• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • About Us
  • Contact Us

Think Woodwork

Woodworking For Life

  • Table Saw
    • Cabinet Table Saw
    • Portable Table Saw
    • Jobsite Table Saw
    • Contractor Table Saw
    • Hybrid Table Saw
  • Sander
    • Belt Sander
    • Disc Sander
    • Belt Disc Sander
    • Bench Sander
    • Detail Sander
    • Random Orbital Sander
    • Orbital Sander
    • Palm Sander
  • Drill Press
    • Floor Drill Press
    • Benchtop Drill Press
  • Wood Router
    • Plunge Router
    • Fixed-Base Router
    • Compact Router
    • Router Table
  • Scroll Saw
    • Scroll Saw Blade
  • Wood Planer
    • Jointer
  • Wood Lathe

Jointer

Sawzall vs Reciprocating Saw: What are The Difference?

January 6, 2021 By Think Woodwork Leave a Comment

sawzall vs reciprocating saw

Most of us are guilty of referring to Sawzalls as Reciprocating saws and vice versa. But, unfortunately, they’re not the same thing.

What’s the Difference? 

This post aims to break each of them down so that you can have a better understanding of what they are. We’ve also taken the liberty of checking out reciprocating saw reviews and Sawzall reviews and listed two of the best tools in each category.

Not only will you find this post informative, but you’ll also get to walk away with quality equipment that you can rely on for all kinds of projects.

So let’s dive in and get started.

Reciprocating Saws


Reciprocating saws are versatile handheld saws that can cut through masonry, fiberglass, wood, and metal, among other things. The saw’s motor activates when you pull a trigger, and it uses several attachments such as blades, brushes, files, scrapers, and rasps. That’s part of the reason why professionals and DIY enthusiasts consider it a must-have tool.


Before we look at the Sawzall, here are two of the best reciprocating saws that the market has to offer. We’ve included both a cordless and corded version, to give you the option of choosing the variation that will best suit your needs.


Dewalt DCS387P1 Cordless Reciprocating Saw
Check Out Deals

Cordless Reciprocating Saw

1. DEWALT MAX Reciprocating Saw Kit (DCS387P1)

Dewalt offers a cordless reciprocating saw that won’t weigh you down. Its light and compact design make it easy to use and carry with you wherever your project may be. You also won’t have a hard time when you want to work on confined spaces or fit it between studs.


Other benefits you can look forward to include tool-free blade changes, increased positional versatility, and flush cutting. The kit consists of a four-position blade clamp that makes all that possible. This purchase is an excellent fit for people who prioritize precision cuts as well. You’ll get increased blade control thanks to its 0-2,900 spm variable speed trigger.


Pros

  • Bright LED light for better visibility
  • Heavy-duty battery power
  • Safe and secure trigger lock

Cons

  • Some users had issues with its counter-movement
Dewalt DWE305 Reciprocating Saw
Check Out Deals

Corded Reciprocating Saw

2. DEWALT Reciprocating Saw (DWE305)

A 1-1/8inch stroke length and a keyless, lever-action blade clamp, are some of the reasons why woodwork enthusiasts around the globe widely acknowledge this saw. The stroke length is responsible for its efficiency, while the clamp fastens and simplifies the blade changes.


The Dewalt saw is versatile, making it perfect for several applications, including heavy-duty projects. You can also use it for flush cutting thanks to its four-direction blade clamp. As for speed, the saw features a powerful 12 Amp motor with a trigger that provides up to 2900spm.


You can trust that it’s going to give you the results you desire regardless of whether you’re dealing with wood, composites, plastics, heavy-gauge metals, plaster, fiberglass, or even rubber.


Pros

  • Quick and easy blade changes
  • Variable speed trigger
  • Efficient cutting

Cons

  • Doesn't come with a saw blade

Sawzall 

Now that you know what a reciprocating saw is, you’ll find it easy to understand a Sawzall. Reason being, a Sawzall is a type of reciprocating saw. Surprised?


Makes sense if you are, given that you’ll almost always get Sawzall recommendations when you search for reciprocating saws online. Hence the reason people think that the two names stand for the same thing.


