Ken Klingler
11-09-2008, 10:05 AM
I stumbled across this forum while doing some research for a portable planer. Given the useful information I gained from reading the member feedback, I thought I would post my questions in hopes of getting some informed advice.
I have narrowed my search down to the Dewalt DW735 and the Delta 22-580.
If I were to go the Dewalt route, I would most likely get a reconditioned planer, but based on the number of DW735 owners with dull blade issues, this does not seem like a smart choice. I've learned you can get HSS or Carbide replacement blades from Infinity or a Shelix replacement head, but this brings the cost of ownership for this tool up to a questionable level in my opinion. The extension tables are also extra. If it's just a matter of the steel Dewalt is using for their knives, you would think they could solve this problem. Is this issue possibly related to a design flaw? Is a 3-knife cutterhead at this pricepoint just not feasible? Are the blades too thin to hold a sharp edge? What's the reason behind this issue? I'm hoping someone on this forum has the real answer.
The Delta 22-580 seemed to have generally favorable reviews, good blade life and a cast of loyal owners singing its praises. On paper, the DW735 looks like the better planer, but owner feedback would suggest otherwise.
I hope to get some good advice from you seasoned wood veterans to help me with this decision.
Thanks,
Ken
I have narrowed my search down to the Dewalt DW735 and the Delta 22-580.
If I were to go the Dewalt route, I would most likely get a reconditioned planer, but based on the number of DW735 owners with dull blade issues, this does not seem like a smart choice. I've learned you can get HSS or Carbide replacement blades from Infinity or a Shelix replacement head, but this brings the cost of ownership for this tool up to a questionable level in my opinion. The extension tables are also extra. If it's just a matter of the steel Dewalt is using for their knives, you would think they could solve this problem. Is this issue possibly related to a design flaw? Is a 3-knife cutterhead at this pricepoint just not feasible? Are the blades too thin to hold a sharp edge? What's the reason behind this issue? I'm hoping someone on this forum has the real answer.
The Delta 22-580 seemed to have generally favorable reviews, good blade life and a cast of loyal owners singing its praises. On paper, the DW735 looks like the better planer, but owner feedback would suggest otherwise.
I hope to get some good advice from you seasoned wood veterans to help me with this decision.
Thanks,
Ken