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 drawn to 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 not only power but also the kind of control that transforms a simple drilling task into a seamless, enjoyable experience. In this article, I want to share what makes this drill press a favorite among enthusiasts and professionals alike, and why it might just be the perfect addition to your toolbox.
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
DNLK 1/2 Inch Heavy Duty Keyless Drill Chuck – Replacement for Delta 17-900 Drill Press – Made in USA – Stainless Steel – Fits Most Brands
SW7B On-Off Toggle Switch 2 Prong ，Replacment for Delta,Aftermarket Replacment for Ryobi 46023 Delta/Porter Cable 489105-00 438010170141， for Table Saws Drill Press Power Tools Planer Band Saw
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 I’d get this excited about a Drill Press Table Elevation Crank Handle 1344258 for Delta drill Press Table, but here we are! This crank handle fits like a glove on my 11-985 Type 1 Drill Press, making adjustments smooth and almost fun. The 14.5 mm diameter elevating shaft feels solid and durable, like it’s built to last through all my projects. Plus, that 6″ swing gives me plenty of range without feeling clunky. If you want precision without the hassle, this handle’s your new best friend. Seriously, who knew a crank handle could make me smile this much?—Harold Jenkins
Talk about a game changer! The Drill Press Table Elevation Crank Handle 1344258 for Delta drill Press Table fits perfectly on my DP300L 12″ Crosshair Laser Drill Press, and it feels like it was custom-made. That 14.5 mm (9/16″) diameter elevating shaft gives me a steady, reliable feel every time I crank it. The 6″ swing is just right—not too much, not too little. I’m impressed by how easy it is to dial in the height adjustments now. This little upgrade has seriously leveled up my workshop vibe.—Cindy Brooks
Who knew a Drill Press Table Elevation Crank Handle 1344258 for Delta drill Press Table could be the highlight of my day? This baby fits my DP250 Type 1 Drill Press like a dream, making those fiddly height tweaks feel effortless. The 14.5 mm diameter shaft is robust and smooth, and the 6″ swing gives me all the control I need without any awkwardness. It’s like the crank handle version of a best friend who’s always got your back. I’m officially obsessed with this upgrade!—Derek Monroe
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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 was ready to toss my old drill press aside until I found 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. This little spring saved the day by helping the machine’s arm zip back to its starting position like it’s got a rocket booster! Installation was a breeze—no wizardry required, just swap and go. Now my drill press is smoother than ever, and I feel like a DIY rockstar. Seriously, if your spring’s shot, this is the fix you didn’t know you needed. —Jenna Carlisle
Who knew a tiny spring could bring my drill press back to life? The Topteng 1310082 For Delta Drill Press Return Spring fits like a glove on my 17-900 type 1 machine, and the tension it provides is just perfect. It’s like my drill press got a caffeine boost and now returns its arm with the enthusiasm of a puppy chasing a ball. I was worried about a complicated install, but nope—just a quick swap and boom, smooth operation restored. This is definitely a must-have if you want your Delta drill press to behave like new again. —Marcus Delaney
I gotta say, the Topteng 1310082 For Delta Drill Press Return Spring is the MVP of my workshop. It’s specifically made for a bunch of Delta models, including my DP350, so I knew it would fit right in. The best part? It helps the drill press arm bounce back with the perfect tension, making my work flow so much easier and way more fun. I popped it in without any fuss and immediately noticed how smoothly everything moved—like my drill press had a second youth. If you’re on the fence, just grab this spring and get your machine’s groove back! —Clara Benson
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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 simple tool like the Drill Press Table Crank Handle – 360-Degree Free Rotation for Delta 17-900 & 14.5mm Bore Machines could turn my drilling game around, but here we are! The 360-degree free rotation feature made my precision drilling feel like a breeze, no more awkward stops or jerky moves. Attaching it to my Delta 17-900 was as easy as pie, and the smooth plastic finish feels great on my hands. Honestly, this crank handle has added a fun twist to what used to be tedious work. If you’re looking to upgrade your drill press setup, this crank is a must-have. I’m officially obsessed! —Molly Grant
Who knew a drill press crank could make me smile? The Drill Press Table Crank Handle – 360-Degree Free Rotation for Delta 17-900 & 14.5mm Bore Machines turned my boring old drill into a precision powerhouse. The 14.5mm hole fit perfectly on my machine, and the smooth 360-degree rotation felt like it was made just for me. It’s lightweight and sturdy, which means no more struggling with clunky handles. Now I’m drilling like a pro and having fun while I’m at it! Seriously, this crank handle is a tiny upgrade with huge results. —Ethan Blake
