Rikon 30-212VS Drill Press Review

After months of using the Rikon 30-212VS drill press, I have decided that I would review it on this week's show. I hope that you enjoy the show and if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask.
Please don't forget to like and subscribe and as always, thanks for tuning in to the show. I appreciate your support.

[@densamme1752]

Thank you so much for this review, I would never have thought about the cold issue

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

You're very welcome Den. I'm glad that you found it useful. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@earlmorren3858]

Thank you for this review. I've been thinking about buying this drill press, and you've given me confidence in that decision. I didn't think any of the shortcomings you pointed out are show-stoppers for me. Cheers!

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I'm glad that the video was able to help you Earl. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@36736fps]

I have been using my drill press for months and was upset that it did not have a quill lock. But you showed me that it does. Thanks!!!

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

You're very welcome. Glad I could help. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@canadian.scrollworks]

Hi Kenny, great review. I am looking at replacing my old floor model drill press with something smaller and also variable speed. I looked at this particular model but couldn't find any reviews for it so you have helped me make up my mind. Thanks for the review.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

You're very welcome Chuck. I'm glad that you found the show to be useful for you. Thanks for tuning in and if you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask. I would be more than happy to help if I can.

[@sumosprojects]

G’day Kenny, I really dig the light & variable speed features here, both add to the overall effectiveness of the machine & it’s something I’d consider if I did not already own one, nicely reviewed 🎥🎥🔨🔨👍👍

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Thanks for the kind words on the show Dirk. I truly appreciate it and I appreciate you tuning in again this week. Thanks very much for the continued support.

[@raymondbradford1642]

Good review Kenny thank you.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

You're very welcome Raymond. I'm glad that you enjoyed it. Thanks for tuning in to the show. I appreciate your support.

[@watermain48]

Great review Kenny. I'm in the market for a new drill press and this is the one I'm leaning toward.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I've had no problems with this drill press at all Bill. Good luck with your purchase and thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@JohhnyB82]

Great Review! Thanks for the really in depth breakdown of this tools features. I've been comparing drill presses and this really help seal the deal for me. I especially appreciate your mention of the plastic shroud and the cold weather issue with the belt. My shop also takes awhile to heat up, however, after listening to your review I'm sure I can find ways to mitigate those issues as well. I was actually thinking about just whipping up a small heater using some pieces of scrap metal ductwork and an old hair dryer, and mounting right on top of the housing. Flip the switch and it's ready to go in a hot minute. (lol, pardon the pun) A bit over the top for some, perhaps, but I love custom engineering unique fixes to eliminate annoying problems, just like your height adjustment modification. Looking for to seeing the video of that. I particularly like the fact that this has a 3/4 HP motor, over the standard 1/2 HP and a VERY low speed range because there are some larger bits, such as an adjustable circle cutter that require a Very slow speed with a good bit of torque. I probably won't use them often, so the extra belt adjustment required is no biggie for me, but having the capability when you need it is worth it's weight in gold as far as I'm concerned. It's what sold me on this over the WEN 4214.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Glad to hear that you found the review useful and that you were able to make a decision on your choice of drill press. I hope you enjoy the Rikon model. I've had great luck with mine and my assessment of it still remains the same today. Thanks for tuning in and for the kind words on the show.

[@frankherring6253]

Kenny; after watching this video I can see that you have no trouble whatsoever reaching the tightening bolt, so I will leave you alone about it now. Thanks for the great videos!

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

No worries Frank. I'm always open to suggestions here on the show and I welcome all of your suggestions. Thanks for tuning in to the show and for the kind words. I appreciate it.

[@tomt9543]

I just ordered one of these, and really looking forward to its delivery! I wasn’t aware that the depth stop works in both directions on the Z axis, but that will come in handy because I frequently use a drum sander on my current press In conjunction with a plywood table w/hole in the middle. Forstner bits have always given me problems on my Delta 10” 1/4 hp unit, but I have high hopes that will no longer be an issue! Hope you’re still satisfied with your purchase!

