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Inch planers are one of the workshop’s vital tools, renowned for their precision, efficiency, and versatility. These compact yet powerful devices serve a wide range of applications, from smoothing wood to creating precise flat surfaces. The right planer can make your woodworking projects more efficient and professional. However, with numerous options available, selecting the best inch planer can be a challenging task.
The best inch planer should be robust, outfitted with high-quality blades that can quickly and smoothly cut through wood, and possess variable speed control for precision work. An inferior planer may result in uneven or rough surfaces, potentially ruining your project and wasting your materials.
When purchasing an inch planer, it’s highly advisable to scrutinize the specifications. See to it that the planer includes features such as a depth control gauge for accurate shaving adjustments, a dust collection port for maintaining a clean work environment, and ideally a carrying case for easy transport and storage.
Throughout this article, we will guide you in picking the best inch planer. We have thoroughly reviewed and tested a variety of planers to ascertain which ones stand out for their performance, durability, and value for money. By the conclusion of this article, you will have an encompassing understanding of what to look for in an inch planer and the best options available to cater to your woodworking needs.
Best Inch Planers
Choosing the right inch planer is a crucial decision, directly impacting the quality, precision, and efficiency of your woodworking projects. A high-performing inch planer should be durable, offer accurate shave adjustments, and provide a clean working environment. Without further ado, it’s our pleasure to present you with a list of the best inch planers, equipped to aid you in making an informed and level-headed decision.
DEWALT Thickness Planer, Two Speed, 13-inch, 15 Amp, 20,000 RPM Motor (DW735X)
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient thickness planer, the DEWALT DW735X is a great option.
Pros
- The two-speed operation allows for versatility in different types of woodworking projects.
- The planer can handle thicker stock with its 13-inch width capacity.
- The planer’s table tilts to 45 degrees for beveled edges.
Cons
- The planer’s motor is 15 amps, which may not be enough for some heavy-duty projects.
- The planer’s feed rate is 36 feet per minute, which may be too slow for some users.
- The planer’s weight of 65 pounds may make it difficult to move around.
The DEWALT DW735X is a solid choice for those looking for a thickness planer that can handle a variety of projects. Its two-speed operation allows for versatility, and the planer’s ability to handle thicker stock is a plus. However, the planer’s motor may not be enough for heavy-duty projects, and the feed rate may be too slow for some users. Additionally, the planer’s weight may make it difficult to move around.
In terms of performance, the DEWALT DW735X did a great job of planing wood evenly and smoothly. The planer’s adjustable cut depth of 1/32 to 1/8 inch allows for precise control of the material being planed. The planer’s table locks down to prevent any movement during operation, which adds to the safety and efficiency of the machine.
Overall, if you’re looking for a thickness planer that can handle a variety of projects and is easy to use, the DEWALT DW735X is a great option to consider.
Delta Power Tools 22-555 13 In Portable Thickness Planer
If you’re looking for a portable planer that can handle thicker stock, the Delta Power Tools 22-555 13 In Portable Thickness Planer is a great option.
Pros
- The 13-inch cutting width of this planer is perfect for handling thicker stock, making it a great option for those who need to work with larger pieces of wood.
- The planer is easy to adjust, with a smooth, positive lever action that allows you to set the cutting depth quickly and easily.
- The planer’s two-knife cutterhead design ensures smooth and efficient cutting, reducing the need for multiple passes.
Cons
- The planer is relatively heavy, weighing in at 52 pounds, which may make it difficult to move around for some users.
- The planer’s feed rate of 36 feet per minute may not be fast enough for those who need to work quickly.
- The planer’s price point may be a bit high for those on a tight budget.
This planer is a great option for those who need to work with thicker stock and want a portable option that can handle the job. The smooth and easy-to-use adjustment features make it quick and easy to set up, and the two-knife cutterhead design ensures efficient and smooth cutting. However, the planer’s weight may be a bit of a drawback for some users, and the feed rate may not be fast enough for those who need to work quickly. Overall, if you’re in the market for a portable planer that can handle thicker stock, the Delta Power Tools 22-555 13 In Portable Thickness Planer is definitely worth considering.
WEN 6528 3.8-Amp Electric Hand Planer, 2-3/8-Inch
If you’re looking for a powerful and versatile electric hand planer, the WEN 6528 3.8-Amp Electric Hand Planer is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The 3.8-amp motor delivers a high level of power, allowing you to tackle even the toughest jobs with ease.
- The 2-3/8 inch cutting capacity allows you to plane a variety of materials, from hardwoods to softwoods.
- The adjustable cutting depth of 0.125 to 0.375 inches allows for precise and accurate results.
