I recently found and inherited my great grandfathers hand POWERED (yes, that means manual) drill press. It says "champion blower and forge company Lancaster PA" on it. It uses a bit with a flat side and a set screw to hold it in. My dad has used it several times and says he has drilled thru 1/2" metal without a lot of effort. My questions are : does anybody know how old this is? My dad told me his grandfather, who died in the early 40,s, said he bought it second-handed in the 20's. Any ideas on websites that might help? Also, can i find bits for it? I am considering having a machine shop make a shaft that will fit and tap the end for a modern chuck. I am not concerned with the value, just think it would be neat to use a tool that my great-grandfather used,who was a wagon builder. Thanks!
