I’ve been lucky enough to work with deep hole drilling machines from several manufacturers. Each brand has its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s my honest assessment.
This isn’t a ranking — every brand makes machines that work well for the right application. It’s more about what each brand tends to emphasize in their design.
TBT
TBT is the global leader in deep hole drilling technology. Their machines are built in Germany and are known for precision and durability.
What they’re good at:
- Build quality. TBT machines are built to last. I’ve seen 30-year-old TBT machines that still hold tolerance.
- Spindle design. TBT spindles are excellent. They run smooth and hold alignment for years.
- Coolant systems. TBT machines have properly sized coolant systems with good filtration.
What to watch for:
- Cost. TBT machines are premium-priced. A new TBT machine costs more than most competitors.
- Complexity. Some TBT machines have more features than a small shop needs.
- Service. Parts and service are available globally but can be expensive.
UNISIG
UNISIG is based in the US and has a strong reputation in aerospace and medical work.
What they’re good at:
- Innovation. UNISIG was early with the next-gen operating system that reduced setup time.
- Automation. UNISIG machines integrate well with robots and gantries.
- Small diameter work. Their UNE series handles small diameters well.
What to watch for:
- Availability. UNISIG machines can have longer lead times than some competitors.
- Price. UNISIG machines are in the premium tier.
Mollart
Mollart is a UK-based manufacturer with a long history in deep hole drilling.
What they’re good at:
- Gun drilling. Mollart’s core expertise is gun drilling, and they do it well.
- Custom solutions. Mollart builds machines for specific applications.
- Subcontract knowledge. Mollart also runs a contract drilling service, so they understand the practical side.
What to watch for:
- Market presence. Mollart is less common in some regions than TBT or UNISIG.
- Support. Service in North America is through Bourn & Koch.
Botek
Botek is the global leader in deep hole drilling tools, not machines. But their tooling knowledge is relevant to anyone buying a machine. A machine that uses Botek tooling has access to the best consumables.
Chinese Manufacturers
I’ve run machines from several Chinese builders — HTT, Guanlu, Zonjet, and others.
What they’re good at:
- Value. Chinese machines cost significantly less than European or American machines.
- Delivery. Lead times are shorter.
- Range. Chinese builders offer machines for most applications.
What to watch for:
- Consistency. Build quality varies between manufacturers and even between machines from the same builder.
- Support. Service outside China can be limited.
- Resale value. Used Chinese machines sell for less than used European machines.
What I Tell People
The right brand depends on your work:
| If You Do This | Consider This Brand |
|---|---|
| Aerospace / medical | TBT, UNISIG |
| General job shop | Chinese or US brands |
| High-volume production | TBT, custom solutions |
| Budget-limited | Chinese brands, used European machines |
| Small diameters (under 6mm) | UNISIG, Mollart |
| Large diameters (over 50mm) | TBT, BTA specialists |
The most important factor is local support. A machine from a brand with a local service technician is worth more than a machine from a premium brand with no local support. I’ve seen shops struggle with machines from brands that had no service presence in their region.
Key Takeaways
All the major brands make machines that drill good holes. The differences are in reliability, support, and price. The best brand for your shop is the one with good local support at a price you can afford.
I’ve run excellent machines from every brand I’ve mentioned. I’ve also seen problems with every brand. The machine matters less than the setup and the operator.
Key Takeaways
- TBT and UNISIG are premium brands with excellent build quality but high prices — best for aerospace and medical work
- Mollart is a strong choice for gun drilling with practical subcontractor experience behind their designs
- Chinese manufacturers offer good value for the price but build quality varies — inspect before buying
- Local service support matters more than brand reputation — a machine with no local support is a liability
- Used European machines (TBT, Mollart) in good condition offer the best value for budget-limited shops
- The operator and setup matter more than the brand — a well-run Chinese machine outperforms a poorly-run TBT