On Dec 12, 2:16*pm, BrianSiano wrote:
There's a project I have in mind that requires some precise and
regular drilling, so it may be time to buy a drill press. I'd prefer
to get a small benchtop model, but I have a problem.

The project requires drilling pilot holes into the ends of boards that
are roughly 30" long. You can see that this can be a problem even with
a floor drill press.

Is there a way to get around this problem? Perhaps a benchtop drill
press whose top can swivel away from the base?

Rip the boards in half. Plow 1/16" deep grooves down the edges
of each half, then glue back together. Drill the actual pilot
holes with an auger, letting the grooves guide the bit. You
can use a regular hand drill, no need to buy another machine
just yet.