Ever get that deep-seated need to turn a hunk of gnarled, rough-cut lumber into something smooth enough to slide across the floor in your socks? Yeah, me neither.
But if I did, this DeWALT DW735X thickness planer would be my weapon of choice.
After playing with this bad boy, here are my thoughts…
Update:
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First Impressions
The DEWALT DW735X, a 13-inch thickness planer, promises to turn your rough lumber into butter-smooth boards. As a weekend warrior turned semi-pro woodworker, I’ve had my fair share of battles with inferior planers. So when this beast landed on my doorstep, I was equal parts excited and skeptical.
This thing is a beast. I mean, it weighs in at a hefty 92 pounds. This ain’t no flimsy power tool you toss around. It’s got “shop furniture” written all over it. But that weight is its secret weapon. It means stability, and stability means smooth, consistent cuts.
The first time I fired it up, I felt a surge of power, like I could plane a redwood in a single pass (don’t try that, by the way).
The learning curve was surprisingly gentle. The controls are straightforward, and the depth adjustment is smooth and precise. I was churning out silky-smooth boards in no time. It’s almost too easy, like I’m cheating the woodworking gods. But I love it.
Key Features
Three-Knife Cutterhead: The DW735X sports a trio of razor-sharp blades that deliver an incredibly smooth finish. Plus, they promise 30% longer knife life, which means less time changing blades and more time actually working.
Two-Speed Gearbox: Like a mullet, this planer is business in the front, party in the back. The slower speed (96 cuts per inch) is perfect for dimensioning lumber, while the faster speed (179 CPI) gives you a finish so smooth you’ll want to caress your boards.
Powerful Motor: With a 15 amp, 20,000 RPM motor, this planer laughs in the face of hardwoods that would make lesser planers cry for mercy.
Fan-Assisted Chip Ejection: Remember that time you opened a bag of chips and they went everywhere? That’s what this planer does to wood chips, but in a good way. The vacuum system keeps your workspace cleaner than a surgeon’s operating room.
Automatic Carriage Lock: Snipe happens when your board isn’t supported properly at the beginning or end of a cut. This feature reduces that movement, giving you consistent thickness across the entire board. It’s like training wheels for your lumber. Brilliant.
Pros
- Smoothness: This planer delivers a glass-smooth finish, even on gnarly, rough-cut lumber. It’s like magic, but with less glitter and more sawdust.
- Power: It’s like having a team of tiny woodworkers pushing the board through.
- Built to Last: This planer is built like a tank and feels like it could survive a nuclear apocalypse. It’s a tool you’ll pass down to your grandkids (if they’re into that sort of thing).
- Easy to Use: Even a novice woodworker can get professional-looking results with this planer. The controls are intuitive, and the setup is a breeze.
Cons
- Noise: This thing is loud. Like, really loud. Don’t even think about using it after 10 pm unless you want to meet your neighbors in a very unpleasant way.
- Dust: Even with the fancy chip ejection system, this planer still manages to spread sawdust like confetti. Be prepared for a thorough cleanup after each use.
Final Thoughts
Now, you might be thinking, “Hey, isn’t there a cheaper planer out there?” Sure, there are smaller, less expensive planers, but they’re like comparing a moped to a Harley. They might get you there eventually, but it won’t be as much fun.
The DeWALT DW735X is in a different league.
It’s an investment, no doubt, but one that will pay for itself in spades if you’re serious about your craft.
If you’re tired of fighting with rough-cut lumber and want a planer that can handle anything you throw at it, look no further. This is the one.
Best Price On the DEWALT DW735X:
I’ve found you the current best deal on the DEWALT DW735X, so be sure to follow the link below so you don’t get gouged paying full retail:
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