Reducing the size of logs by cutting them in half can be an extremely tiresome, back-breaking activity, especially if you have to do it by hand. Thankfully, log splitters have been invented for this exact purpose, to spare you from having to channel your inner Hercules.
1. JET 708476 Model JJP-12HH
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JET 708476 Model JJP-12HH
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 29½” × 55″ × 39⅖”
- Product Weight: 500 lbs.
- Motor: 230V | 12.5A | 3HP
- Cutterhead Speed: 5,500 RPM
- Number of Blades: 56 Four-Sided Inserts
- Jointer Table: 55″ × 12″ × 33½”
- Planer Table: 21¼” × 12″
- Fence Size: 43″ × 6″
- Fence Tilt/Positive Stop: 90° to 45° | 90°, 45°
- Cutting Details: 12″ W | 1/16″ / 3/32″ / ⅛” D
| 6″ L
- Feed Rate: 12 FPM
- Cuts Per Minute: N/A
- Dust Collection Required: 400 CFM
- Dust Port Diameter: 4″
- Other Details: ⅛” Maximum Stock Removal, 8¾” Maximum Stock Thickness, 5/32″ Table Movement per 1 Handwheel Revolution, Helical Cutterhead
, Indexable Carbide Inserts, XL Aluminum Extruded Fence, Cast Iron Tables with Machined Finish, One-Piece Steel Closed Stand with Mounting Tabs, Large Handwheel, Magnetic Switch with Limit Switch, Parallelogram Design, 8′ Power Cord
- Warranty: 5 Years
We are starting with a model from Jet that
combines versatility with practicality in one single machine. The JJP-12HH will be a good fit in shops of a medium to large size and it offers an operation that is easy enough to use by users with any amount of experience, but let’s see why. If, for one reason or another, the JJP-12HH isn’t the right option for you yet you don’t want to give up on the JET quality guarantee, there are alternative models. These JET products have different stats and come at difference prices, and are still worth looking into. We will talk about them later in this review, so stick around until the end to learn more about all of your options.
Heavy Weight Construction
Seeing as its build consists of a
steel base and cast iron feed tables, you can say that this machine is made for heavy-duty use since it will be able to withstand serious loads. These materials bring the total weight to
500 pounds, meaning that you will need a few helping hands if you need to move it at any point. Regardless of the heavy weight and durable materials, the build design is actually a space-saving one that has the main purpose of being efficient. The operational surface is generous, with
the jointer feed table being 55 inches long and 12 inches wide, and the thicknesser feed table 21.25 inches long and 12 inches wide. A
magnetic control switch features a green button for the start and a red one for the stop, thus everything is straightforward. A
fence made from extruded aluminum is also present, measuring 43 by 6 inches with easy to make adjustments. If a more lightweight pick sounds better, the
Rikon 25-010 weighs only 147 pounds.
Excellent Option for Multiple Projects
Given its
three horsepower induction motor, you can put it to good use no matter the task. What is unique about the jointer part is the presence of a
European-style blade guard – or bridge-style guard – that won’t pivot out of its way as the wood boards are slid through. The fence comes with an increased mobility that allows you to slide it over and stop it at 45 or 90 degrees. With a
helical-style cutterhead you get 56 carbide inserts placed on 4 rows that promote an outstanding end-product together with a quieter run. A dust gathering shroud with a
4-inch port is also added to help with the amount of dust that will result.
Easy and Quick Adjustment
To switch from one operation to the other you won’t have to break a sweat.
The JJP-12HH is thought out to be easy to use, therefore you won’t need any tools to take it apart. With this model, to get to the planer, the feet table on top will need to be released and propped up, while the dust chute needs to be attached by flipping it over and attaching the vacuum to the port. The same actions need to be done in reverse so that you can return to the jointer operation. The guard has a regulation knob that will help you set it at the right height and direction. If anything seems wrong with the operation, remember that this product comes with a
5-year warranty.
