Embarking on your woodworking journey doesn’t imply a lack of savvy—especially when it comes to selecting the right planer. Amidst a sea of options, a few gems shine through. And hey, let’s turn you into a Dutch Oven Virtuoso along the way!
It’s crucial to differentiate between hand and bench planers to pinpoint the ideal fit for novices. High-caliber choices from Dewalt to Makita await, each with unique features like power, thickness, and blade type to consider.
We’ve simplified the quest by evaluating the top 3 hand planers and the best 8 benchtop planers for starters. Ready to delve into the essentials of a top-notch planer? Let’s dive in!
Top 3 Hand Planers for Rookies
Before snagging that perfect planer, let’s explore the varieties available. For those just starting, the debate often boils down to choosing between a hand planer and a benchtop planer.
Hand planers excel in mobility and are ideal for trim jobs, while benchtop planers offer robust cuts with their stationary prowess. Both types require a flat surface for optimal operation.
Here are the 3 leading hand planers for beginners:
- DEWALT Hand Planer (DW680K): A stellar performer for newbies, this tool’s 7-Amp motor and 15,000 RPM ensure efficient planning. It boasts a 3/32-inch depth capacity, reversible steel blades, and precision control with its depth adjustment knob.
- PORTER-CABLE Hand Planer (PC60THP): Ideal for on-the-go edging and planing, this 6-Amp, 8.28-pound powerhouse offers 16,500 RPM. Its dust port keeps your workspace tidy, and the carbide cutting blades alongside 10 positive steps for adjustment promise precision.
- Makita Planer Kit (KP0800K): For a reliable, high-performance hand planing, this 6.5-Amp tool with 17,000 RPM is a quiet achiever in its class. It accommodates 3 1/4-inch wide and 3/32-inch deep cuts, ensuring a smooth finish every time.
8 Top Benchtop Planers for Starters
Benchtop planers, the go-to for many novices, level out wood surfaces with either straight or spiral blades for deeper cuts. They’re indispensable for those seeking to up their woodworking ante. Here’s a look at 8 of the finest benchtop planers tailored for beginners:
| # | Model | Amps | RPM | Max Depth | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | DEWALT (DW734) | 15 | 20,000 | 1/8″ | 33 1/2″ support table |
| 2 | WEN 6550T | 15 | 18,000 | 6″ | Granite feeder table |
| 3 | DEWALT DW735X | 15 | 20,000 | 13″ | Two-speed gearbox |
| 4 | WEN 6552 | 15 | 25,000 | 3/32″ | Three
-blade system |
| 5 | POWERTEC PL1251 | 15 | 18,800 | 3/32″ | Portability |
| 6 | CRAFTSMAN CMEW320 | 15 | 16,000 | 3/32″ | Foldable feeder table |
| 7 | Makita 2012NB | 15 | 8,500 | 12″ | Interna-Lok head clamp |
| 8 | Porter-Cable PC305TP | 15 | 16,000 | 12″ | Fast feeder |