The difference between them is that the Sawzall is a line of reciprocating saws manufactured by the Milwaukee Electric Tool Co. So when people refer to a Sawzall, they’re actually talking about a brand name and not the name of the tool.


But, as we mentioned, the confusion is understandable given that the Sawzall has now become an industry term that people often use when referring to reciprocating saws.


Like the reciprocating saws, we’ve also reviewed two of the best Sawzall saws on the market for your consideration. Have a look at what the cordless and corded variations have to offer.

Milwaukee-2720-20-M18-SAWZALL-Reciprocating
Check Out Deals

Cordless Sawzall

1. Milwaukee 2720-20 M18

Nothing beats the convenience that a cordless Sawzall offers. Not only will you move around without restrictions, but you’ll also get faster cutting speeds and added durability. This saw also comes with a Redlithium XC 4.0 Battery Pack. Compared to other competing brands, this battery pack offers more work over its useful life and more work per charge as well.


The Milwaukee 2720-20 M18 provides constant power thanks to its power state brushless motor. It supplies reduced heat for an extended useful life and speeds of 3000 spm. That’s why this cordless saw can easily tear through different kinds of materials.

Another feature worth looking at is its Redlink plus intelligence. It is responsible for the saw’s overload protection and optimized performance. The intelligence feature works by using the total systematic communication between the charger, the tool, and the battery.


Pros

  • Superior battery pack construction
  • On-board LED
  • Patented gear protecting clutch

Cons

  • A few quality control issues reported
Milwaukee-6519-31-12-Amp-Sawzall-Reciprocating-Saw-Kit
Check Out Deals

Corded Sawzall

2. Milwaukee 6519-31 Reciprocating Sawzall

One of the things that make the Milwaukee 6519-31 stand out is the brand’s quick-lock technology. Thanks to the latch on the side, users don’t need tools to add or remove blades, making the process fast and efficient.


It features a high-powered motor with variable speeds of up to 3000 strokes per minute. You’ll rip through wood with ease, depending on the pressure you put on the variable speed trigger.


Other than excellent accuracy and speed, this reciprocating Sawzall is also designed to offer a great user experience. You’ll be able to use it comfortably because its internal counter weight mechanism helps reduce vibration.


Another reason why this Sawzall comes highly recommended is that it has a gear protection clutch. Most reciprocating saws lack this feature. The clutch protects the inner components by absorbing high impact forces. As a result, it extends the gear and motor’s life span.


Pros

  • Counter weight mechanism
  • High-impact carrying case
  • Gear protecting clutch

Cons

  • Doesn’t come with blades

Conclusion

We’ve come to the end of our Sawzall vs. reciprocating saw review. Now that you know the difference between the two, the kind of tools available under each category, and their pros and cons, we trust that you have enough knowledge to make an informed buying decision.

Filed Under: Jointer, Wood Planer

Top 5 Best Jointer (Reviews & Buyer’s Guide) 2021

January 6, 2021 By Think Woodwork Leave a Comment

Best jointer

Another power tool that every serious woodworker must own is a jointer. Its ability to level wood is vital in the assembling process of furniture, shelving units, houses, and world-class handicrafts. This seemingly simple task will go a long way in uplifting the quality of your outputs.

At this point, we recognize that not everyone appreciates the value of jointers. People would often assume their consistency without even checking, only to realize the discrepancies when it's too late. Unfortunately, a majority of those in this situation end up paying more, not to mention the hassle it brings.

So instead of putting yourself through the trouble, why not eliminate the problem by investing in a wood jointer? In this article, we'll be discussing in detail the clear advantages this tool offers, coupled with a list of potential choices. If you're interested in learning more, we hope you take the time to read through our best jointer review - well before canvassing through options.

