Best Drill Presses with 1-1/2-Inch in 2026: 9 Picks Ranked by Specs
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Finding the best drill presses with 1 1 2 inch cutting capacity requires comparing power formats, footprint sizes, and clamping strength. This guide evaluates 9 models strictly using published manufacturer specifications.
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1-1/2-Inch Cordless Magnetic Drill takes the top spot by pairing a cordless design with a 2,000-pound magnetic base and generous stroke travel. This breakdown helps you decide which magnetic drill press fits your fabrication workflow, vertical clearance limits, and power requirements.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You need cordless operation for drilling 1-1/2-inch holes Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1-1/2-Inch Cordless Magnetic Drill Its cordless design and 2,000-pound magnetic base allow you to cut 1-1/2-inch holes without plugging into an outlet.
- You need to drill steel in tight vertical clearances CS Unitec 1-1/2-Inch Compact Magnetic Drill A compact 7.13-inch height allows this unit to fit into spaces where standard magnetic drills cannot clear.
- You want automated feeding during repetitive hole cutting CS Unitec 1-1/2-Inch Automatic Magnetic Drill Its automatic feed feature and 3,750-pound magnetic force handle hole-cutting cycles without manual feeding.
- You want the lightest portable corded magnetic drill BLUEROCK Compact Magnetic Drill Press A 25-pound weight and 2,600 pounds of magnetic force make it easy to move between workpieces.
Our 9 picks
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1-1/2-Inch Cordless Magnetic Drill
Best for: Cordless 1-1/2-inch metal cutting with deep stroke travel
- Cutting Capacity
- 1-1/2-Inch (what this guide is about)
- Spindle Speed
- 400 & 690 RPM
- Hole Capacity
- 1-1/2 in
- Spindle Travel
- 5-3/4 in
- Magnetic Force
- 2,000 lbs
- Chuck Capacity
- 3/4 in Weldon to 1/2 in
View on Amazon: Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1-1/2-Inch Cordless Magnetic Drill
This cordless magnetic drill handles up to 1-1/2-inch annular cutters and 1/2-inch twist bits using a self-powered magnet that delivers 2,000 pounds of holding force. It offers two operating speeds of 400 and 690 RPM alongside a 5-3/4-inch stroke length and 5-1/8 inches of motor head adjustment. Powered by M18 batteries, it suits you if you need heavy-duty metal drilling capacity without being tethered to a wall outlet.
Pros
- 2,000 lbs holding force from a self-powered magnetic base
- Two mechanical speeds of 400 RPM and 690 RPM
- 5-3/4 in. stroke length with 5-1/8 in. motor head adjustment
- Accepts 1-1/2 in. annular cutters and 1/2 in. twist bits
- Includes two XC8.0 batteries, rapid charger, and AC/DC vehicle charger
Cons
- Limited to two preset spindle speeds
- Requires managing and recharging batteries for extended operation
Good fit if
- You need to cut up to 1-1/2-inch holes away from standard AC wall power.
- You want deep plunge capability with a 5-3/4-inch stroke length.
- You plan to use both annular cutters and standard 1/2-inch twist drill bits.
Skip if
- You prefer an exclusively corded shop tool with continuous 120V mains power.
- You require continuously variable spindle speed control beyond 400 and 690 RPM.
Verdict: Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1-1/2 in. Magnetic Drill delivers cordless 1-1/2-inch hole-cutting performance with a strong 2,000-pound magnetic base and generous stroke travel.
BLUEROCK Typhoon 120V Magnetic Drill Press
Best for: portable 1-1/2-inch steel fabrication with annular cutters
- Cutting Capacity
- 1-1/2-Inch (what this guide is about)
- Spindle Speed
- 595 RPM
- Hole Capacity
- 7/16" - 1-1/2"
- Spindle Travel
- 2 in
- Chuck Capacity
- 3/4" Weldon Shank
- Voltage
- 120 V
This 120V magnetic drill press provides a 7/16-inch to 1-1/2-inch hole capacity with 2 inches of spindle travel. Operating at a fixed 595 RPM, it features a standard 3/4-inch Weldon shank and weighs 28 pounds. It includes a chuck, adapter, oil bottle, safety chain, and storage case. It suits you if you need a straightforward, portable steel drilling setup for standard annular cutters.