Best JET Jointer Planer Combo Units Compared
JET has multiple options available for those who seek a jointer planer for their DIY projects or professional use. So don’t fret, if the 708476 Model JJP-12HH is out of your league budget-wise or simply doesn’t fit with your demands all that great, there are other models from the same manufacturer that you can opt for. These include the
JET 708457DXK JJ-6CSDX,
JET JJP-10BTOS, and
JET JJP-8BT, all of which we previously reviewed and featured in our top before replacing them with our current favorite from the brand. Check out this comparison matrix to see which one best fits with your demands and choose accordingly:
Specifications |
JET 708476 Model JJP-12HH |
JET 708457DXK JJ-6CSDX |
JET JJP-10BTOS |
JET JJP-8BT |
No. of Blades |
56 Four-Sided Inserts
|
3
|
2
|
2
|
Feed Rate |
12 FPM |
N/A |
19.5 FPM |
19.5 FPM |
Cutterhead Speed |
5,500 RPM |
6,000 RPM |
9,000 RPM |
9,000 RPM |
Fence Tilt |
90° to 45° |
45°L, 45°R, 90° |
90° to 45° |
90° to 45° |
Positive Stop |
90°, 45° |
90°, 45° |
90°, 45° |
90°, 45° |
Motor |
230V | 12.5A | 3HP |
115/230V | 13/6.5A | 1HP |
120V | 13A | 2HP |
120V | 13A | 2HP |
Features |
2-3/4” diameter helical cutterhead; Indexable carbine inserts; XL aluminum extruded fence; One-piece steel closed stand with mounting tabs |
Built-in rabbeting ledge; XL cast iron feed tables; 2-way tilting fence; HSS quick-change blades |
HSS blades; Toggle switch with overload protection; Jointer table height adjustment knob; Power cord storage hooks |
Integrated cord wrap; Toggle switch with overload protection; Sheet metal outfeed table with height adjustment; Aluminum extruded fence |
Price |
|
|
|
|
JET 708476 Model JJP-12HH Test Feedback
The JJP-12HH is a machine that has come into my hands after a long period of trying out the 13-inch benchtop planer from the same company, so I will give you a straightforward opinion on how I feel about using a standard unit versus a combination one. I’m going to start by saying that although the width capacity is shorter by one inch, it’s not something that I miss terribly because the combination unit does better when it comes to not leaving any snipe, whereas with the benchtop counterpart I had to feed scrap pieces along with my board to keep it from being sniped at the starting part. Next, it takes up less space than what two different units would, but it is considerably heavier, so do with this information what you will. The action of the jointer is great and easy to get to, as switching between the two takes less than one minute, but I found that waxing the tables was a necessary step to take because the gliding of the boards went way smoother afterwards. To wrap it up, if you are short on space and need these two specific tools to deliver a reliable performance, I recommend going for this combination unit from Jet.
Kevin Perry – Expert Reviewer and Product Tester
Pros:
- The quadrilateral design holds the feed table flush to the cutterhead
- The helical-type cutterhead has 56 carbide inserts
- You don’t have to remove the fence
- A magnetic switch regulator won’t allow for accidental cutting when you’re switching modes
- Powerful motor for an efficient performance
- Comes with a dust-gathering port that works with both activities
Cons:
- Expensive purchase
- The number of cuts per minute isn’t specified
Verdict:
Jet’s JJP-12HH will bring with it a sturdy build and a powerful motor that enables an outstanding performance with each use. Switching between operations is effortless, the fence and cutting adjustments are just as easy, and the cutterhead has a helical design.
The whole process of turning large logs into boards is something that you can do yourself. For it, we recommend a chainsaw mill – an attachment that will enable your chainsaw to cut straight and evenly across the whole length of the wood.
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Rikon Power Tools 25-210H
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 29½” × 55¾” × 39½”
- Product Weight: 445 lbs.
