Makita 2012NB/2 Thicknesser, 220 V, 1650 W, 304 mm Blue Large

Product Information

Some models came complete with leg stands, which can be useful if your workbench is already at full capacity. On the downside, there were some people stating that they had a problem with the fact that there is no heat sensor and that when working, the Makita does tend to turn really hot. On a better note, it does take about two 2 x 6 pine boards at a time, at least according to a previous buyer that has had apparently planned over 1000 feet of boards at the review time. One of the key aspects as to why I like this model is the fact that, in addition to having a 4-post design complete with some diagonal cross supports for a greater stability, it also comes complete with large table extensions. Now, depending on your actual work piece’s size, you might not need them, however, I think they are essential for larger panels. Product Information

Gauges and stops – before investing in any model, make sure you do your homework, just as much as I did and be sure that it has gauges in all the right places that will stop you from biting too much into any piece.

Parts diagram

Brand Reputation and Customer Support: Consider reputable brands known for their woodworking machinery. Research customer experiences and after-sales support to gauge the reliability and customer satisfaction associated with the brand. Though I had been working with wood planers from other brands before, I was really intrigued by the Makita after seeing it in the workshop of a colleague. I was a bit on the fence however…I mean, dis I really need another toy? Didn’t I have enough planers in the shop? On the downside, it is very noisy, quite a bit more so than most other machines we’ve reviewed. Furthermore, while this is a good quality machine, you should know that the sides are plastic, making it slightly less durable.

The twin blades can take off up to 2 mm per pass, so combined with the feed rate of 6.28 m per minute you can get a reasonable amount of work done in a short space of time. Adjustments are made with a series of hand wheels and cranks, and four rubber feet help to keep the vibrations down. This was great news to me as this user apparently didn’t have any problem with the machine overheating. Great news indeed…as I really wanted to get one now. And while there were some people who apparently has some issues with either the blades, dust collector, feed roller, dust boot outlet, you name it. But as one user put it, you do have to put in a little work into properly maintaining the Makita. However, since I know some of you might still be on the fence regarding the Makita, I have gathered some other planers as alternative choices. Some I have used, mainly Dewalt models and I really love the quality and performance, and some were choices, made on what other carpenters I know use. Loaded up with a big 1,800 Watt motor, the blades spin to an impressive 12,000 rpm. This fast-moving planer can take off up to 3 mm of material per pass, and each blade is double-sided, so you get twice the life out of them. The integrated dust collection port is ideally placed too. Without a powerful motor, you won’t get much done, especially if you are looking for a high-quality finish or to take on extensive projects that include planing large surface areas or hardwoods.

Dust Extraction

Sporting a 1,250 Watt motor that spins the blades up to 8,000 rpm, this Scheppach planer is more suited to small pieces of wood. With a maximum cutting width of just 204 mm and a height of 120 mm, it’s not the best in its class, but it’s enough for most DIYers. Dust collection systems – as there isn’t any planner on the face of the earth that doesn’t generate a fair amount of chips and dust, a good collection system is key here. I personally prefer to get a planer with an incorporated fan that will instantly blow any debris away from the cutter-head. the tool is not an Air Compressor/ Air Tool, a Battery/ Charger, an Accessory, or a Petrol or Production Tool Power – though we have to say, this was not exactly a deal-breaker for me, at least as much as I previously thought. This has maybe something to do with the fact that most planers nowadays are actually pretty good. However, if this is an important factor for you, do make sure you invest in one that can cut even some of the hardest wood varieties around. This lovely Grizzly model is as durable and high-performance as its name suggests. Coming equipped with a deflector shield, this machine is as secure as it is high-quality. Most previous users do like it, mainly as it is made out of steel.