Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)First the Pros:
I have always looked on with envy when some of my woodworking friends show off their latest Powermatic tool and so recently when I decided to upgrade my much older drill press, I gulped a couple of times when I saw the price tag on the Powermatic PM2800 but finally convinced myself that I had to have it. Without a doubt it is a feature loaded superbly crafted drill press. The Morse 5/8" chuck, the 1 HP motor, the laser cross hair, the large expandable work surface and the variable speed control with the LED spindle speed readout were features that were lacking on the older press and after you experiences how convenient these are you can't help wondering how you ever got along without them.
The cons:
That said, there were a couple of things that left me with a less than satisfied feeling that this may just not be the drill press for me. Let me explain...I estimate that about 25% of the time I use a drill press for metal work as opposed to woodwork. When doing the metalwork I use a machinist vice that I clamp in place on the drill press table and the table on the Powermatic is not designed to accommodate this vise. The other problem is the lowest speed available is 400 RPM and I need to have 300RPM or less when drilling into steel. I did manage to come up with a method to attach the vice to the table using the T-slots but I don't know of any way that I can overcome the lack of a lower speed. Of course none of this detracts from the high quality of this tool. In my desire to acquire my first Powermatic I failed to consider all the ways I use a drill press So I guess I'll just keep the old drill press for my metal work.
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Powermatic PM2800 1792800 18-Inch Variable Speed Drill PressDesigned with the needs of the professional woodworker in mind, the Powermatic PM2800 18-Inch Variable-Speed Drill Press offers innovative features other models simply cannot match. Built for ultra-dependable performance, the PM2800 features dual LED work lights and a dual laser guide system. Both the expandable work table and motor are the industry's largest in the PM2800's class.
Durable and VersatileWith high-end castings and ultra-tough steel components, the PM2800 is as durable as it is versatile.The three and one-eighth-inch diameter steel column, over-sized quill, and cast-iron table system providethe rigidity needed for true accuracy and repeatability. The all cast-iron base offers stability,decreases vibrations, and comes with holes in each corner for securing the PM2800 to a suitable floor.
For incredible versatility, the PM2800 offers a full 18-inch swing, a spindle-to-base clearance of 47 inches, and a maximum spindle-to-table capacity of 26-1/2 inches.
Powerful One-Horsepower TEFC MotorThe PM2800 comes equipped with a heavy-duty one-horsepower, one-Ph, 115-/230-volt, fifteen-/eight-amp,TEFC (totally enclosed fan cooled) motor that's pre-wired for 115-volt power, but can be converted to use 230 volts.
To make it easy to apply all that power, a single-handle, variable-speed control lets the user choose the speedneeded without touching the belt. And the 400 to 3,000 RPM spindle speed range provides additional flexibility.
Lights and Laser for AccuracyTo help ensure optimum accuracy, the PM2800 boasts a pair of strategically located LED work lights that are bright enoughto make seeing layout marks easy, but mounted on the underside of the head to prevent glaring. A simple push-button On/Offswitch lets you use the LED lights only when needed.
A second push-button On/Off switch controls a pair of fully adjustablelasers, aimed to create an "X" at the drill-bit point of entry.
Keyless Chuck and SpindleFor user-friendly operation, the PM2800 has an oversized two-inch diameter quill with a number-two Morse taper for stabilityeven when using large bits in tough woods. There's also a high-quality, keyless, 5/8-inch capacity chuck for effortless bitchanges, and a quill (spindle) assembly with full 4-3/8-inch plunge capacity.
Finger-operated depth stops make it easy tolimit drilling depth for repetitive jobs, while three large handles make plunging the spindle easy, even when drilling largeholes in tough woods.
Expandable Table for FlexibilityMeasuring 14.0 x 16.0 inches (W x D), the main surface table gives you plenty of space for larger workpieces.If you need more room, simply slide the extensions out and the width grows to 30 inches. For added convenience,the table features twin T-slot grooves for a miter gauge or other homemade jigs. It also tilts to 90-degrees tothe left or right, and can be locked at any point.
The PM2800 boasts a fence with a pair of flat, extruded aluminum faces that can be opened to increase the overallsupport to 30 inches. Splitting the fence faces also reveals the inlet for the built-in dust collection thatterminates in a two-inch diameter ID port that angles out from the rear of the fence to keep the hose out of the way.
Dimensions and Warranty InformationThe PM2800 measures approximately 23.5 x 68.0 x 31.5 inches (W x H x D), weighs 209 pounds, and is backed by a five-year warranty.
What's in the BoxOne column assembly with rack and ring; one head assembly; one base; one table bracket and table; three down-feed handles; one chuck; one drift key; one arbor; one shift knob; one locking handle; all necessary hardware; manual; and warranty card.
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