Replies

1. 
   Knotscott | Dec 18, 2005 03:21pm | #1

   Hi Jeff - I've had the next two models up in the Delta line and have been happy with them (22-560 and 22-580). That said, note that Delta did a model number shuffle a couple of years ago and developed the "Shopmaster" line which is their entry level stuff. The price may be right, but there aren't alot of features on this planer. With no cutterhead lock, it'll leave alot more snipe on each end of the board. You might also want to check into the availability of a dust chute b/c that's something you'll almost certainly want eventually....planers are chip spitting monsters!

   Ryobi makes the AP1300 that had quite a few good features for ~ $250 that might be worth some consideration. (not to be confused with the new AP1301). The next level takes you into the $300 range for a Delta TP400, Ridgid TP1300, DeWalt DW734, Delta 22-580 (on sale), etc. You might be able to find a Ridgid 1300 reconditioned through Cummins in the $200 range.

2. 
   forestgirl | Dec 24, 2005 09:30am | #2

   I agree, hold out for one with a cutterhead lock.  I have the older 12.5" version (before the Shopmaster line came out) and other than the fact that it is pretty loud, I have no complaints.  Snipe is very minimal, blades are easy to change and it does a fine job.  Have used it on everything from alder and poplar (soft) to red oak, white oak, walnut and some rock-hard exotic nobody had ever heard of.

   forestgirl -- you can take the girl out of the forest, but you can't take the forest out of the girl ;-)
   Another proud member of the  "I Rocked With ToolDoc Club" .... :>)