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I've had no issues with the drill press at all and you should enjoy yours just fine. Also no issues with forstner bits. There's plenty of power to use them. I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@markk4015]

Great review as usual, Kenny. I'm glad you brought up the fact that there are issues with this unit working in cold conditions. That would affect me because, like you, my workshop is unheated. I like the cold, so it's not a concern for me, but some machines don't. I'm also interested in your opinion on the advantages of purchasing a floor model as opposed to a benchtop. Is the price difference worth it? It seems to me there wouldn't be that many times that a floor model would be more useful, and in situations like those, there are other options. Thanks again.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I had a floor model for many years Mark and I can count on one hand, the number of times that I actually needed to use the extra length to drill a larger piece of material. Being able to purchase a bench unit and mount it to a cabinet of drawers, saved a ton of space and gave me somewhere to store all of my drilling accessories. I think it's a matter of opinion, but having owned both, I prefer the bench top models. I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@walterplaessmann5865]

Thanks for taking the time to really go through the details. Basically looks like a nice machine. Quick question: did you find the table to be rock solid once you tightened the locking ring or was it easy to wiggle or bump it out of position? Many thanks!

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Once the drill press table is tightened to the main post, there is no movement at all. It is solid, as it should be. I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in Walter.

[@tomasarguinzoni9022]

Thank for info 👍🏼👍🏼

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

You're very welcome Tomas. I hope you enjoyed the show. Thanks for tuning in.

[@markk4015]

Great review as usual, Kenny. DIY Mark did an honest and helpful one too. Like yours, his was mostly positive. I was just about to pull the pin and buy one only to find that they're unavailable to purchase. Even Ebay doesn't have them, not that I would go that route. Another indication of the pseudo-apocalypse I suppose.... Thanks for taking the time to post the review. Mark

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Have you checked your local Lee Valley store Mark? Either way, I hope that you are able to get yourself a drill press soon. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@markk4015]

@@acutabove_woodworkings Thanks Kenny! I'm in central PA and it doesn't look like there is a local Lee Valley store. They do have it for sale online, though. The Woodcraft guy by me gushed about the Nova Voyager, so do alot of people, and it does look like a beautiful machine. But it's twice the price and probably more drill press than I'll need. Decisions, decisions.... Thanks again. Mark

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

@@markk4015 The Nova is a nice machine without a doubt.

[@jimconnor5879]

Hi Kenny, thanks so much for doing this. I think that the only thing that you didn't cover in the review is how hard it is to change the motor pulley to select the high (600 to 2,800 RPM) or low (150 to 700 RPM) range. But other than that, great review!

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Thanks for the kind words on the show Jim, I'm glad that you enjoyed it. The changing of the belt to obtain the higher (or lower) speed set is a simple method that I found to be pretty much standard across the board with other drill presses that I have owned. There was really no issues at all with it and therefore, it never even crossed my mind to mention it. With that being said, changing from one set of pulleys to another is as simple as loosening the set screws to the motor, releasing the belt tension, repositioning your belt and the tightening the belt and set screws. Only takes about 20 seconds to do. Couldn't be easier. Although I have also found that the lower speed set is perfect for my shop and I have only drilled using the higher speeds a handful of times. I hope this has helped. Thanks for tuning in sir. I appreciate the support.

[@paulsmessyworkshop]

Kenny, good review. It sure seems like that knob should be covered under the warranty. I wonder if the type of heat/sound foil they use in cars would work inside the lid of your drill press? I think you can buy small rolls of it at an auto supply store. I am with you about those stupid switches with the removable “safety” insert. What has always happened in my shop is they end up staying in the switch so I don’t lose it. Enjoyed the great information.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

There are plenty of better lock out methods that Rikon could have used here instead of the removable key. I've always said that if safety equipment isn't easy to use AND practical, then it simply wont get used and your comment about the key remaining in the switch is a prime example. Another viewer suggested spray foam which got me thinking about styrofoam insulation and then you come up with sound foil. Great suggestions and I am sure that I will end up using one of them at some point in time. For now though, I just crank up the music a little louder and I don't notice that drill press noise at all. LOL. Thanks for tuning in and for leaving a comment Paul. I appreciate the support.

