Woodworking is a craft that requires patience, precision, and the right tools. One of the most essential tools in any woodworker's arsenal is a hand planer. A hand planer is a simple yet effective tool that helps woodworkers shape and smooth wood surfaces. It is a versatile tool that can be used for a wide range of woodworking tasks, from removing rough edges to creating intricate designs.
When it comes to hand planers for woodworking, there are several types to choose from. The most common types are block planes, bench planes, and jointer planes. Block planes are small and compact, making them ideal for trimming and shaping small pieces of wood. Bench planes are larger and more versatile, making them suitable for a wide range of tasks. Jointer planes are the largest and most powerful hand planes, designed for flattening and smoothing large surfaces.
When choosing a hand planer for woodworking, there are several factors to consider. The most important factor is the size and weight of the tool. A heavier planer will be more stable and easier to control, but it may also be more tiring to use for extended periods. Another important factor is the quality of the blade. A sharp and durable blade will make it easier to achieve a smooth and even finish.
In this article, we will be reviewing the best hand planers for woodworking based on these factors and more. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced woodworker, we've got you covered. So, let's dive in and find the perfect hand planer for your woodworking needs.
Best Hand Planers for Woodworking
If you're a woodworking enthusiast, you know that having the right tools is crucial to achieving perfect results. A hand planer is an essential tool that helps you smooth and shape wood to your desired finish. With so many options available in the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one. This roundup article will provide you with a list of the best hand planers for woodworking that will make your work easier and more efficient.
WEN 6530 6-Amp Electric Hand Planer
If you're looking for a reliable hand planer for woodworking, the WEN 6530 6-Amp Electric Hand Planer is a great choice.
Pros
- With a 6-Amp motor, this planer can deliver up to 34,000 cuts per minute, making it a powerful tool for smoothing out rough wood surfaces.
- The 16 positive stops allow you to adjust the cutting depth anywhere from 0 to 1/8 inches, so you can achieve the perfect level of smoothness for your woodworking project.
- The included rabbeting guide lets you make rabbets up to 1 inch in size, making it a versatile tool for a range of woodworking tasks.
Cons
- At 6 pounds, this planer is not the lightest option on the market, so it may be a bit tiring to use for extended periods of time.
- Some users have reported that the dust bag is not very effective at collecting all of the shavings, so you may need to clean up your workspace more frequently.
- While the 2-year warranty is a nice feature, some users have reported difficulty getting in touch with customer service when they need assistance.
The WEN 6530 6-Amp Electric Hand Planer is a reliable and versatile tool for woodworking projects. With its powerful motor, adjustable cutting depth, and included rabbeting guide, it's a great option for both beginners and experienced woodworkers. However, it may be a bit heavy to use for extended periods of time, and the dust bag may not be the most effective at collecting shavings. Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality hand planer for woodworking, the WEN 6530 is definitely worth considering.
Amazon Basics No.4 Adjustable Universal Bench Hand Plane
If you are looking for a hand planer that can provide you with professional quality results, Amazon Basics No.4 Adjustable Universal Bench Hand Plane might be a good option for you.
Pros
- The durable cast iron body provides stability and strength for long-term use.
- The impact-resistant plastic handle with a contoured grip ensures excellent control and comfort.
- The durable steel alloy blade makes quality cuts and can be adjusted to achieve precise results.
Cons
- The sole of the plane may not be flat out of the box, which can affect its performance.
- The assembly process can be challenging, and the user manual may not be very clear.
- The blade may require sharpening before use.
This hand plane is suitable for precision woodworking, and it features an adjustable gear that allows you to achieve accurate and consistent results. However, you should note that you need to adjust the "factory setting" before using it directly, as mentioned in the user manual.
The Amazon Basics No.4 Adjustable Universal Bench Hand Plane has a solid build quality and can handle various types of wood. It is also relatively lightweight and easy to maneuver. However, you may need to spend some time flattening the sole and sharpening the blade to get the best results.
Overall, the Amazon Basics No.4 Adjustable Universal Bench Hand Plane is a decent option if you are looking for a budget-friendly hand planer that can deliver professional results.
JORGENSEN NO.102 3.5" Mini Wood Planer
If you're looking for a reliable mini wood planer, the JORGENSEN NO.102 3.5" Mini Wood Planer is a great choice.
Pros
- The blade is made of professional level O1 tool steel, improving cutting efficiency while minimizing blade wear.
