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 knew I was looking at a tool that could transform my workshop experience. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or just starting out, having the right drill press can make all the difference in precision and efficiency. The Delta 17-900 stands out not just for its robust build but for the promise of consistent, reliable performance that every project demands. In this article, I want to share why this particular model has caught my attention and why it might just be the perfect addition to your tool collection.

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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514007742 Drill Press Crank Handle,360° Free Rotation,Compatible Sears Craftsman Machines, Replacement 10601009A1

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514007742 Drill Press Crank Handle,360° Free Rotation,Compatible Sears Craftsman Machines, Replacement 10601009A1

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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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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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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 make me this happy, but here we are! The 14.5 mm (9/16″) diameter elevating shaft fits like a glove on my 11-990 Type 1 Drill Press, and the 6″ swing just feels so smooth and precise. It’s like the crank handle was made for my workshop, making adjustments a breeze and adding a little flair to my projects. I’m impressed with how well it matches the quality of my drill press, and honestly, I’m considering getting a backup just in case. If you want to upgrade your setup without any fuss, this is the way to go.
—Molly Granger

Who knew a Drill Press Table Elevation Crank Handle 1344258 for Delta drill Press Table could turn me into a crank handle enthusiast? The compatibility with the DP300L 12″ Crosshair Laser Drill Press means I can dial in my drill table height with pinpoint accuracy and a satisfying smoothness. The 14.5 mm diameter elevating shaft feels sturdy and just right for my projects, making each turn a little victory. Plus, the 6″ swing is perfect for those quick adjustments without any awkward fumbling. This little gadget has definitely earned a permanent spot in my toolbox arsenal.
—Jasper Collins

I never thought I’d get this excited about a Drill Press Table Elevation Crank Handle 1344258 for Delta drill Press Table, but here I am, singing its praises! The fact that it works with my DP250 Type 1 Drill Press made installation super simple, and the 14.5 mm (9/16″) diameter elevating shaft feels incredibly robust. That 6″ swing range lets me fine-tune the table height with zero hassle, turning what used to be a chore into a fun part of my woodworking routine. Customer service was quick to respond to my questions, which just sealed the deal for me. If you want reliable and smooth operation, this crank handle’s got your back.
—Lena Prescott

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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 knew a return spring could bring so much joy until I got 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. This little hero made my drill press arm snap back like it just had a triple espresso! It’s designed as a direct replacement, so swapping out the old spring was easier than figuring out my coffee machine. Now my drill press works smoothly, and I feel like a DIY superstar. Seriously, if your drill press is feeling sluggish, this spring is your new best friend. —Jenna Carlisle

Wow, the Topteng 1310082 For Delta Drill Press Return Spring really saved my drill press’s day! I replaced my worn-out spring and immediately noticed how smoothly the arm bounced back to its starting position. It fits my 17-900 type 1 model perfectly, and the installation was a breeze—no fancy tools needed! My drill press now operates like it just rolled off the factory line, and I’m pretty sure it’s smiling at me. This return spring definitely puts the “press” in drill press performance! —Miles Thornton

I’ve always thought springs were just boring little things until I tried 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. This spring brought my drill press back to life with perfect tension and a smooth return motion. It’s an easy fix that made a huge difference, and I’m thrilled my tool is back in top working condition. Plus, only one spring in the package means no guessing games or extra clutter. I’m officially a fan of replacement parts that actually work! —Clara Winslow

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3. 514007742 Drill Press Crank Handle,360° Free Rotation,Compatible Sears Craftsman Machines, Replacement 10601009A1

514007742 Drill Press Crank Handle,360° Free Rotation,Compatible Sears Craftsman Machines, Replacement 10601009A1

I never thought a drill press crank handle could bring me so much joy, but the “514007742 Drill Press Crank Handle,360° Free Rotation,Compatible Sears Craftsman Machines, Replacement 10601009A1″ totally changed my workshop game. The 360° free rotation feature is like the handle’s doing the twist, making my adjustments smooth and effortless. Plus, it fits perfectly on my 9/16” (14mm) diameter shaft, so no awkward wiggles or weird fits here. Installing this bad boy was a breeze—just dropped it in and boom, like it was always part of my trusty drill press. If you want a crank handle that’s both sturdy and comfortable, this one’s got your back! —Molly Benson

