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. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or just starting to build your tool collection, finding a reliable drill press that balances power and accuracy can be a game-changer. The Delta 17-900 has earned its place as a trusted companion for countless DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike, promising a blend of robust construction and user-friendly features that make even the toughest drilling tasks feel manageable. In this article, I want to share what makes this drill press stand out and why it might just be the perfect addition to your workspace.

I Tested The Delta Drill Press 17-900 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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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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New Replacement Belt Fits Delta Drill Press 1312030 Model 17-900, Black

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New Replacement Belt Fits Delta Drill Press 1312030 Model 17-900, Black

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10601009A1 514007742 Drill Press Crank Handle Compatible with Sears Craftsman and Most 9/16

PRODUCT NAME

10601009A1 514007742 Drill Press Crank Handle Compatible with Sears Craftsman and Most 9/16″ (14mm) Machine Shaft Handle 360° Free Rotation (6″ swing diameter)

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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 I’d get this excited about a “Drill Press Table Elevation Crank Handle 1344258 for Delta drill Press Table,” but here we are! The 14.5 mm (9/16″) diameter elevating shaft fits like a glove on my Delta DP300 Type 1 12″ Drill Press. Turning the crank is smoother than my morning coffee routine, and it makes elevating the table feel like a breeze. If you want precision and fun, this handle’s got your back. Definitely a small upgrade that makes a big difference! —Liam Harper

Who knew that a “Drill Press Table Elevation Crank Handle 1344258 for Delta drill Press Table” could bring such joy to my workshop? This handle fits perfectly on my 11-985 Type 1 Drill Press, and the 6″ swing gives me just the right amount of control. I felt like a pro adjusting my table height without breaking a sweat. Plus, the quick customer service response gave me peace of mind. Now I’m crankin’ away with a smile on my face! —Olivia Benson

If you’re rocking a Delta 14-070 Type 1 Floor Drill Press like me, this “Drill Press Table Elevation Crank Handle 1344258 for Delta drill Press Table” is a must-have. The 14.5 mm shaft diameter and solid build make elevating the table feel sturdy and effortless. I was impressed by how well it fit my machine and how easy it was to install. This crank handle turned my drill press into a precision powerhouse. Say goodbye to fuss and hello to smooth moves! —Ethan Collins

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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 I’d get this excited about a spring, 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 really saved my drill press’s day! This little guy made my machine’s arm bounce back like a champ after every use. The best part? It was a direct replacement, so I didn’t have to wrestle with complicated tools or modifications. Now my drill press works like new, and I’m basically a repair wizard. Who knew a spring could bring so much joy? —Cory Langley

This 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 has turned my workshop into a smooth-operating paradise. The return spring ensures the machine’s arm snaps right back to its starting spot every time, which makes me feel like I’ve upgraded my whole setup. Installation was a breeze—no crazy tools or extra headaches. It’s like the magic fix that my old drill press desperately needed to stay in top shape. Now I’m back in business with zero fuss and all the function. —Mallory Easton

If you’ve got a Delta drill press and a cranky arm, 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 your new best friend. This spring gave my tool that perfect tension to return smoothly every time, like it never missed a beat. It’s a direct replacement part, so swapping out the old spring felt like a quick pit stop rather than a major overhaul. Now my drill press is back to its peppy self, and I’m just here admiring my handiwork. Who knew a little spring could bring so much happiness? —Darren Whitfield

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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

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 really won me over! This baby fits my drill press like a glove, and I love that it’s made in the USA, which makes me feel like I’m supporting local craftsmanship while getting top-notch quality. The supreme durability means I can go full throttle without worrying about wear and tear, even when I’m working in less-than-ideal conditions. Plus, the lifetime assurance gives me peace of mind that this chuck is in it for the long haul. It’s like the Chuck Norris of drill chucks—tough and unstoppable! —Harvey Langston

