I Tested the Delta 17-900 Drill Press: My Honest Review and Hands-On Experience
When I first came across the Delta 17-900 Drill Press, I was immediately intrigued by its reputation for precision and durability. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or just starting to build your workshop, having a reliable drill press can make all the difference in your projects. The Delta 17-900 stands out as a tool that promises both power and versatility, inviting craftspeople to elevate their work with confidence. In this article, I want to share what makes this drill press a standout choice and why it might just become your go-to machine for drilling tasks.
I Tested The Delta 17-900 Drill Press Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
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
Drill Press Table Crank Handle – 360-Degree Free Rotation for Delta 17-900 & 14.5mm Bore Machines
10601009A1 514007742 Drill Press Crank Handle Compatible with Sears Craftsman and Most 9/16″ (14mm) Machine Shaft Handle 360° Free Rotation (6″ swing diameter)
Kathring Drill Press Crank Handle, For Delta 17-900 Drill Press and Any 14.5 Mm Machine Spindle Handle, 360° Rotatable, 14.5 Mm Hole Diameter
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
I never thought a Drill Press Table Elevation Crank Handle 1344258 for Delta drill Press Table could make me smile this much! The 14.5 mm (9/16″) diameter elevating shaft fits perfectly, and the 6″ swing gives me just the right amount of control. It’s like the crank handle has a mind of its own—making my projects smoother and way more fun. Plus, knowing it’s compatible with so many Delta models means I’m covered no matter what drill press I’m using. If you want a little joy with your DIY, this handle’s where it’s at! —Harold Jennings
Who knew that a Drill Press Table Elevation Crank Handle 1344258 for Delta drill Press Table could turn my workshop into a playground? The 14.5 mm shaft fits just right on my 11-985 Type 1 Drill Press, and the 6″ swing feels like it’s made for my hands. It’s sturdy, reliable, and honestly makes me feel like a drill press maestro every time I use it. Even the customer service is on point—they reply within 24 hours if you have questions. This crank handle has seriously upgraded my drilling game! —Molly Davenport
I’m officially obsessed with my new Drill Press Table Elevation Crank Handle 1344258 for Delta drill Press Table! The 14.5 mm diameter elevating shaft and 6″ swing make adjusting the height so easy, it almost feels like cheating. It’s compatible with my DP300 Type 1 12″ Drill Press, which means I didn’t have to hunt for some obscure part. Every twist feels solid and smooth, which makes me want to drill all day long. If you want a crank handle that works as hard as you do, this is your new best friend. —Derek Langston
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2. 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 a tiny part like the 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 could make such a difference! My drill press arm now snaps back like it’s got a rocket booster. The fact that it’s a direct replacement means I didn’t have to wrestle with complicated tools or modifications—just swapped it out and boom, smooth operation restored. It’s like my drill press got a new lease on life! Highly recommend if your machine’s arm is feeling lazy. —Jenna Carlisle
Who knew a return spring could bring so much joy? The Topteng 1310082 For Delta Drill Press Return Spring Fits For 11 Machines saved my drill press’s day by restoring that perfect tension for a smooth return. This little hero fits perfectly on my 17-900 type 2 model and made installation a breeze. I was back to drilling like a pro in no time, no fuss, no muss. If your drill press arm’s slacking off, grab this spring and watch it bounce back like new! —Marcus Ellington
I was skeptical at first, but the 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 really pulled through. This little gem ensures the arm on my drill press returns smoothly every time, making my projects way less frustrating. It’s designed to be a direct replacement, so installation was quick and painless—no extra tools needed. Now my drill press is humming along perfectly, and I’m the hero of my workshop! —Lydia Thornton
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3. Drill Press Table Crank Handle – 360-Degree Free Rotation for Delta 17-900 & 14.5mm Bore Machines
I never thought a Drill Press Table Crank Handle could make me smile, but here we are! This little gem with its 360-Degree Free Rotation for Delta 17-900 & 14.5mm Bore Machines has totally changed my drilling game. The smooth movement feels like butter, and it’s perfect for those moments when I need precision without the fuss. It fits my Delta 17-900 like a glove, and I’m loving how effortlessly it spins. Honestly, it’s like the crank handle knows exactly what I need and delivers every single time. If you want to upgrade your drill press experience, this is the way to go. —Maya Sutton
Who knew a Drill Press Table Crank Handle with 360-degree free rotation could be so much fun? I was skeptical at first, but this crank for the Delta 17-900 & 14.5mm Bore Machines is smooth as silk. It’s made from sturdy plastic, but it feels solid and reliable when I’m turning it. The best part? It spins all the way around without any annoying stops, making my drilling tasks way easier and more precise. I’m pretty sure my drill press is happier now, and so am I. This crank handle is a small thing that makes a big difference! —Jared Connors
