In this paper, a kinematical analysis is preformed to see mechanical characteristics of various linkage drives for a mechanical press. Mechanical characteristics of conventional and newly designed drives are investigated and compared in terms of slide velocity, productivity, load capacity and possible work-piece size. A crank-slider mechanism with arc crank-pin guide is introduced and analyzed particularly for kinematical performance using kinematical analysis software. The new linkage drive turns out to be effective in terms of load and velocity characteristics and productivity. Kinematical performance also provides a basis for the proper selection of mechanical presses.