10 Best Portable Drill Guides 2025 in the United States

The Milescraft Track Saw Guide and DrillMate bundle is a solid choice for anyone needing a portable drill guide that also doubles as a track saw guide. Its all-metal construction makes it sturdy and less prone to flex, which is important for getting precise, clean cuts and accurate drill holes. The adjustable depth stop on the DrillMate is a handy feature, allowing for consistent drilling depth much like a drill press, but with the convenience of a handheld setup. Compatibility is a strong point here – it fits most circular saws with blades up to 7-1/4 inches and works with common drill sizes, making it a flexible tool for various projects.

The base design includes a red cutting strip that helps guide the saw and reduces splintering, improving the finish quality. It’s also extendable, so you can cut longer pieces easily without needing extra tools. Since it’s designed to be portable and compact, it may not offer the same stability as larger, stationary guides for very heavy-duty or industrial work. Users should also take care in setup to ensure the guide stays aligned during cutting or drilling.

This bundle is well-suited for DIY enthusiasts and hobbyists who want a precise, versatile, and easy-to-transport guide for woodworking and general drilling tasks.

The Milescraft 1318 DrillMate Portable Drilling Guide is designed for both home improvement enthusiasts and woodworking professionals. It's built with versatility in mind, offering multiple angle settings (45°, 60°, 75°, and 90°) which make it suitable for a variety of drilling tasks, whether on flat surfaces, edges, or round stock up to 3 inches in diameter. The guide is compatible with all 3/8” and 1/2” cordless drills, and comes with a 3/8” chuck, adding to its adaptability.

This makes it particularly useful for users who need precision drilling but do not own a drill press. The sturdy metal construction ensures durability and long-term use, although it might be slightly heavier than similar plastic models, affecting its portability slightly. The base design includes centering channels that enhance precision when working with round materials. One of its standout features is its ability to be hand-powered, which means it doesn't rely on electricity, thus increasing its portability.

On the downside, while the adjustable angles and compatibility are great, some users might find the setup process a bit complex if they are not familiar with such tools. Additionally, the maximum rotational speed of 5000 RPM is generally sufficient for most tasks, but may not meet the needs of heavy-duty industrial applications. It's an excellent choice for DIYers and woodworkers who need a reliable and accurate drill guide for various projects.

The WEN 12-Inch Benchtop Drill Press is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable tool for precision drilling. It features a powerful 5-amp induction motor and a variable speed range from 580 to 3200 RPM, which allows you to adjust the speed as needed for different materials. This flexibility is beneficial for both woodworking and metalworking, as it can handle a drilling capacity of up to 0.63 inches in both types of materials. The digital speed readout is a nice touch, helping users maintain accuracy throughout their projects.

One of the standout features is the integrated Class IIIA laser, which aids in aligning your drill bit precisely for better accuracy. The overhead light also enhances visibility, making it easier to work on detailed tasks. Additionally, the adjustable depth stop and the beveling worktable provide added functionality for various drilling angles and depths.

However, it’s important to note that this drill press is not particularly portable; weighing 85 pounds, it’s designed to sit on a workbench or table rather than being easily moved around. If portability is a key requirement for you, this might not be the best fit. The size of the unit (16.8 by 13.5 by 36.6 inches) also means it will take up a fair amount of space in your workshop. While the two-year warranty is reassuring, some users might prefer a more extensive warranty period when investing in tools.