Replies

1. 
   mudman | Jul 29, 2006 05:22pm | #1

   As far as I know there are only two table top jointers of any quality, the Delta and the Grizzley.

   Pardon my spelling,

   Mike

   Make sure that your next project is beyond your skill and requires tools you don't have. You won't regret it.

2. 
   PeteBradley | Jul 29, 2006 06:27pm | #2

   The problem with table top jointers is the small table. You'd be much better off with a 6".

   Pete

1. 
   mudman | Jul 29, 2006 10:44pm | #3

   I agree that even a "small" 6" jointer is way better than a table top model. If the fence on your saw is straight then your saw could be as effective for small parts for edge jointing. I have heard that many get good results using a tall cutting bit in the router with offset fences.

   MikePardon my spelling,

   Mike

   Make sure that your next project is beyond your skill and requires tools you don't have. You won't regret it.

3. 
   PeteBradley | Jul 29, 2006 10:55pm | #4

   Depends a little on what you have, but I would get a router with a 1/2" collet and a band saw ahead of a jointer. A router with a Clamp 'N Tool Guide and a spiral cutter makes a great edge jointer too.

   Pete

4. 
   cadiddlehopper | Jul 30, 2006 02:39am | #5

   Until I bought my 8-incher a little over a year ago, I used jointers with short beds. Outboard supports can be used if you must. My latest, a Delta benchtop was faithful to me for 10 years. I made a stand for mine. Setting knives was easier than on any other I owned. It was working fine when I sold it. With its high but variable speed, boards could be planed baby-butt smooth, too. They are so cheap, don't be afraid to buy new. LOL!

   Cadiddlehopper

5. 
   Woodmaster1776 | Jul 30, 2006 05:28am | #6

   Almost 2 years ago I bought a 6 inch benchtop jointer, the Delta JT160. The bed is too short for anything longer than 30 inch pieces, but within that limitation it has done pretty well. And it's great that it doesn't occupy much space and can be slipped out of the way when not in use. Unfortunately, the speed control has gone out twice. Delta had it fixed under warranty, but the part is not readily available and the local dealer Delta uses as a service center couldn't get access to the part after several weeks. Both times I got on the phone with Delta and the gals there took pity on me after hearing my sob story and promptly located one of the few parts in this country and shipped it in here for the dealer to install.

   The jointer will soon be out of warranty and the speed controller lists at $101.45 which means the jointer will be junked after the next failure.

   The JT160 is in Delta's Shopmaster line which has convinced me to avoid anything with the Shopmaster label.

   Having said that, a search of reviews, along with other inquiries, has not turned up anyone having this same experience with the JT160 speed controller, so you might be able to purchase one and have good success with it. If I were doing it over again, I'd spring for a floor mounted jointer and just struggle to make a place for it. In fact, that's the No. One priority on my tool list.

   Please let us know what you decide on.

   Bob

   
   

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   Edited 7/29/2006 10:30 pm by Woodmaster1776