Thickness Planers

“Woodworking is both an art and a science, requiring precise tools to transform raw materials into finished products. Thickness planers are invaluable in this process, enabling woodworkers to cut boards to exact thicknesses uniformly. These machines are designed for efficiency, allowing for the rapid production of wood pieces that are consistent in size and smoothness. Whether for a professional shop or a home garage, a thickness planer evolves the craft by expanding the range of projects that woodworkers can undertake.”

When it comes to woodworking equipment, a thickness planer stands out for its ability to quickly and accurately alter the thickness of a board. Unlike a hand planer or a belt sander, a thickness planer ensures that each pass removes an even layer of wood, maintaining both the flatness and the parallelism of the piece. Such precision is essential when crafting fine furniture or fitting components for complex constructions.

Choosing the right thickness planer depends on a number of factors, including the maximum width of material it can accommodate, the range of thicknesses it can achieve, and the cutting depth per pass. The quality of the cutterhead, feed rate, and durability are also crucial elements to consider. The ease of blade replacement and dust collection capabilities are aspects that can significantly affect user experience and work environment.

Woodworkers must weigh these variables against their specific needs and the demands of their projects in order to find the model that will perform most effectively for them. We’ve dedicated ourselves to scrutinizing a variety of models to discern which thickness planers excel in operational quality and reliability. This commitment ensures woodworkers can invest wisely, procuring a tool that will be integral to their craftsmanship for years to come.

Top Thickness Planers

We’ve carefully curated a selection of top-performing thickness planers for both woodworking enthusiasts and seasoned professionals. Our goal is to assist you in finding the perfect tool that aligns with your requirements for precision, power, and ease of use. Whether you’re in the market for a robust workhorse for your workshop or a portable unit for job site applications, our list encompasses the most reliable and efficient models available, ensuring you can achieve smooth and consistent results on every project.

DEWALT 13-Inch Planer

We believe the DEWALT 13-inch Planer is a top-notch choice for professionals and serious woodworkers seeking reliability and precision in their projects.

Pros

• Exceptionally durable with a solid cast aluminum base.
• Quick, hassle-free knife changes save time.
• An efficient chip ejection system keeps the workspace clean.

Cons

• Considerable weight might challenge portability.
• Stands sold separately may add to the cost.
• Some users may find it pricey.

In our recent workshop experience, this DEWALT planer stood out as a powerhouse, effortlessly managing large cuts in hard materials. Its robust build quality was immediately apparent, demonstrating a stability that’s crucial when precision is key. Each pass with this machine felt smooth, and the finished surface was impressive, reducing the need for additional sanding. The ease of changing knives on this planer was a game-changer for us, streamlining our workflow significantly.

The fan-assisted chip ejection function was another highlight, keeping our space cleaner than usual and cutting down on post-job cleanup time. This feature particularly comes in handy during long work sessions, where buildup can be a nuisance.

Despite its weight, which made repositioning a two-person task, the added heft showed its merits in the form of reduced vibration and steadfast operation. While the absence of a stand might be a downside for some, the planner’s performance left us with few complaints. It represents a significant investment, but for those dedicated to quality craftsmanship, the expense seems justified.

CRAFTSMAN 15 Amp Benchtop Planer

We recommend this CRAFTSMAN benchtop planer for both novice and experienced woodworkers who value efficiency and reliability in their tools.

Pros

• Impressively smooth operation
• Effectively planes various wood types
• Convenient dust collection port

Cons

• Occasional snipe issues
• Manual adjustments required
• Noticeable marks on wood at times

The moment we turned on this planer, its ability to transform rough lumber into smooth boards was evident. Using the 15 Amp motor, the machine made quick work of both hard and soft woods, revealing the beauty beneath aged or weathered surfaces. During our session, we noticed that the sturdy two-knife cutter head sliced cleanly through our stock.

Adjustments were simple, and we admired the long cutting life of the carbon steel knives, which are double-edged and reversible. Their performance lived up to expectations, and we were particularly grateful for the minimal downtime due to quick changes. A feature that stood out was the built-in vacuum port, which allowed us to hook up our dust collection system effortlessly. Keeping the workspace clean was a breeze, and we could focus on the task without the usual mess.