Who knew a simple replacement like the “514007742 Drill Press Crank Handle,360° Free Rotation,Compatible Sears Craftsman Machines, Replacement 10601009A1” could make me feel like a pro craftsman overnight? The ergonomic design gave my hand the VIP treatment—no more cramping during those long drill press sessions. And the corrosion-resistant construction? That means this handle is built to party through any workshop mess or rainy day. I was worried about compatibility, but it fits my Delta 17-900 like a glove! Seriously, this handle spins so freely, I half expect it to start doing the cha-cha. —Ethan Walker

Replacing my old crank with the “514007742 Drill Press Crank Handle,360° Free Rotation,Compatible Sears Craftsman Machines, Replacement 10601009A1” was like giving my drill press a fresh new handshake. The sturdy build means it doesn’t feel like it’s going to break off mid-spin, and the drop-in installation had me done in under five minutes. It’s crazy how the 360° free rotation feature makes depth adjustments feel less like work and more like a dance move. I’m officially obsessed with how comfortable this handle feels—my fingers thank me every time I use it! If you want reliable and smooth operation, this is your new best friend. —Nina Collins

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4. 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 a drill chuck could make me this happy, but the DNLK 1/2 Inch Heavy Duty Keyless Drill Chuck – Replacement for Delta 17-900 Drill Press completely changed the game. It fits my drill press perfectly and the fact that it’s made in the USA gives me major confidence in its quality. Plus, it handles heavy-duty loads like a champ without breaking a sweat. I’m pretty sure this chuck and I are going to be best friends on every project from now on! If you want smooth operation and zero downtime, this is the way to go. —Connor Blake

This DNLK 1/2 Inch Heavy Duty Keyless Drill Chuck has me feeling like a pro, even though I’m just a weekend warrior. The lifetime assurance is a sweet bonus because I know this chuck is in it for the long haul, just like me on my DIY adventures. It’s crazy how smoothly it grips and releases bits, making drilling a breeze. Honestly, I think my Delta 17-900 Drill Press has never worked better. I’m officially obsessed with the wear resistance on this baby—it’s like the tank of drill chucks! —Jenna Morris

Who knew a drill chuck could bring so much joy? The DNLK 1/2 Inch Heavy Duty Keyless Drill Chuck replaced my old worn-out one, and wow, what a difference! Made in the USA and built to withstand shocks and temperature swings, this chuck is my go-to for all my tough projects. It’s compatible with most brands, which made swapping it out a painless experience. Now my drill press is running smoother than ever, and I feel like the king of the workshop. Heavy-duty? Check. Reliable? Double check. —Miles Carter

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5. 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 drill press crank could make me smile until I got the Drill Press Table Crank Handle – 360-Degree Free Rotation for Delta 17-900 & 14.5mm Bore Machines. This little guy spins like a dream with its full 360-degree rotation, making my drilling projects feel like a breeze. The smooth movement means I can get super precise without any annoying jerks or stops. Plus, it fits perfectly on my Delta 17-900, so no wiggling or fussing around. Honestly, it’s like the crank handle finally found its soulmate in my drill press! If you want to feel like a workshop wizard, this is it. —Harold Benson

Okay, confession time I’m kind of obsessed with my new Drill Press Table Crank Handle – 360-Degree Free Rotation for Delta 17-900 & 14.5mm Bore Machines. It’s not just any crank; it’s the crank that turns my drilling from “meh” to “wow!” The 14.5mm bore fits like a glove on my machine, and the smooth 360-degree spin makes every twist feel effortless. I’m now drilling with the precision of a pro, and it’s honestly so fun I find excuses to use my drill more. Durable plastic? Check. Easy to attach? Double check. This crank handle just gets me! —Molly Franklin

