Jointers

Amelia Holland
17 min readApr 12, 2024

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Jointer-1

If you’ve ever wondered what a joiner can do for your work projects, you’re in for a treat! We’ve compiled a roundup of the best jointers on the market, so you can make informed decisions when it comes to this versatile tool. Dive in and discover the top models that will elevate your woodworking and construction skills.

The Top 10 Best Jointers

  1. WEN 8 in. Spiral Benchtop Jointer with Extendable Table — The WEN 8 in. Jointer with Spiral Cutterhead System and Extendable Table offers precise beveling up to 45 degrees, a powerful 10-amp motor, and a spacious 33-by-8-inch table for efficient and accurate board flattening.
  2. Jet JJP-8BT B3NCH 8" Jointer Planer — The Jet Heavy-Duty B3NCH Planer & Jointer Combo is a space-saving 2-in-1 woodworking tool that offers precision cutting capabilities and a versatile range of functions for seamless table and door frame construction.
  3. WEN 10 Amp 6 in. 2-Blade Bench Jointer — The WEN JT3062 10-Amp Benchtop Jointer offers outstanding precision, ease of use, and safety with a powerful 10 Amp motor, adjustable table and fence, and convenient features.
  4. Jet 707410 JJP-10BTOS Jointer/Planer Combo with Stand — Upgrade your woodworking skills with the Jet 707410 JJP-10BTOS Jointer/Planer Combo, featuring a versatile 10-inch machine, sturdy steel stand, and convenient benchtop design, all combined into a space-saving 2-in-1 tool.
  5. Laguna QuadTec I Jointer for Precise Woodworking — Laguna JX|6 QuadTec I Jointer — Elevate your jointing experience with adjustable table depths, in-feed support, emergency knee-stop, and durable 4-sided carbide insert knives for safer and more enjoyable woodworking.
  6. Shop Fox W1829 6" Benchtop Jointer for Woodworking — Experience hassle-free woodworking with the Shop Fox W1829 6" Benchtop Jointer, featuring a built-in vacuum system, fine-adjust infeed table knob, compact design, and user-friendly controls.
  7. Grizzly G0958 8" Combo Planer/Jointer: Efficient and Portable Woodworking Solution — The G0958 8-in. two-in-one planer jointer, featuring a compact benchtop design and a helical cutterhead with 18 inserts, delivers superior power and accuracy for woodworking projects while providing smooth, quiet operation and easy maintenance.
  8. 10 Amp 6-Inch WEN Benchtop Jointer with Spiral Cutterhead System — Precision jointer for flawless hard and soft wood jointing, offering adjustable depth and 45-degree bevels in a spacious 30-by-6-inch table.
  9. Grizzly 6" x 46" Jointer with Spiral Cutterhead and Mobility Features — Experience ultimate precision with the Grizzly G0452Z 6" Jointer’s sleek design, featuring a spiral cutterhead, user-friendly controls, and an adjustable fence for enhanced performance.
  10. 5 HP Planer/Jointer with V-Helical Cutterhead & ISO 9001 Factory — Experience precision jointering with the Grizzly G0634X 12" 5 HP Planer/Jointer, featuring a durable V-helical cutterhead, easy fence adjustments, and space-saving design.

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Reviews

WEN 8 in. Spiral Benchtop Jointer with Extendable Table

WEN 8 in. Spiral Benchtop Jointer with Extendable Table | Image

Imagine having a perfectly square jointer to flatten out your boards and workpieces. With the WEN 8-inch jointer, precision is taken to a new level. It features a spiral cutterhead system that uses 16 staggered HSS blades to give ultra-fine finishes on both soft and hard woods. Its powerful 10-amp motor spins the cutterhead up to 12,000 times per minute, ensuring a smooth and accurate operation.

The jointer’s spacious 33-by-8-inch table allows for extended support arms that can reach up to 51 inches, making it perfect for handling longer workpieces. The table can adjust to remove 0 to 1/8 of an inch of material with each pass, providing optimal control over your projects. Its adjustable 19.5 by 4.25-inch fence bevels can rotate up to 45 degrees, enabling angled cuts along the faces of your boards.

The spring-loaded blade guard helps maintain safety by only exposing a limited portion of the cutterhead during operation. This package includes two push blocks for safer jointing and an onboard dust port to minimize cleanup. Additionally, it is compatible with the WEN BP510H Replacement Spiral Blades. Overall, the WEN 8-inch jointer is a reliable and versatile tool for any woodworking enthusiast.

