Hey friends! I've been woodworking for a few months now and have picked up some Jorgensen planes, like the low angle block and the #4. I've been using them to square up edges and flatten faces, but now I've saved some cash and I can't choose between getting a #7 jointer plane from Taytools or investing in a jointer/thicknesser machine combo. I enjoy both hand and power tools, but I'm unsure if the jointer plane is worth it since I have a lot of future projects that will need multiple boards planed and flattened to similar dimensions. While the jointer plane is cheaper, I worry it might take a long time to get everything identical, especially as I'm still learning. Should I go for the plane now or hold out for a Wen benchtop jointer? Any advice would be greatly appreciated! By the way, I've been jointing one edge with my #4 and then using it against the table saw fence, but I've had issues with face flatness and getting boards to the same thickness.
1 Answer
If you're looking at jointers, keep in mind that benchtop models have limitations, especially on length. If you can, try to find a used floor-standing jointer; otherwise, a #7 can handle straightening better than a #4. With some practice, you can definitely get decent results with face jointing using the #7 and then finish it off with the #4. And if you ever get a thickness planer, you can efficiently process the opposite face too. It takes practice, but trust me, you’ll appreciate the results even more after putting in the hard work!
I totally get that! I'd prefer using hand tools because it gives you more control over the outcome compared to a benchtop jointer, which restricts you to what the machine can do. What do you think about adding the Taytools #7 next? I’ve been contemplating it too, but I'm also curious if the #6 might be more versatile for a beginner, since it can do a bit of everything.