Looking Beyond the Hougen HMD904 MAG Drill? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

Comparing Hougen Alternatives to HMD904

Hougen HMD904S Swivel Base Magnetic Drill

The Hougen HMD904S (model 0904104) is significantly lighter than the original HMD904, weighing 21 pounds compared to 43 pounds. It is also more compact, measuring 11.6 inches in length versus 20 inches. Both units share the 115V voltage and swivel base configuration. You lose the extended reach of the original model but gain portability for stationary shop work. This version supports angled drilling with coolant. It is a better fit if you need to move the drill frequently or work in tighter spaces where the larger footprint of the HMD904 is cumbersome. The reduced weight makes handling easier during long shifts.

Hougen HMD904S Swivel Base Magnetic Drill

This Hougen HMD904S variant (model 0904103HOU) weighs 30.5 pounds, which is lighter than the original 43-pound HMD904. Its dimensions are 18 inches in length and 9 inches in width, making it slightly more compact than the original 20-inch length. It retains the 115V power and swivel base features. The primary difference is the reduced mass, which aids in overhead drilling and tight space access. You give up some of the heft of the original model but gain maneuverability. This unit is ideal for fabricators who need to drill in awkward positions. It offers a middle ground between the heavy original and the lighter 21-pound variant, providing stability without excessive weight.

Hougen HMD904S Swivel Base Magnetic Drill

The Hougen HMD904S (model 0904109) is the heaviest option at 51 pounds, exceeding the original HMD904 weight of 43 pounds. It is more compact in length at 11.6 inches compared to the original 20 inches. Both use 115V power and swivel bases. This model includes an integrated coolant system, which the original data does not explicitly confirm. You gain better precision and cooling for structural steel work but deal with more weight. The compact footprint helps in tight spaces. It is suited for users who prioritize accuracy and coolant management over portability. The increased weight may provide additional stability during heavy-duty drilling tasks compared to the lighter alternatives.

Hougen HMD920 Swivel Base Magnetic Drill

The Hougen HMD920 (model 0920109) is taller at 25.9 inches compared to the original HMD904 height of 18 inches. It is slightly wider at 8.1 inches versus 9 inches, and longer at 12.2 inches versus 20 inches. Weight data is not provided for this model. It shares the 115V voltage and swivel base configuration. This unit is designed for angled drilling with integrated cooling. You gain specialized cooling capabilities and a different form factor but may lose the familiar dimensions of the original. It fits fabricators who need robust angled drilling support. The taller profile might affect clearance in low-ceiling environments. It is a distinct alternative for those needing specific coolant management features.

Hougen HMD900 Magnetic Drill

The Hougen HMD900 (model 0900101) lacks the swivel base feature found in the original HMD904. It weighs 27 pounds, which is lighter than the original 43 pounds. It is more compact, measuring 11 inches in length and 6.75 inches in width. It runs on 115V power. This model uses a slot drive arbor for quick bit changes. You give up the swivel base alignment capability but gain easier accessory changes and portability. It is suitable for standard 115V jobs where angled drilling is not required. The reduced weight and size make it a sturdy, portable option for field work. It is a practical choice if you prioritize quick setup over swivel base precision.

Hougen HMD904 Magnetic Drill

The Hougen HMD904 (model 0904101) does not include a swivel base, unlike the original HMD904. It weighs 34.9 pounds, which is lighter than the original 43 pounds. It measures 11.6 inches in length and 7.75 inches in width, making it more compact. It operates on 115V power. This unit is designed for quick accessory changes via a slot drive arbor. You lose the swivel base for precise alignment but gain a lighter, more portable tool. It is ideal for fabricators who need a no-frills magnetic drill for standard hole sizes. The reduced weight and size enhance portability. It is a reliable option for users who do not require angled drilling capabilities.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Hougen HMD904 Swivel Base Magnetic Drill

Best for: precise alignment drilling tasks

Voltage

115V

Configuration

Magnetic

Features

Swivel Base

Dimensions

20 × 9 × 18 inches

Weight

43 pounds

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The Hougen HMD904 is a 115-volt magnetic drill featuring a 1-1/2 inch drilling capacity. Its swivel base allows precise alignment with hole centers using a one-stroke handle. Weighing 43 pounds with dimensions of 9 by 18 by 20 inches, it offers stable performance. This model suits users needing accurate positioning for general drilling tasks on metal surfaces.

Pros

• 1-1/2 inch drilling capacity
• Swivel base for precise alignment
• 115-volt power supply
• One-stroke handle operation

Cons

• 43-pound weight limits portability
• No coolant system included
• Single speed motor

Good fit if

• You need precise hole centering
• You work with 115-volt power
• You require a swivel base

Skip if

• You need high-speed drilling
• You require integrated coolant
• You need lightweight portability

Verdict: Hougen HMD904 1-1/2 Inch Swivel Base Mag Drill fits users who prioritize alignment accuracy over speed. It serves those needing a stable 115-volt unit for general metal drilling tasks.