Jointer Comparison Table

Wood Jointer

features

editor's rating

​

1. Powermatic 1610086K Jointer with Helical Cutter-Head

Powermatic 1610086K Jointer with Helical Cutter-Head

- A 2-horsepower motor can easily straighten out wooden boards at an efficient rate


- Its tabletop can be extended to a maximum of 73-inches, ready for any workpiece imaginable

4.3/5.0

Check Deals

2. Powermatic 1791317K 54HH 6-Inch Jointer

Powermatic 1791317K 54HH 6-Inch Jointer with helical cutterhead

- The helical cutter-head employs a four-sided knife insert design for greater effectivity


- Managing the table’s orientation is easy and adjustable anywhere from 45 to 90 degrees

5.0/5.0

Check Deals

3. Rikon Power Tools 20-600H Benchtop Jointer

Rikon Power Tools 20-600H Benchtop Jointer

- Evens out workpieces at 20,000-RPM so you save both time and money while working


- At only 36-lbs, this jointer is compactly-size and can be brought around anywhere you desire

4.2/5.0

Check Deals

4. Cutech 40160HC-CT Bench Top Spiral Jointer

Cutech 40160HC-CT Bench Top Spiral Jointer

- Its rip fence is quite flexible, helping put it in positions that are most comfortable to you


- Made using sold steel so both its durability and sturdiness are improved tremendously

4.0/5.0

Check Deals

5. Grizzly G0725 Benchtop Jointer

Grizzly G0725 6 by 28-Inch Benchtop Jointer

- All its vital parts are finished using cast iron making it robust enough to handle big jobs

​


- Leaves a minimal footprint and uses up very little space when on your table

3.0/5.0

Check Deals

Jointer Reviews

1. ​Powermatic 1610086K Jointer with Helical Cutter-Head

Powermatic 1610086K Jointer with Helical Cutter-Head

Investing in a jointer that’s over $2000 isn’t ideal, especially for beginners. Except, of course, if it’s as complete as the Powermatic 1610086K Jointer with Helical Cutter-Head. Owning a power tool of this caliber will undoubtedly help in simplifying any task that comes your way.

Through our efforts, we’ve uncovered everything there is to know about it. Now, we can say for certain how user-friendly this device is. It’s funny because first impressions would usually paint it as intimidating, yet you’ll soon realize that such is not the case. Both its hand-wheel and table height are easily adjustable, allowing you to put the jointer in prime working position. This minimizes unnecessary stress on your arms and wrists too.

Another notable quality of the Powermatic 1610086K is its wide table. In total, this space can extend to a maximum of 73-inches. The tabletop has likewise been armed with non-mar fence inserts to facilitate the movement of workpieces. This not only adds support but also protects the surface from incurring any damage. Users that are constantly working with large plywood or wooden sheets will be highly appreciative of this innovation.

All these features, coupled with a 4-sided helical cutter-head, blend well to deliver an amazing work experience. Be prepared, though, since owning one won’t come cheap. Consider only the Powermatic 1610086K Jointer with Helical Cutter-Head if you’re dead serious about enhancing your woodworking prowess. Otherwise, it would be best to just look at other options.

Pros

  • Controls are strategically located and easy to reach
  • Frame is durable
  • Provides you better control of the workpiece
  • Sports a 2-horsepower motor
  • Has a very short learning curve

Cons

  • The price is not exactly affordable
  • Issue with alignment between the in-feed and out-feed tables
Check The Best Deals Online

2. Powermatic 1791317K 54HH 6-Inch Jointer

Powermatic 1791317K 54HH 6-Inch Jointer with helical cutterhead

Another high-end model we’d like to shine the spotlight on is the Powermatic 1791317K 54HH 6-Inch Jointer. It’s very much similar to our previous feature, the Powermatic 1610086K, though slightly smaller and less expensive. This is a perfect deal for users who put a premium on quality but are currently faced with limits in either space or budget.

Among its many distinct features, it’s its cutting strength that most notably stands out. The Powermatic 1791317K 54HH comes equipped with a 1-horsepower and helical cutter-head with four-sided knife inserts. When running at its optimum speed, this blade can slice through wood like a hot knife across butter.

Moreover, a cast-iron fence system is designed to ensure straightness. This 38-inch by 4-inch structure is sturdy, precisely grounded, and flexible. You can alter its orientation by twisting it anywhere from 45 to 90-degrees, depending on how the fence aligns with your subject. After all, this feature is meant to support and guide it while moving past the blade.