- The body is made of ductile iron to withstand heavy-duty use and is drop-tested for rugged durability.
- The cutting depth of this mini wood planer is adjustable, making it easy to plane different depths of wood.
Cons
- The small size may not be suitable for larger woodworking projects.
- The sharpness of the blade may require frequent maintenance.
- Some users may prefer a larger handle for a more comfortable grip.
This mini wood planer is perfect for trimming, polishing, deburring, cutting, and other woodworking surface processing tasks. It's also suitable for DIY and crafts making. The small hand plane can help you improve the shape and size of wood, which is an indispensable choice for wood projects.
The blade is made of 9CrWMn, which is a professional level O1 tool steel, finely sharpened for efficient wood planing and ideal for detail woodworking. Besides, the blade can be repeatedly utilized, sharpened, and adjusted for a long service life. The body is made of ductile iron to withstand heavy-duty use and is drop-tested for rugged durability. The lever cap is made of zinc alloy and other parts are stainless steel, all of which are high-quality materials, ensuring that it will not be easily damaged during use.
The cutting depth of this mini wood planer is adjustable, just turn the knob, and you can easily adjust the length of the blade and fix it easily, then effortlessly plane different depths of wood. The small hand planer can meet various needs and is easy to operate, friendly for professionals and woodworking beginners. Please pay attention to the sharp blade when operating.
CRAFTSMAN Wood Planer
If you're looking for a reliable electric hand planer for your woodworking projects, the CRAFTSMAN Wood Planer is an excellent option.
Pros
- The 6 Amp motor provides smooth cutting in both hard and soft materials.
- With 16,500 RPM, this hand planer offers fast material removal.
- The 11.5-inch cast aluminum shoe provides added control and a better quality finish.
Cons
- The inlet table may be slightly uneven, which can affect the quality of your cuts.
- The dust bag may not be very effective at capturing all the sawdust.
- The planer can be quite loud during use.
This electric hand planer is a great tool for anyone who wants to achieve smooth, professional-looking finishes on their woodworking projects. The 6 Amp motor and 16,500 RPM allow for efficient material removal, while the 11.5-inch cast aluminum shoe provides added control and precision.
One potential downside is that the inlet table may be slightly uneven, which can affect the quality of your cuts. Additionally, while the dust bag is a nice feature, it may not be very effective at capturing all the sawdust generated during use. Finally, some users have found the planer to be quite loud, which could be a concern if you're working in a shared space.
Overall, if you're in the market for a reliable electric hand planer for woodworking, the CRAFTSMAN Wood Planer is definitely worth considering.
DEWALT 20V MAX Planer
If you're looking for a powerful and efficient hand planer, the DEWALT 20V MAX Planer is a great option.
Pros
- The brushless motor provides both power and runtime, making it a reliable option for any woodworking project.
- With 30,000 cuts per minute, this hand planer achieves a fast removal rate, saving you time and effort.
- The calibrated depth adjustment knob allows for precision adjustments up to 1/256-inch, ensuring accurate and consistent results.
Cons
- At 7.4 pounds, this planer is heavier than some other options on the market.
- The planer is sold as a bare tool, so you will need to purchase a battery, charger, and dust bag separately.
- While the kickstand is a useful feature, it may not be as stable as some users would like.
The DEWALT 20V MAX Planer is a reliable and efficient hand planer that is perfect for any woodworking project. Its brushless motor provides both power and runtime, while the 30,000 cuts per minute achieve a fast removal rate. The calibrated depth adjustment knob allows for precision adjustments up to 1/256-inch, ensuring accurate and consistent results. However, at 7.4 pounds, this planer is heavier than some other options on the market, and the planer is sold as a bare tool, so you will need to purchase a battery, charger, and dust bag separately. While the kickstand is a useful feature, it may not be as stable as some users would like. Overall, if you're in the market for a powerful and efficient hand planer, the DEWALT 20V MAX Planer is definitely worth considering.
WEN Electric Hand Planer
If you're looking for a reliable electric hand planer that can handle tough woodworking jobs, the WEN 6534 is a great option.
Pros
- The powerful 8-amp motor delivers up to 32,000 cuts per minute, making quick work of even the toughest wood.
- The 4-3/8 inch cutting capacity is perfect for planing 2x4s and 4x4s.
- The 16 positive stops allow you to adjust the cutting depth anywhere from 0 to 1/8 inches.
Cons
- The blades may need to be sharpened or replaced more frequently than with some other models.