- Motor: 220V | 12A | 3HP
- Cutterhead Speed: 5,000 RPM
- Number of Blades: 56 Four-Sided Inserts
- Jointer Table: 55½” × 12¼” × 33½”
- Planer Table: 21¼” × 12⅛”
- Fence Size: 43¼” × 6″
- Fence Tilt/Positive Stop: 0° to 45° | 45°, 90°
- Cutting Details: 12″ W
| ⅛” D
| 7⅞” L
- Feed Rate: 23 FPM
- Cuts Per Minute: 20,000 CPM
- Dust Collection Required: 650 CFM
- Dust Port Diameter: 4″
- Other Details: Helical Cutterhead
, 4 Insert Rows, Precision Cast Iron Tables, Rubber Outfeed Rollers, No Load ≤98dB
- Warranty: 5 Years
Our favorite tool is another great option if you’re on the hunt for a machine can easily switch between operations. The three horsepower engine together with the helical cutterhead enable the 25-210H to take on various tasks and bring even old wood pieces to a velvet finish.
Dimensions
The number of pounds this machine weighs in at is 445, with a measurement of 29.5 by 55.75 inches, and the height it reaches thanks to its base is 39 and a half inches. The tables on which your work will be happening are manufactured using
cast iron, providing you with enough strength and durability, and they measure
51.5 by 12.25 for the jointer table and 21.25 by 12.125 for the planer table. The rollers positioned at the outfeed side are
rubber-made to provide a proper grip on the planks as they come out. Lastly,
the fence guard is 43.25 inches long, 6 inches wide, and it can be stopped at 45 or 90-degree angles to provide positions that are more convenient.
Power & Performance
Plenty of power will be provided for you to see your projects through because, as mentioned, this unit comes with a
3 horsepower, 3,4000 RPM motor, and a 2.75-inch diameter helical-type cutterhead. The cutter itself can spin at up to
5,000 revolutions in one minute, thus managing to offer
20,000 cuts in the same amount of time. What helps it cut during said rotation movement are the
56 inserts dispersed over 4 distinct rows that will guarantee cuts of up to 12 inches in width, 0.125 inches in depth, and 7.875 inches in length, with a
feed rate of 23 feet in 60 seconds. There’s also an ear protection requirement, as the motor can produce approximately
98 decibels even when the unit has no load to process. Speaking of requirements, there’s also another feature in the shape of a
4-inch dust chute that needs a vacuuming system that can provide at least 650 CFM for an efficient collecting power. If you’re searching for a higher RPM for the cutterhead, the budget friendly
Jet JJP-10BTOS has you covered.
Pros:
- The cutterhead has a helical style
- The feed rollers are made of rubber
- Features 56 blades made of carbide
- Heavy-duty construction materials
- Powerful motor
Cons:
- Hard to move around as it is pretty heavy
- According to some customers, the fence adjustments are tricky
Verdict:
The 25-210H comes with a double operation in a compact-sized unit that will allow you to perform two types of tasks in the same spot. The durable materials and powerful engine will have it up and running for a long time and the ease of use will enable both experienced and inexperienced woodworkers handle it.
Keeping all of your tools in the same spot is a smart thing to do and it also cuts down on the risk of losing some of them. In this sense, a portable workbench can become your new best friend, seeing as you can set it up at home or take it with you wherever you go.
3. Grizzly G0675
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Specifications:
- Dimensions: 27″ × 46″ × 38″
- Product Weight: 317 lbs.
- Motor: 220V | 9.9A | 2.5HP
- Cutterhead Speed: 6,500 RPM
- Number of Blades: 2
- Jointer Table: 40-15/16″ × 12½” × 33¾”
- Planer Table: 23⅛” × 9¾” × 23-30″
- Fence Size: 35-7 /16″ × 5⅞”
- Fence Tilt/Positive Stop: 0° to 45° | 90°, 45°
- Cutting Details: 10¼” / 9-27/32″ W
| ⅛” / 3/16″ D
| 11-13/16″ L
- Feed Rate: 16 FPM
- Cuts Per Minute: 13,000 CPM
- Dust Collection Required: 400 CFM
- Dust Port Diameter: 4″
- Other Details: 2-9/32″ Cutterhead Diameter, Poly-V Belt, HSS Blades, Cast Iron Tables, Quick Release Fence, Flip-Up Outfeed Table & Change Lever Conversion, Vulcanized Rubber Feed Rollers, Adjustable Cutterhead Guard, Adjustable Dust Hood Position, 8¼” Maximum Stock Thickness
- Warranty: 1 Year
Grizzly is another company that comes with a contender for this category of resource-saving tools. The unit they provide comes at a slightly smaller size,
27 by 46 inches, with a stand that offers a height of 38 inches to allow for a comfortable position as you work. The table sizes are big enough to offer you plenty of space to push the wood pieces through, the edge-maker part being
40.937 inches long by 12.5 inches wide, and the thickness remover part being
23.125 inches long by 9.75 inches wide. The fence is removable and its tilting stops are
45 or 90-degree angles.
