Abstract: One embodiment of a brake press for bending and forming sheet metal is disclosed. The brake press includes a movable frame including an upper cross member and a lower cross member and a stationary press positioned between the upper and lower cross members. A punch edge secured to the upper cross member moves towards and away from a die positioned on the stationary press to bend a sheet metal workpiece into a desired configuration, In some embodiments, a hydraulic control assembly provides precise and accurate control of the brake press.