I know the Delta is wider. But, are two inches worth the extra $600.?
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Replies
they are when you need them
rocky,
This is a question you may need to explore yourself. I had the same question myself involving both machines you mentioned. I decided that the DJ-20 was worth the extra expense. I needed the extra width on the jointer.
Remember that there are other 8" jointers out there that may fit your budget. I have heard some pretty good reviews on the new Grizzly 8"jointer which is in the $750 range.
I am very happy with my choice to buy the DJ-20. I joint 7 and 8 inch boards 60% of the time so it works for me.
rrwood
Rocky:
If the question is 8" versus 6" (sorry for the implied pun), like someone else mentioned it is relative to your needs, and your available resources. Where are you with your woodworking right now? Do you need a 8" jointer? Where do you want to be with your woodworking in say 5 years? Will that require an 8" jointer? Do you want to buy a 6" jointer now, and find that 2 years from now, you need an 8" jointer? In my mind the jointer capacity sets the limits of the boards your shop can work with. In other words if you buy a 6" jointer and find yourself working more and more with 7-8" boards, your going to be paying or begging someone else for shop time to join your boards. Jointers pay for themselves pretty quick in my mind. HTH.
If the question is this brand of 8" jointer over that brand of 8" jointer. Do some shopping around compare prices and features. Several WW magazines have done tool reviews of jointers. Check them out. If you want a review of the DJ-20 drop me an email. I've had mine for about 18 months and love it.
Stu
Do you like the fence? Is it co-planar? Are the tables and fence flat?
Rocky,
The fence can be fenicky when you go back to 90 degrees (to the bed) from some other angle. But I rarely do that. Table and fences perfectly flat. Sorry, not sure what co-planar means with regard to a jointer. It's a good jointer that has done everything I've asked it to do. Tappered some table legs on it this week. But usually I'm just milling rough lumber with it. You can see some of the pieces I've made on my website.
Stu
Rocky,
I have a Powermatic 54A love it from all respects, except I wish It would grow another two inch in width and become a 8 inch joiner..
My Powermatic 54a is for sale (it's 6 months old) wired for 240 volts, two sets of knifes and the Powermatic mobile base.. Let me know if you are interested..
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