Pros
- Hole capacity from 7/16 inch up to 1-1/2 inches with 2-inch depth
- Uses a standard 3/4-inch Weldon shank
- Includes chuck, adapter, oil bottle, safety chain, and case
- Weighs 28 pounds for manageable transport
Cons
- Fixed operating speed of 595 RPM without variable adjustment
- Spindle travel is limited to 2 inches
Good fit if
- You need to cut holes up to 1-1/2 inches in steel using annular cutters.
- You want a complete kit that includes a chuck, adapter, and case.
- You have access to a standard 120V power source.
Skip if
- You require adjustable spindle speeds for varied cutter diameters.
- You need deeper cutting travel than 2 inches.
Verdict: BLUEROCK Typhoon 1-1/2-Inch Magnetic Drill provides reliable 595 RPM drilling and a full accessory kit in a compact 28-pound frame. It is an effective solution for standard metal cutting tasks up to 1-1/2 inches.
BLUEROCK Compact Magnetic Drill Press
Best for: portable annular cutting on 110V power
- Cutting Capacity
- 1-1/2-Inch (what this guide is about)
- Motor Power
- 950 W
- Spindle Speed
- 640 RPM
- Hole Capacity
- 7/16" - 1-1/2"
- Spindle Travel
- 2 in
- Magnetic Force
- 2600 lbs
The BLUEROCK Mini 1-1/2-Inch Magnetic Drill Press delivers portable hole-making power in a 25-pound frame. Powered by a 950W motor running at 640 RPM, it handles hole diameters from 7/16 inch up to 1-1/2 inches with a 2-inch cutting depth. The base provides 2,600 pounds of magnetic holding force. If you want a compact, corded 110V machine dedicated to annular cutters, this model provides reliable workshop capability.
Pros
- 2,600 lbs of magnetic holding force
- Lightweight 25-pound total unit weight
- 950W motor operating at 640 RPM
- Cuts holes up to 1-1/2 inches wide and 2 inches deep
Cons
- Designed for annular cutter use only
- Single fixed speed without variable RPM control
- Spindle travel limited to 2 inches
Good fit if
- You exclusively use annular cutters for holes up to 1-1/2 inches.
- You need a portable 25-pound drill press with strong magnetic adhesion.
- You run standard 110V workshop power.
Skip if
- You need to chuck standard twist drill bits.
- You require adjustable spindle speeds for varied materials.
- You need more than 2 inches of spindle stroke.
Verdict: BLUEROCK Mini 1-1/2-Inch Magnetic Drill Press combines 2,600 pounds of magnetic force and a 950W motor in a manageable 25-pound chassis. It delivers dependable performance if your workflow relies solely on annular cutters.
CS Unitec 1-1/2-Inch Compact Magnetic Drill
Best for: Low-clearance steel drilling in confined spaces
- Cutting Capacity
- 1-1/2-Inch (what this guide is about)
- Hole Capacity
- 1-1/2"
- Spindle Travel
- 1-1/2"
- Magnetic Force
- 2,640 lbs.
- Chuck Capacity
- 3/4" Weldon Shank
- Voltage
- 110 V
The CS Unitec Compact Magnetic Drill is a corded 110V drill press built for tight work environments. It provides a 1-1/2-inch cutting capacity and 1-1/2 inches of spindle travel while standing just 7-1/8 inches high. With 2,640 pounds of magnetic holding force and a dual-sided advancing lever, it suits you if you need to drill structural steel where standard-height magnetic drills cannot fit vertically.
Pros
- Compact 7-1/8-inch height fits confined spaces
- 2,640 pounds of magnetic holding force
- Advancing lever mounts on either the left or right side
- Built-in LED light illuminates the work area
Cons
- Limited to 1-1/2 inches of spindle travel
- Weighs 29 pounds despite its low-profile frame
- Requires a tethered 110V power source
Good fit if
- You need to cut up to 1-1/2-inch holes in low-clearance spaces under 8 inches tall.
