Replies

1. 
   Dustmight | Dec 31, 2004 01:41pm | #1

   For me the width difference between 12" and 13" is squat.  Better to look for other features like a cutterhead lock to reduce snipe. (the $200 12" models don't have it)  Makita, Dewalt, Ridgid, and Delta offer some really nice planers.  Find a good sale price and compare the features of those.

2. 
   GRW | Dec 31, 2004 04:07pm | #2

   Ike,

   I have had 2 different 12 1/2" Dewalt. My 1st one self destructed in about 3 years. (My guess is that it had less than 125 hrs use at that time) I bought a second one because I had collected 3 sets of blades for it at $50 a set. I wish I had invested in a heavier unit the second time.

   The Dewalt does provide a smooth finish, but requires light cuts per pass and had poor dust extraction. Even with a reasonable dust collection unit I get clogges at the outfeed, and lots of shavings on the infeed table. 

   The Dewalt might be OK for a finish pass. My shop has to be a 1 planer shop. I've bought my last Dewalt.

   My 2 cents

3. 
   sailalex | Dec 31, 2004 06:29pm | #3

   Forget the difference between a 12" or 13" machine, there is not enough to worry about. I agree with Ike, look at the features. I have had a Delta and a Dewalt 735 (the new one). There were some initial problems with the 735 but from other posts, they seem to have gotten them resolved. I personally like the 735 a LOT and after some problems (I am on my 3rd machine) I still like it better than the Delta. You might check the archives for the previous threads on this subject; you will get a lot of info. Good luck!