We also love the Powermatic 1791317K 54HH 6-Inch Jointer’s tabletop’s size, which at 66-inches is one of the largest in its class. This structure remains stable when supporting large pieces of wood and maintains alignment through height modifications. Additionally, the in-feed and out-feed table’s elevation can both likewise be changed to fit your preference, significantly reducing the need to bend your back while working.

Functionality is probably the biggest advantage you’ll get when investing in this machine. The Powermatic 1791317K 54HH 6-Inch Jointer is a prime candidate for best jointer and will guarantee a more efficient work session whenever it is used. 

Pros

  • The power requirement can be converted to 230-V
  • Includes a dust collection chute 
  • Adjustments to different parts are easily made
  • Both blades and motor are well built
  • Comes with a 5-year limited warranty package

Cons

  • There is some assembly required
  • Issue with paint easily coming off
Check The Best Deals Online

3. Rikon Power Tools 20-600H Benchtop Jointer

Rikon Power Tools 20-600H Benchtop Jointer

Those seeking a reliable mid-level option should seriously consider the Rikon Power Tools 20-600H Benchtop Jointer. Despite not being too expensive, it provides enough features to leave an imprint on consumer’s minds. However, we also won’t lie, as it’s neither the strongest nor the most popular unit out there. Still, this tool offers solid value for its price.

At 36-lbs and 19-inches wide, the Rikon Power Tools 20-600H is ergonomically designed and effortless to take around. You can twist, turn, or drag it around to face the right away. This is especially beneficial for users that travel around a lot. At the same time, it won’t take up much space in your area.

Though this compact size does come with a slight downside. This machine is not equipped for large workpieces or wide-scale projects. We’ve also noticed how it usually takes four swipes at a ¼-inch depth to even out thick wood. By comparison, larger jointers would only need two strikes to achieve this same result. As such, we recommend using it on DIY projects or simple jobs only.

Nevertheless, there are a lot of things to love about it too. The Rikon Power Tools 20-600H Benchtop Jointer delivers a 20,000-RPM worth of cutting power through 12 knife inserts. It cuts through workpieces relatively efficiently and, through a dust port, to ensure a cleaner working area.

All in all, we can easily see just how advantageous owning this can be. Every one of its functions is geared towards helping newbies reach their full potential. Learning how to operate it is simple and won’t take up much of your time.

Pros

  • Yields only 100-decibels of sound
  • Convenient to carry around
  • Can cut as deep as ½ of an inch
  • Great value for money
  • Well-built for beginners and neophytes

Cons

  • The tabletop caters to a limited source of materials
  • Not meant for large construction projects
Check The Best Deals Online

4. Cutech 40160HC-CT Bench Top Spiral Jointer

Cutech 40160HC-CT Bench Top Spiral Jointer

In an industry driven by big brands, the Cutech 40160HC-CT Bench Top Spiral Jointer quietly proves that fame doesn’t always mean success. We’ve experienced its effectivity first-hand and would want others to share in the same admiration as well. Here are some of its best attributes.

One of the first things you’d notice with this tool is how it was built. Its entire body is assembled using solid steel, which enhances durability and resistance against wear-and-tear. Even though it only measures 30-inches, the table design is very centered and can support workpieces far greater than its actual length. This structure likewise rarely shakes, even when utilized on intense jobs. 

Furthermore, we also love how the blades have been put together. The Cutech 40160HC-CT Bench Top Spiral Jointer is armed with a spiral-style cutter-head that sports a 2-sided pattern and is strategically placed around the blade. All in all, there are 12 carbide inserts available, though only two touch the wood at a single time. This approach has proven to not only be thorough but also incredibly proficient in getting the task done.

Rolling this out whether on tasks at home or in the construction should prove to be a wise decision. This blend of high-performance and practicality is a flawless solution to the ever-growing needs of consumers. Best of all, you can get the Cutech 40160HC-CT Bench Top Spiral Jointer at an economical price of just under $400. Truly, this is one of the best wood jointers for the money, possibly ever.

