Magnetic Drilling Guides

Mag Drills on Steel, Stainless and Aluminum: Two Checks

Separate cutter suitability from magnetic-base attachment when planning holes in steel, stainless steel or aluminum.

Mag Drill Steel Thickness: Why the Base Specification Matters

Understand model-specific minimum steel thickness, surface condition and magnetic holding limits before choosing a mag drill.

DEWALT DWE1622K

a corded two-speed option for buyers who need a 2-inch annular capacity without maintaining a battery fleet

Annular diameter

2″ maximum

Cutting depth

2″ maximum

A 2-inch annular cutter rating does not mean this drill accepts a 2-inch twist drill. It also does not turn the two fixed spindle speeds into variable speed. Do not copy specifications from DWE1622K-QS or other regional versions into a US purchase.

Hougen HMD904

a general fabrication model whose part-number differences matter almost as much as its headline capacity

Annular diameter

1.5″ maximum

Cutting depth

2″ maximum

The newer permanent-magnet HMD904 is a distinct configuration, not a feature to assign to every HMD904. Likewise, swivel models have different weights and magnetic force figures. A product card should identify the exact configuration instead of combining the most attractive attributes across the range.

Hougen HMD130

a purpose-built low-profile option when physical clearance prevents an upright drill from reaching the hole

Annular diameter

1.375″ maximum

Cutting depth

1″ maximum

Cutter compatibility is the main purchasing trap. RotaLoc Plus uses a bayonet-style shank, so an ordinary 3/4-inch Weldon set is not a direct substitute. The 1-inch depth limit also means a compact body does not give the same material range as a full-size 2-inch-depth drill.