Hi all –

I am considering a new jointer. My current one may entertain you a bit – 1946 Craftsman 4″ short bed (24″ total machine length), driven by a similarly aged 1/4 hp motor. I know it’s a ’46 model as I have the sales receipt. (I have a matching 7″ tablesaw bought the same day also, but don’t use it.)

Anything is a step up pretty much, though I’ll comment the old Craftsman still joints just fine. If you balance the stock carefully…and don’t mind the 1/2″ gap between the cutterhead and the outfeed table. 

I’m looking at the Jet JJ-6CSDX which is the 6 inch long bed (56″) dude with the quick change knife set up. I’m also buying a planer (Dewalt 735 I think) so my budget is a bit stretched. I’m a hobbyist with pretty good experience – I make whatever we need at home or that appeals to me.

Outside of the wider and longer are better comments (I agree) how do you feel about these knives? The idea looks good enough, but the knives don’t look as well supported as the more classical ones are.  Anyone have these in service? 

I might step up to the spiral head, but it seems like $220 worth of overkill for a light hobbyist. I’m only sharpening the Sears 4″ knives every few years and they are definitely not special.  I’m moving up in the interests of better safety (the Craftsman is scarry..) and a better resulting finish more than anything.

Thanks!