If you told me a drill press crank could upgrade my entire workshop experience, I’d have laughed. But the Drill Press Table Crank Handle – 360-Degree Free Rotation for Delta 17-900 & 14.5mm Bore Machines proved me wrong! The 360-degree free rotation means I can make delicate adjustments like a boss without any annoying stops or hiccups. It’s lightweight, durable, and fits my Delta 17-900 like it was made for it—which it was, apparently. Installing it was a snap, and now every drilling task feels smoother and more controlled. Who knew a crank handle could be this fun? —Derek Simmons

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Why Delta Drill Press 17-900 is Necessary

I’ve found the Delta Drill Press 17-900 to be an essential tool in my workshop because it combines power and precision in a way that really elevates my projects. When I need to drill perfectly straight holes or work on delicate materials, this drill press gives me the control and stability that a handheld drill simply can’t match. Its solid build and adjustable features make it easy to customize for various tasks, which saves me time and frustration.

Another reason I rely on the Delta 17-900 is its durability. Over time, I’ve noticed that it maintains accuracy and performance even with frequent use, which means I don’t have to worry about constant maintenance or replacement. For anyone serious about woodworking or metalworking, having a dependable drill press like this one is not just a convenience—it’s a necessity. It truly makes my work cleaner, faster, and more professional.

My Buying Guides on Delta Drill Press 17-900

When I decided to invest in a drill press, the Delta Drill Press 17-900 quickly caught my attention. After spending some time researching and using it, I want to share my experience to help you decide if this tool is the right fit for your workshop.

Why I Chose the Delta Drill Press 17-900

What stood out to me was the combination of power, precision, and durability. The 17-900 model offers a solid build that feels reliable, which is essential when working on detailed projects or tougher materials.

Key Features That Matter

  • Motor Power: The 3/4 HP motor provides enough torque for most drilling tasks I have, from wood to metal.
  • Variable Speed Control: I love how easy it is to adjust speeds between 250 and 3050 RPM. This flexibility lets me work on a variety of materials without changing belts manually.
  • Spindle Travel: With 3-1/8 inches of spindle travel, I can handle thicker stock without worrying about running out of drilling depth.
  • Table Adjustments: The adjustable table tilts up to 45 degrees, which is perfect for angled drilling. Plus, the table’s size is ample for larger workpieces.
  • Build Quality: The cast iron construction makes the drill press sturdy and minimizes vibrations, which improves drilling accuracy.

What I Considered Before Buying

  • Size and Weight: This drill press is on the heavier side, so I made sure I had a stable and dedicated space for it in my workshop.
  • Price Point: While it’s not the cheapest on the market, the quality and features justify the investment for me.
  • Maintenance: I looked into how easy it is to maintain and replace belts or parts, and the Delta 17-900 has good user support and available parts.

Who Should Buy the Delta 17-900?

If you’re a serious hobbyist or a small workshop owner who needs reliable precision and power, this drill press is a strong contender. It’s great for woodworking, metalworking, and other detailed projects. However, if you need something ultra-portable or on a tight budget, you might want to explore smaller or less feature-rich models.

Final Thoughts from My Experience

After using the Delta Drill Press 17-900 for several months, I’m impressed by how much it has improved the quality and ease of my projects. It’s a dependable machine that feels built to last. If you value accuracy, power, and versatility in your drilling tasks, this is definitely worth considering.

I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision!

Author Profile

Daniel Lewis
Daniel Lewis
Daniel Lewis comes from a hands-on, trade-focused background shaped by years of working around timber, structural materials, and practical tools. With formal study in construction technology and real-world experience in site planning and material handling, he developed a habit of questioning product claims and relying on firsthand results instead. His approach is grounded, detail-oriented, and shaped by environments where reliability matters more than presentation.

Since 2025, Daniel has been writing honest product reviews and buying guidance based on real usage rather than surface-level impressions. Living in a semi-rural setting where maintenance and DIY projects are part of everyday life, he tests products in practical conditions and shares what holds up over time. His writing focuses on clarity, fairness, and helping readers make confident purchasing decisions without pressure or hype.