I am in the market for a beefier planer than the 12″ portables. Am looking at the 15″, 3 HP models from Jet, Delta, Powermatic, and Bridgewood. Any suggestions? They all look similar. I believe the Jet and Powermatic are essentially the same. Both look similar to Delta. Bridgewood indicates their motor is mounted beneath the table reducing vibration. And then there is the Yorkcraft at $300 less than these 4.
Ben
Replies
Look at Grizzley also, though it probably comes from the same factory as one or more of those you've mentioned. That segment of the market is very competitive, and they are all good performers.
Your choice could probably be just as well made on price or included extras (screw jacks for blade height adjustment, quick-change knives, and that sort of thing).
Planers can spew out enormous amounts of chips, so look for ease of hooking up your dust collector.
Ben,
Popular Woodworking just gave the Yorkcraft their editor's choice for 15" planers.
Jeff
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