Pros

  • Replacements for parts are easy to come by
  • Its fence is adjustable anywhere from 90 to 135 degrees
  • Comes with all the necessary tools
  • Produces a fine finish on wood
  • Takes up minimal space in your shop

Cons

  • No warranty details are included
  • Number of inserts sold don’t match this machine’s requirement
Check The Best Deals Online

5. Grizzly G0725 Benchtop Jointer

Grizzly G0725 6 by 28-Inch Benchtop Jointer

In recent years, the brand Grizzly has slowly grown to gain mainstream attention. Sure, they’ve been around for over 30 years, but their reputation has mostly stayed within the enthusiasts in this industry. It wasn’t until only recently that consumers outside this sphere caught wind of their existence and amazing products. Innovations like this Grizzly G0725 Benchtop Jointer will only propel their company to greater heights.

Upon seeing this jointer, we immediately noticed how solid it looked. Almost all the important parts were made using cast iron. This, we believe, is intended to minimize warping and other potentially quality-altering damages. Sadly, we also noticed how its table isn’t completely straight. The space leading from the in-feed to the out-feed is slightly misaligned. Although very minor, we’re sharing this so you can start making manual adjustments.

In terms of cutting strength, the Grizzly G0725 Benchtop Jointer can deliver as much as 20,000 cuts per minute, able to reach a maximum depth of 1/8-inch each time. The blades are likewise carefully placed to ensure the greatest outcome possible. As such, the quality of wood leveled is very high so there’s no need for any back-jobs. 

Those interested in this model, however, should prepare for some minor hiccups. Aside from an uneven tabletop, we also feel that the dust collector port is too small. Since jointers are notorious for making a mess, it does very little to remedy this situation.  Moreover, the entire body is heavy and would probably require more than one person to carry it.

Still, the Grizzly G0725 Benchtop Jointer, in spite of all its limitations, is an option worth investing in. Both its physique and slicing prowess are enough reasons for users to take a chance. This may not be the best jointer out on the market, but it certainly makes a strong case.

Pros

  • Produces a cutting strength of 20,000-CPM
  • Reasonably priced and great for beginners
  • Can support larger pieces of wood
  • Best used for household repairs
  • Modifications to the table and fence are quite simple

Cons

  • Poorly engineered dust port
  • The knives need proper tinkering before use
  • Its table isn’t completely flat
Check The Best Deals Online

Things To Consider When Buying A Wood Jointer

Next up on our best wood jointer review is what factors to look out for. At present, there are so many models available – each with their unique selling points – so choosing one can be a daunting task. Enlightening yourself on what priorities to stick to should simplify this process and save you loads of time as well.

1. Reputation

You probably didn’t expect to read this, huh? Yet one element we feel must always be contemplated on is repute. Since most wood jointers command a lot of money, you wouldn’t want to invest in a faulty piece of equipment, right? 

So before forking over your payment, remember to do a quick background check first. This includes the brand history, company profile, durability of their products, warranty packages, and of course, after-sales services. Ultimately, all this is just due diligence to ensure making the correct decision.

2. Transportability

As we’ve mentioned earlier, jointers are an essential part of the woodworking procedure. These tools aren’t just used in the production stage, but also on the steps before and after that. Thus, owning a mobile machine will greatly help you move from one place to another. Particularly, on a construction site where there is never a shortage of obstructions.

This characteristic is also advantageous for professionals who work by themselves, like artists, masons, and solo furniture makers. Since transporting and fine-tuning the jointer will take less effort, they’ll no longer need an assistant. As a result, money is saved and they’re able to focus solely on what is important – creating woodcrafts with all sorts of decorations.

3. Size

Just as we previously discussed, the dimensions of your chosen model can have a profound effect on your work. This doesn’t just affect how much space it takes up; it also determines the types of jobs it is capable of doing. Basic physics teaches us that larger jointers are more durable and built for larger projects, while smaller models are better suited for simpler tasks.

Therefore, you may need to begin with the end in mind. Try to imagine where you’re planning to put it and what you’ll use it for. This would give you a clearer direction in terms of making a viable selection.

4. Dust Management

After a long day of working, don’t you just want to pack up your things and rest? Unfortunately, wood jointers are infamous for producing a lot of residue, which makes tidying up quite challenging. This period could range from fifteen minutes all the way to an hour, especially if your chosen option doesn’t employ an effectual dust management system.