- You require 2,640 pounds of magnetic adhesion for secure steel drilling.
- You want the flexibility to mount the feed handle on either side of the machine.
Skip if
- You need more than 1-1/2 inches of spindle stroke for deeper cuts.
- You need a cordless battery-powered machine for remote job sites without 110V power.
Verdict: CS Unitec Compact Magnetic Drill delivers dependable 1-1/2-inch hole-making performance with 2,640 pounds of magnetic grip in a low 7-1/8-inch frame. It is built specifically for steel drilling tasks where vertical clearance is heavily restricted.
BLUEROCK Portable Magnetic Drill Press
Best for: all-in-one coring with bundled annular cutters
- Cutting Capacity
- 1-1/2-Inch (what this guide is about)
- Spindle Speed
- 595 RPM
- Hole Capacity
- 7/16" - 1-1/2"
- Spindle Travel
- 2 in
- Voltage
- 120 V
- Configuration
- Magnetic
This BLUEROCK magnetic drill press provides a hole cutting capacity between 7/16 inch and 1-1/2 inches. It runs on standard 120-volt power at a single spindle speed of 595 RPM, matched with 2 inches of spindle travel. It comes bundled with a six-piece set of two-inch depth annular cutters ranging from 9/16 inch to 1-1/16 inches. It suits you if you need a dedicated metal-coring setup ready for direct 120V workshop outlets.
Pros
- Supports hole diameters from 7/16 inch up to 1-1/2 inches
- Includes a 6-piece set of 2-inch depth annular cutters
- Runs on standard 120V AC power
- Provides 2 inches of spindle travel
Cons
- Operates at a single fixed speed of 595 RPM
- Spindle travel is limited to 2 inches
Good fit if
- You need a 1-1/2-inch capacity magnetic drill bundled with annular cutters.
- You work with standard 120V AC electrical power.
Skip if
- You need variable spindle speeds rather than a fixed 595 RPM.
- You require more than 2 inches of spindle travel for deeper holes.
Verdict: BLUEROCK Typhoon 1-1/2-Inch Magnetic Drill delivers reliable 120V portable coring up to 1-1/2 inches and comes complete with six standard annular cutters.
BLUEROCK Typhoon Magnetic Drill Press
Best for: standard 1-1/2-inch steel fabrication jobs
- Cutting Capacity
- 1-1/2-Inch (what this guide is about)
- Spindle Speed
- 595 RPM
- Hole Capacity
- 7/16 in to 1-1/2 in
- Spindle Travel
- 2 in
- Chuck Capacity
- 3/4 in Weldon shank
- Voltage
- 120V
The BLUEROCK Typhoon is a portable 120V magnetic drill press designed for annular cutting up to 1-1/2 inches in diameter. It delivers a fixed spindle speed of 595 RPM with 2 inches of spindle travel and accommodates standard 3/4-inch Weldon shank tooling. If you need a corded mag drill packaged with a chuck, adapter, oil bottle, and case, it suits dedicated metal-drilling applications.
Pros
- Cuts holes from 7/16 inch up to 1-1/2 inches in diameter
- Offers 2 inches of spindle travel and drilling depth
- Accepts standard 3/4-inch Weldon shank cutters
- Includes a chuck, adapter, oil bottle, safety chain, and carry case
Cons
- Operates at a single fixed speed of 595 RPM without variable adjustment
- Requires access to a standard 120V electrical outlet
Good fit if
- You need to cut holes up to 1-1/2 inches wide and 2 inches deep in steel.
- You want a complete kit that includes an adapter, drill chuck, and case.
- You work near 120V power outlets and use 3/4-inch Weldon shank tooling.
Skip if
- You require variable spindle speeds for different drill bits and materials.
- You need a cordless battery-powered unit for jobs without outlet access.
Verdict: BLUEROCK Typhoon 1-1/2-Inch Magnetic Drill Press delivers straightforward, single-speed drilling performance with a 2-inch depth capacity. It is a practical pick if you want an all-in-one corded package with included accessories.
