Let’s Talk About Steelex Drill / Mill Stand
The Steelex Drill / Mill Stand (D4774) from Steelex promises a dedicated and organized workspace for your drill/mill combo machine. It features a 24-inch height, a footprint designed for stability, and integrated cabinet storage. My foray into the world of metalworking has been a long and winding one, and space is always a premium. I was looking for a sturdy, compact solution to house my benchtop mill-drill, something that offered both stability and a little extra storage.
Unboxing the Steelex Drill / Mill Stand, I immediately noticed the utilitarian design and weight that suggested solid construction. The promise of a dedicated storage cabinet was appealing. This stand seemed like a step up from bolting my mill-drill to a repurposed workbench.
There are numerous generic metal stands available, and even some purpose-built stands for specific machines. I considered the Grizzly Industrial stand and a similar offering from Shop Fox, but chose the Steelex Drill / Mill Stand due to its combination of footprint, height, and integrated storage. I hoped the enclosed cabinet would help contain the mess and keep cutting tools organized. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic, pending assembly and actual use. I hoped the cabinet build quality matched the perceived sturdiness of the frame.
Real-World Testing: Putting Steelex Drill / Mill Stand to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was my garage workshop, a space that constantly battles clutter. I immediately appreciated the designated space for the mill-drill, providing a dedicated area away from my woodworking projects. I tested it with various milling operations using aluminum and steel, and the stand remained stable, with minimal vibration.
The cabinet proved useful for storing collets, end mills, and measuring tools, keeping everything within easy reach. Dust and chips still managed to find their way into the cabinet, though. The height felt comfortable for prolonged use, reducing back strain compared to using the mill-drill on a lower surface.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of frequent use, the Steelex Drill / Mill Stand has proven to be a mixed bag. The frame itself remains robust, showing no signs of bending or weakening. The paint finish, however, is starting to chip in a few spots, particularly around the base where it meets the floor.
Cleaning is straightforward – a quick wipe down with a shop rag usually suffices. The cabinet interior requires more frequent cleaning to remove metal shavings and oil. My biggest disappointment, echoing a previous customer’s experience, lies with the cabinet door hinges. They feel flimsy and have required tightening several times. I’ve also noticed the door latch becoming slightly misaligned, requiring a firm push to secure.
Compared to my previous setup of using a general-purpose workbench, the Steelex Drill / Mill Stand offers a significant improvement in stability and dedicated workspace. However, the cabinet’s construction quality leaves something to be desired. It has not lived up to the overall robust feel of the frame.
Breaking Down the Features of Steelex Drill / Mill Stand
Specifications
The Steelex Drill / Mill Stand, manufactured by Steelex, boasts a height of 24 inches, providing a comfortable working level for most users. The table size is 29-1/4 inches deep x 21-1/4 inches wide, offering ample surface area for a variety of benchtop machines. Its footprint measures 28-1/4 inches deep x 17-3/4 inches wide, allowing it to fit into relatively small workshops.
These specifications directly impact the user experience. The height ensures ergonomic operation, reducing back strain. The table size accommodates most compact mill-drills and similar machines. The relatively small footprint makes it suitable for workshops with limited space.
Performance & Functionality
The Steelex Drill / Mill Stand excels at providing a stable and dedicated platform for a mill-drill or similar machine. The frame’s rigidity minimizes vibration, contributing to more accurate machining. The cabinet offers convenient storage, keeping essential tools and accessories close at hand.
However, the cabinet’s construction quality could be improved. The door hinges and latch feel less robust than the rest of the stand. Also, the cabinet isn’t sealed, so expect some chip and coolant ingress. The product mostly meets expectations as a stable stand, but disappoints somewhat in the quality and sealing of the cabinet.
Design & Ergonomics
The Steelex Drill / Mill Stand features a simple, utilitarian design with a focus on functionality. The painted steel construction provides a solid and durable base. The 24-inch height is generally comfortable for users of average height.
The unit is relatively heavy, which contributes to stability but can make initial assembly and relocation challenging. The cabinet door lacks a tight seal, allowing chips and coolant to enter. The learning curve is minimal, as it’s essentially a pre-built stand requiring minimal assembly.
Durability & Maintenance
The frame of the Steelex Drill / Mill Stand appears to be built to last, showing no signs of structural weakness after months of use. The paint finish, however, is susceptible to chipping, especially in areas prone to impacts or friction. The cabinet door hinges and latch seem to be the weakest points and may require eventual replacement.
Maintenance involves occasional cleaning to remove chips, coolant, and dust. Applying a coat of wax to the painted surfaces can help protect against rust and scratches. The cabinet interior should be cleaned regularly to prevent the accumulation of debris.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Steelex Drill / Mill Stand doesn’t come with many accessories, as it’s primarily a standalone stand. The only “accessory” is the integrated cabinet. Customization options are limited to adding your own shelving or dividers inside the cabinet.
Aftermarket accessories like leveling feet could be added for increased stability on uneven surfaces. Additional tool holders or racks could also be mounted to the stand’s frame for added convenience. The standard table top can accept any mill-drill or other benchtop machine that’s compatible with its dimensions.
Pros and Cons of Steelex Drill / Mill Stand
Pros
- Provides a stable and dedicated platform for a mill-drill or other benchtop machine.
- Integrated cabinet offers convenient storage for tools and accessories.
- Compact footprint makes it suitable for small workshops.
- The 24-inch height provides a comfortable working level for most users.
- Frame construction is remarkably strong and durable.
Cons
- The cabinet door hinges and latch are flimsy and prone to misalignment.
- The paint finish is susceptible to chipping, especially around the base.
- The cabinet isn’t sealed allowing debris to enter.
Who Should Buy Steelex Drill / Mill Stand?
The Steelex Drill / Mill Stand is perfect for hobbyist machinists, small shop owners, and anyone needing a dedicated and stable platform for their benchtop mill-drill or similar machine. It is especially useful for those with limited workshop space who can benefit from the integrated storage cabinet. If budget allows, invest in high-quality hinges.
This product might not be suitable for those requiring a stand with a larger work surface or those needing a fully sealed cabinet to protect sensitive equipment. It is also probably not the right fit for those who demand premium fit and finish. A must-have modification would be upgrading the cabinet door hinges with heavier-duty replacements.
Conclusion on Steelex Drill / Mill Stand
The Steelex Drill / Mill Stand offers a solid foundation for your benchtop mill-drill or similar machine, and the built-in cabinet is a handy addition for shop organization. At $503.49, the value proposition is acceptable, but not stellar, considering the compromises in cabinet quality. I would personally recommend it with reservations.
While the frame’s robustness and overall functionality are commendable, the cabinet’s shortcomings are disappointing. Consider this stand if you prioritize stability and space-saving design, but be prepared to potentially upgrade the cabinet hardware down the line. Invest in the Steelex Drill / Mill Stand if you need a sturdy base, but keep your expectations tempered regarding the cabinet.