Performance
Performance-wise, the G0675 is fitted with a
9.9A engine that works with 2.5 horsepower and a 2-9/32-inch diameter cutterhead that rotates at 6,500 RPM. The feed rate on this machine is
16 FPM, which means that the number of cuts in one minute will equal 13,000. The cutting abilities of this unit are the following:
- Width:
- 9.843 inches for the Thicknesser
- 10.25 inches for the Edge-maker
- Depth:
- 0.1875 inches for the Thicknesser
- 0.125 inches for the Edge-maker
- Length: 11.812 inches
*The highest board thickness that the opening will allow is 8.25 inches.
Build & Features
The build is a strong and durable one, with
tables made of cast iron and board pushing rollers made of vulcanized rubber to last you through every project you are pursuing. The engine comes with a
Poly-V belt drive to make the run of this piece smoother and quieter, and the
2 cutting blades are HSS to ensure a precise cut. To convert from one use to the other, the outfeed table can flip and there’s also a lever that you can engage to make the whole process easier. As mentioned, the fence can be tilted and it comes with a
quick-release function, and the last feature that you can adjust is the
4-inch dust port for which you will need a vacuum with at least 400 CFM to ensure a clean workspace.
Pros:
- Cast iron tables
- Adjustable dust hood position with both uses
- The board height can be corrected with the cutter head guard
- The belt drive ensures a smoother operation
Cons:
- Short warranty
- Rather heavy to move around
Verdict:
To help you complete all your projects much faster and easier, the G0675 is at your service. It comes at a reasonable price and a sturdy build that was carefully crafted to last for years to come.
To bring some variety to your saws, why not include a portable band saw? This tool will give you the possibility of cutting through several different materials and its smaller size will allow you to take it with you wherever you need it.
4. Ridgid JP0610
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Specifications:
- Dimensions: 31¼” × 45½” × 19″
- Product Weight: 213 lbs.
- Motor: 120/240V | 12/6A | 1HP
- Cutterhead Speed: >3,450 RPM
- Number of Blades: 3
- Jointer Table: 45½” × 19″ × 32″
- Planer Table: N/A
- Fence Size: N/A
- Fence Tilt/Positive Stop: N/A | 45°, 90°, 135°
- Cutting Details: 6½” / 6⅛” W
| ⅛” D
| ½”
- Feed Rate: N/A
- Cuts Per Minute: 15,000 CPM
- Dust Collection Required: N/A
- Dust Port Diameter: 4″
- Other Details: HSS Blades, ½” Cutterhead Diameter, TEFC Induction, Enclosed and Fan-Cooled Motor, Belt Drive, Dual-Bevel Fence, Rugged Cast Iron Tables, Adjustable Front & Rear Tables, Wide Stance Cabinet, On-Board Tool Storage, 2 Push Blocks, Angle Gauge
- Warranty: Limited 3 Years
Ran by a
1 horsepower motor, the JP0610 is a nice pick for DIY projects or those who are just stepping into the woodworking journey. The
engine is fully enclosed, so that sawdust won’t contaminate it, a detail that will considerably prolong its lifespan, together with the fan-cooling feature. The
unit is sustained by a robust cabinet, which offers space for storage, thus, you will be able to keep your blade-alignment tools in nearby and reach them at any moment. Furthermore, the 45.5-inch length of the tabletop will allow you to handle the wood pieces with ease, even if they are larger.
