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Have you ever found yourself with irregular pieces of wood midway through a project, with no way of leveling their thickness?
Then you need to acquire a wood planer for all your woodworking projects.
Whether you are a professional artisan or a Do-it-Yourself enthusiast, a wood planer is a handy tool when it comes to smoothening boards and leveling irregular pieces of wood. The fact that this device works with great precision makes it a must-have tool for anyone with a keen interest in woodworking.
With a wood planer in your possession, you no longer need to go through the frustrations of ordering boards of custom thickness from your supplier. In addition, using a conventional jackplane or a table saw would all be a thing of the past, once you get a hold of this planer.
Without taking much of your time, we are going to show you 10 best wood planers that will transform how you work on your custom boards.
DEWALT is a powerful benchtop thickness planer that contains a superior-performance 15-amp motor and a three knife cutter head. The motor can handle speeds of up to twenty thousand revolutions per minute for deeper, larger cuts on hard boards and pieces of wood.
Rotating at 10,000 revolutions per minute (RPM), the cutter head delivers 96 cuts/ inch, which is one of the finest finishes you will ever experience with any movable benchtop planer.
But that’s not even the best part!
It features extra-long infeed and outfeed tables that provide the ultimate support for wood materials of any length. With its four-column carriage lock, you can rest assured that cases of planer snipe will no longer be an issue when working on your pieces.
If you think that you have seen enough of this planer, you are in for a surprise. Here are additional features that will certainly blow your mind away.
Material Removal Gauge
The DW734 features a material removal gauge that enables you to set the precise amount of wood that you would like to remove from the board, without interfering with the height of the carriage set.
Disposable, Reversible Knives
This thickness planer comes with disposable, reversible knives that offer 30% more knife life, compared to traditional planers. Additionally, you do not need to call a professional to change your cutter head knives, as this machine features disposable knives that allow for fast, easy changes.
• Turret Depth Stop
This planer comes equipped with a Turret Depth Stop that enables you to set the planing depth. You can adjust the planing depth to 1/4“, 1/2″ and 3/4″ depending on your preferences. This stop comes in handy when you want to return to your most regularly used depth with relative ease.
Conclusion
Let’s be honest.
The DEWALT DW734 thickness planer does not fail to deliver when it comes to power and precision. This amazing workshop tool delivers a superior performance when it comes to milling out jaded pieces.
If you are facing challenges reducing the thickness of your hardboards, this benchtop planer can bail you out in a matter of minutes. What we like about it is that it comes with a carriage lock that drastically reduces snipes. Above all, this wood planer is precise and delivers the finest finishes.
How can you resist this outstanding benchtop planer?
Take the next step and give this tool a go. Trust us. It’ll all be worth it.
What do we love it for?
Powerful motor for superior performance
Stationary benchtop planer for increased stability
Comes with disposable knives for ease of change
Extra-long tables for enhanced material support
Carriage lock for snipe reduction
Three knife cutter head for accurate cuts and precise finishes
3-Year limited warranty that includes free repair
What were we disappointed with?
According to some customers, the automatic feed breaks down easily
The blades do not last long as suggested by the manufacturer
This machine is compact in design and it weighs 61.9 pounds only, making it one of the very few portable planers available today. It features a 15-amp motor that can handle speeds of up to 8,500 RPM.
With the exclusive Interna Lok automated head clamp feature, this machine eliminates plane snipes for superior finishes. Furthermore, it is engineered for faster blade changes, providing an uninterrupted experience when working on various projects.
What we love about this planer is that it offers quiet operation. This makes it the ideal tool for individuals cannot withstand the sickening noise that is common with most wood planers.
Are you still not convinced? Let’s take a glance at some of the top features.
• L.E.D. Light Indicator
This planer comes with a LED light display that indicates whether the machine is plugged into the power outlet or not. You can use this feature to establish the status of your machine.
• Extra Accessories
The Makita 2012NB comes with extra accessories that enhance productivity and deliver superior performance. These accessories include a socket wrench, two magnetic holders, a hex wrench and a blade set.
• Adjustable Depth Stop
This planer comes with a fully adjustable depth stop that allows for accurate repeated cuts. You can adjust the stop to return to your most frequently used depth with relative ease.
