Tools that you use......

[TomLoner]

Curious, I ave an old planer and a joiner that I am needing to replace. I was wondering what some of you are using? What would you recommend? I design and build kitchen cabinets, closet systems, entertainment systems, builtins, etc. What models of each (planer and joiner)would benifit me? Thanks

[Michael Yeargain]

Tom,

Not to give biased opinions in this forum is difficult to say the least. As with every member here they may give you different opinions concerning their experience with tools.

So.. here's mine. I was never opposed to starting a shop on a shoestring budget. Not insinuating that is your position. Although I have done just that and have found success with Grizzly. They have a spiral inset cutter head for the 24\" planer that is truly a remarkable cutter. On the other hand if you have a budget that will permit a Powermatic, then (in my opinion) this would be a preferred choice.

However there are other tools that are better in quality and have faster feed rates, if you do your homework you can find.

If you remember this; equipment is just like the automobile industry, everything made by man has a potential to malfunction. (Ford Chevy, GMC) all the same. One may swear by a Ford while the other wouldn't own a GMC if it were given to them. Usually due to their experience with it.

I would also remember you always get what you pay for. Used equipment if it has taken been taken care of is also another alternative. All of which is ultimately up to you.

[Rick Palechuk]

Just don't get sucked in to buying the cheapest crap out there Tom. In my opinion I would rather have used N. American or Euro than new Asian.

[Joe Soto]

I have a Woodmaster 18 inch planer with the 7 1/2hp motor upgrade. It does a good job and in few minutes it can be a gang rip saw , a molder, or a drum sander. It's a great planer and gang rip, an ok molder, and a fair sander but that could just be me wanting it to be a wide belt.
Joe