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Challenge EH-3 hydraulic three-spindle paper drill with adjustable side tables, shown on a white background.

Challenge Machinery EH-3 Hydraulic Drill Video Demonstration

Challenge

Challenge EH-3 Multiple-Spindle Drill

The EH-3 utilizes automatic-return of the drilling heads as standard equipment, minimizing the contact between the drill bits and the drilling block.

$9,850.00 USD

Ships by truck freight

Tax-exempt? Apply once, check out tax-free

Model Standard Backgauge

Standard Backgauge

SKU CMC-391-11D-SB

w/Auto-Trip Side Guide

SKU CMC-391-11D-ATSG

Truck-freight shippingShips FOB with a lift gate.

Talk to a finishing expertReal specialists by phone.

Financing availableLease & purchase options.

Factory-trained install & serviceWe deliver, install & support.

TypePaper Drill

Cut width2.5" (Drilling Capacity)

OperationHydraulic

Power208-230V Single-Phase

Details & specifications

Challenge EH-3 — Three-Spindle Hydraulic Paper Drill

The original multi-spindle drill since 1961. Rugged steel and cast-iron construction, powerful hydraulic drive, and fast head adjustments for reliable, high-volume drilling.

The EH-3 delivers accurate, clean holes with minimal operator fatigue. Taper-fit shanks center bits securely, automatic head return protects blocks and extends bit life, and the standard 2-1/2″ capacity lets you drill up to 25% more stock per stroke.

Key Features

Powerful hydraulic operation with foot-pedal control
2-1/2″ drilling capacity; drills 1, 2, or 3 holes in a single stroke
Automatic drill-head return reduces block wear and extends bit life
Fast head spacing and flexible backgauge adjustments
Center head stationary; outside heads adjustable
Taper-fit shanks seat bits centrally for clean, accurate holes

Included

Three 2-1/2″ capacity 1/4″ hollow drill bits
Three 2-1/2″ capacity 5/16″ hollow drill bits
Twelve drilling blocks
Hydraulic foot pedal
Hollow-bit hand sharpener / chip removal tool
Tool kit

Specifications — General

Number of drill heads	3
Drill sizes (2″ capacity)	1/8″–1/2″ (3–13 mm)
Drill sizes (2-1/2″ capacity)	1/4″–1/2″ (6–13 mm)
Range between drills	2-3/4″ to 4-1/2″ (7–11 cm)
Range between outside drills	5-1/2″ to 9″ (14–23 cm)
Maximum drilling capacity	2-1/2″ (63 mm)
Strokes per minute (adjustable)	Up to 18
Backgauge adjustment	0–4-1/2″ (0–11 cm)
Vertical adjustment of individual heads	1/4″ (6 mm)

Specifications — Dimensions

Table size	19-1/2″ × 31-1/2″ (50 × 80 cm)
Table height	37″ (94 cm)
Overall height	59-1/4″ (151 cm)
Floor space needed	36″ × 41-1/2″ (91 × 105 cm)
Net / shipping weight	520 lb / 570 lb (236 / 259 kg)

Specifications — Electrical

Power	1-phase, 60 Hz, AC
Motors	Pump: 1/2 HP; Spindle motor: 1 HP
Voltage / current	208 V, 18 A (service 30 A) or 230 V, 17 A (service 30 A)
Compliance	UL Listed

Applications

Binders and manuals, NCR and carbonless sets, presentation kits, high-volume ring-binder patterns, in-plant and commercial print finishing.

Benefits

Consistent, clean holes with minimal setup time
Higher throughput from 2-1/2″ capacity and three-spindle drilling
Reduced wear and longer bit life with automatic head return
Durable build for decades of reliable shop service

Download brochure (PDF)

Every machine, fully supported

We deliver it, install it, train your team and keep it running.

This is not a drop-ship. Our factory-trained technicians install on site, train your operators, and back it with same-day and next-day service across Michigan and the Great Lakes.

Request a Quote

Install & train

On-site setup and operator training included.

Same / next-day service

Fast response across the Great Lakes.

Precision machining

Replacement parts fabricated in-house.

Financing

Lease and purchase options available.

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Pair your equipment with the supplies and finishing gear that complete the workflow.