Cons
- The 6,500 RPM no-load speed may be too fast for some users, leading to uneven or rough results.
- The 8-1/2 foot power cord may not be long enough for some users, limiting their range of motion.
- The 3.4-pound weight may be too heavy for some users, causing fatigue during extended use.
We’ve used the WEN 6528 electric hand planer to smooth and level a variety of surfaces, and we’re impressed with its performance. The 3.8-amp motor provides plenty of power, allowing us to plane through hardwoods and softwoods with ease. The 2-3/8 inch cutting capacity is also a plus, as it allows us to plane a wider range of materials than some other hand planers we’ve used.
One thing to keep in mind is the 6,500 RPM no-load speed. While it’s great for getting the job done quickly, it may be too fast for some users. We found that we had to pay close attention to our technique in order to avoid uneven or rough results.
Another potential downside is the 8-1/2 foot power cord. While it’s long enough for most jobs, it may not be long enough for larger projects or if you need to plane in a specific location. Finally, the 3.4-pound weight may be too heavy for some users, especially if they’re planning for extended periods of time.
Overall, we think the WEN 6528 electric hand planer is a great choice for anyone looking for a powerful and versatile tool. With its adjustable cutting depth, 2-3/8 inch cutting capacity, and 3.8-amp motor, it’s sure to get the job done right.
WEN 6534 8-Amp Electric Hand Planer, 4-3/8-Inch
If you’re looking for a handheld planer that can handle light to medium-duty jobs, the WEN 6534 is a solid choice.
Pros
- The 8-amp motor delivers 11,000 RPM, making it powerful enough to handle most tasks.
- The 4-3/8-inch cutter head can handle a wide range of materials, from softwoods to hardwoods.
- The adjustable machined aluminum depth stop makes it easy to set the cutting depth, and the knurled spin knob allows for easy depth adjustments.
Cons
- The 3.25-pound weight may be too heavy for some users.
- The 6-foot power cord may not be long enough for some applications.
- The plastic body may not be as durable as a metal body.
We’ve used the WEN 6534 for a variety of tasks, from smoothing out rough surfaces to shaping wood for custom projects. The adjustable cutter head makes it easy to switch between different cutting angles, while the built-in dust port keeps the workspace clean.
One thing to keep in mind is that this planer is best suited for light to medium-duty jobs. If you’re working with thicker or harder woods, you may want to consider a more heavy-duty model.
Overall, we’d recommend the WEN 6534 to anyone in need of a reliable and versatile handheld planer.
WEN 6530 6-Amp Electric Hand Planer, 3-1/4-Inch
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient electric hand planer, the WEN 6530 6-Amp Electric Hand Planer is a great option.
Pros
- The 6-amp motor delivers a no-load speed of 11,000 RPM, making it fast and efficient.
- The 3-1/4-inch cutter capacity allows for quick material removal.
- The adjustable cut depth lever allows for easy depth adjustments.
Cons
- The 6-foot power cord may not be long enough for some users.
- The plastic body may not be as durable as a metal body.
- Some users may prefer a cordless option.
We’ve used the WEN 6530 6-Amp Electric Hand Planer for several projects and it has performed well. The 6-amp motor is powerful and the 3-1/4-inch cutter capacity allows us to remove material quickly. We appreciate the adjustable cut depth lever, which makes it easy to adjust the depth of the cut.
One thing to note is that the 6-foot power cord may not be long enough for some users. Additionally, the plastic body may not be as durable as a metal body. However, we haven’t experienced any issues with durability yet.
Overall, if you’re looking for an electric hand planer that is fast, efficient, and easy to use, the WEN 6530 6-Amp Electric Hand Planer is a great option.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best inch planer, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
Cutting Depth
One of the most important features to consider is the cutting depth. This will determine how much material the planer can remove in a single pass. It is important to choose a planer with a cutting depth that is suitable for the type of work you will be doing.
Motor Power
The motor power is another important factor to consider. A more powerful motor will be able to handle tougher materials and larger pieces of wood. However, it is important to find a balance between motor power and portability.
Size and Weight
The size and weight of the planer are also important factors to consider. A larger and heavier planer will be more powerful, but it may be more difficult to move around and transport. A smaller and lighter planer may be more portable, but it may not be as powerful.
Durability
Durability is another important factor to consider when choosing an inch planer. Look for a planer that is made from high-quality materials and has a sturdy construction. This will ensure that the planer can withstand the rigors of regular use.
Additional Features
Finally, consider any additional features that may be important to you. For example, some planers come with adjustable cutters or dust collection systems. These features can make the planer more versatile and easier to use.
By considering these key features, you can choose the best inch planer for your needs.