Although this machine is a solid performer, we did experience a slight snipe, which is common with many planers. For those sharing our passion for perfection, this might require a bit of fine-tuning. Manual adjustments, while straightforward, demand attention. It’s also worth being careful, as the planer can sometimes leave marks on the finished wood, though this was not a frequent problem.

In summary, the CRAFTSMAN benchtop planer is a valuable addition to any workshop, combining power, precision, and practicality. Despite minor quirks, its overall performance meets the high standards we set for our woodworking projects.

WEN 13-Inch Planer

If you’re in search of a capable thickness planer for your woodworking projects, the WEN 13-Inch Planer is a choice that won’t disappoint.

Pros

• Produces an exceptionally smooth finish on both hard and soft woods
• The cutter head’s speed and power handle wide and thick boards effortlessly
• The inclusion of a material removal gauge allows for precise depth control

Cons

• Snipe can occur if not properly managed with infeed and outfeed tables
• It may take some practice to adjust for the perfect cut
• The dust collection system requires a proper setup to be effective

Recalling our recent work brings forth the satisfaction we felt using the WEN 13-Inch Planer. The transformation from ragged lumber to smooth planks was almost too easy. As we fed old, beat-up boards through the machine, the 26 staggered blades of the spiral cutterhead sheared away the imperfections, leaving behind nothing but smoothness.

Each pass felt empowering, knowing we were reviving wood others would deem unusable. The machine’s robust 15-amp motor buzzed confidently as it spun the cutterhead at over 10,000 RPM. Watching the wood steadily diminish in roughness at a feed rate of 26 feet per minute, we marveled at the tool’s efficiency. It was like watching years of wear and tear erased in minutes. In our workshop, the hefty cast iron base proved its mettle, firmly anchoring the planer to prevent any vibration-induced missteps.

Adjusting the knob for varying cuts, we found a sweet spot that balanced the desire for speed with the need for precision. Though we occasionally faced snipe, once we finessed the infeed and outfeed table heights, it was no longer an issue. Expertly shaping boards up to 13 inches wide and 6 inches thick without hiccups, we were reminded why a reliable thickness planer is indispensable.

For our peers with a penchant for woodworking, the WEN 13-Inch Planer would serve both novice and veteran crafters as a commendable workshop ally.

CRAFTSMAN Benchtop Planer

If you’re in the market for a reliable and efficient benchtop planer, the CRAFTSMAN 15 Amp option should top your list due to its performance and durability.

Pros

• Powers through both hard and soft wood with ease
• A durable two-knife steel cutter head ensures long-lasting, smooth operation
• Equipped with a vacuum port to keep the workspace clean

Cons

• Some users may find the machine quite heavy
• Adjusting for minimal snipe can be challenging
• Leaves occasional black marks on the wood, as reported by a few users

Recently, we had the chance to work with the CRAFTSMAN Benchtop Planer on a variety of projects, and its 15 Amp motor did not disappoint, handling everything we threw at it with power to spare. Its solid steel cutter head, designed for smooth operation, made quick work of evening out rough lumber, even with glued-up materials.

Earlier this week, we moved the planner around our shop for different tasks. Although its heft was noticeable, setting the machine up for precise operations was straightforward. Our experience was that once dialed in, the depth adjustment was on point, and the quality of the cut was consistently high.

Our woodworking projects often demand a clean work environment, and this planer’s vacuum port attachment is a game-changer. Dust and chips were effectively sucked away, leaving us with a clean surface to inspect our work. After using this planer extensively, we’ve noted its long cutting life and the ease of changing blades when required.

Asieg Tool Planer Blades

We believe these planer blades offer an excellent blend of durability and precision for any woodworking enthusiast.

