Cuuter head diameter and tearout

[Adam Grills]

Hello,
Just wondering what is the relationship between cutter head diameter and tearout. Eg. a 16" jointer with a 3" cutter head and one with 5" cutter head - which one would show less tear out on figured woods.
Adam

[Curt Harms]

but I'll be interested to see any thoughts. A larger diameter cutterhead should result in a 'lower angle of attack' by the knives.

Curt

[Eddie Darby]

If you are experiencing tear-out on your jointer, then I would suggest that you try small back bevels on an extra set of knives.

[Jake Helmboldt]

but I'll be interested to see any thoughts. A larger diameter cutterhead should result in a 'lower angle of attack' by the knives.

Curt

Wouldn't it be a higher angle (closer to perpendicular)?

[J.R. Rutter]

Bigger diameter = less tear out.

I would steer clear of a 16" jointer with a 3" cutterhead.