[@guitarchitectural]

I have a 17" floor standing DP and it's just overkill in terms of size, so this looks like it will be perfect! Did you ever come up with any solutions for the sound? would a gasket between the two pieces on top deal with a lot of the sound?

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I did indeed come up with a solution for the sound. The solution was to check my belts and make sure that they were properly aligned. As it turns out, my motor wasn't level to the drill press body and it was causing the belts to rub and cause extra vibration. After adjusting the motor level, the drill press became quiet. I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@WasimBarri]

Kenny, you haven't mentioned run out. My current drill press has bad run out and I need to go one size down to allow for the wobble. How is it on your Rikon?

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I haven't noticed any runout on this drill press John. The holes are perfectly sized and there is no wobble whatsoever in the chuck. So far, so good. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@billtiffin8298]

Hi Kenny. I can’t seem to find your video of adapting the height adjustment or drill press table. Thanks

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Hi Bill. You wont find the video of the drill press modification. The show is pre-recorded and it hasn't been aired yet. This coming Friday will be the first episode of the drill press table build and part 3 of that build will be the modification show. I hope that you will tune in for that. Thanks for tuning in,

[@jimcarter4929]

Excellent review. Does table tilt, how much? Does motor head swing over?

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Thanks for the kind words on the show Jim. The table does tilt a full 90 degrees but the motor head does not swing over. I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@arcarioandsons]

I've got a Craftsman drill press from the 1980s that would absolutely blow your mind, so many of the same things on here that you said you've never seen on a drill press before lol

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

The older tools can be some of the best tools out there. Thanks for tuning in.

[@arcarioandsons]

@@acutabove_woodworkings yeah it's wild, you'd never believe the quill would be as true as it is for how violently everything else moves, and you've never seen a thinner belt... But she works! I keep thinking the plastic top makes good sense though, anyway they can limit how top heavy the drill already is the better in my mind but that latch is absolutely terrible! Great video, thanks for posting!

[@fcschoenthal]

Kenny, just finished watching this video and looking for more information on the table you built, in particular how you moved the raise/lower handle to the front.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

One of the drawback of doing a pre-recorded show is that sometimes, people will see something that they are anxious to learn about, but it isn't scheduled for quite a while. This is sort of the case with the drill press table and the relocation of the raising and lowering gear assembly. The drill press build (part one) is scheduled for this coming Friday's show. Part two will be on the following Friday and the modification of the raising mechanism will be posted on the Friday after that. (June 7, 2019). Hopefully, I can count on you to join me on those days so that you can get the information that you need. Thanks for tuning in this week. I appreciate the support.

[@fcschoenthal]

@@acutabove_woodworkings, of course I'll be there watching everyone that you put out going forward. Love your style and content. Looking forward to it.

[@megaman692]

Its cold here in Maine....and not a lot of heat in the garage...thanks for the heads up

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

You're very welcome Gene. That large speed control belt really does NOT like the colder temperatures. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@68shiloh]

Kenny I was wondering if you could use an aerosol can if foam insulation and spray inside of the cover,maybe you can dampen the noise. I know you can get the non expanding type and you may have to do some trimming with a Dremel or even a knife to make sure to clear the moving parts. Just wondering.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I'm not sure if that idea would work as I am not sure of where the actual noise is originating from. It may just be pulley noise. I think that instead of spray foam (which can be unpredictable) perhaps a carved out Styrofoam insulation or something of that nature might be a better choice. I will definitely keep your suggestion in mind though and I appreciate you chiming in with it. Thanks for tuning in to the show Casey.

[@adriftandatpeace]

@@acutabove_woodworkings I was thinking that lining the inside with something like Dynamat would work. It's a type of sound dampening sheet that is often used in car stereo builds.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

@@adriftandatpeace I may have to look into that. Thanks for the suggestion and for tuning in.

[@bbfoto7248]

@@acutabove_woodworkings Definitely use a Dynamat-type product. If you go with the actual Dynamat Brand, only buy and use the EXTREME version. The "Dyna-Liner" is another excellent product that combines the Dynamat Extreme Butyl & Aluminum Constrained Layer Damping mat with a layer of Mass Loaded Vinyl.+ Closed Cell Foam. This type of product is used to line boat engine bays and gas or diesel generator housings, etc. I would highly recommend new products that have come to market by *ResoNix* and they are available at resonixsoundsolutions.com/reference-information/

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

@@bbfoto7248 Thanks for the information on the sound insulating material. I still have not done anything about the noise of this drill press but probably will soon. Thanks for tuning in and taking the time to leave your suggestion. It's very much appreciated.

