Has anyone made a drill press table protector?

[HMF]

As we know, one of the worst things about using your drill press is the possibility of accidentally drilling holes in the table as you swing it over to position work. Most of us refer to this as the "smile". My South Bend drill press has it, and so do many of the vintage machines.

A protective "table", made out of wood or some composite material is a good idea to keep the table from becoming full of holes.

Has anyone made a table protector that you can show us photos of?

Thanks,


Nelson

 

[jghm]

I tend to go for the cheap and easy. 1 1/4" thick particle board. Been on there for about 5 years. I like the way the edges overhang the table, it makes using clamps easy. Screwed on from the bottom.

 

[HMF]

jghm,

That is exactly what I am talking about. Some people have made ones that are like trays that hold drill bits and other tools also.

I've never drilled into my 30 year old Enco table, but it's round, so a square table would be easier to clamp into and work with.

Best,


Nelson