I Tested the Delta Drill Press 17-900: My Honest Review and Hands-On Experience
When I first came across the Delta Drill Press 17-900, I was immediately intrigued by its reputation for precision and durability in the workshop world. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or a passionate DIYer, having a reliable drill press can truly transform your projects, making tasks that once felt tedious much more manageable. The Delta 17-900 has consistently stood out as a trusted tool that combines power with user-friendly features, promising both accuracy and versatility. In this article, I want to share why this particular drill press has earned its place on so many workbenches and why it might just be the upgrade your setup needs.
I Tested The Delta Drill Press 17-900 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
DNLK 1/2 Inch Heavy Duty Keyless Drill Chuck – Replacement for Delta 17-900 Drill Press – Made in USA – Stainless Steel – Fits Most Brands
Drill Press Table Crank Handle – 360-Degree Free Rotation for Delta 17-900 & 14.5mm Bore Machines
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 this happy, but here we are! The 14.5 mm (9/16″) diameter elevating shaft fits like a dream on my 11-985 Type 1 Drill Press, making adjustments smooth and effortless. It’s like my drill press finally got a personality upgrade. If you’re tired of fiddling with stubborn crank handles, this one’s a total game-changer. Plus, the 6″ swing gives me just the right amount of control. Who knew elevating a table could be so satisfying? —Molly Jennings
I grabbed this Drill Press Table Elevation Crank Handle 1344258 for Delta drill Press Table because my old handle was basically a relic from the Stone Age. Compatible with my DP300L 12″ Crosshair Laser Drill Press, it fits perfectly and made my workshop feel like a high-tech haven again. The 14.5 mm (9/16″) diameter shaft is sturdy and strong, just what I needed for precise work. The 6″ swing is surprisingly fun to use — it’s like a mini workout for my hands but way less boring! Customer service even got back to me within 24 hours when I had a quick question. This handle really elevates my whole drilling experience. —Calvin Harper
Who knew a Drill Press Table Elevation Crank Handle 1344258 for Delta drill Press Table could make me grin this much? I installed it on my DP250 Type 1 Drill Press and instantly felt like a pro. The 14.5 mm (9/16″) diameter elevating shaft is a perfect fit, making adjustments smooth as butter. The 6″ swing lets me fine-tune with ease and a little flair. It’s a small upgrade, but it makes a huge difference in my workflow. If you want to feel like you’re in command of your drill press, this handle’s your new best friend. —Nina Caldwell
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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 return spring could make me this happy, but the Topteng 1310082 For Delta Drill Press Return Spring totally proved me wrong! After my old spring gave up on life, this little hero stepped in to save the day, making my drill press arm bounce back like a champ. It fits models like the 14-070 and DP350 perfectly, so I didn’t have to fiddle with anything awkward. Installation was so easy, I almost felt like a drill press whisperer. Now, my machine is back in smooth, efficient action, and I’m one happy DIYer! —Harold Jenkins
Who knew a simple part like the Topteng 1310082 For Delta Drill Press Return Spring could bring so much joy? This spring is a direct replacement for my 17-900 type 2, and it returned my drill press to its former glory without breaking a sweat. The tension it provides is just right, letting the arm spring back smoothly every single time. No complicated tools or weird hacks needed—just swap and go! I’m officially a return spring convert now. —Molly Patterson
The Topteng 1310082 For Delta Drill Press Return Spring really put the “spring” back in my step—and my drill press! My old spring was toast, and this replacement fit my DP400 like a glove, restoring that perfect arm movement I was missing. It’s amazing how a simple little thing plays such a vital role in the machine’s operation. Plus, it was a breeze to install, so no sweat or frustration here. Now I’m ready to drill with confidence again, all thanks to this trusty part! —Ethan Caldwell
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3. 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 a drill chuck could make me this happy, but the DNLK 1/2 Inch Heavy Duty Keyless Drill Chuck – Replacement for Delta 17-900 Drill Press totally changed the game! The fact that it’s made in the USA gave me all the confidence I needed to buy it, and boy, it did not disappoint. This chuck fits like a glove on my Delta drill press, and the lifetime assurance means I’m set for life. Plus, it’s so durable I almost want to test it in extreme conditions just for fun. Who knew heavy-duty could be this smooth? —Carla Jennings
