Ok, I got the stamps, parts, recipes, thought I was all set.  I picked up a Harbor Freight 8" drillpress on sale and have discovered it's just a 40lb hunk of junk.  Even at low speeds, the drill bit wobbles to some degree and it gets worse the further you plunge down. I can't imagine being able to stay any where close to center and consistent.

Then I found this model.  It's highly reviewed and fits my budget.  Thoughts?

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HQONFY6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Pd7WBbEN420AK

Yes

Do you plan to keep it?  I ask because Home Depot sells the Rigid 15" for the same price. Home Depot, if local, is also great for short term "rentals".

Yep, would be a keeper most likely.  Figure once setup on the workbench I can find other uses for it.

Handy to have for other things.
I have a similar Ryobi I purchased at my local fire hall's 'truck load tool sale'.
Reconditioned, was like brand new, still in perfect shape, about 50% less than a new one.
A lot of 'refurbs' are used by the customer once, for a task, then returned.
Have to be sent back to factory for a more thorough inspection than a new one receives.

Buy the best machinery you can afford.  Good machinery will last a lifetime and is endlessly handy in the future.