"Richard W." wrote in message
...

The machines with fixed spindles that I have seen had #40 or #50 tapers,
they also have power feed built in. I have drilled 1 1/2" diameter holes
with them for hydraulic valves and then bored them.


You're right about larger holes. As long as you have a good selection of
feeds available, those machines would ideal for holes that are difficult to
push by hand (assuming the machine has adequate Z clearance)

Regards,

Robin