Steelman 1701 3/8" 2-Gear Air Drill

Steelman 1701 3/8" Air Drill Overview

The Steelman 1701 is a pneumatic drill designed for drilling, honing, reaming, and fastening tasks. It features a 3/8-inch keyed chuck compatible with a wide variety of bits and drivers. Weighing 2.5 pounds and measuring 6.5 inches in length, it suits professional mechanics and serious DIY users who need a compact, powerful air tool for medium to heavy-duty workshop applications.

Compressed Air Requirements and Exhaust Design

This tool operates on 4 cubic feet per minute of compressed air delivered at 90 PSI through a standard 1/4-inch NPT inlet with a 3/8-inch air hose. The exhaust vents back out the handle, directing airflow away from the user's face and workpiece. Shops without a compressor capable of sustaining this flow and pressure at the tool end will not achieve the rated 2,200 RPM free running speed or consistent variable-speed throttle performance.

Upgrade From Basic Single-Speed Models

The two-gear configuration with a trigger-style variable speed throttle replaces single-speed drills that lack torque control for different materials. The jump is worth it when you regularly switch between drilling steel, aluminium, or wood and need to match speed to the bit without stalling. It does not suit buyers who only need occasional light-duty drilling or who lack access to a suitable compressed air supply.