Grizzly G0453Z & G1021Z

[Mark Blatter]

Looking to buy a new planer. Was planning on buying the Grizzly G0453Z, the one with the helix head, but I found a used G1021Z with straight knives for $850. It is three years old and owner claims it has hardly been used. I could likely get it for more like $750, so less than half the price. True, it would cost me a fair bit to buy a helix head for it, which I really would like to have, so what to do?

In comparing specs, the sure look like they are almost identical, except the 1021 was made in Taiwan and the 0453 is made in China. The 1021 is rated at 12 amps, whereas the 0453 is 15 amps.

Please chip in with thoughts and suggestions.

[Van Huskey]

Too much for the used one IMO. Plus, if you really want a spiral head consider the time and money to get it there. The price of the Grizzly helical head is $615 added to the G1021Z at $750 and you are at $1365 not including bearings. About $300 less than new with warranty shipped to your house and no time and effort to put the new head on.

If you are willing to go the used route you can probably find lots heavier duty 15" planers for that amount of money.