• 4-Corner Columns Design
The Makita wood planer comes with a 4-corner column design for enhanced stability and increased flexibility. This feature allows you to adjust the cutting heads to your desired depth easily.
Conclusion
Here’s the point:
The Makita2012NB performs exactly as described. It is highly portable and delivers a high level of productivity despite its compact design. Unlike most wood planers, this thickness planer comes with extra accessories that set it apart from the rest.
Considering all the amazing features that this machine provides, it is safe to say that this planer offers real value for money.
Why are we impressed?
Compact design for enhanced portability
Long power cord for increased flexibility
Automatic feed rollers and a head clamp that eliminates snipe
Fast and easy blade changes for uninterrupted operation
Low noise (83 decibels) for quiet operation
15-amp motor for improved performance
Features LED light indicators for on/off status
Comes with a one-year limited warranty
Money back guarantee
What negatives must you be aware of?
Some clients claim the one-year warranty is too short
The no-load speed is too slow for some users
The feed rollers do not last long and are expensive to replace
This wood planer comes in a compact design that is easy to use and carry around. The DW680K is slightly bigger than a jackplane, but smaller than a conventional planer, making it unique and worth a try.
When it comes to power and performance, this planer has a 7-amp meter that provides an even finish in rough boards and uneven pieces of wood.
It gets better…
The DW680K wood planer has a maximum depth of cut capacity of 3/32 inches, which reduces the number of passes required to achieve desirable results. Furthermore, it accepts resharpenable steel blades that are ideal for framing applications and straight edging tasks.
So, what is so special about the DEWALT DW680K?
• Calibrated Depth Adjustment Knob
Planing is not as easy as it might look. It requires you to set your depth before trimming your boards. Fortunately, the DW680K makes it easy as it comes with a calibrated depth adjustment knob that allows you to set accurate depth for precise results. This feature eliminates the need to reset your depth to zero.
• Precision-machined Shoe Bottom
This planer comes with a precision-machined shoe bottom that delivers a flat surface finish. This feature also allows for accurate, square rabbet joints. The DW680K also comes with three-precision-machined grooves at the front, which offers three distinct sizes for straight edging and chamfering.
• Poly-V Drive Belt
The durability of parts is a crucial consideration to make when buying any type of machine. This wood planer features a poly-V drive belt that offers enhanced belt durability. This not only reduces maintenance costs, but also eliminates the need for numerous trips to the repair center.
Rubber-coated Front-Height Adjustment Knob
The DW680K comes with a rubber-coated front-height adjustment knob that offers comfort and enhanced control when planing.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, the DEWALT DW680K is the ideal planer for small tasks and DIY projects. This planer mills out the hardest of woods easily, to deliver a smooth, even finish.
You can literally use this tool to salvage jagged wood effortlessly. With a net weight of only 6.2 pounds, you can carry this planer along with your wherever you go, as it can perfectly fit into your backpack or the carrying case that comes with it. We would gladly recommend this tool to anyone who is looking for a portable wood planer.
Why did it make our list?
Compact design for high portability
Easy to use handheld planer
Ergonomic design for increased comfort and less fatigue
7-amp motor that can handle speeds of 15,000 revolutions per minute
Features re-sharpenable steel blades for reduced replacement costs
Works well on all types of hardwoods
Accepts reversible blades for enhanced versatility
When it comes to producing the best woodworking tools, then the Delta Machinery brand needs no introduction.
This company is widely acclaimed in the industry for its top-notch power tools and equipment. One tool that is receiving all the rave reviews for all the right reasons is the Delta Power Tools 22-555 Portable Thickness Planer.
The Delta 22-555 thickness planer is specifically designed for small workshops where planing is not a regular activity. This wood planer features a 15-amp power motor that can handle speeds of up to 18,800 RPM for precise cuts.
It works perfectly on softwoods, but can also trim hardwoods with minimal snipe. Although plastic in construction, the housing of this planer consists of Lexan material that is extremely tough and rust resistant.
From the name itself, you will know that this planer is highly portable, a feature that is often rare with most wood planers. Whether you want to work in the workshop or out in your backyard, you can move this planer to wherever you want. What is more exciting is that it is available at a throwaway price and it comes with a 5-year limited warranty to boot.
