VEVOR 1300W Magnetic Drill Press: features, specs and who it suits

The VEVOR 1300W magnetic drill press is a portable drill that clamps itself to steel with an electromagnet. It is used where steel cannot easily be brought to a drill press, such as structural beams, plates, pipework and rail. The magnet holds the drill in place, so you can drill accurate holes sideways, vertically or even overhead where the steel allows it.

How the magnetic base works

An electromagnetic base creates a strong pull when switched on, and the pull only works on ferrous (magnetic) steel of enough thickness. VEVOR gives the holding force as 2,922 lbf (13,000 N), applied through two anchoring ends. A stable base is what keeps the cutter aligned and prevents the machine moving during the cut. Thin, painted, rusty or non-ferrous material such as aluminium and stainless grades that are not magnetic reduces or removes the grip, so check the surface you plan to work on.

Motor and drilling capacity

The motor is rated at 1,300W copper and turns at 810 RPM. VEVOR says it can drill holes up to 1.57 inches (about 40 mm) across and 2 inches (about 50 mm) deep. These machines normally use annular cutters, which cut a ring rather than grinding out the whole hole, so they need less power and are generally quicker than twist drills at larger diameters.

Cutters included

The kit contains 11 drill bits, all with 30 mm cutting depth, in these diameters: 12, 13, 15, 16, 18, 20, 21, 23, 24, 26 and 27 mm. That covers a useful spread of bolt and pipe-hole sizes up to 27 mm. Larger holes, up to the 1.57-inch maximum, would need extra cutters that fit the machine.

Depth scale, coolant and guide rail

The frame carries a scale for judging drilling depth. A coolant bottle with a quick push-fit tube is supplied, and the brand says it extends cutter life and gives smoother drilling. Cutting fluid matters with steel because heat dulls cutters quickly. The guide rail is described as titanium-magnesium alloy with corrosion and wear resistance.

Size and weight

The unit weighs 28.2 lb (about 12.8 kg), with dimensions of 4.7 x 14.2 x 10.6 inches (about 12 x 36 x 27 cm). That is light enough to carry to a job site, though not to hold in one hand.

Who it suits

VEVOR lists home improvement, industrial use, steel and railway manufacture, and building construction. It fits fabricators, maintenance crews and metalworkers. For drilling wood or masonry it is not the right tool.

What to check before you buy

• Material: confirm the steel is magnetic, flat and thick enough for a firm grip.
• Hole sizes: compare your needs with the 12-27 mm cutters and the 1.57-inch limit.
• Power: check your outlet and cable for a 1300W tool.
• Cutter type: make sure you know how replacement cutters attach.
• Safety: follow the manual on the magnet, loose clothing, swarf and eye protection.
• Coolant: have the right cutting fluid on hand.

The short version

• A 1300W portable drill with an electromagnetic base rated at 2,922 lbf.
• 810 RPM, holes up to 1.57 inches wide and 2 inches deep.
• Eleven cutters from 12 to 27 mm, a depth scale and a coolant bottle.
• Weighs 28.2 lb; works only on magnetic steel.

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