When canvassing through products, please make sure the collection port is at least 2-inches wide. Don’t settle for anything less. Ensure, also, that it’s positioned in the sides or back, and not at the bottom. The positioning is crucial because this directly affects how convenient it is for you to move around. Checking these boxes should guarantee a simpler all-around cleaning process.

5. Price

It’s not coincidental that put this last. How much a product costs is arguably the most swaying consideration buyers look at. After all, as consumers, our brains have been hard-wired to find the greatest value for the least expense. Finding the middle ground would then mean getting the best deal.

When shopping for power tools, though, we would never encourage going for a cheaper model. It’s far better to invest in mid-level option that’s complete rather than a poorly put-together one. While more expensive, it should provide you with better long-term value, especially if you’re using it to make a living.

Just remember that even before looking around, it’s best to designate a budget first. This is to ensure you won’t spend more than what’s needed, while also forcing you to prioritize on specs. 


FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

Here are three of the most commonly asked questions on the Internet. We’ve compiled them to give you a deeper understanding of wood jointers and how they’ve been conceptualized to make your life easier.

1. What is the difference between a jointer and planer?

Both tools are designed to level wooden planks, but on different stages of production. Wood planers reduce the thickness of workpieces by moving this device across it. Since these are very precise, your board needed to be evened-out prior to using this.

On the other hand, jointers work to create flat surfaces. It utilizes several knife inserts that meticulously level wood and reduce warping significantly. Furthermore, this device can also shape lumber and square out edges very well.

2. What is a reasonable warranty package to target?

Something we’ve always mentioned on all our articles is warranty. This serves as your insurance in case anything happens to your tools and trust us, the need arises more times than you think. Even something as simple as a broken part could mean catastrophic consequences for your work.

Hence, do target packages that are at least 2 years long. Make sure this includes service consultations, reduced labor costs, and free parts replacement for a certain period. If you can get a 10 or 15-day money back guarantee, then it would be a tremendous bonus. 

3. How much does a mid-level jointer usually cost?

The price would really depend on the features you choose. Though reasonably speaking, a mid-tier jointer probably costs $400 to $500. Targeting models in this range would mean getting above average cutting strength, a wider table and fencing system, an able dust collection system, and reasonable warranty. Users who want to upgrade their previous models or find a second tool to use should definitely aim for this series. 


Conclusion

Ending this best wood jointer review won’t be easy because there’s so many insights to share. But after careful deliberation, there’s one lesson that vehemently stands out.

Choosing the perfect product is like going on retreat. It’s more about your needs than what it actually offers. That is why at the end of the day, your requirements must be very clear. Don’t be fooled by complex marketing strategies attempting to sell you on things that are not essential. So as long as your chosen unit fits your budget and answers every necessity, then it’s good enough for you.

In our most humble opinion, essence clearly outweighs flashiness – and it’s not even close.

Related posts:

  • Best Wood Lathe (Reviews & Buying Guide)
  • Best Wood Router (Reviews & Buying Guide)
  • Best Router Table (Reviews & Buying Guide)

Filed Under: Jointer

Jointer vs. Planer: Which One Should You Buy?

January 6, 2021 By Think Woodwork Leave a Comment

wood jointer vs planer

Power tools can be quite complex, too, because even though they look similar, each one actually has a very specific role to play. Jointers, for instance, are primarily used to level wood and correct any uneven portions. On the other hand, its close relative, the planer, can be utilized when smoothening out a surface or adjusting the thickness. In a way, both tools go hand-in-hand when creating furniture, sculptures, or other wooden products.

In this article, we’ll be dissecting all the parts that make each one great by providing specific – and real-life – examples. Hopefully, as we go through one section after the other, you can understand better how and when to maximize these marvelous pieces of machinery.

So without further adieu, here’s our comparison of a jointer versus a planer.

