Finding a drill press that actualy fits in a crowded garage are harder than it sounds. The best ones is typically either too big to easily store away, or they’re flimsy bench top job not meant for serious drilling. The Porter Cable PCB660DP strike a nice compromise between usefulness and weight.
It have enough torque for hardwoods but doesn’t need its own room. So, does it do what it promises? That’s what this review covers.
How well does the belt drive system work versus other more affordable options with gears? What about the cast iron base and table? They plays a crucial role in ensuring accurate cut and retaining bit accuracy.
Serious woodworking or making furnitures requires stability. The first thing you’ll see is a belt-driven transmission. Why?
Because belts are smoother than direct drive and transmit power better. Direct drive suffer from lack of torque when running slow. The belt drive provide a wider usable rpm range without the motor whine like a jet engine.
And that make it easier to control. You can set the chucked bit down on your delicate piece of stock and it doesn’t chatter and jump around. It just bites cleanly.
That’s what sets apart a hobbyist tool vs. It is shop standard. It’s got a three-quarter horsepower motor. That may not seem like much power but it’s enough for most home use.
It won’t bog down when boring through hard wood like maple or oak. With variable speed control you set the RPM to suit both the type of wood and size of bit. Use high speed for smaller bits in softer woods.
Slow it down on denser hardwoods or larger auger bit. The speed adjust knob are large and easy to grip, making adjustments quick while your hands is busy. This ensure a steady flow.
Porter Cable PCB660DP Drill Press Review
Belt Drive Transmission and Motor Power
Another selling point is the cast iron table. A lot of less expensive presses employs a thin steel or aluminum table that will flex when pressing. Flex translate into wobble, which means inaccurate holes.
The PCB660DP have a heavy, thick table. Press down hard and it remain rock solid. The miter gauge slot are accurately machined.
This allow for accurate drilling of angled holes. Add on jigs or fences confidently. Locks tight into position when tilted.
Cast Iron Table and Stability
That versatility give you the ability to drill angles at will without purchasing extra hardware. The stops is simple and effective for depth control. On the quill, there is an adjustment to set exactly how deep you want the bit to penetrate.
If you’re trying to cut a recess for some hardware or a pilot hole, this is important. You don’t want to accidently go all the way through your table top. The click of the stop into place holds that position and will work again and again.
In cabinet making and other furniture pieces, consistency is everything. Being able to count on this works make sure all your joint line up just right.
Depth Control and Miter Gauge
There are some tradeoffs with the work envelope.
For most part, the distance from the chuck to the table is fine. However, you might find it is too close when doing very deep drilling or making extremely large aluminum assemblys. It’s best to measure your projects so that you don’t get frustrated.
This press isn’t going to fit everything in one go. But that’s the nice thing about being able to take measurements before purchasing something. You know your limit.
Work Envelope Limitations
It is easy to set up. It comes mostly assembled so you only have to bolt down the base, adjust the leg height and lock them in place. The legs are solid and come on adjustable feet so you can take up any irregularities that may exist with your shop floor.
Nothing will throw off the accuracy like a wobbly base. Leveling the press takes two minutes with a standard bubble level. Once there it doesn’t move.
Setup and Assembly
The power cord is long enough to go directly into most outlets without having to use an extension cord. Out of the box, it’s good to go. If you’re a serious DIYer looking for a reliable drill press that’s more portable yet still precise enough to handle most job, then the Porter Cable PCB660DP is a solid choice.
It offer something few others can: a good balance between portability, precision and power. While it might not be perfect for everything, it will tackle the bulk of your workshop tasks easy. It is durable and accurate, so if those qualities matter to you, it deserve a place on your bench.
With this drill press, you’ll feel confident turning a raw piece of lumber into a finished product.