Max. spindle swing
The largest spindle overhang provided in the design of the machine.
The overhang is the distance from the centre of the spindle to the supporting column. The maximum overhang corresponds to the greatest distance from the edge of the workpiece to the centre of the planned hole, at which this hole can be drilled on this machine; if this distance is greater than the overhang, the workpiece will rest against the support column and the drill simply will not reach the right place.
Note that this parameter is relevant only for vertical and radial machines (moreover, in the first case, the overhang is generally unchanged; see "Type"). But magnetic models do not have a limit on the size of the workpiece, so the overhang is not indicated for them at all.
Max. spindle travel
The greatest distance that the spindle (quill) can lower from its original position. Theoretically, this is the maximum drilling depth that the machine can theoretically provide; in fact, this moment also depends on the size of the drill and the characteristics of the material. In addition, we note that manufacturers usually choose the stroke of the quill taking into account the general class and purpose of the machine; so this moment is rarely critical when choosing.
Column diameter
The diameter of the support column used in the machine. In fact, it is a purely reference indicator that does not play a special role in the normal use of the unit; data on the diameter of the column may be needed only for specific tasks such as repair and maintenance.
Base dimensions
The dimensions of the base of the machine — the platform, thanks to which it is able to stand steadily on the floor or workbench. This indicator allows you to estimate how much free space is needed to accommodate the unit. More powerful, larger and, accordingly, heavier machines have a larger base diameter.