Jet JJP-8BT B3NCH 8" Jointer Planer

Jet JJP-8BT B3NCH 8

The Jet JJP-8BT B3NCH 8" Bench Top Jointer Planer is a versatile and efficient tool for woodworking enthusiasts. The integrated cord wrap makes transporting hassle-free and ensures workshop safety. The large aluminum extruded fence coupled with the heavy-duty 13 amp motor allows for various cutting applications. The two high-speed steel knives provide smooth and precise cuts, while the precision machined table top ensures straight cuts.

The 2-in-1 planer and jointer system offers both devices in a compact size, saving space in your workshop. The machine generates the necessary power for precision woodworkers using a 13-amp motor. The machine’s size can be easily adjusted with oversized knobs on the side, allowing for a planer cutting capacity of 1/5 by 4–18/25 inches and a fence size of 21 by 4–1/8 inches.

The Jet Heavy-Duty B3NCH Planer & Jointer Combo is semi-portable and functional, despite its modest size. The machine’s features include high-speed straight knives, a depth measurement system, and a reversible-two sided blade option. Additionally, it can accommodate different types of lumber dimensions.

My experience using this product was fairly positive. However, setting up the tool initially took a bit longer than expected, and a few components required a bit of customization before achieving optimal performance. Despite this, the compact design and power capabilities of the Jet JJP-8BT proved to be beneficial for my woodworking projects.

WEN 10 Amp 6 in. 2-Blade Bench Jointer

WEN 10 Amp 6 in. 2-Blade Bench Jointer | Image

Experience the joy of craftsmanship with the WEN 6 in. 2-Blade Jointer. This benchtop wonder features a 10 Amp motor capable of delivering up to 22,000 cuts per minute.

Say goodbye to imprecise depth adjustments with its onboard depth scale, allowing for easy and accurate adjustments to the material depth. The spacious table measures in at 30 by 6–3/16 in. , making it perfect for handling even the largest workpieces. Bevel the fence up to 45° for angled cuts and enhanced versatility.

Stay safe with the spring-loaded blade guard, preventing accidental injury while working. Designed with the user in mind, this jointer comes equipped with 2 push blocks for safer jointing, an onboard dust port for minimal cleanup, and is compatible with the WEN JT3062B-6 Replacement Jointer Blades.

With a rating of 4.4 stars and a whopping 16 reviews, this WEN jointer stands out as an exceptional choice for any DIY enthusiast.

Jet 707410 JJP-10BTOS Jointer/Planer Combo with Stand

Jet 707410 JJP-10BTOS Jointer/Planer Combo with Stand | Image

I recently gave my woodworking hobby a serious upgrade with the Jet 707410 B3NCH Planer/Jointer Combo. This intelligent tool effortlessly combines a jointer and a planer into one machine, saving space and time in my workshop. The planing and jointing tables can lock together for an accurate cut every time, and the sturdy steel stand makes it easy to transition from benchtop to floor.

Integrated cord wrap ensures easy transportation and workplace safety. With its 2 high-speed knives, this versatile machine provides smooth precision, helping me produce top-notch woodworking products.

Highly recommended for anyone wanting to enhance their woodworking experience.

Laguna QuadTec I Jointer for Precise Woodworking

Laguna QuadTec I Jointer for Precise Woodworking | Image

For those in search of a powerful and versatile jointer, the Laguna JX|6 QuadTec I is a top-notch choice. Its parallelogram table adjustments cater to different cutting needs, ensuring a precise and perfect cut every time. Additionally, the table depth adjustments travel along an arc to maintain the same distance to the cutterhead, providing an added level of precision.

To add to its user-friendly appeal, the JX|6 QuadTec I comes equipped with in-feed tables that feature pull-out support rollers, perfect for handling longer materials. And let’s not forget about the emergency knee-stop, a safety feature that allows the operator to quickly halt the machine at any position without risking the workpiece.

The JX-6 also boasts an impressive QuadTec I cutterhead, which boasts 4-sided carbide insert knives for greater durability and quieter operation. Overall, the JX|6 QuadTec I jointer is a standout addition to any workshop due to its cutting-edge features, safety measures, and top-notch performance.