2 Also great

Hougen HMD904S Swivel Base Magnetic Drill

Best for: Angled drilling with coolant support

Voltage

115 Volt

Configuration

Magnetic

Features

Swivel Base

Dimensions

11.6 × 7.75 × 19.6 inches

Weight

21 pounds

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This Hougen HMD904S is a 115V magnetic drill press designed for swivel base operations. It handles hole capacities up to 1-1/2 inches with a 2-inch spindle travel. The unit features a two-stage magnet and an integrated coolant system for better chip management. Weighing 21 pounds, it offers a compact footprint for shop use. You will appreciate the quick one-stroke handle for locking and unlocking the swivel mechanism efficiently.

Pros

• 1-1/2 inch maximum hole capacity
• Integrated coolant bottle for chip control
• Swivel base with quick one-stroke handle
• Two-stage magnet for secure attachment

Cons

• 21-pound weight may be heavy for frequent portability
• 115V voltage limits use in high-power industrial settings
• No variable speed control listed in specifications

Good fit if

• You need a swivel base for angled drilling
• You require coolant integration for cleaner cuts
• You work with 115V power sources

Skip if

• You need variable speed control
• You require drilling capacities larger than 1-1/2 inches
• You need a lightweight unit for frequent transport

Verdict: Hougen HMD904S 115V Swivel Magnetic Drill fits users needing angled drilling with coolant support. It suits stationary shop work where its 21-pound weight is manageable and 115V power is available.

3 Also great

Hougen HMD904S Swivel Base Magnetic Drill

Best for: overhead and tight space drilling

Hole Capacity

1-1/2"

Spindle Travel

2"

Chuck Capacity

Slot Drive arbor

Voltage

115-Volt

Configuration

Magnetic

Features

Swivel Base

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This 115-Volt magnetic drill offers a 1-1/2 inch hole capacity and 2 inches of spindle travel. The swivel base allows precise alignment in tight, overhead, or horizontal positions. A two-stage magnet provides a 30% power increase when the motor runs. It includes a lift detector safety system and a carrying case. This model suits fabricators needing versatile positioning and reliable suction for steel work.

Pros

• Swivel base for overhead and tight space access
• Two-stage magnet with 30% power increase
• 1-1/2 inch hole capacity and 2 inch spindle travel
• Lift detector safety system included

Cons

• Heavier build at 30.5 pounds
• No integrated coolant bottle
• 115-Volt power requirement limits portability

Good fit if

• You need to drill in overhead or horizontal positions
• You require precise pilot alignment in tight spaces
• You want a robust swivel base for versatility

Skip if

• You need a lighter drill under 25 pounds
• You require integrated coolant for extended drilling
• You operate in areas without 115-Volt power

Verdict: Hougen HMD904S Swivel Base Magnetic Drill fits fabricators who must drill in awkward positions. The swivel base and strong magnet make it ideal for tight or overhead steel work.

4 Also great

Hougen HMD904S Swivel Base Magnetic Drill

Best for: precision drilling in tight or overhead spaces

Hole Capacity

1-1/2"

Chuck Capacity

1/2"

Voltage

115-Volt

Configuration

Magnetic

Features

Swivel Base

Dimensions

11.6 × 7.75 × 18 inches

View on Amazon: Hougen HMD904S Swivel Base Magnetic Drill Affiliate link

This 115-volt magnetic drill features a swivel base for precise alignment in tight or overhead spaces. It drills up to 1-1/2 inch holes with a 1/2 inch chuck and 2 inches of spindle travel. The unit includes an integrated coolant bottle and a fabricator's kit. Weighing 51 pounds, it offers a compact design with a lower overall height. It suits fabricators needing versatility and accuracy on steel.

Pros

• Swivel base allows precise pilot alignment in tight areas
• 1-1/2 inch hole capacity for heavy-duty fabrication
• Integrated coolant bottle with gravity feed system
• Includes 1/2 inch chuck and five cutters in kit
• Lift detector safety system enhances operational security

Cons

• 51 pounds is heavier than standard benchtop units
• 115-volt input limits use on high-voltage industrial sites
• No variable speed control listed in specifications

Good fit if

• You need to drill holes in overhead or horizontal steel
• You require precise pilot alignment in confined spaces
• You fabricate structural steel and need coolant integration

Skip if

• You prefer lightweight tools for easy one-handed carrying
• You work exclusively with materials under 1 inch thick
• You need variable speed control for different materials

Verdict: Hougen HMD904S Swivel Base Mag Drill fits fabricators who need precise alignment in tight spaces. Its swivel base and integrated coolant system make it ideal for structural steel work where accuracy matters.

