What height would be most useful for a pillar drill?

[Ed Bray]

I realise that there will be many differing opinions and will also be very subjective, but I would like to know what others feel as the best height for them for their pillar drill?

I am asking as I have a bench Pillar Drill, this is currently set on a quite high bench and this has the table pretty much at eye level which is not the best position for either use, and although I have not actually had an accident yet, I can see (pun intended) that it could be a H&S issue with the cutting being carried out so close to eye level.

So, I am thinking of knocking up a shop-table for the Drill to sit on, not sure exactly what the table will end up like (drawers/shelves etc) but would like to have an idea of thee height that I would like it to end up.

So, can you give me your opinion of the optimum heights for the pillar drill along with your own height, I am 5' 11" so would like to know what works for you and I can work from that.

TIA, Eddie.

 

[RogerP]

At rest the tip of the chuck on mine is at about 49" going down to 45.5". Of course the actual operation height depends on what's in the chuck. I'm 5'9''.

 

[Graham Orm]

Chuck at chest height or just below when at rest.

 

[dc_ni]

Looking on Axminster at the floor standing pillar drills the heights are around 1600mm, so if you use that as your base line you can calculate the height of your cabinet by measuring the height of your bench drill.

Hope this helps.

 

[Phil Pascoe]

:? Why are you asking others what will be comfortable for you? I can't quite see the point?

 

[Higon]

Interesting question, it would appear that I have mine set quite high from the previous replies. The workpiece is about eye level when clamped down. Not had any problems at that height and it works well for me.

[edit]
just been and checked, it's actually at chin level, not eye level.. slight look down without bending over, I've done similar things to that in various parts of the workshop.

Most of my fixed gear is positioned "higher' than might be considered normal, I find that as I get older, I can work longer without fatigue.

My Soldering station is almost at shoulder level when seated, the main bench is ideal height when standing or seated on a bar stool!

 

[Roughcut]

I previously had my Bench Drill set so that the chuck was at about eye level, but it didn't feel quite right.
I have since made a new cabinet for the drill to sit on and with 75mm castors fitted to it's base the drill chuck is now at chest level.
I find this much better to use as I am looking down at the work piece, rather than across it as before.

 

[Ed Bray]

Thanks all, much appreciated.

 

[woodfarmer]

Wherever it is most comfortable for you.

Having the workpiece at eye level is probably a bad idea as if it catches and spins it will whack about the head as well as the debris spinning out towards your face (eyes in particular).

 

[Ed Bray]

Wherever it is most comfortable for you.

Having the workpiece at eye level is probably a bad idea as if it catches and spins it will whack about the head as well as the debris spinning out towards your face (eyes in particular).

That was my thought too.

 

[dickm]

Workpiece at about chest level for me. Which averages out at the chuck being chin/neck level?

 

[Graham Orm]

Chuck at chest height or just below when at rest.

This gives you the work platform roughly at waist height....you know, like a bench.....common sense?????