One of only two machines with a cutterhead perfectly parallel to its beds, the DeWalt 734 is a very good planer. Knife changes overall were straightforward, but access is difficult because you must remove a Phillips-head screw from under the dust shroud—not an easy task. The dust port on the back of the machine has a 2-1/2-in.-dia. opening but can be hooked up to a 4-in.-dia. hose. Connected to a dust collector, it did an excellent job gathering chips. And because the port exits to the left of the machine, the hose is never in the way of exiting boards. The top of the machine is flat, making it a good place to stack boards between passes.

Set includes solid carbide down-cut spiral bit (for chip-free cutting), quick-change bushing, template guide and complete instructions. Fits Porter-Cable, Black & Decker and any router with a Porter-Cable bushing adapter.

Power: Very good
Cut visibility: Fair
Control: Fair (with standard base)
Bit changes: Fair
Depth adjustment: Excellent

The size and thickness are what matter here. A consistent performer, this Bahco scraper is found in many shops we visit.

5 inch Replacement Orbital Sander pad has 4 screw holes and 8 dust holes.