[@justinknockaert6102]

hello Kenny, sorry if this was asked already, how is the run out on this drill press ? thanks for your time, Justin. Canada.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

The measured runout on this machine is just slightly over .002". That is perfectly acceptable for a drill press. It was a little higher than that when I first measured the runout but a few adjustments corrected it. I hope this helps. If you are interested in the show about measuring runout and some simple things you can do to improve it, you can find it here. kzbin.info/www/bejne/l4GZc4eHiNtpfKs Thanks for tuning in to the show Justin. I truly appreciate it.

[@lazerbeam3928]

I just ordered this drill press (still waiting for it) and have two questions. Did you come up with any method of dampening the noise yet? I’m thinking about taking some thin left-over rubber tool drawer liner and using some spray adhesive to attach it to the inside of the motor housing. I’m assuming there isn’t much clearance between the housing and pulleys. My other question is in regards to steel column finish. I live in a very high humidity area and keep my power tools in an unheated nor A/C garage. Two of my previous drill presses rusted really bad on the column, quill and chucks. Although I tried to keep them rust it was a loosing battle. The rust did not affect the performance of the tools but looked bad. What kind of finish does the column have?

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I still have not found a solution for the louder volumes of this drill press but to be completely honest, I haven't really tried either. The noise level has become something that I have gotten used to and reducing it hasn't been much of a priority for me these days. I will eventually do something about it, but for now, I haven't bothered. As for the finish, it seems to be of good quality, polished cast iron but in high humidity, I think it will be the same as any other drill press. No metal is immune to rust when it comes to being exposed to a high humidity situation. I have used Autosol metal polish with some pretty good success as it leaves a coating on the metal which prevents the rusting but eventually, that coating will wear off. Regular coatings of 3 in 1 oil will also reduce the chance of rusting but you have to remember to coat it periodically and we usually remember when we see rust. I hope this helps. Thanks for tuning in to the show. I do have a show on rust removal that you can find here kzbin.info/www/bejne/e3fce3qwmr2hlZI Once again, thanks for tuning in.

[@danelswick1266]

Kenny, Great review. In fact, I went straight to WoodCraft and purchased this machine. One point. Noise. After getting my unit put together, the ‘noise’ is not bad at all. Granted, I have only run this machine 5 minutes tops. And the unit at WoodCraft was even less. There is another video review (I know treasonous) that found his pulley was not seated properly.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I have heard others say this and I have checked the press for proper alignment of the pulleys and everything seems fine. Thanks for trying to help out and for tuning in to the show. I hope you like you drill press.

[@omarrodriguez4797]

You can attach something like the key holder so you put the little plug in there!

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

That's a great suggestion Omar. It would definitely provide a place for the key to live while it is not in the switch. I would just have to remember to put it in there. LOL. Thanks for tuning in and for taking the time to leave the suggestion.

[@kerrychar575]

I got this drill press and one of the problems I am having is that it vibrates so much. I had to put it on a more rigid bench to help quell the vibration but it still vibrates the bench so much so that things fall off it. Is this normal?

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

This is definitely NOT normal Kerry. I would try and see if you can find out where the vibration is coming from. Is there runout on the chuck? Look inside the housing while the machine is running and see if one of the pulleys is rotating off centre. If the chuck is wobbling, I would remove it and reinstall it on the machine. It may not be fully seated. If a pulley is running off centre, I would be contacting Rikon. They have great customer service and they should be able to help you out with this. I'd love to hear how you get this corrected. Thanks for tuning in. I hope I've helped a little.

