Drill Stands

About Drill Stands

Drill stands are precision accessories that transform standard portable drills into accurate bench-mounted drilling machines, delivering the control and consistency of a pillar drill at a fraction of the cost and space requirement. By securely mounting a corded drill into a vertical stand with a standardised 43mm collar fitting, tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts gain the ability to drill perfectly perpendicular holes with repeatable depth control. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks drill stands from trusted brands including Makita, Sealey, and Draper, ranging from portable units that clamp to work surfaces through to heavy-duty cast iron models for maximum stability.

Most drill stands feature rack-and-pinion mechanisms for smooth, controlled descent, along with adjustable depth stops for consistent hole depths across repetitive drilling tasks. Specialist variants include diamond core drill stands engineered specifically for heavy-duty masonry drilling, offering the reinforced construction needed to handle the substantial forces involved in coring through concrete and stone. Whether you're drilling precise dowel holes for joinery, working with forstner bits for cabinet making, or need accuracy for metalworking applications, a quality drill stand delivers professional results without the expense of dedicated machinery.

Applications

• Carpenters and Joiners: Accurate dowel hole drilling, furniture assembly, and precision joinery requiring perpendicular holes
• Cabinet Makers: Shelf pin holes, hinge boring with forstner bits, and precision drilling in fine woodwork
• Metalworkers and Fabricators: Drilling accurate holes in sheet metal, box section, and metal components where precision is critical
• Electricians: Creating perfectly angled holes through panel boxes, enclosures, and mounting plates
• Construction Professionals: Using diamond core drill stands for service penetrations through concrete and masonry
• Plumbers: Drilling mounting holes in fixtures and fittings where accuracy prevents misalignment
• Model Makers and Hobbyists: Precision work on small components requiring controlled drilling
• Maintenance Engineers: On-site drilling tasks requiring portable accuracy

Choosing The Right Drill Stands

Compatibility: Verify the stand accepts your drill's collar diameter – most accommodate standard 43mm collars, but always check specifications. Consider whether you need a universal stand for standard drills or a specialist diamond core drill stand for masonry applications.

Construction Quality: Heavier cast iron or steel construction provides superior vibration dampening and accuracy. Larger, heavier base plates deliver better stability, particularly important when drilling metal or using larger diameter bits. Quality rack-and-pinion mechanisms ensure smooth operation and precise results.

Mounting Options: MyToolShed.co.uk stocks models offering permanent bench mounting, clamp-on portability, or versatility for both horizontal and vertical surfaces. Some include integrated clamping systems, whilst others require separate clamps or bolt-down installation.

Travel Distance: Consider maximum drilling depth requirements – stroke length typically ranges from 60mm to 150mm. Also check throat depth, which determines how far from an edge you can drill.

Depth Stop Functionality: Look for clearly marked, easy-to-adjust depth stops with fine adjustment capability for consistent results across repetitive drilling tasks.

Safety Information

Always wear safety glasses or a face shield when operating drill stands, as rotating bits can throw debris towards the operator. Never hold workpieces by hand – always use a drill press vice or clamps, as inadequately secured work can spin violently if the bit binds. Ensure the drill stand is securely mounted before use, as unstable stands can tip during operation. Disconnect the drill from 240v mains supply before changing bits or adjusting the stand, and use an RCD when working in damp conditions as recommended by the HSE.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my cordless drill with a drill stand?

Most standard drill stands are designed specifically for corded drills with 43mm collars and won't accommodate cordless models due to different body shapes and absence of collar fittings. For regular precision drilling, a corded drill and compatible stand from MyToolShed.co.uk offers the most versatile solution.

What's the difference between a drill stand and a pillar drill?

A drill stand converts your existing portable drill into a bench-mounted machine, whilst a pillar drill is a dedicated purpose-built tool with integrated motor. Pillar drills offer greater power and capacity but cost significantly more. Drill stands provide economical precision drilling, ideal for space-limited workshops.

Do I need a special stand for diamond core drilling?

Yes, diamond core drilling through masonry generates substantial forces that standard drill stands aren't engineered to handle. Diamond core drill stands feature reinforced construction and enhanced stability specifically designed for these demanding applications.