- The planer can produce a lot of sawdust, so be prepared to clean up after your work.
- Some users have reported difficulty with alignment and accuracy.
If you're looking for a powerful hand planer that can handle tough jobs, the WEN 6534 is a great option. With its 8-amp motor and 4-3/8 inch cutting capacity, you'll be able to tackle even the toughest wood with ease. The 16 positive stops also make it easy to adjust the cutting depth to your liking.
One potential downside of this planer is that the blades may need to be sharpened or replaced more frequently than with some other models. Additionally, the planer can produce a lot of sawdust, so be prepared to clean up after your work. Some users have also reported difficulty with alignment and accuracy, so keep that in mind when making your purchase.
Overall, if you're looking for a reliable and powerful hand planer, the WEN 6534 is definitely worth considering. With its wide range of features and accessories, it's sure to make your woodworking projects easier and more efficient.
BOSCH 3-1/4 Inch Woodworking Hand Planer with Carrying Case, PL2632K 3-1/4" Planer with Kit
If you're looking for a powerful and efficient hand planer for woodworking, the BOSCH 3-1/4 Inch Woodworking Hand Planer with Carrying Case, PL2632K 3-1/4" Planer with Kit is a great option.
Pros
- The 6.5 amp motor with 16,500 RPM speed ensures fast stock removal and a smooth finish in both soft and hard wood.
- The ambidextrous lock-off release button and lock-on button prevent accidental starts and allow for extended operation.
- The dual-mount guide fence provides non-flexing guidance and prevents marring of the door or workpiece face.
Cons
- Some users may find the tool a bit heavy at 6.3 pounds.
- The dust ports may not be large enough for some users' needs.
- The plastic overshoe for the fence may not be as durable as some users would like.
This hand planer is versatile and accurate, with precision-machined aluminum front and rear shoes and a machined groove for chamfering and sanding. The spring-loaded stand elevates the tool to protect the blade and save money, while the special shape allows for easy entry in the middle of a workpiece.
The BOSCH 3-1/4 Inch Woodworking Hand Planer with Carrying Case, PL2632K 3-1/4" Planer with Kit also comes with a shavings bag, blade wrench, and carrying case for easy transport and storage. Overall, this hand planer is a reliable and efficient tool for any woodworking project.
STANLEY Hand Planer
If you're looking for a hand planer that is affordable, durable, and reliable, the STANLEY Hand Planer is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 21° angle cutter is perfect for cross-grain planing
- The cutter is adjustable for depth of cut and alignment
- The cast-iron base with precision-ground sides and bottom provides stability and durability
Cons
- The small size may cause discomfort during extended use
- The blade may not be sharp enough for certain types of wood
- The product may not come with the exact features shown in the picture
This hand planer is ideal for those who are just starting out with woodworking or who need a reliable and affordable option for their projects. The 21° angle cutter is perfect for cross-grain planing, and the adjustable depth of cut and alignment make it easy to customize the planer to your specific needs. The cast-iron base with precision-ground sides and bottom provides stability and durability, ensuring that this planer will last for years to come.
One potential downside of this hand planer is its small size, which may cause discomfort during extended use. Additionally, the blade may not be sharp enough for certain types of wood, which could result in a less-than-perfect finish. Finally, the product may not come with the exact features shown in the picture, which could be a disappointment for some users.
Overall, if you're looking for an affordable and reliable hand planer for your woodworking projects, the STANLEY Hand Planer is definitely worth considering.
JORGENSEN NO.60.5 6.3" Mini Wood Planer
If you're looking for a reliable and versatile mini wood planer, the JORGENSEN NO.60.5 6.3" Mini Wood Planer is a great choice.
Pros
- Professional level blade made of 9CrWMn for efficient wood planing and long service life
- Ductile iron body and high-quality materials for rugged durability
- Adjustable cutting depth and width for different woodworking tasks
Cons
- Some users reported the sole was not flat upon arrival
- Blade may require sharpening before use
- Rust spots may be present on arrival
This mini wood planer is perfect for trimming, polishing, deburring, cutting, and other woodworking surface processing tasks. It's small and portable, making it suitable for DIY and crafts making. The professionally and meticulously polished flat bottom provides smooth operation, and the instruction manual makes it easy to use for both professionals and woodworking beginners.