BLUEROCK Typhoon Red Magnetic Drill Press
Best for: portable 1-1/2-inch steel drilling with included cutters
- Cutting Capacity
- 1-1/2-Inch (what this guide is about)
- Spindle Speed
- 570 RPM / 595 RPM
- Hole Capacity
- 7/16" - 1-1/2"
- Spindle Travel
- 2 in
- Voltage
- 110 V / 120 V
- Configuration
- Magnetic
The BLUEROCK Typhoon 1-1/2-Inch Magnetic Drill Press is a portable magnetic unit designed for metal boring. Operating on a standard 110V to 120V power supply, it delivers a spindle speed of 570 to 595 RPM with 2 inches of spindle travel. It accommodates hole diameters from 7/16 inch up to 1-1/2 inches and includes a 2-inch annular cutter set. This machine suits you if you need a portable drilling package.
Pros
- Hole cutting capacity from 7/16 inch up to 1-1/2 inches
- Includes a 2-inch annular cutter set with six cutter sizes
- Spindle travel of 2 inches
- Runs on standard 110V/120V power
Cons
- Single fixed speed rating with no variable-speed control listed
- Spindle travel is limited to 2 inches
Good fit if
- You need a magnetic drill that handles hole diameters up to 1-1/2 inches.
- You want an included 2-inch annular cutter set covering sizes from 9/16 inch to 1-1/16 inch.
Skip if
- You require adjustable spindle speeds for different drill bit types.
- You need more than 2 inches of spindle travel for deeper holes.
Verdict: BLUEROCK Typhoon 1-1/2-Inch Magnetic Drill Press provides portable 110V/120V cutting capacity up to 1-1/2 inches and includes a six-piece cutter set right out of the box.
CS Unitec 1-1/2-Inch Automatic Magnetic Drill
Best for: automated magnetic drilling in structural steel
- Cutting Capacity
- 1-1/2-Inch (what this guide is about)
- Motor Power
- 1050 Watts
- Spindle Speed
- 460 RPM
- Hole Capacity
- up to 1-1/2"
- Magnetic Force
- 3,750 lbs.
- Voltage
- 110-volt
View on Amazon: CS Unitec 1-1/2-Inch Automatic Magnetic Drill
This portable magnetic drill press from CS Unitec provides a 1-1/2-inch hole cutting capacity and a 6-inch cutting width. Driven by a 110-volt, 1050-watt motor running at 460 RPM, it features an automatic feed system with reverse. With 3,750 pounds of magnetic force and a 33-pound weight, it suits you if you need consistent feed pressure for repetitive drilling in steel.
Pros
- Automatic feed and reverse system maintains optimal cutting pressure
- 1050-watt motor produces a 460 RPM spindle speed
- 3,750 lbs. of magnetic force provides solid adhesion
- Integrated gravity-fed cooling system with removable tank
Cons
- Single fixed spindle speed of 460 RPM
- Requires a 110-volt outlet instead of battery power
Good fit if
- You want an automatic feed system to maintain consistent cutting pressure
- You need 3,750 lbs. of magnetic holding force for vertical or overhead steel work
- You work with hole sizes up to 1-1/2 inches
Skip if
- You require variable spindle speeds for different tool diameters
- You need cordless mobility on sites without a 110-volt power source
Verdict: CS Unitec 1-1/2-Inch Auto-Feed Magnetic Drill automates your hole-cutting cycles with a 1050-watt motor and 3,750 pounds of magnetic force. It delivers reliable 1-1/2-inch capacity and integrated cooling in a 33-pound package.
C.S. Unitec 1-1/2-Inch Auto-Feed Magnetic Drill
Best for: automated feeding during 1-1/2-inch magnetic drilling jobs
- Cutting Capacity
- 1-1/2-Inch (what this guide is about)
- Spindle Speed
- 450 RPM
- Hole Capacity
- Up to 1-1/2" dia.
