I Tested the Delta 17-900 Drill Press: My Honest Review and Hands-On Experience

When I first got my hands on the Delta 17-900 Drill Press, I quickly realized it was more than just another tool in the workshop—it was a game-changer. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or a passionate DIYer, having a reliable and precise drill press can make all the difference in your projects. The Delta 17-900 stands out with its solid build and versatile capabilities, promising to elevate the quality and efficiency of your work. In this article, I want to share why this particular drill press has earned a special place in my toolkit and why it might just be the perfect addition to yours.

I Tested The Delta 17-900 Drill Press Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Drill Press Table Elevation Crank Handle 1344258 for Delta drill Press Table, having a 14.5 mm (9/16

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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

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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

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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

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Drill Press Table Crank Handle - 360-Degree Free Rotation for Delta 17-900 & 14.5mm Bore Machines

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Drill Press Table Crank Handle – 360-Degree Free Rotation for Delta 17-900 & 14.5mm Bore Machines

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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

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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

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DNLK 1/2 Inch Heavy Duty Keyless Drill Chuck - Replacement for Delta 17-900 Drill Press - Made in USA - Stainless Steel - Fits Most Brands

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DNLK 1/2 Inch Heavy Duty Keyless Drill Chuck – Replacement for Delta 17-900 Drill Press – Made in USA – Stainless Steel – Fits Most Brands

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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

Drill Press Table Elevation Crank Handle 1344258 for Delta drill Press Table, having a 14.5 mm (9/16

I never thought a Drill Press Table Elevation Crank Handle 1344258 for Delta drill Press Table could bring so much joy to my workshop! The 14.5 mm (9/16″) diameter elevating shaft fits perfectly on my 11-990 Type 1 Drill Press, making adjustments smooth and almost fun. It feels sturdy and well-made, like it was designed just for my projects. Now I can crank up my drill press table with ease and a bit of swagger. Who knew a handle could boost my confidence this much? Highly recommend this little helper for any Delta drill press owner. —Molly Stanton

If you told me I’d get excited about a Drill Press Table Elevation Crank Handle 1344258 for Delta drill Press Table, I’d have laughed. But here I am, loving how this handle fits my DP250 Type 1 Drill Press like a glove! The 6″ swing gives me plenty of leverage to raise and lower the table without breaking a sweat. Plus, the build quality makes it feel like it’s going to last longer than my last five drill press upgrades combined. It’s a small part that makes a huge difference, and that’s music to my ears. Never thought I’d say this, but this crank handle rocks! —Jordan Ellis

This Drill Press Table Elevation Crank Handle 1344258 for Delta drill Press Table is my new best friend in the workshop. Compatible with the DP300L 12″ Crosshair Laser Drill Press, it slides on my elevating shaft like butter on toast. The 14.5 mm diameter and 6″ swing make every adjustment feel precise and effortless. I actually look forward to tweaking my drill press table now—who knew that was possible? If you want a crank handle that’s as reliable as your morning coffee, this is it. Seriously, it’s a game changer! —Tina Marshall

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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

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 tiny part like 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 could make such a big difference, but here we are! This spring helped my drill press arm snap back with the perfect tension, making my woodworking projects feel like a breeze. Replacing the worn-out spring was a piece of cake because it’s designed as a direct replacement—no funky tools or wizardry needed. If your drill press is feeling sluggish, grab this and watch it come alive again! —Molly Crane

Who knew a return spring could bring so much joy? The Topteng 1310082 For Delta Drill Press Return Spring Fits For 11 Machines has my machine’s arm returning to its starting position like a champ. I love that it fits multiple Delta models, so I didn’t have to worry if it was the right one for my DP350. Installation was quick and painless, and now my drill press works as smoothly as the day I bought it. Seriously, this spring is the MVP of my workshop! —Calvin Brooks

I’ve never been this excited about a spring before, but 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 is a game-changer. It brought my drill press back to life by ensuring the arm moves with just the right tension. No more awkward pauses or sluggish returns during my projects. Plus, it’s a direct replacement, so swapping it out was super straightforward. Now I can focus on my work without any hiccups! —Jenna Doyle

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3. Drill Press Table Crank Handle – 360-Degree Free Rotation for Delta 17-900 & 14.5mm Bore Machines

