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► Go Keyless.

No more searching for or fumbling with a chuck key with this keyless chuck.

Chucks & Keys

One of the frustrations with using my drill press is fumbling with the chuck key, losing it, or leaving it in the chuck. Here are a few accessories that can help.

A Keyless Option. With a modest investment, you can buy a keyless chuck and throw your chuck key in the junk drawer. A keyless chuck holds bits surprisingly well (photo at left). You simple tighten or loosen the chuck by holding the top knurled collar with one hand and turning the outer sleeve with the other hand. There are a couple of sizes available to fit most drill presses. The included instructions show you to remove your old chuck and install the keyless chuck.

Key Solutions. If you're looking for a low-cost upgrade over your old chuck key, there are a couple of options. A self-ejecting key, like the one shown at the upper right can make the difference between safety and injury. A spring-loaded pin ejects it from the chuck when you release it. And the ratchet key shown at right is a great upgrade. Its quick, ratcheting action doesn't take much effort to tighten a chuck.

▲ Self-Ejecting. A

spring-loaded pin forces the key out of the chuck for improved safety.

Quick-Action Rachet. This chuck key works just like your socket wrench.

Lighting Solutions

Even though my shop is fairly well-lit, I often struggle to see what I'm doing at the drill press. But when I add some task lighting, it makes all the difference. ▼ Focused. Bright, Focused Light. The key to adding task A bright LED lighting at the drill press is being able to reposition focuses light it as needed. The "Twist Flexlight" (below left) twists exactly where and turns like a snake to focus light exactly where you need it. you need it. Its bright LED creates a spotlight for detail work. And the magnetic base holds it securely on the head or cast iron table of your drill press. Adjustable Arm. The familiar "drafting-style" lamp shown at right casts a broader

light. It uses a conventional bulb for a light source. The built-in clamp means you can attach it almost anywhere. It's a great option for use on an auxiliary table, like the one shown on page 18.

I have one of these adjustable-arm lamps on my drill press and couldn't work without it. The spring-loaded arms and swivel head make it easy to position the light where I need it. Whichever light you use, you'll find your work is a lot easier on the eyes.

▲ Adjustable Arm. An inexpensive lamp with an adjustable arm allows you to position light at any angle. It casts a broad light over the work area.

16 ShopNotes No. 94