models
Hougen HMD130: Low-Profile Clearance & RotaLoc Plus
Choose the HMD130 only when its 6-15/32-inch overall height solves a real access problem and the job fits its bayonet-style cutter system. The current published envelope is 6-15/32 inches high, 6-3/4 inches wide and 14-11/16 inches long, but that is the machine size—not a promised minimum working gap. You still need room to position the 4-by-9-inch magnetic base, operate the feed, change the cutter and control the ejected slug.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Links marked “Check Amazon” are affiliate links.
Matched model offer
Check the package before comparing further
Hougen HMD130
The model identity matches this guide. Confirm voltage, included accessories, seller and current configuration at Amazon.
Check this Amazon offerStart with the published envelope and job limits
Hougen's current operating instructions begin with clean, flat steel at least 3/8 inch thick and require the safety strap. The manual also recommends mechanical clamping when material is 3/8 inch or thinner or the surface is uneven. Treat 3/8 inch as a boundary that still needs the manual's clamping guidance, not an automatic approval.
The 115V manual's specification summary starts the hole range at 1/2 inch even though Hougen's current product table and cutter chart include 7/16 inch. For a 7/16-inch requirement, confirm the exact part number and current cutter schedule rather than silently resolving that manufacturer conflict.
- Overall machine: 6-15/32 inches high by 6-3/4 inches wide by 14-11/16 inches long
- Magnetic base: 4 by 9 inches; clean, flat steel must be at least 3/8 inch thick
- Annular diameter: 7/16 to 1-3/8 inches in the current product table and 230V manual
- Cutting depth: 1 inch maximum with RotaLoc Plus
- Speed and weight: 450 RPM; current product page lists 23.8 pounds
- Models: 0130101 at 115V; separate 0130201 at 230V
- Native interface: 5/8-inch RotaLoc Plus bayonet twist-lock; not generic 3/4-inch Weldon
Measure the approach path, not only final clearance
Measure the available space before browsing by motor size. The drill body is only part of the access problem: you also need room to place it, operate its handle and manage the cutter and slug. Make a cardboard footprint or dimensioned sketch of the proposed setup, then compare it with the manufacturer's drawing rather than a marketplace photograph.
Hougen says the feed handle can move from side to side, and the manual permits a 1/2-inch box wrench or ratchet with a 1/2-inch socket as an optional feed method. That can solve a side-clearance problem; it does not shrink the 6-15/32-inch body height or eliminate the approach, control, cutter-change and slug-ejection space.
An upright drill may have enough cutting capacity yet be impossible to position inside a frame. Check the approach path as well as final working space: a drill that fits on a drawing might still be difficult to insert or withdraw. Plan cutter access and keep the ejection path away from people before committing to this specialized format.
Inspect the selected Amazon offer
Check model, regional version, included accessories and current seller details before ordering.
Check AmazonSeparate RotaLoc Plus, RotaLoc and Weldon
RotaLoc Plus uses a 5/8-inch bayonet-style twist-lock shank, 1-inch cutting depth and pilot 17810. Hougen's current standard RotaLoc page also lists its 3/4-inch-depth cutters for HMD130, with a smaller published diameter range. The two families are not the same purchase even though Hougen documents both for this machine.
An ordinary 3/4-inch Weldon cutter is not a direct HMD130 fit. Hougen documents adapter 17680 for using RotaLoc or RotaLoc Plus cutters in a magnetic drill that accepts a 3/4-inch shank; that does not establish the reverse conversion. Inventory the exact cutter family, diameter, depth and pilot rather than buying from the diameter alone.
Questions, answered
Can HMD130 use standard Weldon cutters?
No direct fit is documented. The HMD130 uses a 5/8-inch bayonet-style arbor for RotaLoc Plus and documented RotaLoc cutters, not a standard 3/4-inch Weldon holder. Hougen's 17680 adapter goes the other direction: it lets a compatible 3/4-inch-shank drill use RotaLoc-family cutters.
Which pilot pin goes with RotaLoc Plus cutters?
Hougen identifies pilot 17810 for RotaLoc Plus cutters. The native bayonet interface is not a 3/4-inch Weldon shank. Match the exact cutter and pilot to the current manufacturer documentation.