- Configuration
- Magnetic
- Features
- Automatic Feed
View on Amazon: C.S. Unitec 1-1/2-Inch Auto-Feed Magnetic Drill
This C.S. Unitec magnetic drill press provides a 1-1/2-inch hole cutting capacity and operates at a single speed of 450 RPM. Its standout feature is an integrated automatic feed, which controls the drilling stroke for you. Weighing 33 pounds, it is suited for metalworkers and fabricators who need steady, repeatable hole cutting up to 1-1/2 inches without constantly operating the feed handle manually.
Pros
- Automatic feed feature controls the drilling cycle
- 1-1/2-inch maximum hole cutting capacity
- Dedicated 450 RPM spindle speed for annular cutting
- Magnetic base configuration secures tool during operation
Cons
- Fixed at a single 450 RPM speed setting
- Weighs 33 pounds, making it heavier to position overhead
- No variable speed control listed
Good fit if
- You want an automatic feed mechanism to manage the drilling stroke
- You cut holes up to 1-1/2 inches in steel using magnetic mounting
- You require a consistent 450 RPM operating speed
Skip if
- You need multiple or variable spindle speeds for different bit types
- You need an ultralight mag drill that weighs well under 30 pounds
- You only require a manual feed magnetic drill
Verdict: C.S. Unitec AutoMAB 350 Magnetic Drill delivers 1-1/2-inch cutting capacity at 450 RPM with the operational convenience of an automatic feed system. It is a solid choice when you want automated feed control for repetitive metal drilling tasks.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1-1/2-Inch Cordless Magnetic Drill | BLUEROCK Typhoon 120V Magnetic Drill Press | BLUEROCK Compact Magnetic Drill Press | CS Unitec 1-1/2-Inch Compact Magnetic Drill | BLUEROCK Portable Magnetic Drill Press | BLUEROCK Typhoon Magnetic Drill Press | BLUEROCK Typhoon Red Magnetic Drill Press | CS Unitec 1-1/2-Inch Automatic Magnetic Drill | C.S. Unitec 1-1/2-Inch Auto-Feed Magnetic Drill |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motor Power | not specified | not specified | 950 W | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 1050 Watts | not specified |
| Spindle Speed | 400 & 690 RPM | 595 RPM | 640 RPM | not specified | 595 RPM | 595 RPM | 570 RPM / 595 RPM | 460 RPM | 450 RPM |
| Hole Capacity | 1-1/2 in | 7/16" - 1-1/2" | 7/16" - 1-1/2" | 1-1/2" | 7/16" - 1-1/2" | 7/16 in to 1-1/2 in | 7/16" - 1-1/2" | up to 1-1/2" | Up to 1-1/2" dia. |
| Spindle Travel | 5-3/4 in | 2 in | 2 in | 1-1/2" | 2 in | 2 in | 2 in | not specified | not specified |
| Magnetic Force | 2,000 lbs | not specified | 2600 lbs | 2,640 lbs. | not specified | not specified | not specified | 3,750 lbs. | not specified |
| Chuck Capacity | 3/4 in Weldon to 1/2 in | 3/4" Weldon Shank | not specified | 3/4" Weldon Shank | not specified | 3/4 in Weldon shank | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Voltage | not specified | 120 V | 110 V | 110 V | 120 V | 120V | 110 V / 120 V | 110-volt | not specified |
| Configuration | Magnetic | Magnetic | Magnetic | Magnetic | Magnetic | Magnetic | Magnetic | Magnetic | Magnetic |
| Features | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Automatic Feed | Automatic Feed |
| Design | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Portable | not specified | Portable | Portable | not specified |
| Cutting Capacity | 1-1/2-Inch | 1-1/2-Inch | 1-1/2-Inch | 1-1/2-Inch | 1-1/2-Inch | 1-1/2-Inch | 1-1/2-Inch | 1-1/2-Inch | 1-1/2-Inch |
| Cutting Width | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 6-Inch | not specified |
| Dimensions | 7.5 × 13.5 × 15.5 inches | 20 × 8 × 15 inches | 20 × 8 × 15 inches | 0.63 × 3.33 × 7.13 inches | 19 × 19 × 19 inches | 20 × 8 × 15 inches | not specified | 8.46 × 3.34 × 12.2 inches | not specified |
| Weight | not specified | 28 pounds | 25 pounds | 29 pounds | not specified | not specified | not specified | 33 pounds | not specified |
| Color | Red | Black | Coffee | Black | Black | Orange | Red | not specified | not specified |
| Model | 2788-22HD | BLACK-BRM-35A-B AZ | MINI MAG TYP-28 | MAB 155PRO | BRM35/BLACK + 2" HSS | 1209T566176 | BRM35/RED + 2" HSS | AutoMAB350 | not specified |
| Size | not specified | 19" x 15" x 8" | not specified | Compact | not specified | 19" x 15" x 8" | not specified | not specified | not specified |
Is a 1-1/2-Inch Cutting Capacity Worth It?
