Advantages/disadvantages of quill head vs. regular head?

[turdferguson6400]

Hi, I'm looking at two Van Norman mills. I think they're similar models but with different spindles.

30 taper quill head vs. 50 taper regular head.

Obviously the quill model is more versatile because it can drill without moving table.

But are there any disadvantages to the quill? Rigidity, precision, reliability?

I won't be doing anything super heavy duty, so I was assuming the quill model would be good enough. Along with added versatility.

Thanks.

 

[Jason Annen]

So you are looking at a 16s or possibly a 26. I have a 16s and 12, so I have both heads. The quill head is much more complex, but is built very well and is very heavy. With the power feed, you can bore as well. I would see if you can test it before you buy, because there are no spare parts. They are well built machines, and will last a long time if taken care of.

Jason