Looking at the SIP pictures, I'm sure this drill is a clone, the sort rebranded and sold by many.
SIP claims it's heavier than some, at 18kgs, I guess that depends on what you compare it to!
Wickes, sell a similar clone, it's cheaper at £48 and weighs 19kgs, link:
http://www.wickes.co.uk/5-Speed-Bench-Pillar-Drill/invt/186886
I've used my ancient Wickes clone for many years. It's cheap and cheerful.
- depth stop and guard fell off years ago
- NVR switch stopped working, so bypassed
- plenty of lateral spindle movement, but doesn't affect my woodworking!
- the table is small, vastly improved by screwing on a bigger piece of plywood
- table height clamp lever is short, extended with a bit of pipe
- black plastic handle knobs worked loose and crack, so epoxy back on
- metal handle spokes unscrewed themselves, so more epoxy
- no safety switch in pulley housing, but then I have to unplug it to switch off anyway!
I know this all sounds terrible, but the truth is it owes me nothing and there's little left on it to go wrong!
I've even passed opportunities to replace with decent 'proper' machines.
Why, because despite the above, I like this drill:
a) it's small on storage
b) it's light in weight, so easily lifted on and off the bench as needed.
c) plus the lack of power means it's quite hard to hurt yourself!
If I were looking for a budget drill, I'd take a look at this at Axminster @ £68
http://www.axminster.co.uk/src/froogle/ ... 719246.htm
- 19kgs
- looks a better switch and position
- cover safety switch
- handles look superior ergonomically
- KEYLESS chuck!!!
- otherwise I bet the guts of it come out of the same factory!
Hope that helps,
