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The Power of Planing For Wood Working Enthusiasts

By Mallory Kramer

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Published: 23Jan2009
Word count: 1001
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The hand-held power planer has revolutionized the way craftsmen level, shave, and shape wood. Sidestepping the tedious and strenuous efforts of traditional (manual) hand planing, the power planer smoothly, effortlessly, and precisely smooths and levels lumber in a more simple, more fluid process. The power planer is designed to surface wood; it shaves and shapes wood to size, levels woods that are uneven or warped, and evenly smooths rough or cross-grained stock. The power planer also acts as jointer smoothing or edging whole pieces of lumber. Unlike a jointer, however, a planer is portable and versatile and can be used on job sites, and immovable projects rather than only in the shop. Craftsmen and woodworkers rejoice at the functionality of the power planer, and at knowing it will smooth over and finely finish their wood shaving and shaping projects. Please read on for information on some industry leading planers from top brands: Makita, DEWALT, and Bosch.

Makita's 3-1/4 in planer kit, weighing only 5.5 lbs and delivering a powerful 15,000 (no load) RPM, offers a remarkably high power-to-weight ratio - making the tool easier and more efficient to use for longer periods of time. For enhanced performance, Makita has also redesigned the tool's (4 Amp) motor with more output power and intensified overall strength. The planer is also designed with a centerline balance with front and rear grips positioned for optimal user control. This balanced system also helps eliminate gouging and uneven planing as the tool is engaged. Additionally, Makita's N1900B has an simple blade setting system for fast, easy blade installation and a lock-on button for continuous use and continuous, smooth planing. For optimal performance, the tool uses double-edged tungsten-carbide mini blades with a longer life-span and always smooth cutting capability. Makita's planer also has a strong, all ball bearing construction to increase the tool's overall life and durability. The planer is double insulated for added safety and security, and has a base built with precision machined aluminum for enhanced planing accuracy ans precision shaping. The tool has a 3-1/4 in plaining width and a 1/32 in plaining depth for delicate and precise plaining and always smooth results. Makita's 3-1/4 in planer kit includes a blade gauge assembly, socket wrench, guide rule, a strong and precise double-edged carbide blade set, and plastic tool case for security and convenience. The N1900B bears Makita's good name, and comes with their one year manufacturer's warranty. Makita offers several other 3-1/4 in planer models including the 1902 and KP0810.

DEWALT offers a heavy-duty 3-1/4 in planing kit with a 7.0 Amp motor that powerfully delivers a smooth, even finish to even the roughest woods. Weighing 6.2 lbs and running at 15,000 RPM, the tool ensures an always high-quality cut, and operates with a stronger poly-V drive belt for increased belt durability. For the most accurate depth setting, DEWALT's planer has a calibrated depth adjustment knob that also eliminates the need to constantly re-zero your depth while working. The planer has a 3/32 in (2.5mm) maximum cut depth which reduces the amount of passes necessary to shape or smooth your material. The tool has a precision-machined shoe bottom and side that provides a flat surface finish, and accurate, square rabbet joints (rabbeting depth: ½ in) for strong cabinets, drawers, and other woodworking projects. Additionally, the planer's front shoe has three precision machined grooves that provide three different sizes for smooth and accurate edge chamfering. The DW680K features an ergonomically designed two finger trigger that both increases user comfortability and decreases fatigue or strain on the job; it also features a front-height adjustment knob that is rubber-coated for optimized comfort and control as you work. The planer provides a kickstand that allows the user to rest the tool on his materials in between passes without gouging or marring it. DEWALT's heavy-duty planer works with large, resharpenable high speed steel blades - ideal for framing applications or straight edging. DEWALT's planer also works with reversible carbide blades for the most accurate and detailed woodworking projects. The planer kit includes two reversible carbide blades, a rabbeting fence, and heavy duty kit box; additionally, the DW680K is backed by DEWALT's three year limited warranty.

Bosch delivers a powerful 3-1/4 in planer with a 6.5 Amp motor and a commanding 16,500 RPM for fast stock removal and an always smooth finish. Bosch's planer also has a bevel guide fence that ensures always consistent planing from zero to 45 degrees, and, for increased safety, a protective shield that covers the portion of the blade that is not in use. The planer additionally has a spring-loaded park rest stand that further protects the blade and workpiece in a special shape that also allows for easy start-up - even in the middle of a workpiece. With a ratcheting depth knob, the planer has always accurate and precise depth increments from zero to 3/32 in within on revolution. This system allows user to make deep cuts in only one pass and eliminates the need to continually re-zero your depth settings. Bosch's 1594K has a chip ejection switch that while working, directs shavings and debris (to the left or right) away from the workpiece; and with an ambidextrous lock-off release button, the tool is more protected from accidental starts. The tool is double insulated for safety, and, with optional accessories, can be converted for use with large high-speed steel blades. Bosch's 3-1/4 in planer has a versatile two-blade system that works with Bosch's Woodrazor micrograin carbide blades. These uniquely Bosch blades last up to 30 percent longer than standard carbide blades and are resistant to fracture from nail and staple strikes. Bosch's 1594K planer kit comes with two Woodrazor blades, a chip bag, bevel guide fence, blade wrench, and a carrying case for convenience and security. The tool also comes with Bosch's one year manufacturer's warranty.

As a student at the University of Utah, Mallory Kramer is currently earning her degree in English. Three years ago she joined M&M Tool adding to their over 150 years combined experience. There she specializes in tool parts and web communications. For over 60 years M&M Tool has provided expert service to the tool industry with parts, sales, and service to professional level woodworking products, tools, and machinery.

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