So have we got that straight? Let’s have a sneak peek at this planer’s most attractive features.
Quick Change Knife System
The Delta 22-555 planer features a quick-change knife system that contains disposable knives. This system allows you to change knives effortlessly without using alignment jigs. This further ensures that you can enjoy seamless planing with low downtime.
• Four –Column Design
A good planer should be able to deliver precise results. This thickness planer comes in a four-column design that offers exceptional support and stability necessary for delivering smooth, accurate cuts for years to come.
• Adjustable Infeed & Outfeed Tables
The Delta 22-555 thickness planer comes with infeed and outfeed tables that provide the ultimate support for long pieces. This feature helps to remove snipe and deliver smooth workpiece finishes.
• Reversible DustPort
Planing will certainly leave a trail of sawdust in your work area. Inhaling excessive sawdust can cause health concerns, especially if you have pollen-related allergies. Fortunately, this planer comes with a dust port that allows you to collect chips easily from your work area.
Conclusion
To sum it all up, it cannot be stressed enough that Delta Machinery is a reputable brand that offers quality products. If the performance of the Delta Power Tools 22-555 is anything to go by, then do not hesitate to invest your money on this product.
Well, the Bosch PL2632K Planer is a highly portable tool that comes with an easy to carry carrying case. This handheld tool features a dominant 6.5-amp motor that can handle up to 16,500 rotations per minute for fast and flawless stock removal.
This planer is small yet strong enough to work on jaded pieces of wood ten times its size. It boasts as the first-ever handheld power tool to come with a lock-off mechanism, a feature that helps prevent accidental starts.
As if that’s not enough…
It features a spring-loaded stand that acts as a protective shield to the blade and a resting spot for the tools. Furthermore, its blade system can easily be converted for use with high-speed steel blades that are larger than the normal cutter head knives. This incredible feature not only increases versatility, but also enhances performance.
How does this tool stack up against other planers?
Ejection Control
Are you having trouble controlling where your shavings end up during planing? Then worry no more. This tool comes with an ejection control feature that allows shavings to be redirected to your preferred direction.
Dual-mount guide fence
Planing requires shrewd keenness to deliver precise cuts and smooth finishes. Fortunately, this planer comes with a dual-mount guide that makes it easy to achieve consistent planing. All you have to do is ensure that the guide fence is mounted on either side of the tool.
Poly-V Drive Belt
Do not worry about the durability of various parts as the Bosch PL2632K planer consists of a Poly- V belt that provides increased belt durability. It also has a heavy-duty plastic construction that ensures that the tool can withstand frequent knocks when planing.
Aluminum front and rear shoes
The essence of using a planer is to achieve accurate and precise finishes. This planer comes with aluminum front and rear shoes that are precision-machined to deliver smooth, accurate finishes.
Conclusion
Can we be totally honest with you?
If you are looking for a highly portable planer that delivers smooth, accurate finishes with relative ease, then the Bosch PL2632K planer certainly fits the bill. Lightweight in construction and efficient in performance, this wood thickness planer is a must-have for any serious artisan.
What makes it special?
Bosch is a world-renowned brand
Easy to set up tool
5 amp for enhanced performance
Heavy-duty plastic construction for enhanced durability
Reversible blades that last 30% longer
Lightweight design for increased portability
Comes with a dual-mount guide fence for consistent, accurate planing
Includes protective shield that prolongs machine lifespan
Insanely affordable
What cons did we find?
Customers have to request for warranty from support
Limited in functionality due to its small size
You have to purchase extra accessories to increase versatility
The motor can handle speeds of up to 23,000 RPM, offering a superior all-round performance. On the other hand, the cutter head can accommodate speeds of up to 9,000 RPM. This helps to deliver smooth, accurate cuts.
Here’s the most important part…
This planer features a spiral cutter head with twenty six two-sided carbide inserts. The use of carbide tips is a fresh break from the past as they are not only durable, but also provide enhanced chip removal with less chance of tear.
The fact that these inserts can be changed easily with minimal downtime means that you can go on with your work uninterrupted. This thickness planer also comes with a snipe-lock feature that helps reduce snipe significantly during planing.
Before we go any further, let’s have a look at this unit’s top features.