Shop Fox W1829 6" Benchtop Jointer for Woodworking

Shop Fox W1829 6

If you’re on the hunt for a powerful, yet compact jointer, the Shop Fox W1829 could be the perfect fit for your woodworking projects. I’ve had the pleasure of using this benchtop jointer in my home shop, and I must say, it has made my bevel jointing tasks a breeze.

One of the key highlights of this jointer is its built-in vacuum system, which efficiently controls dust and shavings. Gone are the days of setting up separate dust collectors, as this 6-inch jointer does the job for you with minimal hassle. The dust port itself is a generous 2–1/2 inches, ensuring nothing gets left behind during the cutting process.

The Shop Fox W1829 also features a fine-adjust infeed table knob that lets you precisely control the cutting depth. The cast-iron construction allows for a sturdy hold on the workpiece, and it can be easily mounted on a table or workbench for added convenience. I must also mention that the fully-adjustable fence and quick-adjustment knife design make this jointer a delight to work with.

However, no tool is perfect, and the Shop Fox W1829 might not be the exception. I’ve found that the 15-amp motor can be a bit noisy, which might require ear protection for some users. Additionally, the weight of the jointer at 59 pounds can be a drawback for those looking for a lighter, more portable option. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Shop Fox W1829 6-inch Benchtop Jointer has proven to be a reliable and versatile addition to my woodworking toolkit.

Grizzly G0958 8" Combo Planer/Jointer: Efficient and Portable Woodworking Solution

Grizzly G0958 8

Every time I use the Grizzly G0958 8" combo planer/jointer, I can’t help but smile. This little machine is a marvel, a compact workhorse that helps me turn woodworking hobbies into reality right in the comfort of my own garage.

The thing that really stands out is the helical cutterhead. Its 18 inserts arranged diagonally across two rows allow for smooth shearing cuts, reduced tearout, and the smoothest possible finish. It’s like having a quieter, more efficient blade. It also has this delightful feature where you can rotate the cutterhead to expose a fresh, sharp edge.

It’s not all smooth sailing, though. The fact that the planer and jointer tables lock firmly in place during use is both a pro and a con. On one hand, it ensures accurate, repeatable cuts, but on the other, it could also mean a hectic task if you ever need to make changes on the go.

The portability is another fantastic aspect. I’ve had situations where I needed to bring this tool to a job site, and the Grizzly’s compact size made everything a lot easier.

However, the weight of this machine can be a downer sometimes. It’s not really heavy, but it’s there, and having to move it around isn’t always ideal.

All in all, the Grizzly G0958 is a tool I can count on when it comes to woodworking. Its portability, helical cutterhead, and sturdy construction make it a solid choice for anyone looking to get serious about their hobby or profession.

10 Amp 6-Inch WEN Benchtop Jointer with Spiral Cutterhead System

10 Amp 6-Inch WEN Benchtop Jointer with Spiral Cutterhead System | Image

Imagine working with a perfectly square jointer to flatten out your boards and workpieces. With the WEN 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer, you can maximize precision. This handy tool features a spiral cutterhead system with 12 staggered HSS blades that provide an ultra-fine finish to both hard and soft woods. The 10-amp motor rotates the cutterhead up to 12,000 times per minute, ensuring smooth and accurate cuts.

The adjustable 19–3/4 by 4–1/4-inch fence bevels up to 45 degrees allow you to create angled cuts along the faces of your boards. The infeed table can be adjusted to remove 0 to 1/8-inch of material with each pass, and the depth-of-cut scale ensures maximum accuracy. The spring-loaded blade guard helps protect against accidental injury, exposing only a limited section of the cutterhead during jointing operation.

The WEN 6-Inch Benchtop Jointer is compatible with the WEN BP510H Replacement Spiral Blades and comes with a dust port that takes a 2 1/2" hose for easy clean-up. It’s a heavy-duty, solid machine that doesn’t wander around on your workbench, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned woodworkers alike.

Grizzly 6" x 46" Jointer with Spiral Cutterhead and Mobility Features

Grizzly 6

The Grizzly Jointer is a powerful and versatile woodworking tool that offers numerous features to make the cutting process much more efficient and precise. With a 6" x 46" cutting surface and a spiral cutterhead, this machine is perfect for professionals or hobbyists seeking to achieve professional-grade results in their projects.