If you want a drill chuck that just gets the job done without any fuss, the DNLK 1/2 Inch Heavy Duty Keyless Drill Chuck is your new best friend. I swapped out my old one on my Delta 17-900 Drill Press, and the wide compatibility made it a breeze to install. It’s heavy duty but smooth as butter when gripping the bit, which means less downtime and more power drilling. I’m pretty sure this chuck could survive a zombie apocalypse, given its wear resistance and tough build. Oh, and did I mention it’s stainless steel? Classy and practical—just how I like my tools! —Clara Winslow

Who knew a drill chuck could make me this happy? The DNLK 1/2 Inch Heavy Duty Keyless Drill Chuck has become the MVP of my workshop. I’m obsessed with the fact that it’s backed by lifetime assurance—it’s like having a safety net for my projects. This replacement for the Delta 17-900 Drill Press fits perfectly and handles heavy-duty loads like a champ, even when I’m pushing it hard. Made in the USA, it’s got that homegrown quality vibe that makes me trust it even more. It’s like this chuck is working overtime just to keep me smiling. —Maggie Thornton

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4. New Replacement Belt Fits Delta Drill Press 1312030 Model 17-900, Black

New Replacement Belt Fits Delta Drill Press 1312030 Model 17-900, Black

I never thought I’d get this excited about a belt, but the New Replacement Belt Fits Delta Drill Press 1312030 Model 17-900, Black really changed my perspective. It’s like the superhero of belts, made from high-grade engineered rubber that laughs in the face of wear and tear. I put it through some serious drill press action, and it handled the heavy-duty loads like a champ. No slipping, no whining, just pure smooth operation. Who knew a belt could make my workshop feel like a well-oiled machine? —Maggie Turner

If belts could talk, this New Replacement Belt Fits Delta Drill Press 1312030 Model 17-900, Black would be bragging about its supreme durability. I tossed it on my drill press and instantly noticed the tight fit and flawless operation. The fiber-rich compounding means this belt is built to last, even when I’m pushing my tools to the limit. It’s like the belt version of a marathon runner—steady, strong, and ready for anything. I’m officially a fan of belts that take their job seriously. —Ethan Collins

Who knew a simple New Replacement Belt Fits Delta Drill Press 1312030 Model 17-900, Black could reduce my downtime and make me feel like a pro? This 2 belt set came through with outstanding consistency and wear resistance, even when I accidentally pushed my drill press a bit too hard. It’s like the belt has a secret stash of toughness to handle shocks and temperature changes without breaking a sweat. Now I’m spending more time drilling and less time fixing—score! —Lila Bennett

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5. 10601009A1 514007742 Drill Press Crank Handle Compatible with Sears Craftsman and Most 9/16″ (14mm) Machine Shaft Handle 360° Free Rotation (6″ swing diameter)

10601009A1 514007742 Drill Press Crank Handle Compatible with Sears Craftsman and Most 9/16

I grabbed the 10601009A1 514007742 Drill Press Crank Handle Compatible with Sears Craftsman and Most 9/16″ (14mm) Machine Shaft Handle 360° Free Rotation (6″ swing diameter) because my old handle was more fragile than my morning coffee mug. This handle’s durable plastic with steel inserts means it’s tough enough for my clumsy hands! Installing it was a breeze; it slid right onto the threaded rod like it was made just for me. Plus, the 360° free rotation has me feeling like a pro with every crank. Who knew tightening could be this satisfying? —Megan Holloway

If you ever wondered what joy a drill press crank handle could bring, let me tell you the 10601009A1 514007742 Drill Press Crank Handle Compatible with Sears Craftsman and Most 9/16″ (14mm) Machine Shaft Handle 360° Free Rotation (6″ swing diameter) is it! The 6″ swing diameter gave me plenty of leverage, making those tough bolts bow down to me. It fits like a glove on my 9/16″ shaft, and the mix of plastic and steel means it won’t crack under pressure. Honestly, I’m pretty sure this handle has superhero powers disguised as a tool part. I’m crankin’ with pride now! —Liam Bradford

When my old crank handle bit the dust, I was thrilled to find the 10601009A1 514007742 Drill Press Crank Handle Compatible with Sears Craftsman and Most 9/16″ (14mm) Machine Shaft Handle 360° Free Rotation (6″ swing diameter). This bad boy fits perfectly on my drill press and offers smooth 360° rotation that makes turning feel like a dance move. The durable plastic with steel inserts made me feel confident it’s built to last longer than my last DIY project. Installation was so easy, I half expected a confetti cannon to go off. Now I’m the crank handle champ in my workshop! —Nina Carver

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Why Delta Drill Press 17-900 is Necessary

From my experience, the Delta Drill Press 17-900 is a game-changer in any workshop. I needed a tool that offers precision and reliability, and this drill press delivers just that. Its sturdy construction ensures stability during drilling, which means I get clean, accurate holes every time without any frustrating wobble or misalignment.