A 1-1/2-inch cutting capacity defines the maximum diameter hole a magnetic drill can cut in steel using compatible annular cutters. In daily use, this rating sets a hard upper boundary for structural fabrication, equipment repair, and pipe installation tasks. Choosing a machine built for 1-1/2-inch holes balances capacity against manageable tool weight, typically ranging between 25 and 33 pounds. If your routine steelwork requires clean openings up to this specific dimension, targeting this spec ensures the motor, magnetic base holding power, and arbor support match the cutting load.
Worth it if
- You regularly drill bolt holes and pass-throughs up to 1-1/2 inches in structural steel.
- You want a magnetic drill that stays portable between 25 and 33 pounds.
Skip it if
- You exclusively drill small holes that standard handheld tools can handle.
- You need to cut hole diameters larger than 1-1/2 inches in single operations.
If you need handheld portability instead of a stationary press, compare the best drill drivers with 1 2 inch.
How We Selected the Picks
We selected drill presses for this guide by finding models that list a 1-1/2-inch cutting capacity in their title or published specifications. Each tool is evaluated strictly on published data, and we do not physically test any equipment. To keep comparisons straightforward, we include only one variant per tool family.
The 9 models on this list are ordered with products in stock first, followed by Amazon sales rank, placing better-selling tools first. The live page updates inventory details at least once per day so you always see current options.
Key Factors for 1-1/2-Inch Magnetic Drills
-
Magnetic Holding Force
A magnetic drill relies on its electromagnetic base to stay anchored against steel during cutting. Clamping force across these models ranges from 2,000 pounds up to 3,750 pounds. If you plan to drill horizontally or overhead, higher holding power is essential to keep the machine firmly locked against the metal surface. The CS Unitec 1-1/2-Inch Automatic Magnetic Drill provides 3,750 pounds of clamping force, which provides maximum stability against tool deflection and ensures consistent contact when operating on structural steel beams.
-
Vertical Machine Height
Total tool height determines whether the drill can access confined spaces such as between structural steel flanges or inside equipment frames. Standard models range from 12.2 to 19 inches tall, which require open vertical room to mount the tool and feed the cutter. If you frequently work within restricted clearance, check the overall height spec before buying. The CS Unitec 1-1/2-Inch Compact Magnetic Drill stands just 7.13 inches tall, allowing you to cut full 1-1/2-inch holes where an upright machine cannot fit.
-
Spindle Operating Speed
Annular cutters require appropriate rotation speeds to cut cleanly through metal without premature tooth wear. Single-speed 1-1/2-inch machines list fixed operating speeds between 450 RPM and 595 RPM. Lower rotation speeds, such as 450 RPM on the C.S. Unitec 1-1/2-Inch Auto-Feed Magnetic Drill, help manage heat buildup when cutting through dense structural plates. Conversely, a 595 RPM spindle speed clears material faster in thinner or softer mild steels. Check the listed RPM against the alloy and thickness of your target workpieces.
-
Total Machine Weight
Weight determines how easily you can position, lift, and align a magnetic drill press across various job locations. The models in this category range from 25 pounds to 33 pounds. If your daily workflow involves frequent climbs up scaffolding or positioning the unit sideways on vertical columns, a lighter frame reduces fatigue. The BLUEROCK Compact Magnetic Drill Press weighs 25 pounds, making it easier to transport and secure by hand before activating the magnet compared to heavier 33-pound industrial alternatives.