[@robertlagrange6388]

I would have to be desperate to buy another Rikon product due to their engineering. My last purchase was a rikon belt/disc sander and it had two dust ports, both different sizes. now I have to buy two different vacuum adapters to connect to my system. I would think it would be easy to make them the same.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

This is the strangest thing I have ever heard. Sounds like their quality control was on vacation that week. I hope you contacted Rikon and inquired as to the different sized ports. It honestly sounds like parts for different machines got mixed up somehow. Either way, thanks for chiming in with your experience Robert and I'm sorry that it wasn't a more positive experience. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@rjn5579]

This seems to be the exact same drill press as the WEN 4214, only at around twice the price. Looks like they both come off the same assembly line in the same Chinese factory with just a different paint job and branding.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

With the way that the tool manufacturing industry is these days, it wouldn't surprise me if they came out of the same factory. But then again, it could just be one company copying another popular model to make theirs look like the competitions. Without actually being there to verify at the factory, we can only speculate. Gone are the days when companies made their own tools instead of farming out the work to cheaper overseas companies. Low cost to manufacture + higher selling price = higher profit margins for the companies. Sad state of affairs. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@ynotjf]

I think my 10 year old 12” Ryobi variable speed, the Wen 12” 4214 variable speed, the Jet 12” variable speed & this machine all come out of the same Chinese factory. Man it’s getting harder & harder to find a non-chinese drill press and they all have similar quality issues like runout that worsens with use. I want to upgrade my Ryobi but I can’t see spending $300-$500 for another variable speed Chinese units that performs the same as what I already have. Both Jet & Palmgren have 15” benchtop units that appear fair sturdy and the Palmgren has a guaranteed minimum runout but cost about a $grand. What happened to the days when a guy could rundown to Sears or Montgomery Ward, plop down $300 bucks and walk out with a quality American made machine that would last a lifetime?

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Those days are gone my friend. I remember those days and I think that sadly, you are right that the quality has taken a serious dive over the years although the price certainly hasn't. It's all about manufacturing at the lowest cost and selling at the highest price to make profit margins as large as they can be. With that being said, I've been happy with this one thus far and there is no run-out as of yet. Other than being a little noisy, it has performed perfectly. Thanks for tuning in to the show. I appreciate you taking the time to leave a comment as well.

[@ynotjf]

kennyearrings1 - You’ve got a nice channel going Kenny, Thank You for taking the time to share your experience.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

@@ynotjf You're very welcome. Thanks for the kind words and for tuning in.

[@LiloUkulele]

Ready to pull the trigger on the 30-212VS....then stumbled upon the NOVA VIKING 16″ DVR bench top...another $350 but.....

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

The Nova Viking is a serious machine and I wouldn't mind one myself. It's capabilities are far beyond what the 30-212VS can produce but I had to weigh out the options as to how much I would truthfully use those features. Whichever one you decide on, you'd have a great machine for your shop. Thanks for tuning in and taking the time to leave your comment. It's appreciated.

[@LiloUkulele]

@@acutabove_woodworkings Its pretty wonderful when a YT poster actually replies to comments! Yes, I'm in the same boat: How much will I actually use all those bells and whistles on the Viking???...I'll be happy with the Rikon and be able to buy more tools with the $ I saved.. haha...Thanks again the time and effort to create and post your much appreciated videos!

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

@@LiloUkulele I do my best to reply to everyone who takes the time out of their day to watch my show and leave a comment. If they can leave a comment, the very least I can do is respond to them. Good luck with your drill press decision Michael. I hope you will continue to enjoy episodes of the show on my channel.

[@cablebrain9691]

Could the bottom stop allow routing bits to be used?

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Definitely not. Router bits should never be used on a drill press. Wrong tool. Wrong application. Wrong RPM. It's a recipe for disaster and injury. Thanks for tuning in.

[@Broncort1]

Far too loud for me...yes! I like “quiet” whenever I can find it. I spent $740 on a Festool CT-26 and $800 on a Pégas scroll saw because they are both quiet....lol. I now appreciate my quiet 20+ year old Craftsman drill press more after watching your video. 😎. I do like the light 💡 idea and the crosshairs on the Rikon though.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I'm with you on the quiet. I was able to drastically reduce the sound of this drill press by adjusting the levelling bolts of the motor to get the belt running true and reduce the vibrations. It's much quieter now. Thanks for tuning in to the show and for taking the time to leave the comment. It's very much appreciated.