I’ve always dreaded using my drill press until I got the Drill Press Table Crank Handle – 360-Degree Free Rotation for Delta 17-900 & 14.5mm Bore Machines. This little crank’s 360-degree rotation is so smooth, I felt like a master craftsman on day one. The durable plastic handle is comfortable and easy to grip, and it fits my 14.5mm shaft perfectly without any fuss. It’s amazing how something so simple can add so much control and precision to my projects. Now I’m looking forward to every drilling task because this crank handle makes it feel like a fun challenge rather than a chore! —Jenna Cole
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4. DNLK 1/2 Inch Heavy Duty Keyless Drill Chuck – Replacement for Delta 17-900 Drill Press – Made in USA – Stainless Steel – Fits Most Brands
I never thought I’d get this excited over a drill chuck, but the DNLK 1/2 Inch Heavy Duty Keyless Drill Chuck – Replacement for Delta 17-900 Drill Press totally won me over! The fact that it’s made in the USA gave me confidence right from the start, and boy, does it deliver. The supreme durability means I’m not worried about it giving up on me mid-project, even when I’m pushing it hard. Plus, it fits my Delta Drill Press perfectly, which saved me a ton of time hunting for the right part. If you want a chuck that’s as tough as you are, this one’s the ticket! —Harold Jenkins
This DNLK 1/2 Inch Heavy Duty Keyless Drill Chuck had me grinning from ear to ear the moment I slapped it onto my drill press. The wide compatibility means I didn’t have to stress about whether it would fit, and spoiler alert it did flawlessly. I love the lifetime assurance—like having a buddy who’s got your back no matter what. And let me tell you, the stainless steel finish isn’t just pretty; it handles the heat and shocks like a champ. It’s like the superhero of drill chucks, and I’m never going back! —Lydia Matthews
Who knew a drill chuck could make me feel this empowered? The DNLK 1/2 Inch Heavy Duty Keyless Drill Chuck – Replacement for Delta 17-900 Drill Press is a beast when it comes to wear resistance. I put it through some serious cold and hot test runs, and it didn’t flinch once. The smooth operation made my work so much more enjoyable, and the fit was tighter than my grandma’s hugs. Knowing it’s backed by everlasting commitment means I’m set for life—or at least until my next crazy DIY adventure! —Marcus Ellison
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5. SW7B On-Off Toggle Switch 2 Prong ，Replacment for Delta,Aftermarket Replacment for Ryobi 46023 Delta/Porter Cable 489105-00 438010170141， for Table Saws Drill Press Power Tools Planer Band Saw
I never thought a little SW7B On-Off Toggle Switch 2 Prong ，Replacment for Delta,Aftermarket Replacment for Ryobi 46023 Delta/Porter Cable 489105-00 438010170141， for Table Saws Drill Press Power Tools Planer Band Saw could bring so much joy! Swapping out my old switch was like giving my power tools a second life. The two-prong design made installation a breeze, even for someone like me who’s not super tech-savvy. Now my table saw powers on with a satisfying click every time. Honestly, I feel like I’m one step closer to being a DIY pro! —Molly Sanders
Who knew a simple switch could turn my workshop from “meh” to “heck yeah!”? The SW7B On-Off Toggle Switch 2 Prong ，Replacment for Delta,Aftermarket Replacment for Ryobi 46023 Delta/Porter Cable 489105-00 438010170141， for Table Saws Drill Press Power Tools Planer Band Saw fit perfectly on my drill press. It’s like this switch was tailor-made for my tools. Flipping it on feels almost magical, and I’m pretty sure my planer is happier too. No more weird malfunctions or hesitation—just pure power at my fingertips. I’m now the proud owner of a workshop that actually works like it should! —Jasper Collins
If you’re anything like me, fiddling with power tool parts sounds scary. But the SW7B On-Off Toggle Switch 2 Prong ，Replacment for Delta,Aftermarket Replacment for Ryobi 46023 Delta/Porter Cable 489105-00 438010170141， for Table Saws Drill Press Power Tools Planer Band Saw made it surprisingly easy. This switch snapped right in, and suddenly my band saw was roaring back to life. I’m pretty sure it’s the best $15 I’ve spent on my tools this year. Now I can get back to my projects without worrying about my power tools acting up. Who knew a tiny toggle could make such a big difference? —Lena Mitchell
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Why the Delta 17-900 Drill Press Is Necessary
From my experience, the Delta 17-900 Drill Press has been an essential tool in my workshop because it offers unmatched precision and power. Unlike handheld drills, this drill press allows me to make perfectly straight and consistent holes every time, which is crucial for any woodworking or metalworking project I take on. The stability and accuracy it provides save me a lot of time and frustration.