-
Motor Wattage Ratings
Motor wattage reflects the continuous power available to drive the cutter through thick steel plates. In this category, motor ratings typically range from 950 watts to 1050 watts. A higher wattage rating provides extra torque reserve to keep the spindle spinning steadily under heavy cutting pressure without stalling. The BLUEROCK Compact Magnetic Drill Press features a 950W motor, which delivers adequate power for standard 1-1/2-inch coring, while demanding high-duty cycles benefit from motors pushing past the 1,000-watt threshold.
-
Included Tooling Packages
Look closely at what accessories come packaged with the drill body. Some models are sold as standalone units, requiring you to source cutters and arbors separately before you can start drilling. Other packages, such as the BLUEROCK Portable Magnetic Drill Press, include a six-piece set of high-speed steel annular cutters directly in the box. Review the package contents to verify whether you need to immediately purchase compatible tooling or if the equipment includes the required cutters for your initial projects.
Frequently asked questions
What type of cutting tools do 1-1/2-inch magnetic drill presses use?
Most 1-1/2-inch magnetic drills are designed primarily to run annular cutters rather than standard twist drill bits. Annular cutters hollow out the perimeter of the hole rather than converting all the metal into chips. Models like the BLUEROCK Typhoon packages ship directly with sets of high-speed steel annular cutters suited to their arbors. This cutting method lets compact motors drill large-diameter holes efficiently.
How much does a typical 1-1/2-inch magnetic drill weigh?
Most 1-1/2-inch magnetic drills weigh between 25 and 33 pounds. For example, the BLUEROCK Mini weighs 25 pounds, making it one of the lightest options in this capacity class. Other models like the standard BLUEROCK Typhoon weigh 28 pounds, the CS Unitec MAB 155PRO comes in at 29 pounds, and the automated CS Unitec AutoMAB350 reaches 33 pounds due to its internal feed mechanism.
Can you use a 1-1/2-inch magnetic drill without an electrical outlet?
Yes, you can drill without an electrical outlet if you select a battery-powered model like the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 2788-22HD. That specific unit operates entirely on Milwaukee's cordless platform while still producing a 2,000-pound magnetic holding base and a full 1-1/2-inch cutting capacity. Most other models on the market, such as those from BLUEROCK and CS Unitec, require a standard 110V or 120V AC power source.
What is the benefit of an automatic feed on a magnetic drill?
An automatic feed system controls the drill stroke mechanically instead of requiring you to turn the feed handle manually. On units like the CS Unitec AutoMAB 350, the motor automatically regulates downward cutting pressure through the workpiece at 450 RPM. This consistent feeding pace optimizes cutter life and frees you from maintaining manual pressure across repetitive drilling cycles on structural steel.
How short can a 1-1/2-inch magnetic drill press be for tight spaces?
Low-profile 1-1/2-inch magnetic drills can measure as low as 7.13 inches tall. The CS Unitec MAB 155PRO is engineered specifically for cramped spots, featuring an overall height of just 7.13 inches and a narrow width of 3.33 inches. In comparison, standard vertical magnetic drills like the Milwaukee M18 FUEL or BLUEROCK Typhoon stand roughly 15 inches tall or more, requiring much greater vertical clearance.
What operating speeds do 1-1/2-inch magnetic drills typically run?
Models in this category generally operate between 450 RPM and 600 RPM. For instance, the CS Unitec AutoMAB 350 runs at 450 RPM, while the BLUEROCK Typhoon runs at a single speed of 595 RPM. These moderate rotational speeds provide the ideal surface cutting speed for high-speed steel annular cutters boring 1-1/2-inch holes without overheating the cutting teeth or dulling tool edges.
What motor power ratings are standard for corded 1-1/2-inch magnetic drills?
Corded models in the 1-1/2-inch capacity class typically feature motors rated between 950 watts and 1,050 watts. For example, the BLUEROCK Compact Mini utilizes a 950W motor on 110V power, while the CS Unitec AutoMAB350 uses a 1,050-watt motor. These wattages deliver adequate torque to drive annular cutters through steel plates up to 2 inches deep without stalling the spindle under load.