Jointer vs Planer Comparison Table

FEATURES

Powermatic 1610086K 1-Phase Jointer with Helical cutterhead

Powermatic 1610086K Jointer with Helical Cutter-Head

Dewalt Dw734 Single Speed Benchtop Planer

DEWALT-DW734-Benchtop-Planer

Power

Its 2-horsepower motor coupled with a helical cutterhead blade can produce swift insertions within a few seconds

Powered by a 15-AMP to produce speeds of up to 20,000-RPM and create deeper insertions in hardwood

Size and Stability

A 73-inch long table is capable of support larger materials with minimal effort

An extra-long worktable is extendable up to 33.5-inches – one of the biggest in its class

Knife Quality

Utilizes a hand-wheel operated worm gear system to seamlessly adjust and tilt the entire table

Comes with extra-sharp cutter knives that lasts 30-percent longer than other similar accessories

User Friendliness

The control switch is strategically located and easy to reach for the operator’s greatest convenience

Equipped with an dust hood that helps in facilitating the collection of dust, waste, and other debris

Assurance

A non-mar insert found in the jointer’s fence protects the surface from scratches

This product comes with a three-year limited warranty package and 90-day money-back guarantee

Price

$$$$$

$$$

Breaking It Down

In this heated matchup of jointer versus planer, let’s take a closer look at what each one offers. Comparing and contrasting their best features according to standards set forth by consumers is a great way to arrive at a conclusion. If you’re currently choosing amongst these two powerhouses, you may want to continue reading the section below.

1. Size and Stability

This isn’t just about how large a particular model is, but also its durability. Don’t take this aspect for granted because when you begin slicing through wider and heavier workpieces, the quality of your work could really suffer. Therefore, be sure to make this a priority.

Powermatic 1610086K Jointer with Helical Cutter-Head
Check Out Deals

Powermatic 1610086K 1-Phase Jointer with Helical Cutterhead

Weighing in at 490-lbs and with dimensions of 25 x 73 x 46-inches, the Powermatic 1610086K 1-Phase Jointer is certainly a heavyweight in more ways than one. This device has been designed for heavy-duty work and can take on larger workpieces without breaking a sweat. Its 73-inch wide infeed and outfeed table is clear proof of that. As such, professionals have had nothing but good things to say about it. Just be sure you find an appropriate area because moving it again won’t come easy.

DEWALT-DW734-Benchtop-Planer
Check Out Deals

Dewalt DW734 Single Speed Benchtop Planer

Shaped like a box, the Dewalt DW734 Single Speed Benchtop Planer may not be the biggest tool around, but its compact size is perfect for supporting hefty materials. The infeed and outfeed areas are quite substantial for its size, too, capable of extending up to 33.5-inches in width. It offers users a good balance of mobility and steadiness and is a popular choice for those who often move from one place to another.

Winner: Powermatic 1610086K 1-Phase Jointer with Helical Cutterhead


2. Affordability

It seems that both products appeal to very different markets – that much is true. But which one offers greater value? There’s only one way to find out, and that’s by dissecting each of their features and price points.

Powermatic 1610086K Jointer with Helical Cutter-Head
Check Out Deals

Powermatic 1610086K 1-Phase Jointer with Helical Cutterhead

Clearly, this jointer is better suited for specialists with several years of experience under their belt. Nevertheless, the Powermatic 1610086K, with its strong motor and hardwearing frame, should ensure that difficult jobs get done in the least amount of time possible. Experts often say that time is money, and this tool’s abilities absolutely proves that point.

DEWALT-DW734-Benchtop-Planer
Check Out Deals

Dewalt DW734 Single Speed Benchtop Planer

Priced at just under $500, the Dewalt DW734 has been a preferred choice for mid to top-tier woodworkers ever since its introduction. One primary reason is that it offers a tremendous bang-for-buck ratio. In layman’s terms, this tool is reasonable enough for the average Joe, while still able to perform – and accomplish – a wide range of different tasks. Add in its comprehensive warranty package and you easily have yourself a contender.

Winner: Dewalt DW734 Single speed Benchtop Planer


3. Knife Quality

Seeing as both a jointer and planer’s primary function is to level wood, having reliable blades is a must. After all, utilizing anything dull or bland might compromise the tool’s overall cutting capacity. Let’s find out, though, which is the sharper of the two.