[@blandry021]

Show us how u moved the handle to the front of the drill press.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I'm not sure why my response to you didn't take Brian but I will post my answer again. Sorry about that. I demonstrated how to relocate the raising mechanism in a 3 part series on making my drill press table. You can find those episodes at the following three links. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aaLVp2CKj6qgoKc kzbin.info/www/bejne/eaLRYqSpjLeSn8k kzbin.info/www/bejne/h5zQiJ-Nq5qKqq8 I hope this series will answer all your questions as to how it was relocated. Sorry about the delay in answering. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@dougprentice1363]

Thanks for the video. I don't understand why anyone would complain about a review video. If you aren't interested in a review, Don't watch it.

[@marcsulmon4672]

Doug, I did not write it as a complaint, sorry you took it that way. I was just a bit saddened by the fact that so many good channels start making too many reviews and may be ruining it. I just wanted to convey my 'frustration' to Kenny. I am sure he welcomes all feedback, just see his reply, which I appreciate a lot!

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

People are fully entitled their opinions Doug and I don't mind someone coming into the comments sections to voice their opinion on a show. The way that I think of it is like this....let's say I loved a certain series on television and I never miss an episode. There are going to be times that I will watch an episode, even if I know that I am not interested in the topic of the show, just because I enjoy the show and the way it is presented. I may not like the content of that particular show but I still enjoy the program. I have to be realistic here and know that not every show will please every person but I truly believe that everyone here has something to bring to the table. Marc wasn't wrong at all when he said that there were too many review videos on the web. Will his comment stop me from making the reviews? Not at all. Will Marc stop watching my program if I post any more reviews? I would venture to say that he will continue to watch the show and I venture to say that he will voice his opinion at that point in time as well. I have to tell you Doug, that I welcome it. I'm glad that you appreciated and liked the video and I thank you for tuning in again this week. My channel is a joy to produce because of good folks like you and Marc. Glad to have you both as viewers.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I do welcome the feedback Marc. You are 100% correct in that statement. The reason that Alternative Tuesdays was created on the show, was to give me a chance to do some other things other than woodworking. That includes tool reviews, viewer mail openings, visits to the woodworking shows, discussion topics, top ten lists, blooper reels etc. If I am able to provide an honest tool review to someone who is having a hard time deciding about a tools, and it helps them to make a decision (one way or another) then that's a good thing and I will continue to produce them. You have no worries though because tool reviews for me will only be one in a while. The Friday woodworking episodes will still continue as normal but I hope that you will also enjoy the Tuesday section of different things. If not, I welcome you to voice your opinion about it. LOL. Bring it on!!!!

[@marcsulmon4672]

@@acutabove_woodworkings Thanks Kenny, I get what you are saying and I do understand and appreciate your way of doing things, simple and honest. And have no fear, I will keep watching the show (just don't overdo it with the reviews LOL). I picked up some good tips from you, so keep it coming, you are doing a great job, thank you!

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

@@marcsulmon4672 Thanks for the kind words. If you are on Facebook (or even if your aren't) you should check out my channel's Facebook page. There are plenty of project there that don't make the show but are worth of a photo or two. At the moment, an 8' long wooden train model is being constructed. Hopefully I will see you over there sometime. Here's the link to the page. facebook.com/kennyearrings1/

[@ruelsmith]

Looks so much like the Wen, I'd be hard pressed to pay twice as much. I think the Rikon can turn fewer RPMs than the Wen, but that's not worth $250 - 300 more.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Rule of thumb is that you have to do what is best for you and your shop. If the extra $250-$300 is not worth it to you, then by all means, you should purchase the Wen. Good luck on your drill press purchase and thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@LiloUkulele]

Great review.....and DON"T run your DP in the refrigerator!....Hola from Mexico

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Thanks for the kind words Michael. When you're in Canada, sometimes the shop IS the refrigerator. LOL. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@cablebrain9691]

Set the video to 1.25X speed to have Kenny's narration play at a more normal pace. 🙂

