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Tool Guide

Tool Test: Benchtop Thickness Planers

Small machines offer big performance

by Roland Johnson

Over the years, benchtop planers have evolved from crude job-site workhorses to tools that can fill the needs of exacting furniture makers. Nowadays, ergonomics plays a role in planer design, blade changes are far easier, innovative dust-collection systems are incorporated, and added gadgets let you preset a depth stop. Contributing editor Roland Johnson reviews 11 benchtop planers: Craftsman 21758, Craftsman 21759, Delta 22-580, DeWalt 734, DeWalt 735, Makita 2012NB, Ridgid 14673, Ryobi AP1301, Steel City 40200, Sunhill SM-346, and Woodtek 115-946.

From Fine Woodworking #195

Tool Test: Benchtop Thickness Planers
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From Fine Woodworking #195 , pp. 78 December 1, 2007

Product Finder: Related Products

Craftsman - 21758 Benchtop Planer

Craftsman’s model 21758 planer has a motor rated at 12 amps and uses two 12-1/2-in. blades

Craftsman - 21759 Benchtop Planer

(8 user reviews)

The Craftsman 21759 planer has been discontinued and is no longer available online.

DeWalt - 734 Benchtop Planer

(8 user reviews)

The DeWalt 734 has a motor rated at 15 amps and uses three 12-1/2-in. blades

Ridgid - R4330 Benchtop Planer

(4 user reviews)

The Ridgid R4330 has a motor rated at 15 amps and uses three 13-in. blades

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