Tools & Materials
Craftsman - 8-in. Jointer 21703
The Craftsman has the longest fence of those tested, with the locking mechansim on top rather than in back where it could slip.
Dec 01, 2005
The author selected 11 commonly available 8-in. jointers ranging in price from $650 to $1,350, all with either a 1-1/2-hp or 2-hp motor, and evaluated the beds, tables, fences, knives, and ease of making adjustments for each. The Craftsman has the longest fence of those tested, with the locking mechansim on top rather than in back where it could slip. It has a fairly small table-lock lever, and table adjustments are made with a handwheel. The knives arrived knicked and had to be honed before using.
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