Extra Large Infeed and Outfeed Tables
Nothing is too big for this planer. The Cutech 40200HC-CT planer consists of extra large infeed and outfeed tables that can accommodate any size of wood. With its 4-column heavy-duty guideposts, you can rest assured of achieving accurate and precise cuts with every pass.
Slide Depth Stop
The Cutech 40200HC-CT planer comes with a slide depth stop that allows you to set your preferred planing depth. You no longer have to readjust the height of the planer when you want to return to your most frequently used depth. This allows for depth repeat cuts while saving on precious time.
Built-in Dual-Sized Dust Port
When you are done planing, it is only logical that you clear out all the chippings and sawdust from your work area to prevent any possible health hazards. This planer makes it easy for you as it comes with a built-in dual-sized dust port that you can utilize to clear all the remains.
Conclusion
If you are serious about acquiring a machine that delivers accurate cuts with smooth finishes, then the Cutech 40200HC – CT is what you need for your workshop. This planer is simply out of this world thanks to its redesigned additions that deliver exceptional chip removal.
Cutech got it right this time round by adding carbide inserts that work well on all types of wood. This feature makes chip removal look easy.
The best part is that it can turn your old reclaimed wood into a beautiful piece within a matter of minutes, thanks to its high efficiency. Acquire this tool today and start enjoying better planing days in the workshop.
What stands out?
Powerful 15-amp motor for enhanced performance
Works great on all types of wood
Easily maneuverable despite its weight
Extra-large feed tables for enhanced flexibility
Features in-built carbide inserts that are strong and efficient
Comes with a snipe lock for minimal tear
Uses a chain drive rather than a belt for enhanced durability
Comes with a two-year warranty
What cons did we manage to find?
It is slightly expensive
At 90 pounds, this planer is relatively bulky
According to some clients, Cutech offers poor customer service
The planer’s snipe lock does not offer maximum functionality
Are you looking for the perfect wood planer for your woodworking projects?
Planers and jointers all work pretty much the same way. If you think we are bluffing, then check this out.
The Porter Cable 6 Inch Variable Speed Bench Jointer is the perfect compromise for those of us who prefer using smaller size jointers to planers. The PC160JT is in a class above the rest as it delivers a performance second to none. This bench machine is ideal for flattening surfaces of wood and smoothing out edges. It can also be used to make precise, accurate cuts just like a conventional planer.
This variable speed bench jointer features a two-knife cutter head that can handle speeds of up to 11,000 RPM. The motor is even more powerful, and it provides great cutting speeds of up to 22,000 cuts per minute.
This tool also comes with guide fence that not only provides guidance when working on your pieces, but also offers protection from flying chips. With its knife-leveling lock feature, this jointer also allows you to replace and adjust cutter head knives with relative ease, saving on time.
Irresistible, isn’t it? Wait until you read about this unit’s most desirable features.
Extra Large Table
This jointer comes with an extra-large table that offers the ultimate work support. You can work on any sized wood and surfacing stocks of up to 6 inches wide, without causing any inconvenience.
10-Amp Motor
This Porter Cable jointer has a low-resistance motor of 10 amperes that allows it to provide a powerful performance well beyond its diminutive size. The Cutter head can handle variable speeds of up to 11,000 RPM with cutting speeds of up to 22 cuts/ minute.
Dust Port
Dealing with sawdust and extracted chips has never been easier, thanks to the dust port feature that comes with this jointer. You can attach a vacuum hose to the dust port and clear out all the mess in your work area.
With its extra-large table, you can work on pieces of any size easily without worrying about accessibility and movement. The center-mounted fence offers the much-needed support when working on your pieces, delivering accurate, precise cuts.
This bench jointer costs less than 300 bucks and comes with a 3-year warranty to boot. The warranty also covers one year of free service.
Why is it special?
Delivers an amazing all-round performance
Easy to use bench with guide fence
Do It Yourself assembly
Weighs 35 pounds only for enhanced portability
Sturdy, durable construction for long life
Comes with a long bed that accommodate pieces of all sizes
Powerful motor with great cutting speeds
Offers good value for money
Comes with a 3-year warranty
What are the flaws?
