I would be interested in feeback on available planer / jointer machines. Looks like Rikon unit not available any more. I have read some limited posts on a hatachi unit??? Cost is a consideration, if the units are too much I would bite the bullet and by sperate machines.
I have a small shop and a combo machine would be very much appreciated, IF it is a quality machine.
THANKS!!
Replies
I bought a Rikon 25-010 European style combination jointer/planer. This seems to be a clone of the old Inca jointer/planers. These machines have a 10" width capacity. You won't need a separate planer with this machine, as it's built in. For $650 including delivery, plus being a compact size, it seemed like a good deal to me.
These type of machines aren't common in the US, but in Europe it seems that everyone and their sibling makes one of these machines. Even Dewalt has a model, sold only in Europe.
Common criticisms of these machines are that [1] they are too lightweight, [2] the bed is too short, and [3] the bed is made of aluminum. However, I have mine on a mobile base, and I've (mistakenly) jointed stock with the mobile base in the "mobile" position without the machine moving on me. So far, I've been able to joint wood up to 6' in length, and with an outfeed stand of some sort, I bet I could extend this capacity, although I haven't tried this yet. Apparently Rikon is coming out with a newer model with cast iron beds, but the aluminum table hasn't bothered me at all.
For me, the ability to joint wide stock is more important than the ability to joint long stock. This may not be the right machine for someone who is routinely jointing 10' boards.
They aren't listed on Rikon's site currently, but they are still listed at toolcenter.com. I would give Rikon a call directly and ask them about this machine.
My bottom line is that I've been very happy with this machine, and I would buy it again. Again: 10" jointing capacity for $650. For me, you couldn't beat that.
Edited 2/10/2007 3:58 pm ET by wilburpan
bill, I don't know anything about Rikon or Hitachi jointer/planers. I am familiar with the 12" Hammer A3-31, 4hp, which is an excellent machine, highly refined with quick change knives. It's currently available for $3000 which I think is a steal. Hammer also has a 16" model, A3-41, 5.5 hp at about $6000. MinMax also has similar machines. Grizzly is coming out with a 12" model, 5 hp, in May which they have listed at $1795 with HSS knives and $2295 with a carbide insert spiral cutterhead. Rich
The latest issue of Fine Woodworking, No. 190 has a review of Jointer/Planer Combo Machines. The Hammer A3 31 was the best value choice.
Disclaimer: The MiniMax FS 30 was best overall, would I buy it for $818 more than the Hammer, h___ no as I love my Hammer B3 Saw/Shaper combo and hope to purchase the Jointer/Planer combo next.
Life is what happens to you when you're making other plans .
Check out the minimaxusa.com website. They just lowered the price of the FS30 by....$800.00 Funny how someone said they wouldn't pay $800 dollars more. Maybe they read your notice....
I trust FW reviews and I'm planning on buying one as I have been in the market for some time. The fact that it is on "sale" is even more incentive for me. Perhaps you could do a lay-away plan to lock in the price. Give them a call. I've been extremely satisfied with my bandsaw and wouldn't shy away from another Italian made machine in my shop.
Good luck to you....
PS HUGE difference between China/Taiwan made machine and Italian or Austrian. No comparison on the quality of machine.
I corresponded with Rikon and they are coming out with a new version of the combination jointer/planer -- this time with cast iron infeed/outfeed tables. One retailer said they were expecting them in mid-2008 but exact release dates were not known.
Dear Bill,
I have seen these listed, but never in person. Personally, I might take a shot with one, in particular the model with the spiral cutterhead.
http://www.grizzly.com/products/G0633
Best,
John
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