Jointers
How to Choose a Jointer
A jointer flattens one face of a board and squares an edge to it, so the board can go through a planer and a table saw true. This collection runs from 6-inch benchtop jointers by Jet and Shop Fox to 8-inch floor models from Powermatic, Jet, Shop Fox, and Laguna, and the 3HP Powermatic 1285 with a helical head. Jointer/planer combos from Jet (8, 10, and 12-inch) and Rikon (10 and 12-inch) do both jobs in one footprint.
What to Look For
- Width. A 6-inch jointer handles most edge work. An 8-inch or wider machine flattens wider boards.
- Cutterhead. Helical heads use small indexable inserts and run quieter. Straight knife heads cost less up front.
- Bed type. Shop Fox offers dovetail and parallelogram bed models. Parallelogram beds are simpler to keep coplanar.
- Power. Many 8-inch models list 230V. Check your shop wiring before you order.
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Jointers FAQ
Is a jointer/planer combo worth it?
A combo saves floor space and costs less than two machines. The tradeoff is changeover time between jointing and planing. If space is tight, a combo like the Jet JJP-12 or Rikon 25-210H makes sense.
Benchtop or floor jointer?
Benchtop models suit small shops and short boards. Floor jointers have longer beds that support long boards, which helps you get straight edges on stock for tabletops and doors.