 inches and has a locking depth stop, so you can drill repeatable holes.

What Are the Additional Features of the WEN 5-Speed Drill Press?

According to WEN's 4208 product page:

• The 6.5 by 6.5-inch worktable adjusts for height and bevels up to 45 degrees left and right.
• A 2.3-amp induction motor with ball bearings runs on standard 120V household power. It suits light- to medium-duty work.
• The swing is 8 inches, meaning it can drill to the center of an 8-inch-diameter workpiece.
• The base is cast iron and has holes for bolting it to a bench, which keeps the press from walking.
• The JT33 spindle taper chuck takes bits from about 1/16 inch up to 1/2 inch.
• WEN backs it with a two-year warranty.

It is one of the smallest presses in WEN's lineup, but it is a useful step up from a handheld drill for square, repeatable holes.

What Could Be Improved with the WEN 5-Speed Drill Press?

With only 2 inches of spindle travel, deep holes take two passes: drill, raise the table, and drill again. That limits it for larger woodworking jobs.

It is built for wood, plastic and light metal. Thin aluminum and light steel are fine with sharp titanium drill bits, a slow speed and the work clamped to the table. For thick steel, a larger press is a better fit.

Always clamp small parts instead of holding them by hand, and remove the chuck key before switching on.

If you're just getting into woodworking or you're looking for a small benchtop drill press to compliment your needs, then the WEN 5-speed drill press will get the job done.

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Sources

• WEN 4208 8-Inch 5-Speed Drill Press, WEN Products
• 1910.213: Woodworking machinery requirements, OSHA