At approximately 3,450 RPM, the cutterhead moves pretty fast, delivering smooth cuts while preserving a decent noise level. It can perform up to 15,000 cuts in one minute and it employs three HSS knives. Said knives can be adjusted by using Jack screws. The highest cutting depth the jointing action can handle is 0.125 inches, while the biggest width is 6.5 inches. The planing action has a maximum cutting width of 6.125 inches. To adjust the fence, know that it can be locked in angles of 45, 90, or 135 degrees. While it is a 213-pound piece of equipment, and you may struggle a bit to set it in the right place, installing it is straightforward, especially as it comes with a comprehensive user manual. The instructions are also clear, so, even if you are a beginner, you will quickly find your way around this machine.
Pros:
- Robust stand offers stability during the operation
- Smooth and quiet run
- Backed by a generous warranty
- Special sawdust protection guarantees a longer lifespan for the engine
Cons:
- Fit only for smaller projects
- Several aspects are not specified, such as the dimensions of the fence and planning tables
Verdict:
A nice pick if you are just getting started or work only with smaller wood pieces, this entry will help you get your DIY carpentry projects done easily and quickly. Plus, with a generous satisfaction guarantee and a long warranty, you can test it on your own rhythm and decide if it is the right fit for you.
5. Vevor Benchtop Wood Jointer 9000 RPM/6-Inch
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Vevor Benchtop Wood Jointer 9000 RPM/6-Inch
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 25.2″ × 27.8″ × 14.2″
- Product Weight: 36.1 lbs.
- Motor: 110V | 10A | 1.45HP
- Cutterhead Speed: 9,000 RPM
- Number of Blades: 2
- Jointer Table: 13.3″ × 6.14″
- Planer Table: 27.8″ × 6.14″
- Fence Size: 13.5″ × 4″
- Fence Tilt/Positive Stop: 0° to 45° | 90°, 45°
- Cutting Details: 6.14″ W | ⅛” D
- Feed Rate: 19.6 FPM
- Cuts Per Minute: N/A
- Dust Collection Required: N/A
- Dust Port Diameter: 4″
- Other Details: HSS Blades, 98dB, All-Metal Workbench, Height Adjustable Backing, User-Friendly Crank Handles, All-Copper Motor, Power-Off Protection Electromagnetic Switch, Over Current Protector
- Warranty: 1 Year
Our last contender comes from Vevor, and it is
the smallest and lightest one of the lot. Seeing as it doesn’t come with a stand, you to use it on a benchtop, and the
27.8 by 25.2-inch size allows you to place it just about anywhere. The approximate
weight of 36 pounds translates into an item that is easy to carry, relocate, or take with you, should you need it on-site. It comes with a
10A engine with 1.45 horsepower, which is plenty for smaller, less difficult jobs and doesn’t produce too much noise either. The cutterhead can rotate at
9,000 RPM and it cuts with the help of
two HSS blades.
The maximum width that the MB-5015 can handle is 6.14 inches and the maximum depth of cut is 0125 inches, with a 19.6 feed rate. The jointing table comes at 13.3 by 6.14 inches, whereas the planning one measures 27.8 by 6.14 inches. The fence covers the whole length of the former, with a 13 and a half-inch length and it can be set at 90 or 45-degree angles to provide more variety. When it comes to its build, this unit is all-metal and the engine is all-copper to provide a longer lifespan. Its features comprise a 4-inch dust chute, adjustable backing, easy-to-use handles, and protection add-ons.
Pros:
- Very lightweight
- The backing is height-adjustable
- Integrated protection features
- Compact size
Cons:
- Short warranty
- Doesn’t come with a stand
Verdict:
Vevor offers a very lightweight and compact piece that you can use for at-home DIY projects, or for on-site, smaller jobs. The build of the unit and that of the motor will guarantee a long-lasting product.
How to Use a Jointer Planer
Although using this type of machine can seem intimidating to those who have never seen one before, it’s actually not that hard. It can take some time to get used to the different adjustments, and they can vary from model to model, but we’re going to explain how to use the most common type in a few simple steps:
Assembly
The first step is, obviously,
putting the unit together when it arrives. Make sure that you set it up in the room it will be staying, preferably as close to its spot as possible if it’s a heavier model. The spot needs to allow
a clear pathway at the ends of the feet tables and enough space on all sides for you to move around. It also needs to have a good outlet nearby, as you should avoid plugging it in low-quality extension cords.