The fence is weak and tends to drift when working on your pieces
You have to re-square the fence each time you make an adjustment
Does not offer the optimal functionality of a planer
Are you looking for a planer that is sturdy, efficient and highly portable?
Your search stops right here. Elegant in design and superior in performance, the Grizzly G0505 12-1/2-Inch Planer is the latest addition from the Grizzly brand.
It features a high-performance motor that can handle speeds of up to 10,000 RPM. The feed rate stands at an amazing 32 feet per minute, meaning that it can plane your workpiece at a relatively faster rate without causing snipes.
So how does this planer perform compared to its competitors? Here are the top features.
Thermal Overload Protection
The Grizzly G0505 comes with thermal overload protection that prevents damage to the motor in case of phase failure or unexpected overheating.
On/Off Toggle Switch with Safety Lock
Accidental machine starts can be scary, as it may lead to injury or even damage to your workpieces. Fortunately, this planer comes with an On/Off toggle switch that features a safety lock. You can lock the switch area when the machine is not in use to avoid accidental starts.
Knife Setting Jig with Wrench
This planer features a simple to use a knife-setting jig that comes with a wrench. You can easily replace your blades in record speed whenever the need arises. This ensures that you experience little downtime when working.
Top Mounted Return Rollers
The return rollers come in handy when making several passes through the planer, as they allow you to move the material you are working on back to the infeed table with relative ease. This allows for faster passes, hence saving time.
Conclusion
Bottom line, the Grizzly G0505 is a tool worth checking out. It comes with several desirable features that will certainly make your work a walk in the park. It is extremely affordable, and the fact that it comes with protective features ensures that the machine can last for a long time.
The simplicity of the Grizzly thickness planer makes it a great choice, especially for beginning woodworkers. In our honest opinion, you will never go wrong with this tool in your workshop.
What makes it special?
Lightweight design for easy portability
Quality metal construction for enhanced durability
Easy to assemble
Protective features for extended machine life
Comes with a safety lock to avoid accidental starts
Inexpensive tool with amazing features
Comes with a one-year warranty
What cons did we find?
Cumbersome blade-changing mechanism
The power cord is short
The planer is not stable enough and might shift during planing
According to some clients, the warranty period is too short
Like other wood planers from the Cutech brand, this tool features a powerful 15-amp motor that delivers a superior performance. The motor can handle speeds of up to 23,000 RPM. The cutter head also accommodates speeds of up to 9,000 RPM, delivering accurate and precise cuts.
What we love about this unit is that it comes with spiral Cutterhead consisting of 26 two-sided High Speed Steel inserts that are highly efficient when it comes to producing fast, accurate and superior cuts. Furthermore, these inserts are very quiet, allowing the machine to operate without making noise.
With a four-column heavy-duty construction for extra stability and support, you can always be sure that the Cutech 40200H-CT will always deliver desirable results.
Do you want to know the best part? Of course, you do.
Extra-large Infeed and Outfeed Table
This planer comes with extra-large infeed and outfeed tables for enhanced support when working on large pieces of wood and boards. The tables can be folded at any time when the machine is not in use. The foldable tables also make it possible to transport or store the planer whenever the need arises.
Slide Preset Depth Stop
The Cutech 40200H-CT planer features a slide preset depth stop that saves you from the frustrations of setting and resetting the depth. Using this feature, depth repeat cuts are now easy, as it is no longer a requirement to reset the planer to zero to return to your most used setting.
Built-in Dual-Sized Dust Port
Cleaning up after work is now easy, thanks to the built-in dual-size dust port that comes with this planer. You only need to attach a vacuum hose to the dust port and clear out all the sawdust and chippings within a matter of minutes!
Conclusion
So why are we vouching for this planer?
If you are still using traditional jackplanes to cut your boards, you are going to remain stuck in the dust. This planer offers you a way out of your quagmire with its amazing features.
This planer is easy to use and offers enhanced support, thanks to its extra large tables. Weighing less than 88 pounds, it is highly portable and allows for enhanced maneuverability. With a two-year warranty at your disposal, you can rest assured of experiencing exceptional repair service in case something goes wrong with your planer.