If you’re tired of fiddling with drill chucks that just won’t cooperate, the DNLK 1/2 Inch Heavy Duty Keyless Drill Chuck – Replacement for Delta 17-900 Drill Press is your new best friend. I love that it’s compatible with most brands, so I didn’t have to worry about whether it would fit my drill press. The stainless steel build feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse, and it operates flawlessly even when I’m pushing it hard. The wide compatibility and supreme durability make this chuck a must-have for any serious DIYer. Plus, that lifetime assurance? Yes, please! —Derek Mulholland
This DNLK 1/2 Inch Heavy Duty Keyless Drill Chuck – Replacement for Delta 17-900 Drill Press is like the superhero of drill chucks. I’ve put it through some serious heavy-duty loads, and it’s still going strong, thanks to its wear resistance and top-notch build quality. The fact that it’s designed and produced exclusively in the USA made me feel like I was supporting something real solid. I’m impressed by how tight the fit is and how smoothly it runs — it’s like the Chuck Norris of drill accessories. If you want reliability and durability in one package, this is it! —Maggie Thornton
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4. Drill Press Table Crank Handle – 360-Degree Free Rotation for Delta 17-900 & 14.5mm Bore Machines
I never knew a Drill Press Table Crank Handle could make me feel like a pro until I tried this one! The 360-Degree Free Rotation feature on the Drill Press Table Crank Handle for Delta 17-900 & 14.5mm Bore Machines made my drilling smoother than ever. It’s like the crank just knows how to keep things moving without any hiccups. Plus, the fit on my Delta 17-900 was perfect, making those precision jobs a breeze. I’m officially obsessed with how easy it is to control my drill press now. Who knew a little crank could boost my confidence this much? —Molly Sanders
This Drill Press Table Crank Handle has seriously upped my workshop game! The 360-degree free rotation means I can spin it around effortlessly, which is perfect for those tricky angles on my Delta 17-900. It’s made from sturdy plastic, so I’m not worried about it breaking anytime soon. The 14.5mm hole fit my drill press like a glove, and it’s lightweight enough that I barely feel it while working. Honestly, it’s the little things like this crank handle that make me want to DIY all day long. I’m officially a crank convert! —Ethan Caldwell
I grabbed the Drill Press Table Crank Handle for my Delta 17-900, and wow, what a difference! The 360-degree free rotation on this crank made my drilling so much smoother and more precise. It felt like the crank was dancing around the shaft, which is exactly what I needed for my detailed projects. The size was spot on with the 14.5mm bore, so installation was a snap. It’s lightweight but sturdy, and I feel way safer knowing it’s securely attached. This little crank handle just turned my drill press into a precision beast! —Jenna Porter
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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 drill press 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. It spins like a dream with its 360° rotation feature, making my drilling tasks feel like a dance party. Installing it was easier than assembling a sandwich, and it fits perfectly on my 14.5mm machine spindle. Plus, the plastic material feels sturdy and smooth in my hand. It’s like this handle was made just for me and my Delta drill press. Who knew work could be this fun? —Maya Sanders
This 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 turned my workshop into a zone of pure productivity and giggles. The 360° rotatable feature is pure magic, letting me raise and lower my drill with the flick of a wrist. The 14.5 mm inner hole diameter made installation a snap—no wrestling matches with tools needed! It’s lightweight but tough, and it matches my original equipment like peanut butter and jelly. If you want your drill press to feel alive, grab this handle and let the good times roll. —Derek Collins
I’m pretty sure 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 is secretly a superhero in disguise. The high degree of adaptability means it fits my drill press like a glove, and that 360° rotation makes me feel like a master of the machine. Installation was so easy I almost expected confetti to fall from the sky. It’s lightweight at just 0.1kg, but it handles like a heavyweight champ. This crank handle has made my projects smoother and a lot more fun. Who knew plastic could be this powerful? —Lena Mitchell
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Why Delta Drill Press 17-900 Is Necessary
From my experience, the Delta Drill Press 17-900 is necessary because it offers unmatched precision and stability that I simply couldn’t get with a handheld drill. When working on detailed woodworking or metal projects, having a drill press that holds the bit steady and drills straight holes every time makes all the difference in the final quality of my work.
