JET Quality And Reliability
The new range of drill presses from JET has recently been released. The 716200 is their new 15-inch model that replaces the very popular 354165 model. At first glance, it is clear that Jet wanted to improve the aesthetics of the new range, and I think that they have done so very successfully. The new model certainly look the part, but how does it perform?
The answer is: very well! JET made improvements in the right areas to ensure that the 716200 perform to the high standard we have come to expect from all Jet drill presses. There are a number of changes that make this model easier to use than the JET 354165. The one-handed belt tensioning system is one of those changes. The work table on the 716200 is an impressive 12.5 x 17 inches, a massive improvement on the 10 x 13 inches of the previous model.
Another new feature is the Xacta – X laser system, a necessity that the previous model lacked. The Xacta system works pretty well and is easy to use. The 716200 still use the very reliable ¾ Hp motor with 16 spindle speed settings.
The power switch has been redesigned, featuring a new paddle-style off switch. This makes it much easier to stop the drill press in an emergency. A safety key for the power switch is another new safety feature.
Product Features And Specifications
- Weight: 145 lbs
- Motor: ¾ Hp, 115 Volt
- Speed: 16 speed settings (210 rpm – 3,500 rpm)
- Chuck size: 5/8 inches
- Swing: 15 inches
- Table size: 12.5 x 17 inches
- Spindle travel: 3 1/8 inches
- Quick speed changes with one-handed belt tensioning system
- Built-in LED work light
- Xacta laser guiding system to easily identify the center.
- Well built, powerful and reliable
The Reviews
Most of the reviews on the Jet 716200 so far indicate that consumers are loving this drill press. Amazon customers rated the Jet 3.9 stars out of 5 stars. This rating will definitely go up in the months to come as there are not many reviews in at this stage, and a couple of negative reviews influencing the overall rating.
The negative reviews are about assembly and shipping issues and not about the drill press itself or the performance of the tool. It must be said that a bit of common sense is needed when assembling this drill press, but anyone should be able to do it.
Our Verdict
This is a top quality drill press from Jet, and definitely one of the best 15-inch drill presses around today. Well built, reliable and strong – everything you want in a drill press. This our pick for the best benchtop drill press for the year and certainly recommend it to anyone looking for a good, solid drill press. Read our main reviews page to find the best drill press for your money.
Last month we reviewed some of the budget drill presses, where the WEN 4210 drill press took the prize for the best budget buy. Obviously budgets vary from person to person, so if you have the money to invest, this drill press is as good value for money as the WEN – if not better.
Here is a video by Dave’s Woodshop, reviewing the Jet JDP 17. This is the big brother of the JDP 15 but has a lot of the same features. This video covers most of the important features and should be helpful to those wanting to know more about the latest range of Jet drill presses.
