I'm on the hunt for a secondhand jointer on Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace, but I'm realizing I might not know as much as I thought. I'm mainly looking for a recognizable brand and a unit that looks solid overall. Can anyone share what specific criteria I should consider while shopping for a jointer? Also, I'm thinking a 6" jointer should suffice for me since I have a planer. By the way, is it common for jointer fences to adjust from 90° to 45°?
3 Answers
Honestly, many jointers are similar in design, especially those from the past 30 years that were made in Asia. The brand may not be the biggest concern as long as the unit works well. Make sure you check if the fence pivots correctly—most of them do, and you'll find a positive stop at 90°. Just bring that small square I mentioned and see how it performs!
When searching for a jointer, focus on the brand and its condition. If the jointer looks well-kept, it's likely the previous owner took care of it too. Definitely check the knives and listen to it running. Longer beds are better, and if possible, consider upgrading to an 8" model. Also, a good tip is to take a straight edge and confirm that the tables are flat and aligned. Most issues can be fixed with simple adjustments, so don't worry too much!
Starting with a 6" jointer is common, but as you work with larger boards, you may indeed want an 8" jointer eventually. Aim for recognizable brands, but it's best to steer clear of benchtop models unless absolutely necessary. Always check for flatness when inspecting the machine, and look up the model number beforehand to avoid any surprises with parts or repair costs. It's a bit of a waiting game, but you can find great machines if you stay patient!
Solid point about the larger jointers! And don't forget to face your wood flat before planing it; it gives you a better start.
Great advice! Also, if you have wood, a small square, and safety glasses on hand, test out the jointer before buying. If you can run a 3-foot board through and it comes out square with no snipe, you’re likely good to go!