Pros

• Exceptional value with a set of 10
• Reversible design doubles the lifespan
• Universal fit catering to a variety of planers

Cons

• Not OEM, may not match original blade performance for some models
• Plastic case feels a bit flimsy
• Longer lengths may require slight modifications for certain planers

After swapping out my planer’s dull blades with these Asieg Tool replacements, the difference was night and day. The double-edged feature provided a fresh start once the initial edge wore down, essentially giving me two sets for the price of one. The cut was noticeably clean and smooth, revitalizing my tool’s performance.

The comprehensive compatibility of these blades impressed me. Being able to equip them with different planer brands without a hitch is advantageous, especially when switching between tools for various jobs. This adaptability has saved me from the frustration of searching for brand-specific replacements. One aspect that I found slightly concerning was the strength of the provided plastic case.

While it’s convenient for storage, one drop and I’m worried it wouldn’t do much to protect the blades. Moreover, the slight discrepancy in length for some planers was an unexpected hiccup, but it was a minor one that was easily overcome and didn’t detract from the blades’ cutting prowess. My woodworking projects have seen a substantial improvement since introducing these tungsten carbide blades into my toolkit. They slice through wood with a consistent sharpness that belies their lower price point, offering excellent value. Highly recommended for any DIYer or professional looking for quality replacements without breaking the bank.

Buying Guide

Assessing Your Needs

We should first consider the scope of our projects to ensure we select a thickness planer with the appropriate capacity. For occasional use on smaller pieces, a lesser power and width capacity may suffice. Conversely, larger projects demand a planer with greater power and the ability to handle wider boards.

Key Features to Consider

Power & Speed: A high-quality motor will ensure efficiency and a smooth finish. Look for powerful motors, measured in horsepower (HP), and check for variable speed options, which allow us to control the feed rate according to the hardness of the wood.

Maximum Cutting Width: Ensure the planer can handle the width of the boards commonly used in our projects. Typically, this ranges from 12 to 20 inches.

Cutting Depth & Height Adjustment: It’s vital to have a precise depth adjustment. A depth stop allows us to quickly set the machine to common depths.

Knives & Blade Quality: Durable, double-edged blades reduce the frequency of replacements.

Dust Collection: Proper dust collection is essential to keep our workspace clean and maintain air quality.

Portability: If we need to transport the planer, consider the weight and whether it includes features that make it more portable.

Additional Considerations

Price Range

Set a budget that reflects the balance between the planner’s features and the demands of our projects. More features generally increase cost, but investing in a planer that will serve us long-term could be worthwhile.

Frequently Asked Questions

In this section, we address some of the most common questions regarding the selection, maintenance, and safe operation of thickness planers.

What factors should be considered when purchasing a thickness planer?

When selecting a thickness planer, we consider the width of the materials to be planed, the planer’s ability to handle the desired thickness, ease of adjustment, portability, power requirements, and the inclusion of features like dust collection and cutter head types.

How do you maintain and calibrate a thickness planer for optimal performance?

We maintain a thickness planer by regularly cleaning the machine, keeping the blades sharp, and ensuring all components are properly lubricated. Calibration involves checking the machine’s alignment, adjusting infeed and outfeed tables, and setting the cutting depth to ensure consistent thickness.

Can a jointer be used as a substitute for a thickness planer, and what are the limitations?

A jointer can be used to flatten one face of a piece of wood but cannot bring it to a uniform thickness as a planer does. The major limitation is a jointer’s inability to treat the opposite face parallel to the first, which is a key function of a thickness planer.

What is the maximum depth of cut a thickness planer can handle?

The maximum depth of cut a thickness planer can handle typically ranges from 1/16 inch (1.6mm) to 1/8 inch (3.2mm) per pass. This varies by model and is dictated by the power of the motor and the design of the cutter head.

How does a benchtop planer differ from an industrial wood planer in terms of capabilities?

Benchtop planers are often more compact, portable, and suitable for smaller-scale projects. Industrial wood planers, conversely, are designed for heavier use with more powerful motors, larger cutting widths, and enhanced features to accommodate larger pieces and continuous operation.

What safety precautions should be taken while operating a thickness planer?

When operating a thickness planer, we always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, and a dust mask. We ensure the work area is clear of debris, use push blocks or sticks to keep our hands safely away from the blades, and avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry that could get caught in the machine.