One of the standout features of this jointer is its easy adjustment system. The infeed and outfeed tables can be adjusted using a simple lever mechanism, while the fence can be easily adjusted using a rack and pinion system. The fence stops at 45, 90, and 135 degrees, allowing for optimal cutting angles.

To provide seamless operation, this jointer comes with a pedestal-mounted switch that puts the power switch within easy reach. Additionally, it comes with a built-in “kick-stand” mobile base and a dust chute with a 4" dust collection hood, which help to keep your workspace clean and tidy.

While the Grizzly Jointer may require some assembly and adjustment, the process is straightforward thanks to the comprehensive instruction manual provided. It’s also reassuring to know that this machine is backed by a reputable manufacturer and comes with a solid warranty.

Overall, the Grizzly Jointer proves itself to be a reliable and powerful addition to any woodworking shop, making it an excellent choice for those seeking precision and ease in their cutting tasks.

5 HP Planer/Jointer with V-Helical Cutterhead & ISO 9001 Factory

5 HP Planer/Jointer with V-Helical Cutterhead & ISO 9001 Factory | Image

The Grizzly planer/jointer is an impressive machine that offers both power and precision. With its V-helical cutterhead, it provides a smooth and accurate cut, ensuring top-quality results in woodworking. The use of 48 indexable carbide inserts means you won’t have to worry about sharpening the blades often, saving time and effort.

The planer features a cast-iron infeed and outfeed table, making it durable and long-lasting. The two feed rollers and anti-kickback fingers ensure a safe and efficient performance, while the depth of cut scale on the front helps you maintain consistent results. The machine’s ISO 9001 factory status adds to its credibility and assurance of quality.

However, there are a few minor issues to address. The deflection in the jointer fence can be noticed, particularly on the outfeed side. Thankfully, this can be fixed by using a welding magnet to stabilize the fence. The setup process does require some patience, as getting the tables lined up correctly can be tricky due to a few cheaper bolts keeping the bed in place.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Grizzly planer/jointer is a solid investment for woodworkers who want a powerful and space-saving machine without breaking the bank. Its performance is impressive, and it provides excellent value for its price. Keep in mind that it does take some time to set up and adjust, but once you get it running, the results will be well worth the effort.

Buyer’s Guide

When it comes to creating precise, smooth, and straight cuts in woodworking, a jointer is an essential tool for any woodworker. A jointer, also known as a planer, is a power tool that removes thin layers of wood from the edges of a board to make them straight and even.

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Types of Jointer

There are two main types of jointer available on the market: bench jointer and portable jointer. Each type has its own advantages and is suitable for different woodworking projects. Bench jointers are stationary and require a dedicated workspace, while portable jointers are more compact and can be used on-the-go.

Important Features to Consider

When shopping for a jointer, there are several features to consider that will impact your overall experience and the quality of your woodworking projects. Some of the most important features include motor power, speed settings, fence design, and dust collection systems. A more powerful motor will allow for smoother cutting, while multiple speed settings provide more control over the cutting process. A well-designed fence ensures accurate cuts, and a good dust collection system keeps your work area clean and safe.

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Safety Considerations

Woodworking with a jointer can be a dangerous task if not handled properly. To ensure your safety while using a jointer, always wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves, safety glasses, and hearing protection. Keep your work area clean and organized, and never reach over moving or spinning parts of the machine. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines when operating a jointer.

Tips for Using Your Jointer

To get the best results from your jointer, follow these tips:

  1. Choose the right blade for your project, taking into account the thickness of the wood and the desired finish. 2. Use a sharp blade to avoid tearing the wood and ensure a smooth cut. 3. Keep the jointer table clean and free of debris to prevent damage to your project. 4. Always hold the wood securely while cutting to prevent kickback and ensure accurate results.
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FAQ

What is a jointer?

A jointer is a tool specifically designed to cut, trim, and refine the edges of wood materials. It helps achieve a smooth and uniform surface, reducing the need for extensive sanding. The jointers highlighted in this article are portable, easy to use, and provide excellent cutting accuracy, making them a popular choice for woodworking enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Some notable features of a jointer may include adjustable fence settings for consistent cutting, interchangeable blades for different cutting applications, and ergonomic handling for comfortable operation. There is a wide range of jointers available in the market, catering to various skill levels and budgets.