Powermatic 1610086K Jointer with Helical Cutter-Head
Check Out Deals

Powermatic 1610086K 1-Phase Jointer with Helical Cutterhead

Its helical cutterhead is setup with 4-sided carbide blades that create smoother insertions and cleaner cuts. Since this tool is built for larger pieces of wood, having these types of accessories will go a long way in maintaining efficiency. Plus, these knives are heavy-duty as well, so they’ll show minimal signs of wear-and-tear.

DEWALT-DW734-Benchtop-Planer
Check Out Deals

Dewalt DW734 Single Speed Benchtop Planer

The Dewalt DW734 Single Speed Benchtop Planer is no slouch either. Its set of reversible knives last 30-percent longer than the traditional variety, saving you both time and money in the process.

Winner: Powermatic 1610086K 1-Phase Jointer with Helical Cutterhead


4. User Friendliness

As with our other articles, the overall user experience is an aspect we’ve consistently put a premium on. Things like the position of controls, manual, and distribution structure all play a part in ensuring that the consumer comes first.

Powermatic 1610086K Jointer with Helical Cutter-Head
Check Out Deals

Powermatic 1610086K 1-Phase Jointer with Helical Cutterhead

One of our most favorite things about the Powermatic 1610086K is its strategically placed mount switch, specifically designed for user convenience. It gives operators the flexibility to control the jointer without crouching down or bending over. Moreover, its hand-wheel operated worm gear system has simplified adjusting the table to precisely match your requirements.

DEWALT-DW734-Benchtop-Planer
Check Out Deals

Dewalt DW734 Single Speed Benchtop Planer

The Dewalt DW734, on the other hand, is extremely portable for its size. Even though its looks bulky, the handles found on each side allow users to easily carry it from one place to another. The presence of a dust hood likewise prevents residue from falling out of the vacuum

Winner: Powermatic 1610086K 1-Phase Jointer with Helical Cutterhead


Pros and Cons

Sanders

pros

cons

Powermatic 1610086K 1-Phase Jointer with Helical Cutterhead

Powermatic 1610086K Jointer with Helical Cutter-Head

- Is capable of leveling large workpieces with little issue

- A simple tilting system puts the table in your most convenient positions

- Deliver smooth cuts

- Extremely powerful and capable of a wide range of functions

- Quite bulky; very difficult to move once installed in a certain location

- Not priced for beginners

Dewalt DW734 Single Speed Benchtop Planer

DEWALT-DW734-Benchtop-Planer

- Designed for accurate cuts that are both smooth and clean

- Easy to transport from one jobsite to another

- The knives are heavy-duty and built from the sturdiest materials

- Comes with a solid warranty package

- Comes with only one speed setting

Conclusion

After going through everything the Powermatic 1610086K 1-Phase Jointer with Helical Cutterhead and Dewalt DW734 Single Speed Benchtop Planer have to offer, it is quite clear that each one answers very different needs. Therefore, it’s almost impossible to determine which is the better option.

In the end, we’d recommend the Powermatic 1610086K to seasoned professionals looking to make their processes more efficient, while the Dewalt DW734 is enhanced for hobbyists or contractors that often jump across multiple job locations. Both are widely considered as exceptional tools, which is why there’s no choice but to call the jointer vs. planer debate a tie.

Filed Under: Jointer, Wood Planer

Primary Sidebar

Search

Popular Posts

How to Choose Lumber for Woodworking

best reciprocating saw

Top 10 Best Reciprocating Saw (Reviews & Buying Guide) 2021

Best floor drill press

Top 5 Best Floor Drill Press 2021

wood console

20 Small & Easy Woodworking Projects That Sell (AND Make Money)

Best Compact Wood Router

Top 6 Best Compact Router On The Market 2021

Footer

Think Woodwork

Dedicated to making woodworking even more fun and accessible, Think Woodwork publishes detailed, informative, high-quality project plans, product reviews, tips, guides, and other helpful resources.

Connect With Us

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

Affiliate Disclosure

We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Terms & Conditions . Disclaimer . Privacy Policy . Affiliate Disclosure

© Copyright 2020 Thinkwoodwork.com