Jet 20" planer purchase - Looking for advice

[Quesne Ouaques]

A friend of mine has a Jet JWP-208-1 20" planer he has put up for sale, and has offered me a private deal. I can probably get it for about $1000. It has been well used by a pro cabinet shop, but it's in very good condition.

My 13" Delta is nice, but has it's limits. I have thought about upgrading to a 15 inch planer, but now that this 20" has come available, I am considering it.

Is this just the average price for this planer, or is it a killer deal? What would you do?

Any input is appreciated!

[John Bush]

I just picked up a Griz 1033ZX from CL for $800. It is ~5 y.o., used by a contractor who builds custom timberframe homes so it has seen some use but was well maintained, 20", 5 hp, and spiral cutter. I'm not familiar with the Jet but this may be a fair comparison.

[Mike Heidrick]

What head is on it. For $1K with straight blades I would probably look around. Redmond sells then new for about $1400. Offer him $700 cash and see what he does.

If it has a byrd or other segmented blade head it is worth more.

[John Bush]

Your thread got me interested in seeing what kind of deal I got. The Jet 208-1 is 3hp 1ph...plenty of juice...4 blade head, sells new for $2100(?).
The helical head version is 5hp 1ph for over $3K. The Jets and the Griz look very similar, likely made with the same components, except paint. The Griz new(1033X) is $2400. 50% is likely a good deal but a spiral is worth considering/waiting for.