G0832 Planer by Grizzly Review

Grizzly’s new G0832 Planer is a solid performer—and its price is hard to beat. This 13-in. model’s three cutters left very smooth surfaces on the several wood species I tested. The minor machine marks that were left behind were easily removed with sandpaper or a handplane. Plus, the disposable blades, which are indexed for simpler changes, are reversible, doubling their lifespan. Two other helpful features are a depth-of-cut indicator and an adjustable depth stop.

The good results I got did require some strategy, though. While snipe was nearly nonexistent in most wood types with the depth of cut locked, I got a significant amount on the first and last 1-1⁄2 in. if it wasn’t locked. And although the recommended maximum cutting depth is 1⁄8 in., I found passes of 1⁄16 in. were much better; for wide boards 1⁄32 in. was best. Also, I had trouble getting an even cut on the wide board I started with. I ended up removing the cutterhead gibs to file and sand the rough castings so the blades were held more evenly.

This planer comes with built-in dust collection. A blower motor helps direct planer chips out of the 2-1⁄2-in. dust port and into the included collection bag. This setup collected the vast majority of the dust chips, and only some blew back toward the front of the machine.

—Kelly J. Dunton is a furniture maker in Terryville, Conn.