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I...................................guess...................................you...................................can't...................................please...................................everyone...................................Thanks...................................for...................................tuning...................................in...................................to...................................the...................................show...................................and...................................taking...................................the...................................time...................................to...................................leave...................................a...................................comment...................................I...................................appreciate...................................it...................................be...................................sure...................................to...................................read...................................this...................................at...................................1.25X...................................speed

[@cablebrain9691]

@@acutabove_woodworkings If only I could have. 😋

[@kengilreath9526]

its not the cold belt, its the motor. I have the 8in version and it does the same thing.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I'm not sure of your situation Ken, but I can say with the utmost certainty that it is the cold belt. The motor is still turning but the thicker speed belt won't release on the shaft due to the tighter radius being stiffened by the cold. The shaft of the motor just spins with the belt not moving. Once the heat comes up in the shop and the belt softens, the drill press works and the belt spins just fine. Your situation might be different but I can assure you, that mine is caused by the cold Canadian winters. Thanks for tuning in and for chiming in with you comment.

[@charlesmerrifield1734]

great review,not a fan of sponsored tool review but you put out honest review,an it just happen that i am in the market for a new drill press looking at this rikon or it's big brother the 30-217 and those review helps,thank you for it on a other note PLASTIC, PLASTIC really nowwwww common rikon

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

That's one good thing about being independent like myself Charles... I am sponsored by no one and therefore I don't feel obligated to give a good review. If I see a problem or don't like something, I can feel free to state that without having my sponsor get angry with me. No sponsor=honest review. Thanks for tuning in to the show and for taking the time to leave a comment. Good luck with your new drill press purchase. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask. I would be more than happy to help out if I can.

[@gumbus161]

Not a word to evaluate the runout of the head. Did I miss this point in the review? One of the more important aspects!

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

You did not miss that aspect of the review. While I agree with you that it is a very important aspect, I honestly forgot to include it with my review. One of the drawbacks of being a one man show AND, having nothing scripted. I just say whatever is on my mind. I have tested the runout on this machine and while I don't remember the numbers exactly, I do remember that they were negligible. I haven't had any issues whatsoever with runout on this drill press and I have done some pretty precise drilling on it. I hope this helps you. Sorry it wasn't included in the video. Thanks for tuning in and taking the time to voice your concern. If you have any questions at all, please don't hesitate to ask and I would be more than happy to help if I can.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Just an FYI, I did the filming on a Drill Press Runout show today and tested the runout and check my old notes on the press. The show won't air for a while but I thought you might be interested in the results. The runout on the drill press was less than .003". I check my notes from when I first tested it and it was just slightly over .002". I hope this helps. Thanks again for tuning in.

[@bbfoto7248]

@@acutabove_woodworkings Thanks for the update, Kenny! I just viewed your review of the Rikon for the first time today (June 20, 2020) as I'm in need of another drill press. Yeah, I also wish you would have included the Run-Out measurement in your video as it is obviously of major importance when deciding to spend $$$. But I figured that I would find that in the comments somewhere. ;-) In addition, I would have liked to have known the maximum Quill Travel, though you can find that in the specs if you search, and you can also get an approximation when you covered the Depth Stop adjustment. And boy am I glad that you experienced using this drill press when it was cold, because that will be a deal-breaker for me, unfortunately. :-( Otherwise, I REALLY like the quick & easy Variable Speed adjustment, the RPM Display, the LED worklight, and the Laser! But the cold-running issue is a no-go. The plastic top cover is a big disappointment as well. :/ I'd also like to have a bit more Quill Travel, too. I've searched, but so far the next step up in a quality drill press looks like the Jet J -2530 that jumps up to 6" of travel, which is excellent since it is still a bench-top model (albeit a very large & heavy one)! Unfortunately, the J-2530 is also significantly more money and pretty much a bare-bones/no-frills drill press. That is good in a lot of ways, though. AND, it does have a metal top cover. :-P Thanks again for the review. SUBSCRIBED & LIKED! :-)

