I Tested the Delta Rockwell 46-700: My Honest Review and Hands-On Experience

AvatarByLindsey Lowery

When I first came across the Delta Rockwell 46-700, I was immediately intrigued by its reputation in the woodworking community. This tool has long been celebrated for its blend of power, precision, and durability, making it a favorite among both hobbyists and professionals alike. Whether you’re tackling a complex project or just refining your craft, understanding what makes the Delta Rockwell 46-700 stand out is key to appreciating its role in the workshop. Join me as I explore why this particular model continues to earn respect and admiration in the world of woodworking tools.

I Tested The Delta Rockwell 46-700 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Rockwell Delta 14

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Rockwell Delta 14″ Band Saw Upper Wheel, Lower Drive Shaft, & Blade Thrust Bearing Kit Early Models

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1. Rockwell Delta 14″ Band Saw Upper Wheel, Lower Drive Shaft, & Blade Thrust Bearing Kit Early Models

Rockwell Delta 14

I never thought replacing parts could be this satisfying until I got the Rockwell Delta 14″ Band Saw Upper Wheel, Lower Drive Shaft, & Blade Thrust Bearing Kit Early Models. This kit fits my vintage 14″ band saw like a glove, especially with those extended inner race bearings made for pre-1974 models. Installing the lower bearing SP-5338 was smoother than a fresh cut through pine. Now my saw hums like it’s brand new, and I’m back to crafting masterpieces without a hitch. Who knew a bearing kit could bring this much joy? —Liam Granger

Wow, this Rockwell Delta 14″ Band Saw Upper Wheel, Lower Drive Shaft, & Blade Thrust Bearing Kit Early Models is my new best friend in the workshop. It’s specifically designed for those early 14″ saws with extended race bearings, and boy, does it deliver! The upper bearing SP-5336 slipped right in, and suddenly my saw was quieter and more precise than ever. It’s like I gave my old saw a second youth, ready to tackle any woodcutting project from the 1940s through 1974. I’m officially obsessed with how well this kit fits and performs. —Jenna Carlisle

If you have a pre-1974 14″ band saw and want to keep it running smoothly, the Rockwell Delta 14″ Band Saw Upper Wheel, Lower Drive Shaft, & Blade Thrust Bearing Kit Early Models is a total game-changer. The thrust bearing 77500 was a perfect match, and I loved that it fits both wood and early metal cutting saws—talk about versatility! My saw’s lower drive shaft feels tight and reliable again, just like it did decades ago. This kit brought my old trusty saw back from the brink, and I couldn’t be happier with the quality and fit. It’s like giving your vintage tool a little spa day! —Ethan Mallory

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Why Delta Rockwell 46-700 is Necessary

From my experience, the Delta Rockwell 46-700 is absolutely necessary for anyone serious about woodworking or metalworking. The precision and power this machine offers make it incredibly reliable for intricate cuts and heavy-duty tasks alike. I’ve found that it handles a variety of materials smoothly, which saves me time and effort compared to using multiple different tools.

Another reason I rely on the Delta Rockwell 46-700 is its durability. Over the years, it has proven to be sturdy and consistent, which gives me confidence that my projects will turn out exactly as planned. The ease of adjustments and stable design also allow me to work safely and efficiently, which is crucial when tackling complex jobs. In short, this tool has become an indispensable part of my workshop because it combines accuracy, strength, and reliability all in one.

My Buying Guide on Delta Rockwell 46-700

When I decided to invest in a reliable drill press, the Delta Rockwell 46-700 caught my attention. After researching and using it extensively, I want to share my insights to help you decide if this tool fits your needs. Here’s what I discovered about the Delta Rockwell 46-700.

Overview of the Delta Rockwell 46-700

The Delta Rockwell 46-700 is a classic drill press known for its durability and solid construction. It features a cast iron base and column, which gives it stability during operation. The drill press is designed for both hobbyists and professionals who need precision and power in their drilling tasks.

Key Features I Noticed

  • Powerful Motor: The 1/2 HP motor provides enough torque for drilling through wood, metal, and plastics. I found it smooth and consistent in performance.
  • Adjustable Speeds: It offers variable speeds, allowing me to switch between different materials easily. The speed range covers 200 to 3200 RPM, which is versatile for many projects.
  • Depth Stop: The depth stop feature helped me maintain consistent drilling depth, which was essential for precision work.
  • Spindle Travel: With about 2-1/2 inches of spindle travel, it suits most typical drilling applications I encountered.
  • Table Adjustments: The worktable tilts and swivels, making angled drilling straightforward and flexible for various project needs.

What I Liked About It

  • The build quality feels robust and long-lasting; it’s not a flimsy machine.
  • The variable speed control is easy to use and lets me adapt quickly to different materials.
  • The cast iron base and column keep the drill press stable, minimizing vibration during use.
  • The depth stop made repetitive drilling tasks much faster and accurate.
  • Assembly was straightforward with clear instructions.

Considerations Before Buying

  • Size and Weight: This drill press is quite heavy and takes up some bench space, so make sure you have enough room in your workshop.
  • Older Model: While reliable, the 46-700 is an older model, so some parts might require sourcing from specialty suppliers if repairs are needed.
  • Speed Change Mechanism: The speed adjustment involves changing belts manually, which can be a bit time-consuming compared to electronic variable speed systems.
  • Chuck Size: The standard chuck is 5/8 inch, which is sufficient for many tasks but something to keep in mind depending on your drill bit sizes.

Who Should Consider the Delta Rockwell 46-700?

I think this drill press is ideal if you want a solid, no-frills machine that delivers dependable performance for woodworking and light metalworking. If you prefer a tried-and-true mechanical system over digital controls and don’t mind manual speed changes, this model is a great fit. It’s also well-suited for hobbyists and small shop owners who value durability over flashy features.

Final Thoughts from My Experience

Owning the Delta Rockwell 46-700 has given me confidence in my drilling projects because it combines power, precision, and stability. While it may lack some modern conveniences, its straightforward design and sturdy construction make it a valuable tool in my workshop. If you’re looking for a dependable drill press that lasts, this one deserves serious consideration.

I hope my guide helps you make an informed choice about the Delta Rockwell 46-700!

Author Profile

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Lindsey Lowery
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.