As the name suggests, this planer is for professional woodworkers with more demanding jobs. However, nothing can stop you from using it even if you are a just a beginning woodworker. After all, we always seek to learn from the best, and that is why this tool will certainly be a great addition to your workshop.
What are its best features?
Quiet operation
Powerful 120V, 15-amp motor for superior performance
High-speed steel blades for superior cuts
Durable construction for extended machine life
Dust port for easy cleanups
Comes with a snipe lock for reduced planer snipes
Extra-large tables for maximum support
Heavy-duty four-column design for enhanced stability
Foldable feed tables for easy storage and transportation
Comes with a 2-year warranty
What could be improved?
The blades are not as durable as expected
Cutech support team are slow to respond to queries
Elegant in design and superior in performance, the WEN 6550 is exactly what you need for all your planing tasks. This thickness planer contains a granite table that provides a perfect surface for moving items seamlessly without causing snipes.
The table does not warp, providing precise support to all types of wood passing through the machine. It is highly versatile, and it can plane hard boards of up to 6 inches thick with relative ease. With a width of 12/5 inch, you can adjust the depth up to 3/32 inch.
That’s not all!
This planer literally brings back to life rough and worn-out pieces of wood, thanks to its 15-amp motor that delivers 18,000 cuts/ min. As if that is not enough, the WEN 6550 has a feed rate of 26 ft. /min, which is considerably faster than normal planers.[/wpsm_box]
Let’s have a look at additional features that this unit has to offer.
Rubber Adjustment Handle
The WEN 6550 thickness planer features a rubber adjustment handle that provides extra comfort when adjusting the height of the machine. Each rotation of the handle adjusts the height of your planer by 0.0625 (1/16) inches, allowing for accurate measurements.
• Tri-Roller Feeding System
This planer has an effective tri-roller feeding system that regulates how wood passes through the machine during milling. This system helps to minimize planer snipe, further leading to the prolonged lifespan of the dual blades that come with the machine. In addition, these blades are reversible, and this allows for accurate, sharp cuts.
• Foldable Infeed and Outfeed Tables
The WEN 6550 comes with foldable infeed and outfeed tables that offer maximum support for longer pieces that require planing. These foldable feeding tables allow you to realize the perfect angle for flawless work.
• Dust Hose Connection Port
Dealing with dust can be a major concern, as it can affect not only your health, but also the cleanliness of your workshop or garage. Fortunately, this planer comes with a dust host connection port that allows you to attach an extraction device for easy cleanups.
Conclusion
Just think about this for a moment…
Why would you leave a wood planer that is highly efficient and extremely affordable for anything else?
Frankly speaking, the WEN 6550 delivers a superior performance way beyond expectations. It is stylish, sturdy and features a granite table that not only gives it an elegant look, but also offers the ultimate support for any workpiece material.
Backed by a two-year warranty and with free repair service, you can rest assured that your long-term investment is in safe hands. However, don’t just take our word for it. Acquire this tool today and discover what it has to offer.
Why is it special?
Sturdy granite table for enhanced support and stability
Comes with a fan-assisted dust port that prevents accumulation of dirt
Powerful 15-amp motor for superior performance
Versatile machine that can plane boards up to six inches thick
Foldable feeding tables for accurate and precise finishes
Extremely affordable planer (costs $250 only)
Comes with a 2-year warranty with free repair service
What are the flaws?
Comes with several plastic parts that are prone to cracking
The gear crank tends to malfunction after some time
Considerable amount of spine that is just unacceptable
The dust connection port tends to clog
The machine feeds at a very fast rate sometimes leaving a scaled surface
Things to Consider
What Is a Wood Planer?
A wood planer is a carpentry tool used for trimming wood surfaces and smoothing board edges to the desired thickness. It is the perfect tool for producing custom boards and pieces of wood of even thickness, hence the name thickness planer.
It also comes in handy when restoring jaded boards and reclaiming rough and irregular pieces of wood to a smooth, even finish. In essence, you can use this tool on any piece of wood, regardless of the size, and achieve the preferred thickness.
A planer can be a handheld tool (manual) or an electronically/battery powered machine. Unfortunately, manual handheld planers are dying out slowing, due to advancements in technology. Gone are the days when a jackplane or a table saw were the only planing options you had.
