Hey folks, I'm a hobbyist looking to buy an 8" jointer, but I'm torn between two options. I've got my eye on a new 8" Grizzly G0856 with a Helical head, which I can get for about $2500 after current discounts. On the other hand, I found a 4-year-old Powermatic 60 HH that looks lightly used and is available locally for the same price. I'm wondering if the Grizzly's 3 HP motor should make me reconsider the 2 HP of the Powermatic. I've always thought more horsepower is better. Regardless, I'm planning on going with a Helical Cutter either way. So, should I go for the slightly used Powermatic or the new Grizzly with a one-year warranty? Thanks for your input!
3 Answers
Honestly, if you like the idea of a helical cutter, don’t let the cost deter you. It can save time and effort with cleanup, plus the noise reduction is a nice perk. Going with the Grizzly gives you that and a warranty, which is a safer bet.
I think you should really consider the Grizzly with the Helical head. Both models probably come from the same manufacturer, so having the newest one with the better cutter is a great deal. Plus, jointers aren't overly complicated machines, so reliability shouldn't be a huge issue there.
If you're spending this much, maybe think about saving up for a 12" model. It could be beneficial in the long run, especially if you plan to work with larger pieces in the future. But if space is tight, the 8" Grizzly might be your best bet.
True, I’m just trying to balance space and function.
That's a solid point! Newer tech is always nice.