JohnSyl

Whomever "wins"; the best method is the one we are most comfortable with. I have tried all, but found that I get the best results with table saw and tennoning jig.

Whatever method used...... they are all winners.

Yes a thickness planer should be high up on list of must have tools. It would, however, be second on any list. The first major tool purchase has to be a table saw; can't do much with planed woood without a good table saw.