You no longer need to use your muscle power to chip out pieces of wood. With an electronically powered planer, you can produce accurate, precise custom boards in a matter of minutes.
All Types Of Wood Planers
Do you want to know more about the different wood planers available?
We bet you do. Check this out.
Typically, wood planers come in more than five different types to suit the various woodworking needs. The most common types of wood planers include:
Manual planers
Manual planers are handheld woodworking tools that do not require electric power or battery power to function. The planer is powered using your hand movement.
This type of planer gives you more control and is ideal for smaller projects like fine planing. Manual planers are extremely affordable and do not produce noise
Power hand planers
Power hand planers are similar to manual planers, but require electric power or battery power to function. They are more powerful compared to manual planers and they can work well on both small and large projects.
They can be used for leveling surfaces, cutting and shaping different types of wood. Nevertheless, power hand planers are limited in speed, and their level of precision is not 100% perfect.
Bench top planers
This refers to a type of electronically powered planer that rests on top of a bench, hence the name “bench top planer.” This machine can work on any type of wood of different lengths and widths with relative ease.
It comes with various distinct and highly sophisticated features, including a cutter head, feed tables and motor. They cut and even boards with great precision thanks to these advanced features.
Stationary Planers
Just as the name implies, a stationary planer is a freestanding machine that works on heavy-duty and more complex woodworking projects. These planers come in their own tables and they do not require a bench in order to work on boards.
They can be fed large pieces of wood as they feature stronger cutter heads that function at faster speeds.
2-in-1 Planer tool
A 2-in-1 planer tool features either a planer and a jointer or a planer and a molder. This tool is used for different sets of tasks. The planer/joiner is used to even the thickness of surfaces before smoothing out the edges with a jointer. The planer/molder is used for creating high-quality patterns on pieces of wood.
Jointer VS Wood Planer
Well, many people often confuse these woodworking tools due to their glaring similarities. However, while both tools can be used to even surfaces and shave off pieces of wood, major differences do exist. Furthermore, experts do not recommend the use of either tool in place of the other.
A wood planer is used to reduce the thickness of a workpiece to a desirable depth or height while a jointer is used to achieve a smooth surface between two pieces to be joined. Most woodworkers prefer owning a planer, as it can reduce thickness and smooth out surfaces as well.
Jointer vs Planer: What Does Each One Do?
How To Buy Best Wood Planer
With so many options to choose from, buying a wood planer can be somehow overwhelming, especially if you are a beginner. However, we are here to help you make the right choice in selecting the best wood planer for all your woodworking needs.
Here are a few points to consider:
Type of planer
As earlier mentioned, there are several types of tools. You should choose a planer that can be able to deliver exceptional results on all your projects, based on your preferences. Older woodworkers prefer handheld planers as they offer more control. However, a handheld planer cannot be viable when working on large projects.
Ease of Use
Select a planer that is efficient, yet easy to use. Anyone in your workshop with woodworking experience should be able to use the planer conveniently without facing any challenges.
Availability of replaceable parts
Consider the availability of spares before buying any planer. This will ensure that you can easily have it repaired in case something goes wrong.
Durability
Wood planers can last a lifetime, but this depends on the type, and how you maintain it. Handheld planers last longer than powered planers because they do not consist of motors or cutter heads, which are susceptible to damage.
Costs
Though it is not always a major issue. However, you should select a planer that offers real value for money. Do not buy a cheap planer just for the sake of it, as it might end up being expensive later in terms of maintenance and repair costs.
List of The Most Popular Brands
DeWALT
WEN
Makita
Porter Cable
Delta Power Tools
Grizzly
POWERTEC
Cutech
Wood Planer Top Features
The latest planers come with various top features that can transform your woodworking project into a simple task. These features aim at reducing snipe and preventing tear. They also extend machine life and deliver amazing results.
Here are some of the top features:
Extra large feed tables
Snipe lock
Slide Depth Stop
Dust Connection Port
Thermal Overload Protection
On/Off Toggle Switch with Safety Lock
Quick Change Blade System
Spiral cutter head with 26 two-sided carbide inserts
How To Use a Wood Planer
A word of caution:
Using a wood planer is not easy, as it requires a considerable wealth of skills to deliver the right results.