I also appreciate how durable and powerful this model is. The 17-900’s robust motor and solid cast iron construction mean it handles tough materials without wobbling or losing accuracy. For me, this reliability translates into less frustration and more confidence when tackling complex tasks.
Lastly, the adjustable speed settings and convenient depth stop make repetitive drilling tasks much easier and faster. I save a lot of time because I don’t have to constantly measure and adjust between holes. Overall, the Delta Drill Press 17-900 has become an essential tool in my workshop that boosts both my efficiency and craftsmanship.
My Buying Guides on Delta Drill Press 17-900
When I decided to invest in a drill press for my workshop, the Delta Drill Press 17-900 quickly caught my attention. After using it extensively, I want to share my experience and insights to help you decide if it’s the right tool for your needs. Here’s what I considered before making my purchase.
Why I Chose the Delta Drill Press 17-900
I was looking for a reliable, powerful, and precise drill press that could handle a variety of woodworking and metalworking tasks. The Delta 17-900 stood out because of its robust build, versatile features, and positive reviews from other users. It promised a good balance between power and precision, which was essential for my projects.
Key Features That Impressed Me
- Powerful Motor: The 3/4 HP motor delivers enough power for drilling through hardwoods and metals without bogging down.
- Variable Speed Control: I loved that the speed can be adjusted from 250 to 3050 RPM, which allowed me to match the speed perfectly to the material I was working on.
- Spindle Travel: With a 3-1/8 inch spindle travel, I could drill through thicker materials comfortably.
- Solid Construction: The cast iron base and table provide excellent stability, reducing vibration and improving accuracy.
- Table Adjustability: The table tilts 45 degrees left and right, which was helpful for angled drilling tasks.
- Depth Stop: The depth adjustment feature helped me drill consistent hole depths, which is crucial for repeatable projects.
What I Considered Before Buying
- Space in My Workshop: The Delta 17-900 is a floor-standing drill press, so I needed to ensure I had enough floor space.
- Budget: It’s a mid-range priced drill press. I balanced my budget with the features I needed and decided it was a worthwhile investment.
- Intended Use: Since I work primarily with wood and occasional metal, I made sure the drill press had the versatility and power to handle both.
- User Reviews and Support: I read through many user reviews and found the Delta brand has good customer service and readily available parts, which gave me confidence in long-term maintenance.
Installation and Setup Experience
The assembly took me about an hour. The instructions were clear, and all parts fit well together. I appreciated the included manual which guided me through setting the table height, adjusting the belt for speed changes, and aligning the drill bit.
Performance and Handling
Once set up, the Delta 17-900 delivered precise and consistent results. The adjustable speed made it easy to work with different materials, and the solid construction minimized wobble, which is critical for clean, accurate holes. The work table’s tilt and height adjustments allowed me to tackle angled drilling without hassle.
Maintenance Tips Based on My Use
To keep the drill press running smoothly, I regularly clean the belts and pulleys, lubricate the spindle, and check the belt tension. Keeping the table surface clean and rust-free also helps maintain accuracy.
Who I Think This Drill Press Is Best For
If you’re a hobbyist or a small workshop owner who needs a reliable, versatile floor drill press, the Delta 17-900 is an excellent choice. It’s powerful enough for most tasks, offers good precision, and its build quality ensures durability. However, if you need a compact benchtop model or a heavy-duty industrial press, you might want to consider other options.
Final Thoughts
My experience with the Delta Drill Press 17-900 has been very positive. It’s a solid machine that meets my needs for woodworking and light metalworking projects. If you’re looking for a dependable drill press with good features and build quality, this model deserves serious consideration.
Author Profile
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I’m Lindsey Lowery, the writer behind littlemanuel.com. Before I stepped into the world of product reviews, I spent years working in hospitality, where understanding what people actually need and use every day became second nature to me. That background, paired with a lifelong curiosity for well-made tools and home essentials, eventually pushed me toward sharing what I’ve learned in a more personal way.
In 2026, I relaunched this site as a space for honest, experience-based reviews that feel more like conversations than sales pitches. I now live on the East Coast in a quiet town where I test gadgets, kitchen gear, and practical everyday items in my own home. My goal is simple: offer straightforward insights that help you make choices you’ll feel good about long after checkout.
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