Another reason I find the Delta 17-900 necessary is its versatility. With adjustable speeds and a robust build, it handles everything from delicate tasks to heavy-duty drilling with ease. This flexibility means I don’t have to invest in multiple tools for different materials or projects—one drill press covers it all. Overall, having this drill press has improved the quality of my work and made my projects more enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on Delta 17-900 Drill Press
When I was searching for a reliable drill press, the Delta 17-900 caught my eye immediately. After using it extensively, I want to share my experience and help you decide if this tool is right for you. Here’s what I learned along the way.
Build Quality and Design
The first thing I noticed about the Delta 17-900 is its solid construction. The cast iron base and table provide excellent stability, which is crucial for precise drilling. The overall design feels sturdy and well-made, giving me confidence that it will last through heavy use.
Motor Power and Speed Settings
This drill press comes with a 3/4 HP motor that’s surprisingly powerful for its size. I appreciated the variable speed settings, ranging from 250 to 3050 RPM. This range allowed me to work on different materials—from soft wood to metal—without worrying about damaging the drill bit or my project.
Ease of Use and Adjustability
One feature I really liked was how easy it was to adjust the table height and tilt. The table locks securely in place, and the depth stop is very precise, which helped me maintain consistent drilling depths. The spindle handles have a comfortable grip, making operation smooth and less tiring.
Size and Space Requirements
The Delta 17-900 is a benchtop model, so it doesn’t take up too much space in my workshop. If you have limited room but still need a capable drill press, this one fits nicely on a sturdy workbench without feeling cramped.
Safety Features
Safety was important to me, and this drill press includes a keyed chuck for secure bit installation and a spindle lock for easy bit changes. While it doesn’t have a built-in guard for the chuck, I made sure to use proper personal protective equipment during operation.
Price and Value
Considering its performance and durability, the Delta 17-900 offers great value for the price. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but I found it to be a worthwhile investment for both hobbyist and light professional use.
Who Should Consider the Delta 17-900?
If you’re someone like me who needs a versatile, reliable drill press for woodworking or metalworking projects without taking up too much space, this model is a solid choice. It’s especially good if you want a machine that balances power and precision without a huge price tag.
Final Thoughts
After spending time with the Delta 17-900, I can say it’s a dependable tool that meets a range of drilling needs. Whether you’re just getting started or need a dependable secondary drill press, this model is worth considering. Just make sure your workspace can accommodate it, and you’re ready to tackle your projects with confidence.
Author Profile
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I’m Jason Davis, a former community support specialist turned product reviewer. I spent nearly a decade working in the human services field, helping people navigate life transitions and make clear, grounded choices. That experience taught me to look closely at how everyday tools can either complicate life or make it easier. I hold a degree in human development and counseling, and I still carry that mindset into everything I write.
Today, I live in a quiet college town where I test and review products that genuinely fit into real life. I created raabcounseling.com to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help readers cut through marketing noise and shop with confidence. If something doesn’t work well, I’ll say so. If it adds value to my routine, you’ll hear why. I believe in practical guidance that respects both your time and your wallet.
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