The Complete Guide to Buying Power Jointers
Introduction
When it comes to woodworking, having the right tools is crucial for ensuring the quality and precision of your projects. One tool that is essential for any woodworker is a power jointer. A power jointer, also known as a jointer planer, is a machine that is used to flatten, square, and smooth the surface of a piece of wood.
Factors to Consider
When choosing a power jointer, there are several important factors to consider. The first is the size of the jointer. The size of the jointer will determine the size of the boards that it can handle. If you plan on working with large boards, then you will need a larger jointer.
Another important factor to consider is the power of the jointer. The power of the jointer is measured in horsepower, and the higher the horsepower, the more powerful the jointer will be. This is important because a more powerful jointer will be able to handle tougher woods and will be able to process them faster.
Types of Power Jointers
There are two main types of power jointers: the benchtop jointer and the floor jointer. A benchtop jointer is smaller and more portable, making it ideal for hobbyists or for those who have limited space in their workshop. A floor jointer, on the other hand, is larger and more powerful, making it better suited for professional woodworkers or for those who have larger projects.
Features to Look For
When choosing a power jointer, there are several key features to look for. The first is the type of blades that the jointer uses. Most jointers use either straight knives or helical insert knives. Straight knives are less expensive and easier to replace, but they can be more prone to wear and tear. Helical insert knives, on the other hand, are more durable and produce a smoother cut, but they are more expensive and more difficult to replace.
Another important feature to consider is the type of fence that the jointer has. A fence is used to guide the wood as it passes through the jointer, and it is essential for ensuring the accuracy and precision of the cut. Look for a jointer with a fence that is adjustable and easy to use.
Conclusion
Choosing the right power jointer can be a daunting task, but by considering the size, power, type, and features of the jointer, you can find the perfect tool for your woodworking needs. With the right power jointer, you will be able to produce high-quality, precise cuts for all of your woodworking projects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What does a power jointer do?
A power jointer is a tool used in woodworking to produce flat edges on boards before joining them together. It is primarily used to create smooth and square edges for edge-to-edge joining, allowing for the production of wider boards. The term 'jointer' is derived from the jointer plane, a hand plane used for a similar purpose.
2. What is the difference between a jointer and a power planer?
A jointer and a power planer have different functions. A jointer is used to flatten boards and square their adjacent edges, while a planer is primarily used for thicknessing boards. While a jointer is useful for edge preparation, a planer is more versatile and recommended for beginners due to its ability to handle various woodworking tasks.
3. Can a jointer replace a planer?
While a jointer can flatten boards, it cannot provide consistent thickness across the length of the board. For achieving consistent thickness, a thickness planer is required. Therefore, a jointer cannot fully replace a planer in woodworking tasks.
4. Do I need a planer if I have a jointer?
To make the most out of rough lumber, it is recommended to have both a jointer and a planer. The jointer is used to flatten one face and square up one edge, while the planer is then used to make the second face flat and parallel to the first. Having both tools allows for efficient and precise woodworking.
5. Do you really need a jointer plane?
In woodworking, having both a jointer and a planer is recommended for optimal results with rough lumber. The jointer is used to flatten one face and square up one edge, while the planer is used to make the second face flat and parallel to the first. Therefore, a jointer plane is an important tool for woodworking tasks.
6. What are the cons of jointer?
There are a few drawbacks to using a jointer. Firstly, they can be expensive, although they are more affordable than separate jointer and planer machines. Additionally, switching between jointing and planing requires time and adjustment. Despite these limitations, a jointer is still a valuable tool for woodworking tasks.
7. What Cannot be done by a jointer?
The function of a jointer is to straighten the edge of lumber and it should not be used as a surfacer or planer. A jointer is not designed to provide consistent thickness across the length of a board, which is a task better suited for a thickness planer.
Editor's Notes
During our power jointer research, we found 24 power jointer products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 20,333 customer reviews through our big data system to write the power jointers list. We found that most customers choose power jointers with an average price of $178.55.
The power jointers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of power jointers, including WEN, CUTECH, CRAFTSMAN, Bosch, Rikon. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.