Jointer Adjustment
Now that the tool is assembled, if you’ve decided to go for the jointer operation first, know that this is the one on the top. You adjust it by
installing the dust chute below the feed table and
preparing the fence. The dust chute should have enough space around it to allow for a vacuum tube to be connected. The fence usually allows for adjustments and
stops at 90 and 45-degree angles, either going in one way or in two ways (both left and right). After you’ve set those components in place, the next thing to add – if the model includes it – is the
guard. A guard helps keep your board steady and on the right track while also allowing your hand to run over it smoothly.
Run the wood through
When all the adjustments are set, you can begin running the wood pieces through. The boards can either go
flat or, if you adjust the fence, you can also shape up their
edges. To keep your hands safe, manufacturers usually include
push blocks or similar tools in the package and you should always use them when operating this machine.
Planer Adjustment
To switch to the planer, now you’re going to look below. The dust chute needs to be taken out because with most models it will now sit
above the cutterhead, usually on the feed table. On some units,
the table needs to be propped up to make way for the top of the planer to go over the cutterhead, while on others,
the table stays in place and a different component needs to be elevated from below to create the planing space.
Run the wood through
After you’ve adjusted the amount you need to cut off,
you can begin to pass the boards through, with the side that you need to be modified sitting upwards – where the cutterhead is. With this operation, using a pushing tool is necessary only with shorter boards because with longer ones the planer will push them out on the other side quite effortlessly.
Turning it off
Whenever you’re taking a break, make sure to stop the machine, and when you’re done working, plug it out. Keeping the machine on and unsupervised can mean an accident waiting to happen if any buttons are pressed accidentally or if someone that is unfamiliar with the tool enters the workshop.
Jointer Planer Combo Pros & Cons
Some people consider a combination machine to be a great investment, whereas others not so much. Getting a combination machine isn’t for everyone but even more so in the case of those who have always done these two operations separately. Although this equipment offers the same performance as the two separate tools would, let’s have a more detailed look at the advantages and disadvantages of owning one:
Advantages
- Less space occupied:
Less space occupied: If your workshop is small, a combo will help you save more space. Having two separate machines, as well as many other power tools, can easily make your working area crowded. Not having enough space to move with ease is at least a little bit frustrating, and at most quite dangerous. You might have to spend more time moving things around when you’re working on a few different machines and the tripping risk can also be higher with more power cords around, so your work can be affected.
- Your budget won’t be as strained:
A combination piece doesn’t only help you save more space, but also money. Buying two separate tools with a high quality is likely take more out of your budget, but getting a single machine can easily help you keep hundreds of dollars in your account. Even the priciest models won’t cause a big gap in your wallet and they will still deliver a great performance, so that you don’t have to worry about it being a huge compromise.
- Less need for maintenance:
A 2-in-1 unit with a motor and one cutterhead will result in less mechanical maintenance and fewer replacement parts. Moreover, the improvement of spending less time to reset and sharpen the cutterhead is also present. This is great, especially if you’re on a schedule and you don’t have time to constantly repair or adjust your tools.
- Versatile:
Fortunately, most machines can work with basically any type of wood. This makes them very versatile from this point of view because there won’t be many restrictions. Using whatever wood you have at hand will result in the same beautiful outcome every time.
Disadvantages
- Two operations with the same blades:
Even though there are two operations available for your work, they both use the same pieces, so a combination unit that only has one cutterhead will also result in blades that dull out faster. Therefore, having to sharpen one cutterhead doesn’t sound as appealing when you’re aware that it will require this action more often, especially if the workload is significant.
- Constant adjustments:
Even if it’s convenient to find both operations in the same unit, an aspect that isn’t convenient is you having to set the same adjustments back over and over, whenever the woodpiece you’re shaping needs to be changed. The safest bet to make this situation more bearable would be taking the work one operation at a time by planing every board and then jointing them (or vice-versa) because making a high number of adjustments can be stressful for the user and just as much for the unit itself.
