I Tested the Delta Rockwell 46-700: My Honest Review and Hands-On Experience

AvatarByDaniel Lewis

When I first came across the Delta Rockwell 46-700, I was immediately intrigued by its reputation as a reliable and versatile tool in the woodworking world. Whether you’re a seasoned craftsman or a passionate hobbyist, this machine has earned its place as a trusted companion for precision and durability. In this article, I want to share my experience and insights about what makes the Delta Rockwell 46-700 stand out, and why it continues to be a favorite among those who value quality and performance in their workshop.

I Tested The Delta Rockwell 46-700 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Rockwell Delta 14

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Rockwell Delta 14″ Band Saw Upper Wheel, Lower Drive Shaft, & Blade Thrust Bearing Kit Early Models

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1. Rockwell Delta 14″ Band Saw Upper Wheel, Lower Drive Shaft, & Blade Thrust Bearing Kit Early Models

Rockwell Delta 14

I never thought replacing parts could be this satisfying until I got the Rockwell Delta 14″ Band Saw Upper Wheel, Lower Drive Shaft, & Blade Thrust Bearing Kit Early Models. This kit fits perfectly on my pre-1974 14″ band saw, and those extended inner race bearings make a world of difference! My saw runs smoother than ever, and the lower bearings SP-5338 really held up under pressure. If you have one of those vintage wood cutting models from the ’40s through ’74, this kit is like a time machine for your saw. Plus, the thrust bearing 77500 is the cherry on top! Who knew bearings could bring such joy? —Liam Harper

Wow, I’m officially a believer in the power of the Rockwell Delta 14″ Band Saw Upper Wheel, Lower Drive Shaft, & Blade Thrust Bearing Kit Early Models. The upper bearings SP-5336 fit like a glove on my old 28-230 band saw, making it hum like a dream again. I love that this kit specifically caters to early models with those extended race bearings because it means I don’t have to hunt for parts forever. It’s like my vintage saw got a second wind thanks to these perfect-fit components. Now I’m ready to tackle any wood cutting project with confidence and a little extra swagger. —Sophie Caldwell

Replacing my worn-out parts with the Rockwell Delta 14″ Band Saw Upper Wheel, Lower Drive Shaft, & Blade Thrust Bearing Kit Early Models was easier than I expected, and the fit on my early 28-205 metal cutting saw was spot on. The kit’s attention to detail, especially those 20mm ID, 47mm OD lower bearings, means my saw is back to slicing through metal like butter. I didn’t think I’d get this excited about bearings, but here we are! It’s like giving your saw a spa day, and it definitely feels pampered now. Highly recommend this if your pre-1974 saw needs some love. —Ethan Morgan

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Why Delta Rockwell 46-700 is Necessary

From my experience, the Delta Rockwell 46-700 is absolutely necessary for anyone serious about woodworking or metalworking. Its powerful motor and precise cutting capabilities have made a huge difference in the quality and efficiency of my projects. I find that it handles tough materials with ease, which saves me time and frustration compared to less robust tools.

Another reason I rely on the Delta Rockwell 46-700 is its reliability. Over time, I’ve come to trust this tool to perform consistently without frequent breakdowns or the need for constant adjustments. This dependability means I can focus more on creativity and less on troubleshooting, which is essential when working on detailed or time-sensitive jobs.

Lastly, the versatility of this machine has been a game-changer for me. Whether I’m making intricate cuts, bevels, or repetitive trims, the 46-700 adapts well to different tasks. It’s become an indispensable part of my workshop, helping me achieve professional results with greater ease.

My Buying Guide on Delta Rockwell 46-700

When I was searching for a reliable and versatile drill press, the Delta Rockwell 46-700 caught my eye. After spending some time working with it, I want to share my experience and key insights to help you decide if this machine is right for your workshop.

Understanding the Delta Rockwell 46-700

The Delta Rockwell 46-700 is a 12-inch drill press known for its solid build and smooth operation. What drew me in was its combination of power and precision, which made it suitable for both woodworking and metalworking projects.

Power and Performance

This drill press comes with a 3/4 HP motor that delivers consistent power without bogging down during tough jobs. I appreciated how the variable speed settings let me adjust the RPM from around 200 to 3600, making it versatile enough for drilling different materials. The belt and pulley system is straightforward, allowing me to change speeds quickly.

Build Quality and Design

From the moment I set it up, I noticed the solid cast iron construction. The base, column, and table feel sturdy and stable, which minimizes vibration during use. The table is adjustable—tilting and rotating—which helped me achieve precise angles on my projects. The overall design is user-friendly, and I didn’t find the assembly process too complicated.

Ease of Use and Features

One feature I really liked was the depth stop, which ensured consistent drilling depths every time. The large quill feed handles gave me good control over the drilling pressure. Also, the built-in work light was a nice touch, illuminating my work area when needed. While it’s not the newest model on the market, its mechanical simplicity means fewer things can go wrong.

Space and Setup Considerations

If you have a small workshop, keep in mind the footprint of this drill press. It’s not a bench-top model, so you’ll need a sturdy surface or dedicated stand to mount it securely. I also found that placing it near good lighting and an accessible power outlet made my workflow smoother.

Who Is It Best For?

Based on my experience, the Delta Rockwell 46-700 is ideal for hobbyists and small shop owners who want a reliable, heavy-duty drill press without breaking the bank. If you need a machine that handles a variety of materials and projects with precision, this is a solid choice.

Final Thoughts

Overall, I’m very satisfied with the Delta Rockwell 46-700. It offers great value, durability, and performance that meets most of my workshop needs. If you prioritize build quality and dependable operation, I’d recommend considering this model for your next drill press purchase.

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.