The blade is made of 9CrWMn, which is a professional level O1 tool steel, improving cutting efficiency while minimizing blade wear. The blade can be repeatedly utilized, sharpened, and adjusted for a long service life. The body is made of ductile iron to withstand heavy-duty use and is drop-tested for rugged durability. The lever cap is made of zinc alloy, and other parts are stainless steel, all of which are high-quality materials, ensuring that it will not be easily damaged during use.
The cutting depth of this mini wood planer is adjustable, just turn the knob, and you can easily adjust the length of the blade and fix it easily, then effortlessly plane different depths of wood. Not only that, but the width of the mouth is also adjustable.
In summary, if you're looking for a reliable and versatile mini wood planer, the JORGENSEN NO.60.5 6.3" Mini Wood Planer is a great choice.
DNTI Electric Handheld Planer
Looking for an electric planer that can help you achieve professional-grade results with ease? The DNTI electric handheld planer may be just what you need.
Pros
- Crafted to perfection for precision and accuracy
- Blazes through projects with unparalleled speed and efficiency
- Sturdy and reliable, built to withstand tough tasks
Cons
- Depth dial measurements are metric
- May remove more material than desired on lowest setting
- Lack of information on some parts may be confusing for beginners
If you're looking for an electric planer that can help you unleash your creativity and elevate your woodworking to new heights, the DNTI electric handheld planer is worth considering. Crafted to perfection with the precision of finely crafted metal, this planer ensures every shave and cut is executed with accuracy. It blazes through your projects like a roaring fire, bringing unparalleled speed and efficiency to your woodworking endeavors.
As sturdy as the Earth itself, this planer has been built to withstand the toughest of tasks. It's your reliable companion, ready to tackle any woodworking challenge you throw its way. Plus, its ergonomic design and intuitive controls make it easy for beginners and experts alike to use.
However, the depth dial measurements are metric, which may be confusing for those who are not familiar with the metric system. Additionally, the lowest setting may remove more material than desired, which could be frustrating for some users. Finally, lack of information on some parts may be confusing for beginners.
Overall, the DNTI electric handheld planer is a solid choice for those looking for an electric planer that can deliver consistent, quality results time and time again.
NADOBA Wood Planers Woodworking Tools
If you're looking for a small and lightweight hand planer for woodworking, the NADOBA Wood Planer is a good option to consider.
Pros
- Made of premium quality stainless steel blade for durability
- Safe and practical design for easy and accurate wood planning
- Can tackle larger tasks and adjust the thickness of finished boards quickly
Cons
- May require multiple passes for thicker pieces of wood
- Some users reported difficulty in adjusting the cutting blade
- Very small size may not be suitable for larger woodworking projects
This mini wood cutter planer is resistance to breakage and deformation, making it a durable tool for years of use. Its safe and practical design removes layers of wood with meticulous accuracy, making it suitable for fine-scale planning. However, it may require multiple passes for thicker pieces of wood.
The NADOBA Wood Planer is easy to use, as it uses muscle power to force the cutting blade over the wood surface. It's also very lightweight, preventing your hand from getting cuts and hurts due to its practical design. It's great for maintaining straightness on double surfaces and cutting wood with precision accuracy to the desired thickness.
Overall, if you're looking for a small and lightweight hand planer for woodworking, the NADOBA Wood Planer is a good option to consider for smaller woodworking projects.
PORTER-CABLE Hand Planer
If you're looking for a reliable hand planer for woodworking, the PORTER-CABLE Hand Planer is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 6 Amp motor provides smooth cutting in hard materials, making it a great tool for a variety of woodworking projects.
- With up to 16,500 RPM, this hand planer allows for fast material removal, saving you time and effort.
- The dual-side dust extractor allows you to keep your work area clean, no matter which side of the tool you attach the dust extraction bag to.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the depth knob can be a bit difficult to adjust.
- While the 11.5-inch cast aluminum shoe provides added control and better finish quality, it may not be as durable as some users would like.
- The lack of an edge guide and chip deflector/collection bag may be a drawback for some users.
The PORTER-CABLE Hand Planer is a versatile and powerful tool that can handle a wide range of woodworking projects. Its smooth cutting and fast material removal capabilities make it a great choice for both beginners and experienced woodworkers.
The dual-side dust extractor is a convenient feature that allows you to keep your work area clean, while the overmold depth knob with 10 positive steps offers multiple depth control settings for enhanced precision.
However, some users have reported that the depth knob can be a bit difficult to adjust, and the lack of an edge guide and chip deflector/collection bag may be a drawback for some users.