- It can’t cater to multiple users:
If you’re sharing the working space with someone, buying a combination unit can prove to be a bad decision. Other than the increased need for time-consuming readjustment settings each time the other changes them, you’ll also be put in the position where you are forced wait for your turn regardless of the operation you’re looking to perform.
Our Ratings
To determine which model is the best, we compared them all. We paid special attention to aspects like weight, engine horsepower, size, and so on. Of course, there are many other significant details we took into consideration, so the final decision was based on a wide range of factors, including customers’ opinions.
Weight
While it is true that a heavy unit is difficult to move around, a light one risks not being as stable and thus it won’t necessarily be a good choice. A more solid one is a safer bet that can aid you in finishing various woodworking jobs, especially the ones with a higher demand. Since you’ll be working with large wood parts, it is imperative for such a unit to offer stability during the whole process. The one with the most stable base weight that we could find to fit this comparison is the JET 708476 Model JJP-12HH, which weighs 500 pounds.
Horsepower
A more powerful unit is more likely pull through even with harder jobs, so if complex-type jobs are what awaits it, the engine specifications represent a detail that you have to pay particular attention to. For some recommendations of roaring engine strength, the JET 708476 Model JJP-12HH and the Rikon Power Tools 25-210H both boast a 3 horsepower one. What this results in is the ability to conquer even the most demanding jobs, which will have a faster and better outcome. Should you usually deal with less demanding projects, the most powerful tool won’t be necessarily required. The Rikon 25-010, for example, has a 1.5 horsepower engine, which makes it suitable for small to medium jobs.
Jointer Table Size
An advantage of a bigger table size translates to the possibility of producing deeper, more generous cuts, which is always welcomed. Both the JET 708476 Model JJP-12HH and the Rikon Power Tools 25-210H have a bigger jointer table, which will allow for both small and large woodpieces to be passed through effortlessly. The Jet JJP-10BTOS and the Jet JJP-8BT have a smaller table, which makes them more appropriate for smaller projects.
Planer Table Size
The models with the largest planer table are, again, the same ones mentioned above. The first one has a table that measures 21.25 by 12.125 inches, while the second one has a table with a 21.25 by 12-inch size. This allows both of them to have a maximum cutting width of 12 inches.
Features
Each unit on this list is endowed different assets, each end every one of them adding a bonus and being helpful in achieving the best possible results. Some feature the helical style for the cutterhead coupled with inserts that reduce the noisiness and guarantee a velvet-smooth surface. Those also allow a fast switch between operations and they are very stable. Others have electrical protection features and some are fitted with cranks or handles that are larger and don’t imply a difficult use. So, when it comes to the aspect of add-ons, you should go for the features you like best.
Warranty
The longer the warranty, the better the chance of spotting if any component is not working as it should. Unfortunately, not all combination units are accompanied by a long warranty to offer you peace of mind. The units we have found that keep with them a generous warranty are the first three entries from Jet and both entries from Rikon, each of those offering a 5-year cover.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a jointer planer do?
It can perform two operations, thus helping you cut and shape up rough or old pieces of lumber. The first operation helps by creating a straight corner as it shaves one side or one edge at a time, whereas the second sorts out the thickness only on the flat surfaces to deliver even boards.
How difficult is it to change from planing to jointing and vice versa?
To change between operations is usually not that difficult but, of course, this depends on the model you have. Some of them are more user-friendly from this point of view, as they feature levers and knobs that engage the mechanisms. The major unpleasant result of changing the operation is that the unit loses alignment. What this translates into is the necessity of always having to set aside extra time to adjust and readjust the previous settings.
How durable are these machines?
An exact answer for an inquiry regarding durability isn’t possible, as it is influenced by many factors. The manner in which you work with it, the workload, and the build materials themselves, all of these have a say in the resilience of the unit. Several manufacturers offer a 5-year warranty, however, in some cases, the unit is warranted for a shorter period. Nevertheless, according to the customers, a good machine is solid and durable, so it’s highly possible for it to be used for many more years after the warranty expires.
Does the unit come assembled?
That depends on the model. In general, due to their dimensions, the machines don’t come assembled so that they can be transported more easily but the packages include all the necessary assembling instructions.