Furthermore, powered planers can be hazardous if care is not observed. For these reasons, it is advisable that you seek the help of an experienced woodworker before using this tool. 1. Wear protective gear include a dust mask and eye protectors
2. Unfold the feed tables
3. Setup the guide fence if any is available
4. Make sure the blades are sharp and tightly in place
5. Set your preferred cut depth
6. Power up the machine by plugging the cord into the power outlet
7. Pass your piece of wood or board along the table several times until you achieve the desired thickness
8. Switch off the wood planer machine after use
9. Clean your work area
10. You may use the dust port that comes with the machine to clear out all the sawdust and chippings
How to Reduce Snipe
A snipe is a deep cut caused by a planer at the infeed end or at the beginning of a long piece of wood or board, causing a slight bend. Although subtle, the effects of snipe can lead to unsightly finishes.
Here are a few tips:
Adjust the feed table up
Cut the snipe off the ends
Use a test board to establish the level of snipe before passing your piece
Acquire a planer that comes with a snipe lock feature
Safety Tips for Planers
Are you worried about your safety when using a wood planer?
Worry no more. Below are a few safety tips that come in handy when using planers or any other power tools.
• Always wear safety glasses and protective gear
• Make sure the outfeed guard is in position
• Do not plane twisted boards before straightening one side
• Assess stock for loose knots or stuck iron nails
• Turn the dust collector on
• DO NOT put your hands in the infeed opening
• NEVER look into a planer when its running
• Plane one piece at a time
Care and Maintenance
The lifespan of your wood planer depends on how you take care of it. Keeping your tool in top condition is essential when it comes to delivering a superior performance.
Fortunately, wood planers do not require extensive care and maintenance. A little bit of cleaning, lubrication and changing of blades is all that it requires. Here are a few maintenance tips that will keep your planer in top shape.
1. Always clean the planer table after use.
2. Sharpen or replace the blades once they become blunt
3. Keep rust at bay by lubricating your planer regularly
4. Check the table for flatness at least once a month
5. Check the motor brushes for wear every 100 hours
6. Clean the drive chain or belt regularly to remove dust and chips
7. Tighten bolts that hold the moving parts
8. Store your planer in a dry place to avoid corrosion and rusting
How to Build a Wood Planer
Do you know that you can make your own handheld wood tool? It is extremely simple, and we’ll walk you through the whole process.
Requirements
Pipe (Steel)
Hard Plywood
Old saw blade
Woodworking Tools
Steps to follow:
Draw and print your plan. You can acquire an easy to use plan online
Drill the plywood as indicated in the instructions
Most machine planers come with varying warranties ranging from one year to five years. Depending on the type of warranty, you may also be entitled to free repair service for a specified period.
Always take your planer to an accredited service center, especially when still under warranty. This ensures that you enjoy free repair service with no additional charges.
Yes. However, this depends on the manufacturer. You may also be requested to top up to receive an extended warranty.
Final Verdict
So what’s your favorite planer? We trust that you had a good time reading our reviews on the best wood planers available in the market today. Since we can’t have our cake and eat it, we have to select a winner among the ten wood planers we reviewed. The stand out wood planer is none other than the DEWALT-DW734. This planer is a workhorse when it comes to cutting precise parallel pieces, and smoothing out edges and surfaces. What makes it special are the four-column carriage lock. The DEWALT insert not only durable, but also delivers superior cuts more than any other wood planer in its range. Whether you are a newbie woodworker or a professional artisan, this planer is the right choice for all your woodworking needs.
Power hand planers are similar to manual planers, but require electric power or battery power to function. They are more powerful compared to manual planers and they can work well on both small and large projects.
This refers to a type of electronically powered planer that rests on top of a bench, hence the name “bench top planer.” This machine can work on any type of wood of different lengths and widths with relative ease.
Just as the name implies, a stationary planer is a freestanding machine that works on heavy-duty and more complex woodworking projects. These planers come in their own tables and they do not require a bench in order to work on boards.
List of The Most Popular Brands
Here are some of the top features:
Here are a few tips:
Fortunately, wood planers do not require extensive care and maintenance. A little bit of cleaning, lubrication and changing of blades is all that it requires. Here are a few maintenance tips that will keep your planer in top shape.