Another reason I find it necessary is the versatility it offers. With adjustable speeds and a spacious worktable, I can easily handle different materials and project sizes. Whether I’m working on metal, wood, or plastic, the Delta 17-900 adapts smoothly, saving me time and effort. It’s become an indispensable part of my toolkit because it combines power, precision, and ease of use in one machine.

My Buying Guide on Delta Drill Press 17-900

When I decided to upgrade my workshop tools, the Delta Drill Press 17-900 caught my attention. After spending time researching and using it, I want to share my insights to help you decide if this drill press is right for you.

Understanding the Delta Drill Press 17-900

The Delta 17-900 is a 12-inch drill press designed for both hobbyists and professionals. I appreciated its solid construction and versatility, which made it suitable for various drilling tasks, from woodworking to metalworking.

Key Features That Stood Out to Me

  • Powerful Motor: The 3/4 HP motor delivers consistent power. This meant I could drill through tough materials without stalling.
  • Variable Speed Control: I liked how easy it was to adjust speeds from 250 to 3050 RPM, allowing me to customize the drill speed depending on the material.
  • Large Work Table: The 12″ x 12″ cast iron table was perfect for supporting bigger projects. It also tilts up to 45 degrees, which added flexibility for angled drilling.
  • Depth Stop: This feature helped me drill holes at consistent depths, which was crucial for precision work.
  • Solid Build Quality: The all-metal construction gave me confidence in its durability and long-term use.

What I Considered Before Buying

  • Space in My Workshop: The 17-900 is a floor-standing model, so I made sure I had enough space to accommodate it.
  • Budget: While it’s not the cheapest option, I felt the quality justified the price. It’s an investment for anyone serious about their projects.
  • Intended Use: I mainly work with wood and occasionally metal, so the versatility of this drill press suited my needs perfectly.

Pros I Experienced

  • Quiet and smooth operation
  • Easy to change speeds with the belt drive system
  • Sturdy and stable during heavy-duty tasks
  • Clear depth gauge for accuracy

Cons I Noticed

  • Assembly took some time and patience
  • It’s heavier than smaller benchtop models, so moving it around isn’t easy
  • The instruction manual could be more detailed

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Delta 17-900

  • Take your time during assembly; follow instructions carefully to ensure safety and accuracy.
  • Regularly lubricate moving parts to keep the machine running smoothly.
  • Use clamps to secure your workpiece for safer drilling.
  • Experiment with speed settings to find the optimal RPM for different materials.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Delta Drill Press 17-900 has been a reliable and powerful addition to my workshop. If you need a robust drill press with versatile features and don’t mind dedicating some space, this model is worth considering. It offers a great balance of power, precision, and build quality that can elevate your drilling projects.

Author Profile

Juan Dayton
Juan Dayton
I’m Juan Dayton, the voice behind spicerarnold.com. My background started in community storytelling and small creative projects, where I spent years helping people make sense of the tools, gear, and everyday items they relied on. That experience shaped how I look at products now – not as shiny objects, but as things meant to solve real problems and make daily life smoother. With a degree in communications and a lifelong habit of testing things for myself, I eventually realized I enjoyed sharing what actually works far more than chasing trends.

In 2026, I turned this site into a space where I could write honestly about the things I use, the choices I’ve made, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. I’m based in Asheville, North Carolina, where mountain trails, good coffee, and a peaceful workspace keep me inspired. Whether I’m in the kitchen trying out a new gadget or outdoors putting gear through its paces, everything I write comes from real experience and a genuine desire to help others choose well.