Should I use a planer or a jointer to smooth the surface of the wood?
For the smoothing of the surface, both are alright to use. The difference lies in the fact that a jointer can also address the edge, whereas a planer can address just the top or the bottom of the board with the end goal of making them parallel.
Is it safe to run painted wood through the planer?
No, we don’t recommend doing so because the abrasive minerals in painted wood are tough and the blades risk getting dulled down faster.
Is it dangerous to run wood with knots through the surface planer and jointer?
Yes. Unfortunately, these types of imperfections on a board’s surface can damage the knives, so you should avoid them at all costs. Said knots have a hardness to them that cannot be shaved with ease.
When should I use a planer?
Its point is to bring lumber to the thickness you prefer. It should be used after you’ve jointed the piece, as the edges should already have flat surfaces. You could also use it before, though, but know that the jointer might affect its work after.
When cutting short pieces of wood, should they be held?
Yes, avoid using your hands as much as possible. To avoid any unpleasant accidents, use a special tool to hold the wood, such as a handle or a push block. Also, try to maintain a constant movement to avoid burning or leaving marks on the wood’s surface.
Can you use a jointer on plywood?
Plywood is usually treated with a urea-formaldehyde adhesive which can be hard on the knives, so the situation is similar to that of painted wood. So, to prolong your knives’ life, you should avoid working with plywood.
Conclusion
Even if there is more than one model that has caught your eye, realistically, if you work alone you don’t need to make several purchases. We know that making a decision is hard, but there’s nothing more that we can do to help other than leaving you with a few short recaps of the units that caught our eye the most:
Best Jointer Planer for Sale:
JET 708476 Model JJP-12HH
The JJP-12HH holds the first spot on the list for a reason. Actually, it’s more than one reason. The innovative build and ease-of-use are the qualities that make this unit accessible for a wider range of users but the power that its engine holds makes it a high-performing one as well. The engine has three horsepower to keep the helical cutterhead going, the fence and guard offer a comfortable use of the jointing operation, and the easy switch won’t give you any troubles.
Editor’s Choice:
Rikon Power Tools 25-210H
The unit that has taken a hold of our hearts comes from Rikon, a manufacturer who has decided to offer a generous warranty period to give a peace of mind to every customer. The engine on this piece has three horsepower as well, which results into a 5,000 RPM for the helical-type cutterhead that makes the cutting action a breeze. Its feed tables offer generous space, with both being large enough for big projects. Lastly, the build materials are sturdy and they will provide a durable run in time.
Best Jointer Planer for the Money:
Jet JJP-10BTOS
To keep your budget as intact as possible while still getting the most for your money, the JJP-10BTOS will definitely be the right choice. Other than coming at an affordable price, it is a great fit for medium jobs and DIY projects. Its steadfast engine packs up to 13 amperes of strength, allowing it to manage a good amount of work. The cuts per minute go up to 18,000 which goes hand in hand with the large feed tables that can hold medium to long wood pieces. Other aspects include the easily accessible and user-friendly control panel , oversized knobs for an increase control, and sturdy materials.
Best Jointer Planer for Beginners:
Ridgid JP0610
If you’re preparing to get into the world of woodworking, the JP0610 is ready to welcome you. This unit is a snug fit for beginners thanks to its effortless and straightforward operation. The 3,400 RPM speed of the engine starts the rotation of the high-quality cutterhead blades, which gives the machine the freedom of performing up to 15,000 cuts in one minute. To enhance this performance, other practical aspects are integrated – like the fence that can stop at three distinct points – 45, 90, or 135 degrees, the longer engine lifespan that is guaranteed by the fully enclosed casing, and the fan-cooling feature.
Best Jointer Planer for Small Shops:
Jet JJP-8BT
For those who have smaller shops that won’t easily allow for new units, the JJP-8BT from Jet might be able to make its way in. Its compact 31 by 16.5-inch size is the smallest on our list and its 58-pound weight is no hard feat to move around. The strong 2 horsepower motor that it packs puts the 9,000 RPM cutterhead in motion, both working together to offer a clean and precise cutting performance.