Challenge MS-5 vs. EH-3 Paper Drill
The Challenge MS-5 and EH-3 are both hydraulic floor-model paper drills, both made in the USA, and both drill a 2-1/2" lift. The difference is flexibility versus footprint: the MS-5 takes up to five heads, while the EH-3 is built for common 3-hole patterns in one stroke.
Which drill should I choose?
Choose the EH-3 if your work is mostly standard 3-hole, 2-hole or 1-hole drilling; choose the MS-5 if you need more than three holes or wider, more varied hole patterns.
The MS-5 ships with 3 heads and accepts up to 5, with center-to-center spacing from 1-7/8" (1-3/8" with optional narrow heads) up to 15". The EH-3 sets spacing between drills from 2-3/4" to 4-1/2" and between the outside drills from 5-1/2" to 9", which covers common 3-hole patterns.
How do the specifications compare?
Both drill a 2-1/2" lift at up to 18 strokes per minute with the same hollow bit ranges; the MS-5 is larger and heavier, and the EH-3 is lighter with a different table size.
| Specification | Challenge MS-5 | Challenge EH-3 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Hydraulic multi-spindle floor drill | Hydraulic three-spindle floor drill |
| Drill heads | Ships with 3, takes up to 5 | 3 (also runs 1- and 2-hole work) |
| Drilling capacity | 2-1/2" | 2-1/2" |
| Hollow bits | 1/8"-1/2" at 2"; 1/4"-1/2" at 2-1/2" | 1/8"-1/2" at 2"; 1/4"-1/2" at 2-1/2" |
| Hole spacing | Center-to-center 1-7/8" min standard, 1-3/8" min with optional narrow heads, 15" max | Between drills 2-3/4"-4-1/2"; between outside drills 5-1/2"-9" |
| Speed | Up to 18 strokes/min | Up to 18 strokes/min |
| Backgauge | 0-5" | 0-4-1/2" |
| Table | 17-3/4" x 34" | 19-1/2" x 31-1/2" |
| Floor space | 36" x 36" | 36" x 41-1/2" |
| Net weight | Approx. 830 lb | Approx. 520 lb |
| Power | 208/230V 1-phase 60 Hz, 30A service; 3-phase available | 208V 18A / 230V 17A 1-phase, 30A service |
| Options | Optional narrow heads | Auto-trip option |
| Made in the USA | Yes | Yes |
| Pricing | Quote only | Quote only |
What power do they need?
Both need a 30A single-phase service; the MS-5 is also available in 3-phase.
The MS-5 runs on 208/230V 1-phase 60 Hz. The EH-3 draws 18A at 208V or 17A at 230V on 1-phase. Plan the circuit before installation day.
How much floor space do they take?
The MS-5 needs about 36" x 36" of floor space and the EH-3 about 36" x 41-1/2".
The MS-5 weighs approximately 830 lb net and the EH-3 approximately 520 lb, which matters for doorways, elevators and floor loading.
How do I get pricing?
Both drills are quote only. Request a quote on either product page or talk to our team.
Frequently asked questions
Can the EH-3 drill 1- and 2-hole work?
Yes. The EH-3 is built for common 3-hole patterns in one stroke and also handles 1- and 2-hole work.
How many drill heads can the MS-5 use?
The MS-5 ships with 3 heads and takes up to 5.
What is the drilling capacity of each drill?
Both the MS-5 and the EH-3 have a 2-1/2 inch drilling capacity and run up to 18 strokes per minute.
Are the MS-5 and EH-3 made in the USA?
Yes. Both Challenge drills are made in the USA.