The Master Driller MD 40 from SFS Group AG - compact magnetic drill for tight steel work

Reviewed: ad hoc news B2B & Pro desk. Edited and checked on 2026-06-30, 05:50. Details in the imprint.

The Master Driller MD 40 from SFS Group AG hangs off a steel beam like a squat orange barnacle, its magnetic base locking with a sharp click as the operator nudges it into position. Gloves brush the cool painted housing, the motor hums up, and chips of bright steel spiral away.

What the MD 40 is built for

The Master Driller MD 40 is a portable magnetic core drilling machine aimed at steel fabricators, installers, and industrial maintenance teams. It is designed for drilling precise holes in structural steel plates, profiles, and beams where stationary pillar drills simply cannot reach.

With its integrated permanent magnet base and vertical feed, the tool clamps directly to ferromagnetic workpieces, allowing the operator to drill overhead, on vertical webs, or in cramped corners of a frame. The MD 40 typically supports core drill bits up to roughly 40 mm diameter and 50 mm cutting depth, covering most common connection sizes on construction steel.

Specs and handling on site

The MD 40 sits in the mid-range of SFS's Master Driller portfolio, with a motor output around 1,010 watts and a weight near 12 kg. That combination keeps the drill compact enough to carry up ladders while providing enough torque for typical construction holes.

The feed handle arcs smoothly, with a firm but tidy resistance as the cutter bites into the steel. In practice, operators like project foreman Lukas Meier will often brace a shoulder lightly against the housing, feeling the vibration pattern change as the pilot pin snaps through and the annular cutter starts to pull chips.

Power, magnet and safety features

The MD 40 uses a magnetic base that can maintain its hold even through a thin film of cutting fluid or mild surface rust if the contact area is adequate. For safety, the operator must ensure full contact and avoid placing the magnet on narrow edges or heavily scaled surfaces.

SFS equips the drill with safety features such as a motor cut-out when the magnet is not engaged, a guard over the rotating cutter area, and clear pictogram warnings about cable routing and handling. These measures aim to reduce the risk of the drill breaking free under load, which can be critical when working above head height.

Where the MD 40 fits in SFS Group

The Master Driller series complements SFS's core business in fastening systems and precision components. While most investors know SFS for screws and engineered parts, tools like the MD 40 are sold into the same steel construction and industrial installation channels.

For customers, the appeal is a one-stop solution: fasteners, anchors, and the machines needed to prepare the holes. Product manager Daniel Huber at SFS can point to bundled offers where a large contractor orders both magnetic drills and compatible fastener sets for a bridge or plant project, keeping procurement tidy.

Strengths and pain points for users

On the strength side, the MD 40's compact footprint and moderate weight make it practical for site crews who carry gear between levels. The drill's core cutting capacity is adequate for common bolted and riveted connections, and the magnet gives a self-assured hold when properly placed.

However, a magnetic drill in this class also has pain points. Working overhead, chip flow can shower the operator's visor if the guard is not positioned carefully. The drill requires a clean, flat portion of steel; on heavily corroded beams or angled gussets, the magnet may demand extra preparation time before safe clamping.

Pricing and availability in Switzerland

SFS generally markets the Master Driller MD 40 through specialist construction distributors and its own sales channels in Switzerland and neighboring countries. Buyers will find it in B2B catalogues rather than consumer hardware aisles, with pricing positioned for professional fleets instead of DIY budgets.

Typical street prices for comparable magnetic drills in the Swiss market land in the mid-four-figure range in Swiss francs once accessories and cutters are included. Fleet managers will often negotiate discounts based on volume and bundled purchasing with fasteners and other tools.

Stock context and listing

All told, the Master Driller MD 40 sits in a quiet but important corner of SFS's tooling portfolio, supporting revenue from steel construction and industrial maintenance customers. SFS Group shares (ISIN CH0239229302) are listed on SIX Swiss Exchange, where the SFS business mix in fastening systems, components, and tools is reflected in a mid-cap industrial valuation.

This article was AI-assisted and editorially reviewed. Product information without guarantee; prices and availability may change at short notice. No investment advice, no buy or sell recommendation. Stock-market transactions involve risks up to total loss.

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