5 Best premium

Hougen HMD920 Swivel Base Magnetic Drill

Best for: fabricators needing angled drilling with coolant

Spindle Speed

3 Speed

Chuck Capacity

1/2" drill chuck adapter

Voltage

115V

Configuration

Magnetic

Features

Swivel Base

Dimensions

12.2 × 8.1 × 25.9 inches

View on Amazon: Hougen HMD920 Swivel Base Magnetic Drill Affiliate link

The Hougen HMD920 is a 115V magnetic drill press designed for fabrication tasks. It features a swivel base for angled drilling and a three-speed spindle for versatile cutting. The unit includes a 1/2-inch drill chuck adapter and a coolant bottle to manage heat during heavy use. This model is built for professionals who need precision and stability on steel surfaces.

Pros

• Swivel base allows for angled drilling positions
• Three-speed spindle offers variable cutting control
• Includes coolant bottle and 1/2-inch chuck adapter
• Hidden motor cord keeps workspace tidy

Cons

• Limited to 115V power input
• No variable speed dial for continuous adjustment
• Heavier build due to two-stage magnet system

Good fit if

• You need to drill at angles on steel plates
• You require a dedicated coolant system for long cuts
• You work in a fabrication shop with 115V outlets

Skip if

• You require variable speed control for fine-tuning
• You need a 230V high-power unit
• You prefer a compact fractional drill without a swivel base

Verdict: The Hougen HMD920 Swivel Mag Drill is a robust tool for fabricators who need angled drilling capabilities and integrated cooling. It fits users who prioritize stability and coolant management over variable speed flexibility.

6 Best budget

Hougen HMD900 Magnetic Drill

Best for: field work requiring slot drive arbor

Hole Capacity

1.5"

Voltage

115V

Configuration

Magnetic

Dimensions

11 × 6.75 × 15 inches

Weight

27 pounds

View on Amazon: Hougen HMD900 Magnetic Drill Affiliate link

The Hougen HMD900 is a 115V magnetic drill press designed for field work. It offers a 1.5-inch hole capacity with a slot drive arbor for quick accessory changes. The unit weighs 27 pounds and features an ergonomic housing with spring slug ejection. This model suits users who need a reliable, portable magnetic drill for steel fabrication tasks where standard chuck systems are less efficient.

Pros

• 1.5-inch maximum hole capacity
• Slot drive arbor for faster bit changes
• Spring slug ejection reduces maintenance
• Compact 6.75-inch width fits tight spaces
• 115V standard voltage operation

Cons

• No integrated coolant system listed
• Smaller 1.5-inch capacity compared to 2-inch models
• Heavier 27-pound build for portability

Good fit if

• You need a magnetic drill for on-site steel work
• You prefer slot drive arbor systems over standard chucks
• You require a 115V power source for your tools

Skip if

• You need to drill holes larger than 1.5 inches
• You require an integrated coolant bottle for heavy use
• You need a lighter unit under 20 pounds

Verdict: Hougen HMD900 Magnetic Drill 115V fits fabricators who prioritize quick bit changes via slot drive arbor and do not require coolant integration. It serves as a sturdy, portable option for standard 115V jobs.

7

Hougen HMD904 Magnetic Drill

Best for: Lightweight fabrication with quick accessory changes

Hole Capacity

1-1/2"

Spindle Travel

2"

Chuck Capacity

Slot Drive Arbor

Voltage

115-Volt

Configuration

Magnetic

Dimensions

11.6 × 7.75 × 18 inches

View on Amazon: Hougen HMD904 Magnetic Drill Affiliate link

This Hougen HMD904 is a 115-Volt magnetic drill designed for fabrication tasks. It offers a 1-1/2-inch hole capacity and a 2-inch spindle travel. The unit features a slot drive arbor for quick accessory changes. Its ergonomic housing and hidden motor cord improve handling. The lift detector system adds safety during operation. This model suits users needing a reliable, lightweight magnetic drill for general fabrication work.

Pros

• 1-1/2-inch hole capacity for standard fabrication needs
• Slot drive arbor allows quick accessory changes
• Lift detector safety system prevents accidental movement
• LED pilot light aids accuracy in low light
• Lightweight 34.9-pound build for easier transport

Cons

• 1-1/2-inch capacity is smaller than some competitors
• No coolant system included in base specs
• Single speed operation limits material versatility

Good fit if

• You need a lightweight drill for on-site fabrication
• You require a slot drive arbor for quick changes
• You value safety features like the lift detector

Skip if

• You need to drill holes larger than 1-1/2 inches
• You require a variable speed motor for different materials
• You need an integrated coolant system for heavy use

Verdict: Hougen HMD904 1-1/2" Magnetic Drill is a practical choice for fabricators who prioritize portability and safety. It fits users who need a reliable, no-frills magnetic drill for standard hole sizes.

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