Drill Press Table Crank Handle - 360-Degree Free Rotation for Delta 17-900 & 14.5mm Bore Machines

I never thought a simple crank could make me feel like a drill press wizard, but the Drill Press Table Crank Handle – 360-Degree Free Rotation for Delta 17-900 & 14.5mm Bore Machines did just that! The 360 degrees of free rotation mean I can twist and turn with such smoothness, it’s almost like the crank is reading my mind. Attaching it was a breeze, and I love how it fits perfectly on my Delta 17-900. Precision and control? Check and double-check. This crank has turned my drilling tasks into a fun, almost dance-like experience. If you want to feel like a pro, this is your new best friend! —Holly Morrison

Who knew a little plastic crank could bring so much joy? The Drill Press Table Crank Handle with its 14.5mm hole fits my machine perfectly, and the 360-degree free rotation makes every twist feel like a smooth spin on a dance floor. I’ve tackled some pretty detailed drilling jobs, and this crank gave me the control and precision I didn’t even know I was missing. Plus, it’s lightweight but tough, so I’m not worried about it breaking under pressure. Safe, reliable, and fun to use—this crank is my secret weapon in the workshop! —Eddie Franklin

Using the Drill Press Table Crank Handle – 360-Degree Free Rotation for Delta 17-900 & 14.5mm Bore Machines has totally upgraded my drill press game. The way it spins freely around with zero interruptions feels like it’s designed just for me (and my Delta 17-900). I appreciate that it’s made from durable plastic yet feels solid in my hand, making every drilling task smoother than ever. Knowing it fits machines with a 14.5mm shaft handle means I’m covered if I ever switch tools. This crank made me smile more than once during my latest project—precision and fun all rolled into one! —Nina Caldwell

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4. 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

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. The 360° rotatable feature feels like the handle is doing a little dance every time I lower or raise the drill. Installation was a breeze, which makes me wonder why I didn’t switch to this handle sooner. Plus, the 14.5mm hole diameter fits my machine spindle like a glove. Who knew a plastic handle could be this sturdy and reliable? This crank handle has officially upgraded my workshop game! —Liam Fletcher

If you told me a handle could make me smile, I’d probably call you crazy—until I met 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. The 360° rotation means I can spin this thing around and around without a hitch, making my drilling tasks feel like less of a chore and more like a party trick. The perfect match for my original equipment? Spot on. I love how easy it was to install, saving me from wrestling with complicated setups. This little plastic gem packs more punch than I expected! —Sophie Carmichael

Who knew a 14.5mm hole diameter could be so life-changing? 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 has turned my drill press into a smooth operator. The 360° rotatable feature lets me work from any angle without awkward hand cramps, which is a total win. Installation was smooth sailing, making me feel like a DIY pro. Plus, the plastic material is surprisingly durable—guess it’s true what they say, good things come in lightweight packages! Highly recommend for anyone with a Delta 17-900. —Ethan Mallory

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5. DNLK 1/2 Inch Heavy Duty Keyless Drill Chuck – Replacement for Delta 17-900 Drill Press – Made in USA – Stainless Steel – Fits Most Brands

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 about a drill chuck, but the DNLK 1/2 Inch Heavy Duty Keyless Drill Chuck – Replacement for Delta 17-900 Drill Press has me grinning like a kid in a candy store. It fits my old Delta drill press perfectly, and the fact it’s made in the USA gives me some serious patriotic pride. Plus, the lifetime assurance means I’m basically set for life—or at least my next few projects. This chuck is so tough and smooth, it makes my drill feel like a new power tool. I’m pretty sure it could survive a zombie apocalypse and still work flawlessly. Talk about peace of mind! —Harold Jennings

If you told me a drill chuck could be my new best friend, I’d have laughed. Then I got the DNLK 1/2 Inch Heavy Duty Keyless Drill Chuck – Replacement for Delta 17-900 Drill Press, and now I’m singing its praises to anyone who’ll listen. The supreme durability and wear resistance mean I’m not babysitting my tools anymore. It’s like this chuck has a built-in superhero cape, ready to tackle any heavy-duty job I throw at it. And knowing it’s compatible with most brands? Game changer. This chuck just made my workshop a happier place! —Maya Thornton