Overall, if you're looking for a reliable and powerful hand planer for woodworking, the PORTER-CABLE Hand Planer is definitely worth considering.
Fixirons Wood Planers for Woodworking
If you're looking for a mini hand planer for woodworking, Fixirons Wood Planer might be a good option for you.
Pros
- The premium stainless steel blade ensures long-term durability.
- The metal body with powder-coated surface makes it rust-free and sturdy.
- It is easy to use and can be adjusted to trim different depths of wood surface.
Cons
- The product has a low rating.
- The size of the block plane is relatively small.
- The product might not be suitable for professional woodworking.
This mini hand planer is perfect for plane wood surface, carving edges, and wood stairs. It can be used for trimming edges and DIY wood crafting. The product design is safe and practical, making it suitable for DIY woodworking, crafts making, and repair wooden tool use.
The easy-to-use mini planner uses your hand to force the cutting blade over the wood surface, which makes it easy to shave down the wooden surface. For thicker pieces of wood, it is usually to make multiple passes of the hand planer tool, which can gradually reduce the thickness with each pass.
The product size is 3.54 x 1.18 x 0.79 inches, and the drywall planer design prevents your hand from any hurt. This mini hand planer is suitable for woodworkers, craftsmen, and woodworking starters use. However, it might not be suitable for professional woodworking.
In summary, if you're looking for a mini hand planer for DIY woodworking or crafts making, Fixirons Wood Planers for Woodworking might be a good option for you. However, if you're a professional woodworker, you might need to consider other options.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best hand planer for your woodworking needs, there are a few key features you should consider to ensure you make the right choice.
Blade Material
The blade material is an important factor to consider when choosing a hand planer. The two most common materials are high-speed steel (HSS) and carbide. HSS blades are more affordable and easier to sharpen, while carbide blades are more durable and hold their edge longer.
Blade Width
The width of the blade will determine how much material you can remove with each pass. Hand planers typically come in widths ranging from 2 ½ inches to 3 ¼ inches. Consider the size of your project and the amount of material you need to remove when choosing the blade width.
Depth Adjustment
The depth adjustment feature allows you to control the depth of the cut. Look for a hand planer with a smooth and easy-to-use depth adjustment mechanism.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Since hand planing can be a physically demanding task, it's important to choose a hand planer that is comfortable and ergonomic. Look for a hand planer with a comfortable grip and a design that reduces hand fatigue.
Dust Collection
Dust collection is an important feature to consider if you want to keep your workspace clean and free of debris. Look for a hand planer with a dust collection port that can be connected to a vacuum or dust collector.
By considering these key features, you can choose the best hand planer for your woodworking needs and achieve the results you desire.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should I look for in a hand planer as a beginner?
As a beginner, it is important to look for a hand planer that is easy to use and has a comfortable grip. You should also consider the blade size and the angle of the blade. A hand planer with a wider blade will allow you to remove more material at once, while a hand planer with a lower blade angle will give you a smoother finish.
Which brand of hand planes offers the best quality for professional woodworking?
There are several brands of hand planes that offer high-quality tools for professional woodworking. Some popular brands include Lie-Nielsen, Veritas, and Stanley. It is important to choose a brand that offers a wide range of hand planes, including different sizes and types, to suit your specific needs.
How do I choose the appropriate size of a hand plane for my woodworking projects?
The size of a hand plane you choose will depend on the size of your woodworking project. For smaller projects, a block plane or a smoothing plane may be sufficient, while larger projects may require a jointer plane or a jack plane. It is important to choose a hand plane that is comfortable for you to use and that will allow you to achieve the desired results.
What are the advantages of using a low angle jack plane in woodworking?
A low angle jack plane is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of woodworking tasks. The low angle of the blade allows you to easily plane end grain and other difficult-to-plane surfaces. It is also useful for smoothing and flattening large surfaces.
Can electric hand planers be effectively used for precision woodworking tasks?
While electric hand planers can be useful for removing large amounts of material quickly, they may not be the best choice for precision woodworking tasks. Hand planes offer greater control and precision, allowing you to achieve a smoother finish and more precise results.
What type of hand plane is best suited for flattening large wooden surfaces like tabletops?
For flattening large wooden surfaces like tabletops, a jointer plane or a smoothing plane with a long sole is the best choice. These planes are designed to remove material quickly and evenly, allowing you to achieve a flat surface with minimal effort. It is important to choose a hand plane with a sharp blade and a comfortable grip to ensure that you can work efficiently and effectively.