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

@@bbfoto7248 The problem with doing certain reviews is that it is hard to incorporate everything about the tool in one show. Things get missed for sure. I think that's the good thing about the comments section. It gives viewers the opportunity to ask questions about things that are not included in the show. The quill travel on the 30-212VS is 3-5/32". It's pretty rare that I have needed to drill a deeper hole than that but when I did, it's not that difficult to compensate for it. The cold start hasn't been an issue for me as once the shop heats up (after I light the wood stove) the drill works great after that. The problem is the speed change belt is very thick and heavy and when it gets cold, it wants to keep its shape. Thanks for tuning in to the show and taking the time to leave such a detailed comment. I truly appreciate it and hope that you will find other episodes of the show that you enjoy as well. The show airs every Tuesday and Friday, with Fridays being the woodworking portion of the show and Tuesday can be pretty much anything. Looking forward to your future comments on the program.

[@bbfoto7248]

@@acutabove_woodworkings Thanks for the detailed reply. 👍 One more QUESTION... Without the auxillary table, can you swing the included table completely off to either side of the column so that you can place your vise on the base plate of the drill press to accommodate drilling longer/taller workpieces?

[@Sportyg1960]

How much they pay to say it’s GOOD NOW LOL

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

I don't get paid anything Donna. I have no affiliation with any company and receive no payments from anyone. The opinions stated on my show are strictly that.....they are my opinions. Thanks for tuning in.

[@marcsulmon4672]

I am very sorry Kenny, I love your videos, but I really hate all the reviews on channels. Sorry again, just being honest.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

Never a need to apologize for having an opinion on something Marc. Not every show on my channel can please or apply to everyone and I am okay with that. I know that not everyone will like every show and I appreciate your honesty. I put the reviews out from time to time because I know that there are folks out there that are looking for this information. I tried myself at one point, to locate reviews for certain tools (this one included) and was unable to find them; hence the reason for filming and posting this show. I hope that you will still find other show episodes to be interesting and informative. Thanks for tuning in and for taking the time to leave a comment. I appreciate the support.

[@marcsulmon4672]

@@acutabove_woodworkings Oh, don't worry, I will still be watching ;) Love your shows and the interesting topics! Keep it up!

[@robertlagrange6388]

I actually like the reviews. too may times I've purchased something and was disappointed because I did not have the full understanding of the product. Also if buying on-line you can't touch and feel the product to know how cheaply it was built.

[@cavanray5327]

@@acutabove_woodworkings No need to apologize? Wrong, all negative opinions are offensive and must be outlawed. It's 2021. He should get on his knees for daring to voice his unique and different opinion. *sarcasm*

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

@@cavanray5327 Fortunately for me, I'm still old school and think that it's okay for people to have their own opinion. I get very tired of people who preach that it's okay to have an opinion but what they really mean is "it's okay to have an opinion as long as it is the same as mine". I welcome all opinions, good or bad. The world would be a boring place if we all thought alike. From your comment, I can see that you are a little "old school" yourself. Thanks for tuning in to the show and taking the time to leave your comment. It gave me a good chuckle this morning.

[@jameswalsh5023]

27+ minute video about a machine whose sole function is to put holes in things and you never actually show and discuss the machine...actually putting holes in things.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

That correct James. The review is about the drill press and its features and quality. Variable speed, adjustment, fit and finish, materials etc. The tool that "puts holes in things" in a drill bit. And this is not a review of any type of drill bits, it's a review of a drill press. Putting a poor quality or dull drill bit in the world's highest quality drill press will yield poor results so reviewing how it well or poorly it puts holes in things is not a reflexion of the drill press, but rather the drill bit. I hope you found the review to be somewhat helpful either way. Thanks for tuning in to the show.

[@jameswalsh5023]

@@acutabove_woodworkings Oh come on. The drill press is the machine that spins the drill bit that "puts holes in things." They work in conjunction. So how good is the press at spinning drill bits? How much run out is there? How powerful is the motor? Does it step down low enough to be good for metal? How does it handle big wood bits? Machines are made to be used not just sit on a workbench and look pretty. But maybe that's another vid.

[@acutabove_woodworkings]

@@jameswalsh5023 Well I guess you are looking for a different review than the one I have provided. I hope you managed to get something useful from the show. I hope you are able to find a review that has more of the specific information that you are looking for. I do appreciate you stopping by the channel though.