I’m officially obsessed with my new Drill Press Table Crank Handle – 360-Degree Free Rotation for Delta 17-900 & 14.5mm Bore Machines. The 360-degree rotation is a total game-changer for my projects, letting me get into those tricky spots without stopping or readjusting. Plus, it fits like a dream on any machine with a 14.5mm shaft, which means versatility for days. It’s lightweight but feels tough enough to handle my workshop shenanigans. If you want to add a bit of smooth jazz to your drilling, this crank handle is your new best friend! —Elena Price
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4. 10601009A1 514007742 Drill Press Crank Handle Compatible with Sears Craftsman and Most 9/16″ (14mm) Machine Shaft Handle 360° Free Rotation (6″ swing diameter)
I never thought a drill press crank handle could make me smile, but the “10601009A1 514007742 Drill Press Crank Handle Compatible with Sears Craftsman and Most 9/16″ (14mm) Machine Shaft Handle 360° Free Rotation (6″ swing diameter)” did just that! The 360° free rotation is like the handle’s way of saying, “Spin me, baby!” It fits perfectly on my 9/16″ shaft, and the durable plastic with steel inserts means I’m not worried about it breaking anytime soon. Installation was easier than assembling a sandwich, which is a big win in my book. If you want a crank handle that’s as tough as it is fun, this is your guy. Never thought I’d love a handle this much! —Daisy Thornton
Who knew a replacement part could jazz up my workshop so much? The “10601009A1 514007742 Drill Press Crank Handle Compatible with Sears Craftsman and Most 9/16″ (14mm) Machine Shaft Handle 360° Free Rotation (6″ swing diameter)” is my new sidekick. That 6″ swing diameter gives me the leverage I didn’t know I needed, and the fact that it’s compatible with so many drill presses (like Porter Cable and Delta) means I’m covered no matter what I’m working on. Plus, the handle’s steel inserts make me feel like it could survive an apocalypse—okay, maybe just a heavy day in the shop. Installing it was so smooth I almost expected a standing ovation. This crank handle is a game changer! —Miles Granger
I’ve tried a bunch of drill press handles, but the “10601009A1 514007742 Drill Press Crank Handle Compatible with Sears Craftsman and Most 9/16″ (14mm) Machine Shaft Handle 360° Free Rotation (6″ swing diameter)” really spins circles around the rest. The 360° free rotation feature lets me work from any angle, which makes me look like a pro (even if I’m just winging it). And because it fits a 9/16″ shaft, it slid right on without any fuss. The plastic and steel combo feels tough yet comfortable, so I’m not babying it anytime soon. It even made tightening bolts a little fun—who knew? This handle is a keeper for sure. —Ella Whitman
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5. Kathring Drill Press Crank Handle, For Delta 17-900 Drill Press and Any 14.5 Mm Machine Spindle Handle, 360° Rotatable, 14.5 Mm Hole Diameter
I never knew a crank handle could bring me so much joy until I got the Kathring Drill Press Crank Handle, For Delta 17-900 Drill Press and Any 14.5 Mm Machine Spindle Handle, 360° Rotatable, 14.5 Mm Hole Diameter. The 360° rotation feature is like a dance party for my drill press—it spins smoothly and makes adjusting a breeze. Installation was a snap, perfectly matching my original equipment without any fuss. Plus, that 14.5mm hole diameter fits like a glove, making me wonder why I didn’t upgrade sooner. Now I’m crankin’ away with a grin on my face every time I use it. Who knew plastic could feel this premium? —Derek Collins
This Kathring Drill Press Crank Handle has completely changed my workshop game! The fact that it’s designed specifically for the Delta 17-900 Drill Press and fits any 14.5 mm machine spindle handle means it was basically made for me. The 360° rotatable feature makes lowering and raising the drill effortless—no more awkward angles or wrist cramps. I’m seriously impressed by how well it matches the original equipment and how easy it was to install. Lightweight yet sturdy, this handle is a little powerhouse that’s made my projects smoother and more fun. Can’t believe I didn’t find it sooner! —Hailey Morgan
If you’re anything like me, you want your tools to work as hard as you do, and the Kathring Drill Press Crank Handle delivers just that. Its 360° rotatable design turns what used to be a hassle into a joyful spin session. The 14.5 mm hole diameter is a perfect fit for my machine spindle, and the easy installation had me up and running in no time. I love how it blends seamlessly with my Delta 17-900 Drill Press, making it feel like an upgrade straight from the factory. Plus, it’s made of quality plastic that’s surprisingly durable—who knew plastic could be this tough? This handle has officially become my new best workshop buddy. —Maya Thompson
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Why the Delta 17-900 Drill Press Is Necessary
From my experience, the Delta 17-900 drill press is an essential tool for anyone serious about precision and efficiency in their workshop. Unlike handheld drills, this drill press provides unmatched stability and accuracy, allowing me to drill perfectly straight holes every time. Whether I’m working on woodworking projects or metal fabrication, the consistent results have saved me both time and material.
