Craftsman professional 6 1/8 jointer
JohnnyR
| Posted in Power Tools and Machinery on
Sears has a good deal on it’s professional 6 1/8 jointer? I know they don’t make their own line of power tools, does anyone have any comments about this jointer to help make my decision?
Replies
JohnnyR,
I've been using the Craftsman jointer (OR40503) for several months. From the moment I put this jointer together, it has been terrific. Perfectly tuned right from the start; smooth operation. I've used it for face planing and edge jointing on all kinds of wood -- pine, poplar, oak, cherry, maple, padauk, and more.
The parts go together very easily. The instructions that come with it are fine (nothing too impressive, but not bad either).
The fence adjusts smoothly.
When I was in the market for a 6" jointer, I considered models from Jet, Powermatic, Delta, Rikon, Ridgid, and Craftsman. For my uses, I did not see the need to spend the extra money on the Delta, Jet, or the Powermatic.
After my research, I narrowed it down to Craftsman and Ridgid. Both are good machines. What broke the tie for me was the power switch on the Craftsman. I like how it's up at eye level, so I don't have to reach down to cut the power.
A lot of people talk about the difference between using levers versus using wheels for height adjustments. The Craftsman uses levers, the Ridgid uses wheels. For most of my jointing, I have the bed set at a certain height and I don't change it. However, when I've had to change it, I find the levers very easy to use.
I got mine at one of the "Craftsman Club" sales for about $380.
Bottom line: I really like the Craftsman 6 1/8" jointer a lot.
Other notes:
One upgrade I'm considering for my jointer is a set of Dispoz-a-Blade knives.
Do you need the jointer to be mobile? If so, I recommend the Craftsman wheel set, which attaches directly to the base of the jointer.
Edited 11/26/2006 11:16 am ET by MatthewSchenker
I don't own this jointer, but user comments are typically pretty good. It's made by Orion who is also the upstart "Steel City" line, and are the manufacturers of the Craftsman hybrid "zipcode" saws. If it says "OR" in prefix of the model number, I'd at least give it a consideration if the price was competitive.
Knotscott,I didn't know that the Steel City tools are related to the new line of Craftsman tools. Sounds like Craftsman may be heading into a whole new era.
If my experience with the new jointer is any indication, it sounds like Craftsman is going in the right direction!
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