I am looking to purchase a wide planer and the Woodmaster 718 in in the running.  I’ve searched through the archives and found that many folks are satisified or very happy with their Woodmasters.  However, a few posters commented on excessive snipe.  I couldn’t tell whether this was due to the machine being set up incorrectly, inexperience on the users part, or if it was characteristic of the Woodmaster.  Also hard to tell whether the problem–if it is a problem–is worse than on other large planers.

Could anyone comment on their experience with snipe on the 718–especially with running boards of moderate length (say 4 to 6 feet)?  I’d greatly appreciate your input.

The 718 looks interesting because of it’s width and because of the variable speed.  I suspect it would work well for figured wood.  (I’m so much interested in the sanding or moulding features but I suppose they could come in handy.)

Thanks for your advice!