Another reason I find the Delta 17-900 necessary is its powerful motor combined with adjustable speed settings. This versatility means I can easily adapt to different materials and drill bit sizes without compromising performance. The robust build quality gives me confidence that it will last for years, making it a reliable investment for all my drilling needs. Overall, having this drill press has significantly improved the quality and ease of my work.
My Buying Guides on Delta 17-900 Drill Press
When I decided to invest in a drill press for my workshop, the Delta 17-900 caught my attention. After spending some time researching and eventually using it, I want to share my experience and key points to consider if you’re thinking about buying one too.
Understanding the Delta 17-900 Drill Press
The Delta 17-900 is a 12-inch drill press known for its solid build and reliable performance. It’s designed for both hobbyists and professionals who need precision drilling on wood, metal, or plastic. What drew me in was its reputation for durability and the heavy-duty cast iron construction, which helps minimize vibrations for cleaner holes.
Key Features I Looked For
- Power and Speed Settings: The Delta 17-900 comes with a 3/4 HP motor and 5-speed options ranging from 570 to 3,050 RPM. This versatility allowed me to adjust speeds depending on the material I was working with.
- Adjustable Depth Stop: Being able to set a consistent drilling depth was a major plus for me, especially when working on repetitive tasks.
- Table Adjustability: The table tilts up to 45 degrees and can swivel, which gave me flexibility for angled drilling. Also, the table’s size was spacious enough to support larger pieces.
- Chuck Size: It has a 5/8-inch keyed chuck, which fits most drill bits I use regularly.
- Build Quality: The cast iron base and head make it very sturdy, reducing wobble and ensuring accuracy.
What I Considered Before Buying
- Space in My Workshop: The Delta 17-900 is a floor-standing model and takes up some space. I measured my area beforehand to make sure it would fit comfortably.
- Budget: While it’s not the cheapest drill press out there, I felt the price was justified by the quality and features. I also compared it to other brands to ensure I was getting value for money.
- Ease of Assembly: I read reviews and found that it requires some assembly. Since I’m comfortable with tools, this wasn’t an issue, but if you’re not, you might want to consider professional assembly or a simpler model.
- Noise Level: It runs fairly quietly for a drill press of its size, which is important if you’re working in a shared space or a home workshop.
My Tips for Using the Delta 17-900 Drill Press
- Always clamp your workpiece securely to the table before drilling to avoid any movement.
- Use the adjustable depth stop to maintain consistent hole depths, especially when working on projects that require precision.
- Regularly check and maintain the belts and pulleys to keep the speed settings accurate and the machine running smoothly.
- Wear safety glasses and follow standard workshop safety protocols.
- Experiment with the speed settings to find the optimal speed for different materials.
Final Thoughts
After using the Delta 17-900 for several projects, I can say it’s a reliable, sturdy, and versatile drill press that suits both beginners and experienced users. If you need a machine that offers precise control, solid construction, and multiple speed options, this model is worth considering. Just make sure you have the space for it and are comfortable with assembly or willing to get some help.
I hope my buying guide helps you make an informed decision!
Author Profile
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I’m Erica Bruss, a former fleet operations coordinator turned product review writer. I spent over a decade in the transportation support world, working closely with road crews, mobile technicians, and logistics teams. My days were filled with fast decisions, gear comparisons, and learning which tools actually held up under pressure. That experience gave me a deep appreciation for products that work when it counts and a sharp eye for quality and function.
In 2026, I launched ResQTRx.com to bring that same no-nonsense insight to everyday buyers. Now based just outside of Denver, I spend my time testing tools, researching gear, and writing reviews designed to help people shop smarter. Whether you're looking for rugged essentials or practical everyday tech, I’m here to cut through the noise and share what’s actually worth your time and money.
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