Originally Posted by
Ted Derryberry
I originally was looking at a 5 function combo (but wouldn't have gotten the mortiser) and decided it made more sense to split it into two, a jointer/planer and saw/shaper.
Similar here; I couldn't do a full five function combo in my shop due to space arrangement, but also preferred the idea of the slider paired with the J/P so it was easy to bounce back and forth between them. (I didn't opt for the shaper option, but I somewhat regret that now) My J/P is in thickening mode 90% of the time as I flatten lumber for a project all at once the majority of the time (unless I have a premature senior moment and forget something or miscalculate) so any milling is for thickness after that. I don't edge joint at all...straight-lining on the slider eliminates that need once the material is flat and to thickness.
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The most expensive tool is the one you buy "cheaply" and often...