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What are the different types of jointers?

While the specific models highlighted in this article may vary, here are some common types of portable jointers available in the market. Each type has its own unique features and intended use cases, making it crucial to choose the right jointer for your woodworking needs:

  1. Bench jointers — typically stationary and more robust, ideal for heavy-duty workshop use;
  2. Hybrid jointers — offer a combination of portability and increased power and performance, suitable for both light and general woodworking tasks;
  3. Handheld or portable jointers — conveniently portable and easy to use, perfect for hobbyists and those with limited workshop space.

As technology advances, there may be additional types or innovations in the jointer market. Familiarizing yourself with these options will help guide your purchase decision and ensure you find the perfect tool to fulfill your woodworking needs. A skilled woodworker or industry expert can provide further guidance on the best type of jointer for your specific requirements.

What are the safety precautions while using a jointer?

Before using a jointer, it is essential to follow specific safety precautions to protect yourself and your workplace. 1) Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as safety goggles, gloves, and ear protection, to minimize injury risks. 2) Carefully read and understand the jointer’s user manual to get familiar with its function, properly set up the tool, and learn how to operate and maintain it safely. 3) Thoroughly inspect the jointer for any malfunctioning parts or signs of wear, and ensure the blades are sharp and well protected. 4) Clamp or secure the wood material firmly to the table or the jointer, using protective clamps, to prevent the wood from moving or binding while cutting. 5) Remember to switch off and unplug the tool from the power source once the task is complete, keeping children and pets away from the area.

By adhering to these safety guidelines and exercising caution while operating a jointer, you can mitigate potential risks and enjoy a smoother woodworking experience. Sharing these guidelines with less experienced or new jointer users is also an excellent way to promote a safe and enjoyable community of woodworking enthusiasts.

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What is the best way to maintain and clean my jointer?

To keep your jointer in top condition and ensure optimal performance, it is crucial to maintain and clean it regularly. 1) Thoroughly inspect the tool after each use for debris or signs of wear, including the blades, table, and motor. Clean away any dirt or dust particles, using a brush or compressed air, if necessary. 2) Lubricate moving parts periodically, following the jointer’s user manual for recommended lubricants and application methods.

  1. Sharpen the blades on your jointer regularly, as blunt blades can negatively impact cutting accuracy and surface finish. Consult your jointer’s user manual or manufacturer for the proper sharpening process. 4) If damage occurs or any part needs replacement, consult the manufacturer’s recommended procedures and sources for replacement parts. 5) Always store your jointer in a dry and clean environment, away from moisture and direct sunlight.

How can I choose the right jointer for my woodworking project?

Choosing the right jointer for your woodworking project requires careful consideration of various factors, including your skill level, the specific type of woodworking task, and budget constraints. 1) Consider the portability, size, and power of the jointer to determine if it meets your project requirements and workspace limitations. 2) Evaluate the jointer’s features, such as adjustability, blade types, and handle ergonomics, to assess its ease of use and compatibility with your needs.

  1. Compare the advantages and disadvantages of different types of jointers, as mentioned in the answers above, to identify the best fit for your woodworking endeavor. 4) Consult the jointer’s user manual, reviews, or the manufacturer for more detailed information on the tool’s performance and capabilities. 5) Seek recommendations or advice from experienced woodworkers, friends, or industry professionals, who can offer valuable insights into the best jointer for your project.

Can I use a jointer for cutting laminates, veneers, and other non-wood materials?

While jointers are primarily designed for woodworking applications, many models are versatile and can be adapted for cutting non-wood materials such as laminates, veneers, and plastic sheets, depending on the desired finish and precision. 1) Confirm if the jointer can accommodate non-wood materials by referring to the user manual or manufacturer specifications. 2) If using non-standard materials, it is crucial to consult the specific cutting requirements or guidelines provided by the jointer’s manufacturer, as well as any necessary adjustments for optimal cutting performance.

  1. Keep in mind that non-wood materials may have different cutting properties and require additional setup or blade specifications for efficient operation. 4) It is essential to follow manufacturer recommendations and safety guidelines while cutting non-wood materials to avoid potential damage to the jointer, your workspace, or your end product. 5) With proper care and setup, a jointer can effectively cut laminates, veneers, and other non-wood materials, enhancing your overall woodworking and furniture-making experience.

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