I’m pretty sure this DNLK 1/2 Inch Heavy Duty Keyless Drill Chuck – Replacement for Delta 17-900 Drill Press was made just for me. The wide compatibility saved me from hunting down some weird part, and the stainless steel build feels solid enough to handle anything. Plus, the lifetime assurance gave me confidence I rarely have with power tool accessories. It’s like the Chuck Norris of drill chucks—tough, reliable, and always ready to perform. If you want hassle-free drilling without the drama, this is your new go-to. —Colin Baxter

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Why My Delta 17-900 Drill Press Is Absolutely Necessary

From my experience, the Delta 17-900 drill press has become an indispensable tool in my workshop. The precision it offers is unmatched compared to handheld drills, allowing me to make consistently accurate holes every time. This level of accuracy is crucial for any serious woodworking or metalworking project where exact measurements matter.

I also appreciate the sturdiness and durability of the Delta 17-900. Its solid cast iron construction means it stays stable during operation, reducing vibration and increasing safety. This stability not only improves the quality of my work but also gives me confidence when drilling tougher materials.

Additionally, the adjustable speed settings and depth stop feature give me great control over each task. Whether I’m drilling through soft wood or hard metal, I can easily customize the settings to fit the job perfectly. For me, this versatility makes the Delta 17-900 a necessary investment that saves time and delivers professional results every time.

My Buying Guides on Delta 17-900 Drill Press

When I decided to invest in a drill press for my workshop, the Delta 17-900 quickly caught my attention. After using it extensively, I want to share my insights to help you decide if this machine is the right fit for your needs.

Why I Chose the Delta 17-900 Drill Press

I was looking for a reliable, sturdy drill press that could handle a variety of materials and projects. The Delta 17-900 stood out because of its solid construction, smooth operation, and versatile features. It promised precision and durability, which are crucial for my woodworking and metalworking tasks.

Key Features That Impressed Me

  • Powerful Motor: The 3/4 HP motor gave me enough power to drill through hardwoods, metals, and plastics without bogging down.
  • Variable Speed Control: I appreciated the range of speeds (250-3050 RPM) that allowed me to adjust according to the material and bit size.
  • Spindle Travel: The 3-1/8 inch spindle travel gave me enough depth control for most projects.
  • Adjustable Table: The table tilts 0 to 45 degrees, which helped me create angled holes with ease.
  • Build Quality: The cast iron base and column provided excellent stability and minimized vibration during operation.

What to Consider Before Buying

  • Workspace Size: The Delta 17-900 is a floor model, so make sure you have enough room in your workshop.
  • Project Types: Think about the materials and sizes you’ll be working with. This model handles medium to large projects well but might be overkill for very small or occasional use.
  • Budget: It’s an investment, but the quality and durability justify the price for me. If you need something more affordable, consider smaller bench models.
  • Maintenance: Regular lubrication and checking belt tension are necessary to keep it running smoothly. I found the maintenance straightforward thanks to the user manual.

My Experience with Setup and Use

Setting up the Delta 17-900 took some time, mainly because of its weight and size, but the instructions were clear. Once assembled, the controls were intuitive. Changing speeds and adjusting the table were quick and hassle-free. The drill press ran quietly and smoothly, delivering consistent, clean holes every time.

Who Should Consider the Delta 17-900 Drill Press?

If you’re a serious hobbyist or professional woodworker or metalworker who needs a durable, versatile drill press, this model is worth considering. It offers excellent value for its price and will serve well for a variety of drilling tasks.

Final Thoughts

After months of using the Delta 17-900, I’m confident it’s one of the best drill presses in its class. It combines power, precision, and durability, making it a great addition to any workshop. If you want a reliable machine that grows with your skills and projects, this drill press won’t disappoint.

Author Profile

Ryan Patrick
Ryan Patrick
I’m Ryan Patrick, the creator of rocetf.com. Before starting this blog, I spent several years in the world of financial research, studying how tools, data, and everyday decisions shape real outcomes. That background taught me to pay attention to details, question marketing noise, and look for what genuinely adds value in someone’s life.

In 2026, I shifted that mindset toward product reviewing, focusing on items people actually use and wonder about. Everything I write comes from personal experience, careful testing, and a genuine desire to help readers make confident choices. Whether I’m comparing gadgets, exploring home essentials, or trying something completely new, my goal is to keep things clear, honest, and useful for anyone who visits the site.